Heat Rising: Prague Rolls Out Green Plan to Cool the City

Prague’s city centre is among the hottest areas in the Czech Republic.

Dense urban development, concrete pavements and asphalt surfaces have turned the capital into a heat island, where ground temperatures during summer can soar above 50°C—several dozen degrees higher than in areas where the soil can breathe and retain moisture.

These extreme conditions, intensified by climate change, underline the need for urgent, long-term solutions.

In response, the city has adopted the Strategy for Adaptation of the Capital City of Prague to Climate Change, a broad plan aimed at cooling the urban environment and strengthening resilience.

As part of its public outreach, Prague will host a Climate Walk on Thursday, April 10, highlighting specific projects already in place. The event is free and open to the public.

The programme begins at 1 p.m. at the European House (Národní 10), with an opening address followed by presentations from Prague City Hall officials. They will outline the goals of the Prague Climate Plan, provide updates on current initiatives, and share progress to date.

The first stop on the walk is Smetanovo nábřeží, a recently redesigned riverside street transformed with climate adaptation in mind. The project focused on improving pedestrian comfort with a wider promenade on both sides, a new cycle path, and tree-lined avenues offering shade during the hot summer months—a crucial upgrade in an area that sees up to 100,000 visitors daily during peak season.

The route will also take visitors through the area surrounding the National Museum, which has recently undergone major revitalisation. The ground between the museum and Čelakovský Park has been resurfaced with permeable paving stones to help absorb rainwater.

The park itself has been replanted with diverse vegetation to support biodiversity—featuring 21 tree species, around 100 shrubs, and more than 100,000 plants.

Investment and Inspiration

“Prague is quite ahead of the curve in adaptation measures,” said Tereza Líbová, head of environmental projects at Prague City Hall. “The city is investing significantly in efforts to tackle urban overheating, improve green spaces and water management, and plant new tree-lined streets. But most importantly, we want to showcase innovative solutions, engage the public and inspire further action.”

Martina Čížková, Czech ambassador for the European Climate Pact, believes Prague can serve as a model for other cities. “Designing climate-resilient cities is no longer optional—it’s essential,” she said. “I hope the climate walk will encourage more people to take an interest in these efforts, and to understand how they matter for our health, our environment, and our future.”

Climate-Resilient Trees

One of the key stops will be Strossmayerovo náměstí, where 17 Julian elm trees were planted late last year by the Technical Roads Administration (TSK). Selected for their durability and long lifespan, these trees are part of a broader strategy to make urban spaces more livable.

“Trees are the lungs of the city. They cool streets, offer shade, trap dust and exhaust fumes, retain water, and make public spaces more pleasant,” said Jan Čižinský, mayor of Prague 7. “We’re grateful for every tree added to the district.”

Event Details

• Climate Walk

• Date: Thursday, April 10

• Start Time: 1:00 p.m.

• Starting Point: European House, Národní 10

• Admission: Free (registration required)

• Highlights: Smetanovo nábřeží, Strossmayer Square, National Museum area

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