Discover a hidden gem in Prague center, the Certovka Devil's Canal! This blind arm of the Vltava River offers picturesque corners and an old clattering mill that evokes a fairytale atmosphere.
| Location: | Lesser Town, Vltava River |
| How to enjoy: | by boat tour |
| Fun fact: | a mysterious place that not many tourists know about |
✅ BEST TIP: Explore the Devil's Canal on a romantic sightseeing cruise! (Book tickets online)
➺ What is Certovka?
The Prague Certovka (Devil's Canal) represents a blind arm of the Vltava River that separates the Kampa Island from the Lesser Town (Mala Strana).
It is a man-made water embankment built in the 12th century by the Knights of Malta. Certovka served as a water supply to the Lesser Town mills in the vicinity.
The 15th-century Grand Priory mill, still clattering on the water, has over time become the most beautiful landmark on the Certovka canal.
Nowadays, Certovka stands for a charming place, that you can see directly from the Charles Bridge, or up close on a boat tour.
➺ Things to do
The area is best enjoyed in two ways. Take a cruise on the canal in a guided boat tour or wander the nooks and crannies around on foot.
TAKE A BOAT CRUISE: I totally recommend a sightseeing boat tour that brings you right into the heart of the Certovka canal. The captain heads the boat first across the Vltava River, from where you can admire the panorama of old Prague. Then he turns under the Charles Bridge and takes you directly to the romantic Devil's Canal.
TIP: When you get to the mill, keep your eyes peeled. You might see an old water goblin guarding the river.
WALK AROUND: The best view of the canal is under the Charles Bridge if you come there from the Lesser Town side. Combine a walking tour with exploring the adjacent Kampa Island, which offers an impressive mix of medieval houses, small well-kept gardens, and charming corners.
➺ What does Certovka mean?
According to a legend from the 19th century, the name Certovka (Devil) refers to a quarrelsome woman who often washed clothes there. Her devilish character made life so unpleasant for the other inhabitants that the canal was named after her!
➺ How to get there
- See Certovka on Google Maps.
- Nearest metro stop: Line A (green), Malostranska
The Certovka Canal is located between the Old Town and Lesser Town in the city center. It is easily accessible from the Charles Bridge, where stone steps lead to the canal.
If you go from the Lesser Town side, turn behind the Lesser Town Bridge Tower left under the Charles Bridge. There you will find a beautiful spot with a view of the canal.
INTERESTING FACT: The Certovka channel is also popular with filmmakers. Milos Forman set this place in his Oscar-winning Amadeus movie. The Certovka area also provided the backdrop for the action film Mission Impossible.
➺ Attractions nearby
- Charles Bridge
- Lesser Town Bridge Tower
- Old Town Bridge Tower
- Statue of St John of Nepomuk
- Kampa Island
- Karel Zeman museum
➺ Where to eat
The best restaurants, pubs, and bistros around the Certovka Canal.
- On the budget: Bohemian Bistro
- Fine dining: Kampa Park
- Great coffee and desserts: Kampa Cafe
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