The Vrtba Garden is one of my favorite gardens in Prague, from the upper terrace of which there is an amazing view of the city. Well, it is not surprising that this is the most popular location for a wedding ceremony in Prague. It’s number two after the Old Town Hall. Magnificent park cascades, views of the tiled roofs and the central location make this garden unique. The garden is happy to open its doors to cozy weddings for two. But with the same charm, it hosts big celebrations with hundreds of guests.
Some facts about the Vrtba garden.
Vrtba Garden was named after its creator and founder Jan Josef Vrtby who owned the palace and the vineyards, previously situated in this area. The territory of the vineyards was specific, wedge-shaped, and, furthermore, it was situated on a slope of a mountain, so it was not a walk in the park for architects to lay out a garden. But it was well worth it. A marvelous garden in Italian style was set up in three terraces, connected to each other by magnificent staircases, and picturesque views to Prague opened from each of them. The higher you climb, puffing and panting, the better the cityscape opens up, recompensing you for these exertions.
By the way, Vrtba Garden is included in UNESCO World Heritage list, and it’s commonly known that they would’t add whatever in this list :-) Currently the garden is a municipal property, and if you want to hold a wedding there, you just need to address a Civil Registry Office in the Prague 1 Municipal District with a corresponding application.
Wedding in Vrtba garden.
The wedding day for the couple commenced early in the morning at the Alchymist hotel, just a 5-minute stroll from the garden. I adore capturing morning preparations because of the exquisite light streaming through the windows, the bride’s romantic aura, the groom’s mix of playfulness and nerves, and the tender moments when mothers shed tears as they accompany their beloved children down the aisle.
Moreover, by the time the actual photoshoot begins, the newlyweds have already grown accustomed to the photographer, alleviating any tension from the camera clicks. Additionally, it’s the opportune moment to capture the most delicate portraits of the bride.
The itinerary for this wedding day was impeccably organized. The newlyweds leisurely prepared themselves and proceeded to the ceremony, relishing the delightful weather and each other’s company.
I cherish photographing such heartfelt weddings, where only the closest family and friends are invited. It’s a guarantee of genuine laughter, tears of joy, and heartfelt embraces all around.
Opening hours and costs.
Officially, the garden is open from April 1 to October 31. Sometimes, it is opened and closed 3-5 days earlier or later. Opening hours from 10 to 18, in the summer months to 19 hours. An adult ticket costs 100 CZK (4 euros).
How to get there?
The address is Karmelitská 25, entrance from a street with tram tracks. Look for a small spot that sells traditional Czech trdelniks (yeast sweet bun). On it’s left you will find an inconspicuous arch, just go through to the courtyard.
How much does the wedding in Vrtba garden cost?
The ceremonies are held under the arches of Sala Terrena, which ensures that even in rainy weather you have nothing to worry about. In good weather, if desired, the ceremony can be held on the first terrace or by the fountain. The lowest level is closed during the ceremony, so you can enjoy the privacy without the curious glances of tourists.
Approximate rental price of the Vrtba Garden is 13,000 czk per 90min, 9,000 czk on weekdays for 45min. I’ll clarify again that the whole garden is not closed for visits, so during the photo shoot in the garden you will not be alone.
Photo shoot costs without a ceremony.
Those who wish (and there are so many of them) can arrange a professional photo shoot in the garden without having to arrange a ceremony. The cost of such shooting is ~ 50 euros (the price changes every year).
