Mala Strana - Prague's Lesser Quarter:
Mala Strana translates to "Lesser Quarter" in Czech, though this is something of a misnomer. Mala Strana has as many sights, restaurants, hotels, and shops as Old Town Prague and other Prague districts.
Mala Strana History:
Mala Strana developed at the foot of Prague's Castle Hill, a cluster of noble homes and palaces that formed one of the city's administrative units. Many of its once-private residences have been turned into shops, restaurants, hotels, and embassies.
Sights in Mala Strana:
Mala Strana's sights include Malastranske namesti, or Mala Strana Square, which used to be the district's market, charming Nerudova Street, the Church of St. Nicholas, Petrin Hill, and the Wallenstein Gardens.
Hotels in Mala Strana:
Mala Strana's hotels are perfect for those who want to be within walking distance of Charles Bridge, Old Town, and other sights, but who don't have to be right in the heart of the tourist district. Additionally, street-facing rooms in Mala Strana may get less noise than street-facing rooms in busier districts at night, when shops and restaurants close and most tourists are either in bed or out on the town in other parts of Prague.
Restaurants in Mala Strana:
Restaurants in Mala Strana range from typical Czech fare to upscale dining and ethnic cuisine. Mala Strana also has its share of coffee shops and bars.
Shops in Mala Strana:
Mala Strana's shops sell typical tourist souvenirs like bottles of absinthe, amber and garnet jewelry, and t-shirts, but it's also possible to find shops with antique and vintage merchandise here.
Getting Around Mala Strana:
Mala Strana is easily walkable, if a bit hilly. Wear comfortable shoes with tread, and always dress for the weather. Bridges that connect Mala Strana to Old Town can be reached by foot. Trams, buses, and a metro station are within a few minutes' walk from most parts of Mala Strana.
