33 of the most effective issues to do in Prague with youngsters

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 youngsters alongside the historical past.

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Unsurprisingly standard, you’ll have to be braced for crowds of vacationers, even if you happen to 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 exhausting to be too cross in regards to the variety of vacationers while you’re amongst them!)

We stayed within the Previous City (Staré Město) which incorporates the previous Jewish Quarter, Josefov, so you can select a quieter different within the New City (Nove Mesto) – the opposite essential districts are the Lesser city (Mala Strana) and Fortress Quarter (Hradcany). However wherever you select, you’re hardly ever too removed from the primary sights – right here’s my choose of the most effective issues to do in Prague with youngsters.

Is the nation referred to as Czechia or the Czech Republic? Both is right!

After Czechoslovakia break up into two nations in 1993, the nation’s official identify grew to become the Czech Republic. Czechia is the brief or extra casual model of the identify, adopted by numerous 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 this planet, occupying an space of just about 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 youngsters. With the previous royal palace, church buildings, museums and extra, you’ll want no less than half a day to discover correctly, though you can simply spend longer if you wish to go to all the pieces.

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 trip if you happen to choose to avoid wasting your vitality/legs).

Wandering by the courtyards looks like stepping again by 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’ll be able to 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 while you arrive, however even in October shortly after opening time, the queues had 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 youngsters, however there isn’t all the time a lot info as you discover. One other different is to purchase tickets together with audioguide on your telephone whereas this selection has a quick guided introduction and elective audioguide on your telephone.

The Previous Royal Palace

There’s been a royal palace on this web site because the first wood 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 a little bit completely different than your common palace and gained’t take lengthy to discover, however nonetheless nicely price a go to whilst you’re exploring the fort advanced.

The Vladislav Corridor is without doubt one of the most spectacular rooms, used for state functions together with coronations and banquets, whereas the steps had been extensive sufficient for knights to trip up on horseback.

In a facet room, you’ll be able to see the place the governing came about within the Food regimen Corridor, residence to the nation’s parliament, whereas one other facet room noticed the beginning of the Thirty Years Battle 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 smooth touchdown in some manure, though they had been removed from the final casualties of the Thirty Years Battle, which killed no less than 5 million (probably over 10 million) individuals, though as we speak there’s a relatively pretty view out throughout the grounds.

There are additionally common exhibitions within the remaining rooms, together with copies of the crown jewels (often the closest you will get to seeing the true factor, which is stored in St Vitus Cathedral).

St Vitus Cathedral

The placing 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 realizing the small print 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 if you happen to’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 most effective mild streaming by the stained glass.

Coronations of Czech kings and queens as soon as came about right here, and also you’ll additionally discover the tombs of Bohemian kings and Holy Roman emperors, together with the beautiful Chapel of St Wenceslas adorned 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’ll be able to 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’ll be able to go to the nave without spending a dime if you happen to don’t need to purchase the primary cathedral ticket, however ongoing work implies that isn’t at the moment accessible, so you’ll be able to 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 among the finest corners of Prague Fortress with youngsters. 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 rather a lot to see, regardless that the road isn’t lengthy, with numerous homes linked to on a regular basis life, particular crafts, equivalent to a goldsmith’s workshop and tavern, and individuals who lived right here. It does get busy, not least with individuals 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 transferring out in 1953.

However it’s also possible to peek inside No 14, as soon as residence to a well-known Prague fortune teller, who was murdered by the Gestapo through the Second World Battle, 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 acquired 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, changing into so adept that folks would stand to hear exterior the door.

Different prisoners weren’t so lucky, with a trapdoor to an oubliette beneath the bottom flooring, the place a few of these jailed had 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 youngsters.

The Story of Prague Fortress

In case you’re hoping to study extra in regards to 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 unique 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 more likely to attraction to youngsters, and also you’ll want to purchase that on the positioning).

The primary a part of the exhibition focuses on essential individuals and occasions in Czech historical past, in addition to displaying fashions of the fort because it was developed over the centuries. Then the second part is themed, everthing from the significance of the church to the fort, eating traditions and even burial practices.

St George’s Basilica

The second most essential 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 price a fast look inside.

It’s the oldest surviving church constructing within the fort grounds, and also you’ll discover some royal tombs below 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 if you happen to’re visiting throughout spring or summer time once they’re in full bloom.

Not all are open to the general public, however you’ll be able to wander round plenty of them together with the formal South Gardens and the beautiful Royal Backyard, which lie both facet of the primary buildings.

Or there’s even a winery you’ll be able to stroll by, on the Daliborka Tower finish of the fort advanced. Based on legend, St Wenceslas winery is the oldest in Bohemia – whether or not you consider that or not, it has some nice views.

The Prague Customer Move consists of entry to 70+ sights together with Prague Fortress, in addition to public transport – get a small low cost if you happen to e book utilizing my hyperlink

Astronomical clock

Prague’s Astronomical Clock, or Orloj, has been holding time within the Previous City Sq. since 1410, making it one of many oldest working astronomical clocks on this 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 numerous allegorical figures spring into motion. Do be ready to get there early to discover a place close to the entrance.

It solely lasts slightly below a minute, however there’s one thing relatively magical about watching a 600-year-old mechanism swing into motion.

The clock face itself is a murals, with three essential parts – the astronomical dial representing the solar’s journey by the zodiac and phases of the moon, the calendar dial with medallions depicting the months, and the figures together with a skeleton representing Demise 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 slightly below the clock, displaying the day of the month, the day of the week, feast days and allegorical footage of the present month and signal of the zodiac, so it’s nicely price spending a while all the small print exterior the busy level every hour.

There’s even a legend hooked up 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 that they had 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 relatively extra prosaic truth, 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 finest with older youngsters.

Previous City Sq.

Whether or not you’re visiting the Previous City Sq. to see the Astronomical Clock, or passing by, it’s nicely price 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 combination of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque buildings listed below are an important introduction to the town’s historical past.

The Sq. itself dates from the twelfth century, when it was the town’s essential market place, book-ended by the imposing Church of Our Woman 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 through the Thirty Years Battle.

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 had 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 pretty and the costs much less eye-watering.

Charles Bridge

No go to to Prague is full and not using a 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 numerous saints and non secular scenes. Probably 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 palms over time.

The bridge itself is pedestrianised, and also you’ll discover a string of road artists, musicians and little stalls (particularly jewelry) however you will discover big crowds making an attempt to cross through the day, so it’s finest to get there vibrant and early or go to at sundown for a barely extra peaceable expertise.

If you need a very quiet and extra atmospheric go to, dawn exterior the height months might be the most effective guess, 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 price exploring too – you’ll be able to climb the Previous City Bridge Tower for extra fantastic 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 enables you to climb each towers – plus there’s a small low cost if you happen to e book by my hyperlink.

Do be careful for pickpockets within the crowds – that is certainly one of Prague’s busiest vacationer spots, so preserve valuables safe and baggage 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 building 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 a permanent construction with out trendy expertise, and study in regards to the numerous floods, wars and disasters the bridge has survived over its lengthy historical past.

The spotlight is unquestionably the detailed scale mannequin displaying the bridge’s building course of, which actually brings residence the unbelievable engineering feat this represented within the 14th century. There are additionally reveals in regards to the well-known statues, explaining their symbolism and the tales behind them too.

The museum additionally shows among the unique stonework and architectural fragments from the bridge, providing you with a close-up take a look at the craftsmanship that’s often excessive above your head on the bridge itself. Plus there are a couple of small interactive components demonstrating the medieval constructing strategies.

It’s not an enormous museum so you’ll be able to simply discover all the pieces in lower than half an hour – our boat journey tickets included entry, in addition to to 2 different museums, so there’s no have to spend ages to get your cash’s price.

It’s price 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 Move consists of entry to 70+ sights together with the Charles Bridge Museum and bridge towers, in addition to public transport – get a small low cost if you happen to e book utilizing my hyperlink

Story of Prague expertise

For a very completely different strategy to uncover Prague’s thousand-year historical past, the Story of Prague is the proper begin to a vacation in Prague with youngsters, 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 essential historic moments – from its founding legends to the Velvet Revolution and past.

Whereas this type of attraction can usually be a bit kitschy, we beloved the way in which 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 a number of senses.

As a result of it’s so interactive, it’s a success with youngsters (in addition to adults), however you’re additionally getting an important introduction to Czech historical past with out feeling such as you’re sitting by an extended lesson.

Break up over three flooring, the exhibition consists of the latest previous, together with a room on the 90s in Prague, but in addition whisks you thru medieval occasions (don’t miss the hidden chamber of Rudolf II), in addition to the Second World Battle and Communism behind the Iron Curtain.

You’ll have to obtain the app onto your telephone (a conveyable charger can also be an excellent thought!) though headphones are offered if you happen to don’t have your personal and also you could possibly borrow headphone splitters if you happen to’re utilizing a single telephone. Permit round 90 minutes to discover.

Purchase tickets with free cancellation right here, or it’s also possible to get a small low cost if you happen to 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 stunning 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 often some commentary, so 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 mild was spectacular, gilding the river and the rooftops.

You’ll discover a entire 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 preferrred with youngsters – lengthy sufficient to take pleasure in, brief sufficient that no-one will get bored.

Our boat journey left from the Charles Bridge Museum (with mixed tickets out there) in a standard wood 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

One of the simplest ways to see Prague is on foot, so that you’ll be spoiled for alternative for if you happen to’re on the lookout for a strolling tour in Prague with youngsters, with a complete string of themed excursions in addition to normal sightseeing.

This Previous City Household Tour isn’t the most cost effective nevertheless it consists of video games and actions for teenagers, in addition to an possibility to increase the tour to incorporate Prague Fortress. Or this personal tour of Prague might be personalised to an extent and consists of plenty of the important thing sights.

For one thing a little bit completely different, this Immersive Historical past strolling tour consists of VR for a very enjoyable twist for households.

In case you’d wish to see Prague past the historic highlights, this different strolling tour of Prague consists of road artwork and impartial music, so it’s an important possibility for teenagers.

You’re not restricted to daytimes both, with a complete string of night ghost excursions – we tried this Ghosts and Legends of the Previous City tour which was simply the proper 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 comparable 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 among the essential synagogues and the previous Jewish cemetery.

This Jewish Quarter strolling tour consists of 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 positively one for older youngsters, due to the content material and quantity of data, though it’s also possible to entry the assorted synagogues independently.

Prague’s Narrowest Alley

Hidden away within the Lesser City close to Charles Bridge, you’ll discover certainly one of Prague’s quirkiest sights – an alleyway so slender that just one individual can go by at a time, full with its personal set of site visitors lights.

Formally referred to as Vinárna Čertovka or Nejužší pražská ulička, although regionally often called the narrowest road in Prague, this tiny passageway measures simply 50cm extensive at its narrowest level – if you happen to’re looking for it on the map, search for 24 U Lužického semináře.

The miniature site visitors mild system was put in to forestall individuals getting caught once they meet coming from reverse instructions, which manages to be quirky however sensible.

There’s often a small queue of vacationers ready patiently for his or her flip to navigate the passage, and setting off to squeeze by as quickly because it turns inexperienced. Realistically there’s not really lots to do when you do get by, nevertheless it’s free, solely takes a few minutes and may be very enjoyable (plus you will get some nice photographs of your youngsters).

The alley does lead all the way down to a riverside restaurant, Čertovka, which serves conventional Czech delicacies, so you’ll be able to head over to eat, or wander over to benefit from the views. The encircling space of the Mala Strana, or lesser city, may be very fairly too with its cobbled streets and vibrant buildings, so it’s price saving a while to walk round.

Don’t anticipate an excessive amount of – it’s actually only a very slender 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 site visitors lights on foot?

Prague Nationwide Museum

The Prague Nationwide Museum homes the Czech Republic’s largest museum assortment, so no matter you’re concerned about, you’ll most likely discover it in right here.

The collections embrace pure historical past, arts, museum and Czech historical past, with all the pieces 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 positively alongside extra conventional traces, with its grand halls crammed with specimens relatively than interactive reveals, though there’s an app to carry among 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’ll be able to visualise the true factor.

The constructing itself may be very spectacular too, particularly the grand staircase and entrance corridor, in addition to ornate decor, with some pretty views throughout the sq. from the highest flooring. There are additionally repeatedly altering momentary exhibitions, which cowl an enormous vary of matters from archaeology and imperial treasures to up to date artwork and music.

Higher with older youngsters, you can simply spend a few hours inside if you wish to attempt to discover correctly (though chances are you’ll 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 through 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 through the reign of Rudolf II who was fascinated by alchemy and invited practitioners from throughout Europe to his courtroom, together with Elizabeth I’s courtroom astronomer John Dee and his seer (and nearly definitely conman) Edward Kelley.

The museum is break 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 filled with peculiar devices and mysterious substances, plus a facet serving to of spookiness, so it’s not for youthful youngsters.

You’ll see unique 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 positively be a bit complicated.

The museum does 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 plenty of info to absorb so it may be a bit overwhelming, and the figures within the darkened room coated in symbols had been distinctly creepy.

The spotlight for many households is the tiny secret laboratory found throughout renovations, accessed by a low doorway – it’s considered the place an alchemist really labored centuries in the past. The cramped, darkish area actually conveys how these mysterious experiments had been carried out.

Keep in mind it’s an genuine medieval constructing, which implies steep stairs, low doorways and slender passages – all a part of the appeal, however price realizing prematurely.

It’s not a big museum – you’ll be able to see all the pieces in about 45 minutes to an hour – nevertheless it’s completely distinctive and fairly not like some 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, crammed with tales of spectres, supernatural occasions and the legends which have haunted the town for hundreds of years.

The primary room shares numerous completely different ghost tales and myths, in addition to a couple of interactive reveals, and objects for instance.

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 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 lots spookier but in addition a bit tacky, and I wouldn’t advocate it for younger youngsters who’re more likely 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 price a glance, particularly in case your youngsters are concerned about ghosts and legends, however you gained’t have to 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 – good if you happen to’re on the lookout for a break from historical past, or someplace to spend an hour on a wet day in Prague with youngsters.

Unfold throughout a number of rooms, this interactive museum is filled with optical illusions, sensory experiments and installations designed to confuse and delight your mind. Stroll by a vortex tunnel, defy gravity within the anti-gravity room, or attempt to preserve your steadiness within the tilted room – you’ll be able to 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 limitless area. Plus, in fact, there are a string of picture ops to return away with some strange footage.

Workers are available in every room to elucidate how the illusions work if you happen to’re curious in regards to the science behind them, although you’re equally free to only benefit from the expertise with out the technical explanations.

The museum isn’t big, 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 Unbelievable 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 proper little escape from the town if you happen to’re on the lookout for superb views over Prague or a beautiful inexperienced area that’s good for teenagers to play.

You possibly can stroll up the steep, wooded paths to the highest, or if you happen to’re travelling with little ones, soar 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 observe.

On the high of the hill, you’ll discover Petrin Remark Tower, which resembles a mini Eiffel Tower for the most effective 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 essential viewpoints, take a look at St Nicholas Bell Tower, a former 18th-century watchtower with implausible views over Malá Strana (Lesser City) and Hradčany. 

Not one for toddlers, as you do have to climb the 215 steps up the historic staircase to succeed in the vantage level on the high. From right here, you’ll be able to see out throughout most of the metropolis’s essential landmarks, together with the neighbouring Baroque Church of St Nicholas, Prague Fortress, and the enduring Charles Bridge.

Older youngsters will even take pleasure in exploring the previous tower keeper’s condo and studying the shows in regards to 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 greatest zoos, Prague Zoo has been open for nearly 100 years however nonetheless makes an important household time out in Prague. 

Well-known for its moral practices and conservation efforts, the zoo’s spacious habitats home over 5,000 animals and practically 700 species. Among the highlights embrace the spectacular Elephant Valley and the Indonesian Jungle exhibit. 

Children will even love the playgrounds, mini-train, chairlift, petting zoo, and feeding periods, making it straightforward to fill a whole day right here. And if strolling across the big zoo is an excessive amount of for little legs, you’ll be able to soar on a family-friendly guided tour in an electrical automobile as an alternative, and there’s even a little bit chair-lift cable automobile to trip on.

Purchase skip-the-line tickets for Prague Zoo right here

Aquapalace Prague

In case you want a break from sightseeing – or a strategy to quiet down if you happen to’re visiting Prague with youngsters in the summertime, Aquapalace Prague water park is only a brief drive from the town centre.

Older youngsters and teenagers 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 dad and mom 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 personal LEGO assortment on this planet.

The distinctive museum has over 3,000 fashions constructed from greater than 1,000,000 LEGO bricks. You possibly can see superb 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 all over the world.

There are additionally a number of themed areas, together with Star Wars and Harry Potter, and an interactive play zone the place youngsters can get hands-on and create their very own LEGO creations (together with bigger bricks for toddlers).

The Playground

The Playground (previously Hamleys) is a large multi-level toy retailer and amusement centre in central Prague that’s a must-visit for households with younger youngsters. 

Past the limitless 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, smooth ball pit, and water play space for toddlers.

You should buy 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 good for aspiring scientists and engineers. 

The big museum is devoted to the historical past of expertise and pure sciences, with reveals on all the pieces from transport and astronomy to pictures and printing.

Older youngsters will love exploring the various historic planes, vehicles, and trains, whereas the interactive building units and video games within the Merkur youngsters’s nook provide some hands-on enjoyable for youthful guests.

The Prague Customer Move consists of entry to 70+ sights together with the Nationwide Technical Museum, in addition to public transport – get a small low cost if you happen to 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 approach by 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 much more entertaining than your common supper time.

Kingdom of Railways (Království Železnic)

In case your youngsters 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 practically 2,000 ft (600 m) of observe winding by intricate cityscapes and lifelike scenes of on a regular basis Czech life.

It’s also possible to take pleasure in simulators constructed from actual public transport autos, an enormous race automobile observe, thrilling VR video games, and basic MERKUR building units. There’s additionally a themed smooth play space for little ones and a photobooth for some enjoyable household photographs.

Letná Park

Letna Park is a beautiful inexperienced area on the north financial institution of the River Vltava, with some extra implausible views over Prague’s Previous City. 

The massive park has playgrounds, open inexperienced areas, a lake, and loads of paths to walk alongside, whereas youngsters 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 this planet, Khrushchev had it eliminated and demolished in 1962).

Every August, Letná Park hosts the Letní Letná Worldwide Competition of Modern Circus, the place circus tents fill the park with distinctive performances. In winter, you’ll be able to benefit from the park’s seasonal actions together with ice skating, making it an important 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 may not instantly affiliate Prague with chocolate, however when you’ll be able to 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.

Children can uncover the entire course of concerned in making chocolate, from bean to bar, together with watching stay chocolate-making demonstrations. It’s also possible to admire the various 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 youngsters can craft their very own treats to take residence. Plus, there are many scrumptious chocolate samples out there to strive. 

Eat Chimney Muffins

After all of the strolling you’re more likely to do in Prague with youngsters, chimney truffles are the proper strategy 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 constructed from dough that’s wrapped spherical a stick and grilled, so you find yourself with a crunchy caramelised exterior and a smooth inside.

Historically they arrive plain with cinnamon and sugar, however you’ll discover them all over the place in Prague crammed with cream, a number of flavours or ice cream, or adorned with nuts, crushed biscuits or fruit – my daughter beloved those crammed with berry sorbet and studded with blueberries.

Though these chimney truffles aren’t historically Czech in any respect; they made their approach from Hungary to a city on the border of Slovakia and Moravia, the place they grew to become standard. They’ve made their strategy to Prague much more just lately, however with chimney cake sellers on (apparently) each nook, it’s protected to say they’ve caught on in a giant approach!

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 beautiful lighting results to carry tales to life in a visually fascinating approach.

The exhibits are carried out fully with none dialogue, making them preferrred for kids of all ages and non-Czech audio system – do verify the really helpful ages earlier than reserving, and as you’re sitting utterly in the dead of night, it’s not preferrred for youthful youngsters who would possibly discover it scary.

There are a string of black mild theatres to strive – take a look at SRNEC, Picture Theatre and Wow Black Gentle Theatre amongst others.

Kampa Museum & Kampa Island

Only a brief stroll from the Charles Bridge, Kampa Island and Kampa Museum are an important escape for households, whether or not you’re on the lookout for some inexperienced area or a few of Prague’s most uncommon trendy artwork.

At Kampa Museum, all the pieces is designed to get you pondering, from the large crawling child statues to fluorescent penguins, plus it’s also possible to discover the John Lennon mural close by.

Filled with among the singer’s quotes, in addition to graffiti added by guests over time, this was an essential image of peace through the Nineteen Eighties when Prague was behind the Iron Curtain.

Preserve 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 may be very compact, with most main sights in straightforward attain of one another on foot – if you happen to’re ranging from the Previous City, you’ll be able to simply spend most of a day exploring one space, so keep away from zigzagging round too, with a lot of pedestrianised areas that make it even higher to wander.

Do be ready for cobblestones although if you happen to’re dragging a suitcase or pushing a pushchair.

For longer distances or while you fancy saving your legs, Prague has an important public transport community of metro, trams and buses.

The Prague Customer Move consists of public transport in addition to entry into sights, which might be easier if you happen to solely plan to make use of it often – plus there’s a small low cost if you happen to e book utilizing my hyperlink

In case you’re staying additional out, the metro is a good way to get round shortly, however in any other case the tram system is without doubt one of the finest choices to get across the metropolis’s historic streets – there’s 150km of tram community in order that they go just about all over the place.

Tram 22 is especially helpful for guests because it connects most of the essential 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 will let you make modifications) – the 24-hour go is the equal of 4 single journeys. Kids below 15 journey free, however these aged 10-15 want proof of age equivalent to 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 – be sure 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 have to validate your ticket as quickly as you board (solely as soon as for 24h/72h passes, or a 90-minute ticket if you happen to’re utilizing it once more throughout the time restrict). There are common inspections, and you can be fined if you happen to haven’t.

The touchscreen machines on the trams difficulty tickets with the validity printed on them, so that you don’t have to revalidate these.

In case you’re the easiest way to journey from the airport to Prague’s Previous City, the metro doesn’t prolong that far, so that you’ll want to make use of buses or taxis – Uber and Bolt function in Prague, or you’ll be able to prebook with Welcome Pickups.

Disclosure: This put up comprises affiliate hyperlinks – any purchases you make are unaffected however I’ll obtain a small fee

Pictures: Daliborka Tower/Fortress gardens/Nationwide Museum/St Nicholas Church/Prague Zoo/Technical Museum/Letna Park/Kampa Island/tram courtesy of Depositphotos, all different photographs copyright MummyTravels

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