Ready to explore the enchanting city of Prague with kids? The capital of the Czech Republic is one incredible place with a history that goes way, way back to the 9th century. From discovering the influences of the Gothic era to the Renaissance awesomeness, and oh, the architectural marvels that still stand tall today, like the majestic Prague Castle and the iconic Charles Bridge, this European city has so much to offer.
And guess what? Your little ones will be just as captivated as you are! So, buckle up, hop on that plane, and get ready to explore the best things to do in Prague with kids! It’s going to be a wild ride!
Visit the Prague Zoo
One of the best things to do in Prague is to visit the Prague Zoo! Ranked among the top zoos globally, it is home to more than 5,000 animals representing 680 species, including many endangered and rare ones. The diversity includes Western Lowland Gorillas, Humboldt Penguins, Galapagos Tortoises, and Great Indian Hornbills. The kids will truly be fascinated by the Indonesian Jungle, the African House, Monkey Island, or the Elephant Valley. The zoo also offers boat rides along with child-friendly attractions including the ones where they can pet and feed the animals!
Parade through the Prague Castle
Taking a trip to Prague castle is like stepping into a fairy tale. The castle is the largest and most ancient in the world, including the charming Golden Lane with its tiny, colourful houses.
Built in the 9th Century, the complex has various buildings including the Basilica, the Monastery and several palaces. It might get overwhelming to visit this place, so booking a kid-friendly tour that is informative and shows you around the complex is highly recommended.
Don’t forget to watch the changing of the guard, which happens every hour. The little ones will love the spectacle! Especially the midday change that is complete with a flag ceremony and fanfare!
Discover the Petrin Hill
Another great place to visit is Petřín Hill. You can reach the top by a funicular railway, which is a fun experience in itself. But the views on the top are top-tier, literally! You’ll find a mini version of the Eiffel Tower, the Petřín Lookout Tower, where you and the kids can enjoy panoramic views of the city. The tower is 208 feet tall, has 299 steps, and sits on top of the 1,043-foot Petrin Hill. There’s also a mirror maze that will amuse the children and a beautiful rose garden for a relaxing stroll if you want to soak in the serenity, away from the bustling crowds.
Spike ‘Kuriousity’ at the Karel Zeman Museum
If the little ones are fans of stories and fairy tales, the Karel Zeman Museum is a must-visit place in Prague for kids. This museum is dedicated to the famous Czech filmmaker and puppeteer Karel Zeman, the ‘Czech Méliès,’ who was well known for his magical movies that mix live-action and animation. The interactive exhibits allow the little ones to participate in Zeman’s filmmaking magic, like riding a flying bicycle or standing under the sea! It truly packs up an ideal family outing.
Cruise through the Vltava River
On a sunny day, there’s nothing like a boat ride on the Vltava River. You can see some of Prague’s most famous landmarks from the water, like Charles Bridge and Prague Castle. It’s a unique and peaceful way to see the city when you’re in Prague with children as you wade through the water and watch the ducks go by! To explore the true essence of Prague privately, you can also book a kid-friendly tour specially designed for you!
Enchant your Senses at the Museum of Senses
For a different type of adventure, try visiting the Museum of Senses. Here, nothing is as it seems. Spanning an area of interactive wonders, it tantalises the senses and challenges perceptions. From mesmerising optical illusions to mind-bending mirror mazes, the museum captivates you with its thought-provoking exhibits. Your kids can explore rooms that defy gravity, touch holograms, and experience the thrill of virtual reality. With its blend of science, art, and psychology, the Museum of Senses invites you to question your perception of reality and embrace the magic of the senses. It’s a surreal journey that leaves lasting impressions and will have your family laughing and learning together!
Be Mesmerised by Prague’s Astronomical Clock
The Prague Astronomical Clock, also known as the Prague Orloj is a true marvel of engineering. This ancient timepiece has been ticking away since the 15th century, making it one of the oldest and most famous clocks in the world. This unique mechanism was way ahead of its time when first constructed by Mikulas of Kadan and Jan Sindel. But wait, there’s more! This clock is not just about telling time; it’s a masterpiece of astronomical knowledge. It displays the position of the sun, moon, and stars, and even showcases a little show every hour, where tiny statues come to life and perform an enchanting spectacle.
Dig into Prague’s Gastronomic Culture
No visit to Prague would be complete without indulging in some traditional Czech cuisine! Treat your kids to delicious local specialities like trdelník (a sweet pastry), svíčková (marinated beef with a creamy sauce), or goulash. It’s a great opportunity to introduce your children to new flavours and culinary experiences but it might get confusing owing to the variety in cuisine. The best way to go about this is a food tour that allows you to captivate your taste buds through and through!
Pedal through Prague’s Jewish Quarter
The Jewish Quarter, also known as Josefov, is a poignant and powerful testament to the city’s rich Jewish heritage. This district has weathered centuries of history, from its foundation during the 10th century to surviving the Nazi occupation during WWII.
This makes it an essential lesson of the past as you walk down its cobbled streets with the little ones. Make sure to check the awe-inspiring Old-New Synagogue, Europe’s oldest active synagogue, with its Gothic motifs. The Jewish Cemetery, a hauntingly beautiful site, is another must-visit. The Jewish Museum, which is spread across several sites in the Quarter, holds an extensive collection of artefacts, each telling a unique story about Jewish history and culture. Touring the Quarters, and seeking answers about history will surely prove as a learning experience for you and the kids!
Take a Day Trip to Cesky Krumlov
Hold onto your hats because we’ve also got an epic day trip recommendation for you and your kiddos visiting Prague! Did you know that the Czech Republic is home to some seriously incredible UNESCO World Heritage sites? And guess what? Cesky Krumlov is the crown jewel among them! This place is like stepping into a fairytale! It’s no wonder it’s the second most visited city in Bohemia! Get ready for a family day trip to Cesky Krumlov packed with charm and history as you stroll through the enchanting alleys of this picture-perfect village.