Prague is a city that enchants with its winding lanes and centuries-old stories. But there’s a special corner of this city that few travelers truly explore — the Devil’s Stream (Čertovka). This hidden waterway, winding through the heart of the Lesser Town (Malá Strana), reveals a different side of Prague’s beauty — one of quiet canals, medieval houses, and mysterious legends.
TPO.Travel invites you to experience this lesser-known gem through our Devil’s Stream Cruise, a 50-minute journey that brings you face-to-face with Prague’s most picturesque and secretive corners. With our knowledgeable captains doubling as friendly guides, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the history and stories that have shaped this captivating part of the city.
Setting Sail: A Unique Way to Discover Prague
The tour begins at one of Prague’s most iconic landmarks: the Charles Bridge. As your boat drifts away from the bustling river traffic, you’ll be greeted by spectacular views of the bridge’s Gothic towers and statues, standing watch over the Vltava River for over 600 years.
From this vantage point, the grandeur of Prague Castle rises on the horizon, an unforgettable panorama that blends natural beauty and architectural splendor. It’s the perfect way to set the tone for a cruise that promises not only stunning scenery but also intimate glimpses of the city’s soul.
Into the Devil’s Channel: Prague’s Enigmatic Waterway
Leaving the broad Vltava behind, your boat glides into the Devil’s Stream, a narrow canal that snakes between ancient houses. Here, the atmosphere changes completely. The bustling city seems to fade away, replaced by the soft lapping of water against medieval foundations and the gentle creaking of old wooden shutters.
This enchanting canal, sometimes called Prague’s “Venice”, has been part of the city’s life since the Middle Ages. Once a working millstream, the Devil’s Stream powered the mills that ground Prague’s grain and provided a lifeline for its early residents. Today, it’s a peaceful haven where history and nature intertwine.
The Legends Behind the Name
As you drift along, your captain-guide will reveal the mysterious origin of the name “Devil’s Stream”. Some say it’s named after the mischievous water sprites and goblins said to haunt its dark corners. Others believe it’s a nod to the turbulent currents that once challenged the city’s millers and boatmen.
These legends add a layer of magic to the cruise — a sense that Prague is a city where folklore and history are never far apart.
A Glimpse into the Lesser Town’s Past
The Lesser Town (Malá Strana), through which the Devil’s Stream winds, is one of Prague’s most atmospheric districts. Its charming houses seem to grow directly from the water, their pastel facades reflected in the rippling surface of the canal. Many of these buildings date back to the Renaissance and Baroque periods, and your guide will point out their unique features and fascinating stories.
One of the highlights is the view of the Grand Priory Mill (Velkopřevorský mlýn), one of the few remaining water mills in Prague. You’ll see the ancient mill wheel turning slowly, a living link to the city’s medieval past.
Hidden Corners and Secret Gardens
One of the great joys of the Devil’s Stream Cruise is discovering places you’d never see from land. Tiny balconies overlook the canal, adorned with flowers that spill over into the water below. Wooden footbridges and narrow alleys hint at a Prague that has always been full of quiet romance.
Along the way, you might glimpse secluded gardens and hidden courtyards — green oases that offer a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. These secret corners are part of what makes the Devil’s Stream so captivating — a place where time seems to slow down, inviting you to linger and wonder.
A Living Tapestry of Prague’s History
The Devil’s Stream Cruise isn’t just a scenic journey — it’s a living tapestry of Prague’s past. From medieval merchants to Renaissance builders and modern-day artists, generations have left their mark on these waterside houses and cobbled quays.
Your guide will share stories of how the canal has changed over the centuries — from a vital trade route to a forgotten backwater, and finally to a cherished symbol of Prague’s enduring charm.
TPO.Travel: Your Gateway to Authentic Experiences
At TPO.Travel, we believe that travel is about more than just sightseeing — it’s about truly experiencing the soul of a place. Our Devil’s Stream Cruise is designed to bring you closer to Prague’s most intimate and atmospheric corners, all while providing the comfort and insight that only a knowledgeable local guide can offer.
Our boats are designed to be both cozy and spacious, offering unobstructed views of the canal’s most photogenic spots. The captains double as storytellers, weaving together history, legend, and humor to create a tour that’s as engaging as it is relaxing.
Tailored for Every Traveler
Whether you’re visiting Prague for the first time or returning to rediscover its hidden gems, our Devil’s Stream Cruise can be tailored to your interests. Families will love the enchanting tales of water sprites and secret gardens, while history buffs will revel in the detailed insights into Prague’s past.
For couples, the cruise offers a wonderfully romantic way to see the city — the gentle motion of the boat, the play of light on the water, and the ancient houses leaning close as if to share their secrets.
Complement Your Cruise with Other TPO.Travel Experiences
To make your time in Prague even more magical, TPO.Travel offers a range of complementary tours and services that pair perfectly with the Devil’s Stream Cruise:
Walking Tours of the Old Town and Jewish Quarter – Explore the heart of Prague on foot and discover the stories behind its landmarks.
Panoramic Vltava River Cruises – For a broader perspective on Prague’s skyline and monuments.
Interactive Museum Visits – Experience modern Prague’s creative energy at places like the Illusion Art Museum.
Customized Day Trips – Let us design a day just for you, combining river cruises, walking tours, and more.
A Timeless Prague Memory
The Devil’s Stream Cruise is more than just a boat ride — it’s a journey into a Prague that many visitors miss. It’s a chance to see the city through the eyes of generations past and to let your imagination wander through legends of goblins and millers, merchants and musicians.
As you drift back toward the Charles Bridge at the end of your cruise, you’ll feel a sense of wonder and connection — to Prague, to history, and to the gentle rhythm of the Vltava itself.
Discover Prague’s Hidden Heart with TPO.Travel
Prague is a city of layers — grand squares and quiet alleys, bustling boulevards and tranquil canals. The Devil’s Stream Cruise with TPO.Travel lets you experience the most secretive and enchanting layer of all.
So step aboard, and let us guide you into a world where legends come alive, and the past whispers through every ripple. This is Prague as you’ve never seen it — intimate, mysterious, and unforgettable.
Book your Devil’s Stream Cruise today and discover the secret soul of Prague!