A new ranking by the Australian website Compare the Market has analysed cities worldwide to determine the best destinations for nature lovers. The study assessed cities in Australia, Europe, and the USA based on factors such as air quality, the number of hiking trails, biodiversity, and the quantity and quality of parks.
The Czech capital, Prague, ranked second in Europe, behind Helsinki, with Berlin in third place. Stockholm and Hamburg complete the top five in fourth and fifth place, respectively.
According to the study, Prague has evolved into a trendy city in recent years and is particularly popular with tourists. With 179 hiking trails and nearly 40 per cent of its surface area covered in green spaces, its high ranking comes as no surprise. The Czech capital also boasts the highest park density in Europe, with 4.4 parks per 100,000 inhabitants.
Prague’s parks and historic gardens are popular meeting spots for both locals and visitors. People come here to picnic, relax, or exercise—offering a perfect balance to urban life. If you need an escape from the city’s fast pace, you can choose from around 200 parks, many of which have been established since the Middle Ages and are now considered the green lungs of the Vltava metropolis.
One of Prague’s largest and most famous parks is Stromovka Park. Founded in the 13th century by King Přemysl Otakar II, it remains one of the most beautiful places in the city to unwind. Petřín Hill Park is another favourite—whether in spring, when thousands of fruit trees are in full bloom, or in autumn, when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold. On a beautiful day, there’s nothing better than sitting in Letná Park with a cold beer in hand, taking in the breathtaking panorama of Prague. Riegrovy Sady, located in the Vinohrady district, is another beloved park among Praguers and expats alike. With stunning sunsets, numerous sports facilities, and a cosy beer garden, it remains a year-round hotspot for relaxation.
Our tip: For a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city, a visit to the Botanical Gardens (Botanická zahrada hl. m. Prahy) is highly recommended. Covering around 50 hectares on the right bank of the Vltava River, near Troja Castle and Prague Zoo, this green oasis offers a serene escape from urban life.
The study assessed a total of 27 European cities, considering criteria such as green space coverage, the number of hiking trails, air quality, and biodiversity. More details on the study can be found on the Compare the Market Australia website.
