There are few cities prettier than Prague – I’ve visited it a number of occasions over the a long time and couldn’t wait to introduce my daughter to the Czech capital, with loads of issues to do in Prague with children alongside the historical past.
comprises affiliate hyperlinks*
Unsurprisingly common, you’ll have to be braced for crowds of vacationers, even should you go to exterior peak season in October like we did however regardless of the numbers, Prague nonetheless has a fairytale really feel all of its personal (and it’s arduous to be too cross concerning the variety of vacationers whenever you’re amongst them!)
We stayed within the Previous City (Staré Město) which incorporates the outdated Jewish Quarter, Josefov, so you possibly can select a quieter different within the New City (Nove Mesto) – the opposite primary districts are the Lesser city (Mala Strana) and Fortress Quarter (Hradcany). However wherever you select, you’re not often too removed from the primary sights – right here’s my choose of the perfect issues to do in Prague with children.
Is the nation referred to as Czechia or the Czech Republic? Both is appropriate!
After Czechoslovakia cut up into two nations in 1993, the nation’s official identify grew to become the Czech Republic. Czechia is the quick or extra casual model of the identify, adopted by varied official our bodies over the previous 10 years – the equal of claiming Britain as an alternative of Nice Britain
Prague Fortress
The most important fort on the planet, occupying an space of virtually 70,000 sq. metres, Prague Fortress isn’t only a single constructing, however a string of them throughout the fort grounds, together with the cathedral (scroll down for extra) and Golden Lane, with its row of vibrant, historic homes.
So a go to right here isn’t simply unmissable, however an opportunity to pack in a number of highlights of Prague with children. With the outdated royal palace, church buildings, museums and extra, you’ll want not less than half a day to discover correctly, though you possibly can simply spend longer if you wish to go to every part.
Perched excessive above the Vltava River, the fort has been the seat of Czech rulers because the ninth century, and it’s nonetheless the official residence of the Czech president as we speak. The views alone are definitely worth the climb (or tram journey should you want to avoid wasting your vitality/legs).
Wandering by means of the courtyards appears like stepping again by means of centuries of European historical past, with Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque structure all jostling for consideration. In case you time your go to for midday, you possibly can see the ceremonial altering of the guard within the first courtyard (plus a smaller ceremony on the hour because the sentries change).
It’s free to enter the fort grounds, however you’ll want (paid) tickets to enter the buildings inside.
The principle mixed ticket provides entrance to the Previous Royal Palace, St Vitus Cathedral, Golden Lane and St George’s Basilica, however you’ll want a separate mixed ticket to enter the Story of Prague Fortress (which additionally permits entry to a number of different exhibitions). The toy museum can also be throughout the fort advanced; you want a separate ticket and the toys are on show in glass instances, to not be performed with.
You should buy tickets whenever you arrive, however even in October shortly after opening time, the queues have been lengthy, so shopping for prematurely is an excellent plan.
It’s also possible to get audioguides, which I do remorse not shopping for – I usually discover them much less helpful with children, however there isn’t at all times a lot info as you discover. One other different is to purchase tickets together with audioguide in your telephone whereas this selection has a quick guided introduction and optionally available audioguide in your telephone.
The Previous Royal Palace
There’s been a royal palace on this web site because the first picket constructing was constructed across the finish of the ninth century, earlier than a stone palace adopted within the twelfth century, which was then prolonged within the 14th and late fifteenth century.
With a mixture of formal halls and on a regular basis workplaces, the Previous Royal Palace is somewhat completely different than your common palace and received’t take lengthy to discover, however nonetheless nicely value a go to whilst you’re exploring the fort advanced.
The Vladislav Corridor is likely one of the most spectacular rooms, used for state functions together with coronations and banquets, whereas the steps have been broad sufficient for knights to journey up on horseback.
In a facet room, you possibly can see the place the governing passed off within the Eating regimen Corridor, residence to the nation’s parliament, whereas one other facet room noticed the beginning of the Thirty Years Struggle when two Protestant nobles threw two Catholic regents from the window – which, by the way, is the place we get the phrase defenestration from.
The 2 survived due to a tender touchdown in some manure, though they have been removed from the final casualties of the Thirty Years Struggle, which killed not less than 5 million (probably over 10 million) folks, though as we speak there’s a slightly beautiful view out throughout the grounds.
There are additionally common exhibitions within the remaining rooms, together with copies of the crown jewels (normally the closest you will get to seeing the actual factor, which is saved in St Vitus Cathedral).
St Vitus Cathedral
The hanging Gothic cathedral sits on the coronary heart of the fort advanced and dominates Prague Fortress – rightly so, it’s one of the spectacular church buildings in Europe, though it was one place the place I actually regretted a scarcity of audioguide (or information) as restricted info meant I felt I missed understanding the main points of what I used to be seeing.
St Vitus cathedral was began within the 14th century, in 1344, though it wasn’t really completed till 1929 so like a lot of the remainder of the fort buildings, there’s a mixture of architectural kinds.
Even should you’re not an knowledgeable, the result’s spectacular, with hovering vaulted ceilings, intricate stained glass home windows, and sufficient ornate element to maintain you gazing upwards for ages. Early morning or late afternoon usually has the perfect gentle streaming by means of the stained glass.
Coronations of Czech kings and queens as soon as passed off right here, and also you’ll additionally discover the tombs of Bohemian kings and Holy Roman emperors, together with the gorgeous Chapel of St Wenceslas embellished with semi-precious stones and frescoes depicting the saint’s life. The chapel homes the Czech crown jewels, although these are solely displayed on very uncommon events.
In case you’re up for it, you possibly can climb the cathedral’s Nice South Tower – it’s 287 steps to the highest (and also you’ll want a separate ticket), however the panoramic views throughout Prague are unbeatable. The bells up there are impressively huge too.
Ordinarily, you possibly can go to the nave without cost should you don’t wish to purchase the primary cathedral ticket, however ongoing work signifies that isn’t presently accessible, so you possibly can solely enter with the primary Prague Fortress ticket. Like a lot of Prague, the cathedral does will get extremely busy, particularly round noon when tour teams descend, so attempt to go to early morning or later within the afternoon for a extra peaceable expertise.
Golden Lane
Golden Lane is small however nonetheless probably the greatest corners of Prague Fortress with children. Created on the finish of the fifteenth century, this tiny road of vibrant homes as soon as housed fort guards and goldsmiths, and you may peek contained in the recreated workshops and houses.
There’s really quite a bit to see, although the road isn’t lengthy, with varied homes linked to on a regular basis life, particular crafts, reminiscent of a goldsmith’s workshop and tavern, and individuals who lived right here. It does get busy, not least with folks making an attempt to snap the picturesque alley.
Franz Kafka lived at quantity 22 for some time, which provides an additional layer of literary historical past, with the final residents solely lastly shifting out in 1953.
However you can too peek inside No 14, as soon as residence to a well-known Prague fortune teller, who was murdered by the Gestapo in the course of the Second World Struggle, whereas No 12 was residence to Josef Kazda, a movie historian and collector who hid Czech movies right here to avoid wasting them being destroyed by the Nazis.
A terrace right here overlooks the Daliborka Tower, whereas there’s additionally a small weaponry museum which you can go searching.
In case you’ve obtained teenagers who’re followers of Kafka, save a while to identify the metallic, reflective, rotating sculpture of Franz Kafka’s head too, created by artist David Černý. It’s within the sq. simply off Vladislavova within the New City.
Daliborka Tower
The spherical fifteenth century tower was a jail till the late 18th century, and is called for its first (and best-known) prisoner, Dalibor of Kozojedy, who spent the ultimate years of his life right here till his execution.
The knight had hidden rebels who’d risen towards a neighbouring manor, and tales inform that he spend his imprisonment studying to play the violin, turning into so adept that individuals would stand to hear exterior the door.
Different prisoners weren’t so lucky, with a trapdoor to an oubliette under the bottom ground, the place a few of these jailed have been lowered down by rope and left to starve. There are numerous torture units and cages dotted round as you discover too, so it’s not one for extra delicate children.
The Story of Prague Fortress
In case you’re hoping to study extra concerning the historical past of the entire web site, The Story of Prague Fortress exhibition takes you thru the thousand years that the fort has stood, with authentic objects, tales from individuals who labored right here over the centuries and a few interactive components, together with actions for teenagers.
It’s not included in the usual ticket for the fort, so that you do want to purchase one other go (round £11 together with entry to a number of different exhibitions, though these are much less prone to attraction to children, and also you’ll want to purchase that on the location).
The primary a part of the exhibition focuses on vital folks and occasions in Czech historical past, in addition to exhibiting fashions of the fort because it was developed over the centuries. Then the second part is themed, taking a look at everthing from the significance of the church to the fort, eating traditions and even burial practices.
St George’s Basilica
The second most vital church within the Prague Fortress advanced (after St Vitus Cathedral), St George’s Basilica can also be included in the primary ticket, so it’s value a fast look inside.
It’s the oldest surviving church constructing within the fort grounds, and also you’ll discover some royal tombs underneath the chancel, together with the daddy and grandmother of St Wenceslas. Look out for the carving of St George slaying the dragon too.
Fortress Gardens
Don’t miss the fort gardens both, particularly should you’re visiting throughout spring or summer time after they’re in full bloom.
Not all are open to the general public, however you possibly can wander round numerous them together with the formal South Gardens and the gorgeous Royal Backyard, which lie both facet of the primary buildings.
Or there’s even a winery you possibly can stroll by means of, on the Daliborka Tower finish of the fort advanced. In line with legend, St Wenceslas winery is the oldest in Bohemia – whether or not you imagine that or not, it has some nice views.
The Prague Customer Cross contains entry to 70+ sights together with Prague Fortress, in addition to public transport – get a small low cost should you e book utilizing my hyperlink
Astronomical clock
Prague’s Astronomical Clock, or Orloj, has been conserving time within the Previous City Sq. since 1410, making it one of many oldest working astronomical clocks on the planet – and nonetheless touristy it’s to observe, I by no means tire of doing it.
Each hour on the hour, crowds collect within the Previous City Sq. to see the clock’s mechanical present because the Twelve Apostles parade previous the home windows and varied allegorical figures spring into motion. Do be ready to get there early to discover a place close to the entrance.
It solely lasts just below a minute, however there’s one thing slightly magical about watching a 600-year-old mechanism swing into motion.
The clock face itself is a murals, with three primary elements – the astronomical dial representing the solar’s journey by means of the zodiac and phases of the moon, the calendar dial with medallions depicting the months, and the figures together with a skeleton representing Dying who rings a bell because the hours go, in addition to rotating statues of the 12 apostles.
The clock additionally shows Babylonian time, Previous Bohemian time, German time, and Sidereal time (a system utilized by astronomers). There’s additionally a calendar dial just under the clock, exhibiting the day of the month, the day of the week, feast days and allegorical photos of the present month and signal of the zodiac, so it’s nicely value spending a while taking a look at all the main points exterior the busy level every hour.
There’s even a legend connected to the clock, that the good clockmaker Mikuláš who created it was approached by kings and nations determined for one thing equally spectacular; the Prague council was so apprehensive that he’d conform to create a competitor that they’d him blinded.
In revenge, the story tells that the clockmaker threw himself into the clock’s mechanism, killing himself and cursing the clock saying that each one those that tried to repair it might go mad or die (though in slightly extra prosaic reality, the clock has been repaired a number of occasions over the centuries).
It’s also possible to e book a ticket to go contained in the Previous City Corridor and climb the clock tower, to see the mechanism up shut, in addition to getting some nice views, though that’s greatest with older children.
Previous City Sq.
Whether or not you’re visiting the Previous City Sq. to see the Astronomical Clock, or passing by means of, it’s nicely value spending a little bit of time trying round.
The historic centre of Prague is a UNESCO World Heritage web site, together with the entire of the Previous City, and the combo of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque buildings listed below are an awesome introduction to the town’s historical past.
The Sq. itself dates from the twelfth century, when it was the town’s primary market place, book-ended by the imposing Church of Our Girl earlier than Tyn and the Baroque Church of St Nicholas.
Look out for the monument to Czech reformer and nationwide hero Jan Hus within the centre, close to the 16m excessive Marian Column, itself erected to mark Prague’s escape from Swedish invading forces in the course of the Thirty Years Struggle.
It’s also possible to see the Rococo Kinsky Palace and the Gothic Home on the Stone Bell among the many notable buildings. And simply across the nook from the astronomical clock you’ll discover 27 crosses, marking the place the place 27 Czech noblemen have been beheaded in 1621, in one of many darker chapters of Prague’s historical past.
It’s also possible to discover loads of locations to eat and drink right here, tons with outside tables (and heaters for colder climate). The views are nice, however the costs are distinctly touristy – stroll just some streets away and the buildings are equally beautiful and the costs much less eye-watering.
Charles Bridge
No go to to Prague is full with no stroll throughout the Charles Bridge – it’s arguably the town’s most iconic landmark and one of the stunning medieval bridges in Europe.
Crossing the Vltava River and connecting the Previous City with the Lesser City, this Gothic bridge has been standing since 1402, and there are some spectacular views in each instructions, with Prague Fortress excessive above on one facet and the spires of the Previous City on the opposite.
The bridge is lined with 30 Baroque statues and statuaries, most courting from the early 18th century, depicting varied saints and non secular scenes. Essentially the most well-known is the statue of St John of Nepomuk – legend has it that touching the bronze plaque brings good luck and ensures your return to Prague, which explains why it’s been rubbed shiny by numerous fingers through the years.
The bridge itself is pedestrianised, and also you’ll discover a string of road artists, musicians and little stalls (particularly jewelry) however yow will discover large crowds making an attempt to cross in the course of the day, so it’s greatest to get there shiny and early or go to at sundown for a barely extra peaceable expertise.
If you need a really quiet and extra atmospheric go to, dawn exterior the height months might be the perfect wager, so in any other case be ready to share! If you’re visiting in winter, there’s usually mist within the early mornings which provides an added fairytale really feel, in addition to snow in January.
The bridge towers at both finish are value exploring too – you possibly can climb the Previous City Bridge Tower for extra great views alongside the bridge and throughout the river. It’s 138 steps to the highest, however nicely definitely worth the climb, significantly at sundown when the sunshine turns golden. This ticket permits you to climb each towers – plus there’s a small low cost should you e book by means of my hyperlink.
Do be careful for pickpockets within the crowds – that is considered one of Prague’s busiest vacationer spots, so preserve valuables safe and luggage zipped up.
Charles Bridge Museum
In case you’ve fallen in love with the Charles Bridge (and who doesn’t?), there’s an opportunity to study extra about its historical past and development on the Charles Bridge Museum.
Tucked away close to the bridge itself, this small however unexpectedly participating museum makes use of fashions, multimedia shows and archaeological finds to inform the story of how the bridge got here to be.
You’ll uncover how medieval engineers managed to construct such an everlasting construction with out trendy expertise, and study concerning the varied floods, wars and disasters the bridge has survived over its lengthy historical past.
The spotlight is certainly the detailed scale mannequin exhibiting the bridge’s development course of, which actually brings residence the unbelievable engineering feat this represented within the 14th century. There are additionally reveals concerning the well-known statues, explaining their symbolism and the tales behind them too.
The museum additionally shows a few of the authentic stonework and architectural fragments from the bridge, supplying you with a close-up have a look at the craftsmanship that’s normally excessive above your head on the bridge itself. Plus there are a couple of small interactive components demonstrating the medieval constructing methods.
It’s not an enormous museum so you possibly can simply discover every part in lower than half an hour – our boat journey tickets included entry, in addition to to 2 different museums, so there’s no must spend ages to get your cash’s value.
It’s value visiting earlier than you stroll throughout the bridge, because it provides you a brand new appreciation of what you’re standing on, though not important.
The Prague Customer Cross contains entry to 70+ sights together with the Charles Bridge Museum and bridge towers, in addition to public transport – get a small low cost should you e book utilizing my hyperlink
Story of Prague expertise
For a totally completely different solution to uncover Prague’s thousand-year historical past, the Story of Prague is the right begin to a vacation in Prague with children, an immersive multimedia expertise to carry the town’s previous to life.
Set simply off Wenceslas Sq. and close to Charles Bridge, the interactive exhibition makes use of holograms, projections, and touchscreen shows to information you thru Prague’s most vital historic moments – from its founding legends to the Velvet Revolution and past.
Whereas this type of attraction can usually be a bit kitschy, we liked the best way this used expertise to make the historical past so entertaining. You’re not simply studying info panels – you’re watching battles unfold, seeing buildings rise and fall, and experiencing key occasions by means of a number of senses.
As a result of it’s so interactive, it’s a success with children (in addition to adults), however you’re additionally getting an awesome introduction to Czech historical past with out feeling such as you’re sitting by means of a protracted lesson.
Cut up over three flooring, the exhibition contains the current previous, together with a room on the 90s in Prague, but additionally whisks you thru medieval occasions (don’t miss the hidden chamber of Rudolf II), in addition to the Second World Struggle and Communism behind the Iron Curtain.
You’ll must obtain the app onto your telephone (a conveyable charger can also be an excellent concept!) though headphones are offered should you don’t have your individual and also you could possibly borrow headphone splitters should you’re utilizing a single telephone. Enable round 90 minutes to discover.
Purchase tickets with free cancellation right here, or you can too get a small low cost should you e book tickets utilizing my hyperlink
Boat journey on the Vltava river
One in all my favorite actions in Prague for households is taking a brief cruise alongside the Vltava River – ours lasted 45 minutes however we appeared to pack a shocking quantity in, so it’s simply one of many high issues to do in Prague.
Seeing Prague from the water provides you likelihood to benefit from the metropolis panoramas, in addition to being one of the enjoyable methods to sightsee.
There’s normally some commentary, so you realize what you’re seeing, and many nice views of some metropolis landmarks together with the fort and cathedral, the Charles Bridge, the opera home, and the Nationwide Theatre. And on a sunny autumn day like ours, the golden gentle was spectacular, gilding the river and the rooftops.
You’ll discover a complete string of Vltava cruises, starting from shorter journeys to longer lunch cruises or dinner cruises, in addition to sundown sailings, however I feel the shorter daytime cruises are best with children – lengthy sufficient to take pleasure in, quick sufficient that no-one will get bored.
Our boat journey left from the Charles Bridge Museum (with mixed tickets accessible) in a conventional picket Vodouch boat, with a drink and ice cream or cake thrown in.
Try a video of our Vltava boat tour in Prague right here
Strolling excursions of Prague
The easiest way to see Prague is on foot, so that you’ll be spoiled for selection for should you’re in search of a strolling tour in Prague with children, with an entire string of themed excursions in addition to normal sightseeing.
This Previous City Household Tour isn’t the most cost effective nevertheless it contains video games and actions for teenagers, in addition to an choice to increase the tour to incorporate Prague Fortress. Or this non-public tour of Prague may be personalised to an extent and contains numerous the important thing sights.
For one thing somewhat completely different, this Immersive Historical past strolling tour contains VR for a extremely enjoyable twist for households.
In case you’d prefer to see Prague past the historic highlights, this different strolling tour of Prague contains road artwork and unbiased music, so it’s an awesome choice for teenagers.
You’re not restricted to daytimes both, with an entire string of night ghost excursions – we tried this Ghosts and Legends of the Previous City tour which was simply the best steadiness of spooky and historical past. Whereas my daughter was the one under-18, the information was nice at making everybody really feel included, and at 90 minutes, it meant we weren’t out too late. Or this Ghosts and Legends Nighttime stroll is one other related different.
Prague’s Jewish Quarter, Josefov, was one of many largest in Europe, so that you’ll additionally discover loads of Jewish strolling excursions exploring this space, together with a few of the primary synagogues and the outdated Jewish cemetery.
This Jewish Quarter strolling tour contains entry to the Maisel Synagogue, Pinkas Synagogue, Previous-New Synagogue and Spanish Synagogue, in addition to some historical past of the realm and its inhabitants. It’s undoubtedly one for older children, due to the content material and quantity of knowledge, though you can too entry the assorted synagogues independently.
Prague’s Narrowest Alley
Hidden away within the Lesser City close to Charles Bridge, you’ll discover considered one of Prague’s quirkiest sights – an alleyway so slim that just one particular person can go by means of at a time, full with its personal set of visitors lights.
Formally referred to as Vinárna Čertovka or Nejužší pražská ulička, although regionally referred to as the narrowest road in Prague, this tiny passageway measures simply 50cm broad at its narrowest level – should you’re looking for it on the map, search for 24 U Lužického semináře.
The miniature visitors gentle system was put in to stop folks getting caught after they meet coming from reverse instructions, which manages to be quirky however sensible.
There’s normally a small queue of vacationers ready patiently for his or her flip to navigate the passage, and setting off to squeeze by means of as quickly because it turns inexperienced. Realistically there’s not really quite a bit to do when you do get by means of, nevertheless it’s free, solely takes a few minutes and could be very enjoyable (plus you will get some nice images of your children).
The alley does lead right down to a riverside restaurant, Čertovka, which serves conventional Czech delicacies, so you possibly can head over to eat, or wander over to benefit from the views. The encircling space of the Mala Strana, or lesser city, could be very fairly too with its cobbled streets and vibrant buildings, so it’s value saving a while to walk round.
Don’t count on an excessive amount of – it’s actually only a very slim alley – nevertheless it’s develop into one thing of a cult attraction exactly as a result of it’s so surprising. Plus, how usually are you able to say you’ve obeyed visitors lights on foot?
Prague Nationwide Museum
The Prague Nationwide Museum homes the Czech Republic’s largest museum assortment, so no matter you’re keen on, you’ll most likely discover it in right here.
The collections embrace pure historical past, arts, museum and Czech historical past, with every part from fossils and minerals to historic artefacts and musical devices tucked contained in the imposing constructing on Wenceslas Sq. (which had round a decade of main renovations earlier than reopning in 2018).
It’s undoubtedly alongside extra conventional traces, with its grand halls full of specimens slightly than interactive reveals, though there’s an app to carry a few of the shows to life – actually within the case of the fin whale skeleton hanging from the ceiling; simply level your telephone at it and the bones are remodeled by the expertise so you possibly can visualise the actual factor.
The constructing itself could be very spectacular too, particularly the grand staircase and entrance corridor, in addition to ornate decor, with some beautiful views throughout the sq. from the highest flooring. There are additionally frequently altering non permanent exhibitions, which cowl an enormous vary of subjects from archaeology and imperial treasures to modern artwork and music.
Higher with older children, you possibly can simply spend a few hours inside if you wish to attempt to discover correctly (though you might nicely discover that museum fatigue units in lengthy earlier than you’ve seen all of it).
Do you know? The constructing’s exterior nonetheless bears marks from Soviet tanks in the course of the 1968 invasion – these have been intentionally preserved as a reminder of that turbulent interval in Czech historical past.
Museum of Alchemists and Magicians of Previous Prague
Some of the uncommon sights in Prague is tucked away in a Sixteenth-century home close to Prague Fortress, the place the Museum of Alchemists and Magicians takes you into the mysterious world of medieval alchemy, magic and the occult sciences.
Prague was as soon as a centre of alchemical analysis, significantly in the course of the reign of Rudolf II who was fascinated by alchemy and invited practitioners from throughout Europe to his court docket, together with Elizabeth I’s court docket astronomer John Dee and his seer (and virtually actually conman) Edward Kelley.
The museum is cut up into two sections, the primary taking you thru a historical past of alchemy, and the second recreating an alchemist’s laboratory, which is extra child-friendly – though it’s full of peculiar devices and mysterious substances, plus a facet serving to of spookiness, so it’s not for youthful children.
You’ll see authentic alchemical tools, manuscripts coated in cryptic symbols, and shows explaining the seek for the thinker’s stone and the elixir of life, with an audio information to assist clarify what you’re seeing – with out them, it might probably undoubtedly be a bit complicated.
The museum does a great job of presenting alchemy as each a precursor to trendy chemistry and a perception system wrapped up in mysticism and symbolism, plus there are some hands-on shows. There’s numerous info to soak up so it may be a bit overwhelming, and the figures within the darkened room coated in symbols have been distinctly creepy.
The spotlight for many households is the tiny secret laboratory found throughout renovations, accessed by means of a low doorway – it’s regarded as the place an alchemist really labored centuries in the past. The cramped, darkish area actually conveys how these mysterious experiments have been carried out.
Keep in mind it’s an genuine medieval constructing, which implies steep stairs, low doorways and slim passages – all a part of the allure, however value understanding prematurely.
It’s not a big museum – you possibly can see every part in about 45 minutes to an hour – nevertheless it’s completely distinctive and fairly in contrast to every other museum you’ll go to in Prague. Set within the Lesser City, it’s straightforward to mix with the fort, and was included within the mixed tickets we had for our boat tour and the Charles Bridge Museum.
Museum of Prague Ghosts and Legends
For an additional of Prague’s spookier sights, the Museum of Prague Ghosts and Legends leads you thru the darker facet of Prague’s historical past, full of tales of spectres, supernatural occasions and the legends which have haunted the town for hundreds of years.
The primary room shares varied completely different ghost tales and myths, in addition to a couple of interactive reveals, and objects as an example.
Then the Underground road of ghosts is partly housed in a twelfth century basement, the place you’re led previous the 25 most well-known ghosts of Prague, together with the golem, a headless Templar who rides by means of the streets and others.
The sister museum to the Museum of Alchemists and Magicians, this one appealed much less to my daughter, who discovered it quite a bit spookier but additionally a bit tacky, and I wouldn’t suggest it for younger youngsters who’re prone to discover the darker basement fairly scary (until they’re followers of all issues ghostly).
Because it was included in our mixed ticket, it’s value a glance, particularly in case your children are keen on ghosts and legends, however you received’t must put aside an excessive amount of time.
Museum of the Senses
In case you’re after one thing a bit completely different, the Museum of the Senses is Prague’s tackle the phantasm museums which mess together with your notion and trick your eyes – excellent should you’re in search of a break from historical past, or someplace to spend an hour on a wet day in Prague with children.
Unfold throughout a number of rooms, this interactive museum is full of optical illusions, sensory experiments and installations designed to confuse and delight your mind. Stroll by means of a vortex tunnel, defy gravity within the anti-gravity room, or attempt to preserve your steadiness within the tilted room – you possibly can even courageous the mattress of nails with over 3.500 nails.
The mirror maze is especially entertaining (and barely disorientating), whereas the infinity rooms create the phantasm of infinite area. Plus, in fact, there are a string of photograph ops to return away with some bizarre photos.
Workers are available in every room to clarify how the illusions work should you’re curious concerning the science behind them, although you’re equally free to simply benefit from the expertise with out the technical explanations.
The museum isn’t large, however each little bit of area is used creatively with over 50 reveals to discover, and it’s a brief stroll from the Previous City’s Powder Gate Tower.
In case you can’t get sufficient of those, there’s additionally the Museum of Incredible Illusions, close to the Franciscan Gardens, and the Phantasm Artwork Museum Prague, solely a few minutes from the Previous City Sq.
Petrin Hill & Remark Tower
Petrin Hill is the right little escape from the town should you’re in search of wonderful views over Prague or a stunning inexperienced area that’s excellent for teenagers to play.
You possibly can stroll up the steep, wooded paths to the highest, or should you’re travelling with little ones, leap on the funicular from Újezd Road for a neater journey. EDIT: That is anticipated to reopen in summer time 2026 after reconstruction work on the funicular railway monitor.
On the high of the hill, you’ll discover Petrin Remark Tower, which resembles a mini Eiffel Tower for the perfect views down onto the town. The park has additionally a historic mirror maze and carousel close by, in addition to a number of different sights together with Štefánik Observatory and Church of St. Vavřinec, or just take a picnic and luxuriate in a sunny day.
St Nicholas Bell Tower
For a much less crowded different to a few of Prague’s primary viewpoints, try St Nicholas Bell Tower, a former 18th-century watchtower with improbable views over Malá Strana (Lesser City) and Hradčany.
Not one for toddlers, as you do must climb the 215 steps up the historic staircase to succeed in the vantage level on the high. From right here, you possibly can see out throughout most of the metropolis’s primary landmarks, together with the neighbouring Baroque Church of St Nicholas, Prague Fortress, and the enduring Charles Bridge.
Older children will even take pleasure in exploring the previous tower keeper’s condominium and studying the shows concerning the tower’s fascinating historical past – it was beforehand utilized by the Communist Secret Police to spy on the US and UK embassies close by!
Purchase tickets for St Nicholas Bell Tower with free cancellation right here
Prague Zoo
One in all Europe’s largest zoos, Prague Zoo has been open for nearly 100 years however nonetheless makes an awesome household day trip in Prague.
Well-known for its moral practices and conservation efforts, the zoo’s spacious habitats home over 5,000 animals and almost 700 species. A few of the highlights embrace the spectacular Elephant Valley and the Indonesian Jungle exhibit.
Youngsters will even love the playgrounds, mini-train, chairlift, petting zoo, and feeding periods, making it straightforward to fill a complete day right here. And if strolling across the large zoo is an excessive amount of for little legs, you possibly can leap on a family-friendly guided tour in an electrical automobile as an alternative, and there’s even somewhat chair-lift cable automobile to journey on.
Purchase skip-the-line tickets for Prague Zoo right here
Aquapalace Prague
In case you want a break from sightseeing – or a solution to calm down should you’re visiting Prague with children in the summertime, Aquapalace Prague water park is only a quick drive from the town centre.
Older children and youths can benefit from the water slides, outside and indoor wild rivers, and wave pool, whereas youthful youngsters will love the paddling pool, mini slides, and interactive pirate-themed play space.
The Water World space is nice for all ages, whereas mother and father may even take pleasure in some pampering on the connecting Spa World, which has saunas, jacuzzis, and peaceable rest areas.
Lego Museum
One of many high locations to go to in Prague with youthful youngsters, the Museum of Bricks is residence to the biggest non-public LEGO assortment on the planet.
The distinctive museum has over 3,000 fashions constructed from greater than one million LEGO bricks. You possibly can see wonderful LEGO replicas of well-known Prague landmarks, such because the Charles Bridge and the Previous City Astronomical Clock, in addition to many iconic buildings from world wide.
There are additionally a number of themed areas, together with Star Wars and Harry Potter, and an interactive play zone the place children can get hands-on and create their very own LEGO creations (together with bigger bricks for toddlers).
The Playground
The Playground (previously Hamleys) is an enormous multi-level toy retailer and amusement centre in central Prague that’s a must-visit for households with younger children.
Past the infinite collection of toys and video games, the centre presents quite a few interactive sights, together with a carousel, slide, mirror maze, arcade, VR room, laser tag, and even a rooftop butterfly home. There’s additionally a mini arcade, tender ball pit, and water play space for toddlers.
You should purchase tickets for particular person sights or get a vast enjoyable card to spend a couple of hours having fun with all of the actions and video games.
Nationwide Technical Museum
The Nationwide Technical Museum is an uncommon family-friendly museum in Prague that’s excellent for aspiring scientists and engineers.
The massive museum is devoted to the historical past of expertise and pure sciences, with reveals on every part from transport and astronomy to images and printing.
Older children will love exploring the numerous historic planes, vehicles, and trains, whereas the interactive development units and video games within the Merkur youngsters’s nook supply some hands-on enjoyable for youthful guests.
The Prague Customer Cross contains entry to 70+ sights together with the Nationwide Technical Museum, in addition to public transport – get a small low cost should you e book utilizing my hyperlink
Výtopna Railway Restaurant
For a memorable household dinner in Prague, head to the Výtopna Railway Restaurant. At this quirky spot, your meals and drinks are delivered to your desk by miniature trains that wind their method by means of tracks across the restaurant.
Whereas the meals itself isn’t essentially the most connoisseur in Prague, there’s a good vary of burgers, steaks, and kid-friendly choices, plus it’s way more entertaining than your common meal time.
Kingdom of Railways (Království Železnic)
In case your children can’t get sufficient mannequin trains, save a while to discover Prague’s Kingdom of Railways too.
Set within the trendy neighbourhood of Anděl, the museum is residence to the biggest mannequin railway in Central Europe, with almost 2,000 ft (600 m) of monitor winding by means of intricate cityscapes and lifelike scenes of on a regular basis Czech life.
It’s also possible to take pleasure in simulators comprised of actual public transport autos, a large race automobile monitor, thrilling VR video games, and basic MERKUR development units. There’s additionally a themed tender play space for little ones and a photobooth for some enjoyable household images.
Letná Park
Letna Park is a stunning inexperienced area on the north financial institution of the River Vltava, with some extra improbable views over Prague’s Previous City.
The massive park has playgrounds, open inexperienced areas, a lake, and loads of paths to walk alongside, whereas children may also watch skate boarders and in-line skaters zoom across the well-known 32m tall metronome statue – the working metronome replaces the statue of Stalin which used to sit down right here (as soon as the biggest Stalin statue on the planet, Khrushchev had it eliminated and demolished in 1962).
Every August, Letná Park hosts the Letní Letná Worldwide Pageant of Modern Circus, the place circus tents fill the park with distinctive performances. In winter, you possibly can benefit from the park’s seasonal actions together with ice skating, making it an awesome vacation spot for households year-round.
In case you want much more inexperienced area, Stromovka Park is round quarter-hour away on foot and is Prague’s largest park stretching for round 100 hectares
The Choco Artwork Museum
You won’t instantly affiliate Prague with chocolate, however when you possibly can have loads of enjoyable studying all about chocolate’s historical past and manufacturing, The Choco Story Museum is ideal for households with a candy tooth.
Youngsters can uncover the entire course of concerned in making chocolate, from bean to bar, together with watching reside chocolate-making demonstrations. It’s also possible to admire the numerous spectacular chocolate artworks and sculptures crafted by grasp chocolatiers, together with well-known landmarks and even the coronation jewels.
The museum additionally presents hands-on chocolate workshops the place children can craft their very own treats to take residence. Plus, there are many scrumptious chocolate samples accessible to attempt.
Eat Chimney Muffins
After all of the strolling you’re prone to do in Prague with children, chimney truffles are the right solution to refuel or for a little bit of bribery (or simply since you’re on vacation and deserve a deal with!)
Technically referred to as Trdelnik, they’re comprised of dough that’s wrapped spherical a stick and grilled, so you find yourself with a crunchy caramelised exterior and a tender inside.
Historically they arrive plain with cinnamon and sugar, however you’ll discover them in every single place in Prague full of cream, a number of flavours or ice cream, or embellished with nuts, crushed biscuits or fruit – my daughter liked those full of berry sorbet and studded with blueberries.
Though these chimney truffles aren’t historically Czech in any respect; they made their method from Hungary to a city on the border of Slovakia and Moravia, the place they grew to become common. They’ve made their solution to Prague way more not too long ago, however with chimney cake sellers on (apparently) each nook, it’s secure to say they’ve caught on in a giant method!
Black Gentle Theatre
A Black Gentle Theatre present is a novel Prague custom that’s an unforgettable household expertise whilst you’re within the metropolis.
The mesmerising exhibits use black lighting and fluorescent costumes to create vibrant visuals and illusions on a darkish stage. Every present combines music, dance, pantomime, acrobatics, and puppetry, all synchronised with gorgeous lighting results to carry tales to life in a visually charming method.
The exhibits are carried out solely with none dialogue, making them best for kids of all ages and non-Czech audio system – do examine the advisable ages earlier than reserving, and as you’re sitting utterly at midnight, it’s not best for youthful children who may discover it scary.
There are a string of black gentle theatres to attempt – try SRNEC, Picture Theatre and Wow Black Gentle Theatre amongst others.
Kampa Museum & Kampa Island
Only a quick stroll from the Charles Bridge, Kampa Island and Kampa Museum are an awesome escape for households, whether or not you’re in search of some inexperienced area or a few of Prague’s most uncommon trendy artwork.
At Kampa Museum, every part is designed to get you pondering, from the enormous crawling child statues to fluorescent penguins, plus you can too discover the John Lennon mural close by.
Filled with a few of the singer’s quotes, in addition to graffiti added by guests through the years, this was an vital image of peace in the course of the Eighties when Prague was behind the Iron Curtain.
Hold heading south from Kampa Island and also you’ll additionally attain Kids’s Island with its playground – nice for burning off vitality after sightseeing within the Mala Strana – and the well-known ‘Dancing Home’, the quirky Nationale-Nederlanden constructing with its dramatic angles
Getting Round Prague
Prague’s centre could be very compact, with most main sights in straightforward attain of one another on foot – should you’re ranging from the Previous City, you possibly can simply spend most of a day exploring one space, so keep away from zigzagging round too, with a number of pedestrianised areas that make it even higher to wander.
Do be ready for cobblestones although should you’re dragging a suitcase or pushing a pushchair.
For longer distances or whenever you fancy saving your legs, Prague has an awesome public transport community of metro, trams and buses.
The Prague Customer Cross contains public transport in addition to entry into sights, which may be less complicated should you solely plan to make use of it sometimes – plus there’s a small low cost should you e book utilizing my hyperlink
In case you’re staying additional out, the metro is a good way to get round rapidly, however in any other case the tram system is likely one of the greatest choices to get across the metropolis’s historic streets – there’s 150km of tram community so that they go just about in every single place.
Tram 22 is especially helpful for guests because it connects most of the primary sights, together with Prague Fortress, the Lesser City and the New City.
You should buy a 24-hour go or 72-hour go which embrace the funicular, or single tickets lasting half-hour (in addition to 90-minute tickets, that are solely barely dearer and permit you to make adjustments) – the 24-hour go is the equal of 4 single journeys. Kids underneath 15 journey free, however these aged 10-15 want proof of age reminiscent of a passport (there are completely different guidelines for trains).
You’ll discover machines at stops and in metro stations, in addition to on trams or within the PID Litacka app – ensure you activate it within the app earlier than boarding.
At stops, you’ll discover a mixture of older machines which solely take cash and newer touchscreen machines; you’ll must validate your ticket as quickly as you board (solely as soon as for 24h/72h passes, or a 90-minute ticket should you’re utilizing it once more throughout the time restrict). There are common inspections, and you’ll be fined should you haven’t.
The touchscreen machines on the trams subject tickets with the validity printed on them, so that you don’t must revalidate these.
In case you’re taking a look at one of the best ways to journey from the airport to Prague’s Previous City, the metro doesn’t lengthen that far, so that you’ll want to make use of buses or taxis – Uber and Bolt function in Prague, or you possibly can prebook with Welcome Pickups.
Disclosure: This put up comprises affiliate hyperlinks – any purchases you make are unaffected however I’ll obtain a small fee
Photos: Daliborka Tower/Fortress gardens/Nationwide Museum/St Nicholas Church/Prague Zoo/Technical Museum/Letna Park/Kampa Island/tram courtesy of Depositphotos, all different images copyright MummyTravels
LIKED THIS? SIGN UP FOR MY EMAIL NEWSLETTER