Escape the heatwave: 10 must-try boats, ferries and riverside adventures in Prague

Boating on the Vltava isn’t just a tourist photo op – it’s a way to see Prague from an entirely new angle. Swap the steamy cityscape for a paddleboard, kayak, or canoe, or kick back and let the current carry you to the zoo, downriver to Mělník, or all the way to the scenic shores of Slapy.

This 75-minute cruise on a vintage double-decker bedecked with animal motifs is a favorite for local families and first-time visitors. Glide under Vltava bridges, admire the panorama of Prague Castle, the Vltava bridges, including the new Troja Bridge, and pass through two locks. Take in the beautiful view of Letná Gardens and the Prague Metronome. Light refreshments are available on board.

Departs from Rašínovo nábřeží to Císařský ostrov; cost: CZK 290 adults/CZK190 kids. Available until the end of August. More information and tickets here.

This 60–120 minute cruise on Prague’s Vltava River offers a variety of experiences for families, first-time visitors, and anyone looking to see the city from the water. Choose from historic steamers, modern motor ships, or electric vessels with panoramic decks. Sail under Charles Bridge and past Kampa, Hradčany, Prague Castle, Sovovy mlýny, Straka Academy, and Agnes Monastery.

Departs from Na Františku pier or Čechův most; cost: from CZK 390 adults/children, usually discounted, under 3 free. Gastronomic or longer cruises start at CZK 990. More information and tickets here.

This 30–60 minute cruise on Prague’s Čertovka River (also called Strouha or Malostranská strouha) sails past the Velkopřevorský Mill with its wooden wheel, under Charles Bridge, and along the canal separating Malá Strana from Kampa Island. Smaller vessels such as Vodouch-type boats, the historical Master Jan Hus, or the solar-powered Elektronemo access picturesque corners larger ships cannot reach.

Departs from Čertovka pier, Čech Bridge, or Judita pier; cost and schedule vary by company but start from CZK 550, with departures daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (July–August until 8 p.m.). TIP: Cruises can be combined with visits to the Charles Bridge Museum or Karel Zeman Museum, often with discounted combo tickets.

This short, practical ferry ride across the Vltava River is ideal for commuters and casual travelers who want to cross quickly between Prague’s riverbanks. Prague has six ferry lines under the Prague Integrated Transport (PID) system, with fares matching metro and tram tickets. Two lines operate year-round, while others run seasonally from late March to late October.

The Vyšehrad ferry, operated by Pražské Benátky and not part of PID, connects Smíchovská náplavka with Podskalí. It runs every day from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., every 15 minutes; cost: CZK 40 one way.

Steamer cruises along the Vltava River from Prague offer scenic trips beyond the city. Northbound cruises go to Mělník, passing lock chambers, Říp hill, and Nelahozeves Castle, lasting about 6 hours. Selected Sundays only, departing 7 a.m. from Rašín Embankment.

Southbound cruises reach Slapy, with stops including Davli, Štěchovice, and the Máj viewpoint; runs most Saturdays and Sundays until late September, departing 8:30 a.m. from Rašín Embankment.

More information and schedules here.

Prague’s Vltava River offers a variety of water rentals for summer fun, including pedal boats, punts, kayaks, paddleboards, and motorboats. Key rental spots are Novotného Bridge (yellow four-seat pedal boats, CZK 300/hour), Slovanský Island (pedal boats, punts, swans, CZK 300–600/hour), Žluté Lázně in Podolí (CZK 350–400/hour plus spa entrance), and Smíchov or Modřany for motorboats and paddleboards. Most rentals require only ID, run daily, and some offer evening or night options.

Rides cover scenic stretches between Prague’s weirs. From Novotného Bridge or Slovanský Island, you can see Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, Rudolfinum, Střelecký Island, and Kampa. Rentals near Šítkov Dam or Modřany allow longer trips past Vyšehrad, Barrandov Rocks, and quieter riverside views. Vessels are available for one to six people, making them suitable for solo paddlers, couples, or small groups.

See an overivew of rentals and prices here.

Try river surfing on the standing wave below Štvanice for a more adrenaline-filled option on the Vltava. Unlike ocean surfing, the static wave is a playground for tricks and balance, more like skateboarding on water. The 7.5-meter-wide wave is accessible only from the water, and beginners must take training. Equipment—including boards, wetsuits, and helmets—can be rented on site. Non-members pay around CZK 500 per session, with extra for lessons or gear.

The base is opposite the Hilton, between the skate park and tennis courts. Metro: Florenc or Vltavská; tram: Štvanice (lines 12, 14, 17). While you won’t ride ocean waves, the ducks and nutria of the Vltava make a quirky audience.

More information and booking here.