Quick Picks for Your Riverside Drink

If you are in a hurry, here are our top recommendations for the best bars on Prague riverside. These picks cover different styles and budgets for every traveler. Many of these locations are part of the famous Naplavka riverbank area which is always busy. You can find everything from craft beer to fancy cocktails along the water. These spots are perfect for a quick stop during a busy day of sightseeing.

• Best Overall: Bajkazyl (Authentic local vibe)
• Best for Views: Marina Ristorante (Castle and bridge views)
• Best for Families: Kayak Beach Bar (Active and spacious)
• Best for Budget: The Embankment Vaults (Affordable local beer)

Each of these locations offers a unique way to experience the city. The riverside is very accessible and easy to navigate on foot. Most bars open early in the afternoon and stay busy until late at night. Make sure to check the weather before you head out for the evening.

11 Best Bars on Prague Riverside to Visit

This list features the most iconic and highly-rated spots along the Vltava. We have included a mix of floating boats and land-based venues. You can find more details on top-rated floating bars to help your planning. Most of these places do not require a reservation for small groups. However, they can get very crowded on warm Friday nights.

1. Name: Bajkazyl Type: experience Why go: This bar is a cultural hub with a community feel. It features a bike workshop and often hosts live swing music. Best for: Meeting locals and enjoying a gritty, authentic atmosphere. Where: Rašínovo nábřeží (Naplavka). Time: 2 hours. Cost: Budget-friendly; beers are usually 50-70 CZK. Getting there: Walk from the Palackého náměstí metro station. Tip: Look for their outdoor dance workshops during the summer.
2. Name: Cargo Gallery Type: activity Why go: This is a massive industrial boat converted into a gallery and bar. It hosts concerts, film screenings, and art exhibitions. Best for: Cultural events and a unique industrial aesthetic. Where: Anchored at the Smíchov riverside. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate; entry fees may apply for special events. Getting there: Use the Smichov riverside walk to find the pier. Tip: Check their website for the current exhibition schedule.
3. Name: Marina Ristorante Type: sight Why go: This upscale floating restaurant offers some of the best views in Prague. You can see the Charles Bridge and the Castle perfectly. Best for: A romantic evening or a high-end cocktail. Where: Alšovo nábřeží. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: High; prices reflect the premium location. Getting there: A short walk from the Staroměstská metro station. Tip: Book a table on the upper deck for the best sunset photos.
4. Name: Kayak Beach Bar Type: experience Why go: This spot combines sports with relaxation. You can rent a kayak or play beach volleyball right by the water. Best for: Active travelers and groups of friends. Where: Rašínovo nábřeží. Time: 2-4 hours. Cost: Moderate; rental fees are separate from drinks. Getting there: Located near the southern end of the Naplavka embankment. Tip: Rent a kayak an hour before sunset for a magical experience.
5. Name: (A)void Floating Gallery Type: experience Why go: This boat is famous for its artistic vibe and live poetry readings. It feels more like a private club than a tourist bar. Best for: Art lovers and fans of alternative music. Where: Rašínovo nábřeží. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Budget to moderate. Getting there: Walk along the river from the Dancing House. Tip: The rooftop of the boat offers a great 360-degree view.
6. Name: Lod Pivovar Type: activity Why go: This is a dedicated brewery boat serving fresh Czech craft beer. They brew the beer directly on the vessel. Best for: Beer enthusiasts who want to try local microbrews. Where: Dvořákovo nábřeží. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Moderate; excellent value for craft quality. Getting there: Near the Štefánikův Bridge. Tip: Try their tasting flight to sample all their current brews.
7. Name: Stalin (Letna Viewpoint) Type: viewpoint Why go: While technically on the hill above the river, it is the ultimate riverside viewpoint. It is a seasonal outdoor bar with a vibrant skate culture. Best for: Young crowds and the best panoramic city views. Where: Letná Park, under the Metronome. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: Take the tram to Sparta or Chotkovy sady and walk. Tip: Bring a blanket to sit on the grass if the tables are full.
8. Name: Ponton Type: experience Why go: This bar is located on Shooters Island in the middle of the river. It offers a peaceful escape from the busy city streets. Best for: A quiet drink surrounded by trees and water. Where: Střelecký Ostrov. Time: 1.5 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Use the Shooters Island access from the Legion Bridge. Tip: Look for the nutria (river otters) that often swim near the shore.
9. Name: Jazz Dock Type: experience Why go: This modern glass building sits right on the water's edge. It is the premier venue for live jazz and blues in the city. Best for: Music fans and late-night cocktails. Where: Janáčkovo nábřeží. Time: 3 hours. Cost: Moderate to high; tickets needed for main shows. Getting there: Walk from the Arbesovo náměstí tram stop. Tip: The bar area is often open even without a concert ticket.
10. Name: Containall Type: experience Why go: This seasonal cultural center is made from shipping containers. It features table tennis, film screenings, and a relaxed bar. Best for: A casual afternoon with friends. Where: Usually located near the Stalin monument or Kampa. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Budget-friendly. Getting there: Check their social media for the current summer location. Tip: It is a great place to play outdoor games for free.
11. Name: Čapadlo Type: experience Why go: This is a large open-air terrace with plenty of seating. It often has live DJs and a great selection of pizza and drinks. Best for: Large groups and summer parties. Where: Smetanovo nábřeží. Time: 2-3 hours. Cost: Moderate. Getting there: Located right between Charles Bridge and the National Theatre. Tip: This is one of the few spots with plenty of shade during the day.

Planning Your Visit to Prague Riverside

Before you head out, it is helpful to know what to expect. You should check the average prices for drinks to plan your budget. Most riverside bars are seasonal and operate from April to October. Some boat bars stay open in winter with heated indoor areas. You can learn more about the city on the official city tourism portal for current events. Always carry some local currency, although many places now accept cards.

One of the most unique features is the "dungeon bars." These are circular vaults built into the river walls. You might wonder where the dungeon bar is located along the path. These vaults house cafes, galleries, and public toilets. They are very cool inside, even on the hottest summer days. They represent a major architectural renovation of the Prague waterfront.

Safety is also important when drinking near the water. The riverbanks can be slippery after rain. Most areas have railings, but some parts are open to the water. Be careful when stepping on and off the floating boats. You can find more information about the country at Visit Czechia for general travel tips. Enjoy your time exploring the best bars on Prague riverside responsibly.