A small island most visitors walk straight past
Slovanský ostrov ("Slavic Island") sits in the Vltava just off the New Town riverbank, close enough to the National Theatre and Dancing House that it's easy to fold into the same stretch of a walk — and yet it's quiet enough that most visitors never actually step onto it. Shaded paths, benches, and a small garden make it a genuine break from the crowds a few minutes' walk away.
Žofín Palace
The island's centrepiece is Žofín Palace, a grand Neo-Renaissance hall built in the 19th century that quickly became one of Prague's most important venues for concerts, balls and public gatherings — composer Antonín Dvořák performed here, among many others. It's still an active event and concert venue today, so what you can see inside depends entirely on what's on; the exterior and riverside setting are worth the visit even without a ticket to whatever's currently showing.
What else to do there
In warmer months, paddle boats are available to rent right off the island, giving another angle on the river alongside our boat trips guide. The gardens are a genuinely pleasant spot to sit down with a coffee between the National Theatre area and a walk back toward New Town or across to Malá Strana.