Travel With Kids: Things To Do in Prague

Find out how families can best explore Prague Castle and Charles Bridge, while planned diversions to Petrin Tower and the Mirror Maze can be a joy for the most energetic youngsters.

Mar 5, 2012

By: Christina Ohly Evans

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Prague Castle, seen from Four Seasons Hotel Prague

Pedestrians crossing the Charles Bridge in Prague

Crystal candelabra in Saint Nicholas’ Church, Prague

The distorting diversion of Prague’s Mirror Maze

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Prague Castle: This ornate complex of buildings, courtyards and monuments features everything from the Royal Palace to the stunning Gothic gem that is St. Vitus’ Cathedral. Be sure to visit the chapel of St. Wenceslas, which is encrusted with semi-precious stones, as well as the Coronation Jewels and the Royal Crypt below. Younger children will love exploring the Royal Gardens, while teens will be fascinated by the White Tower’s history of torture and intrigue.

Photography Peter Vitale/Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

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Charles Bridge: This picturesque span—featuring 30 saintly statues—links Prague across the River Vltava. While there, explore the area packed with vendors and musicians and then visit St. Nicholas’ Church and the castle twinkling above the city. Older kids will delight in climbing to the top of the Old Town Bridge Tower for spectacular views of the viaduct in the distance.

Photography courtesy Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts

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Old Town Square: This lively square is considered the heart of Prague, full of the excitement of street-sellers, horse and buggy rides, and bustling cafes. The square is surrounded by a pastel mix of baroque buildings, but the 15th-century Astronomical Clock is the real draw for kids. Visit on the hour (9:00 am to 9:00 pm) to see the automated procession of the twelve apostles. St. Nicholas’ Church also sits on the square and even small children will be amazed by its soaring dome, colourful frescos, crystal candelabra and gold-leaf decorations.

Photography Thinkstock

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Marionettes and More: Puppetry is a large part of Czech culture, and you will find a wonderful Puppet Museum as well as numerous shops featuring Spejbl and Hurvinek (the Czech Republic equivalents of Punch and Judy). Stock up on souvenirs to bring home at Marionettes Rici or Loutky Marionettes (multiple locations; one just below the castle), both of which specialize in handcrafted characters ranging from Pinocchio to Harry Potter.

Photography Thinkstock

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Playtime in Prague: Children in need of exploration on their own terms can burn off some energy climbing Petrin Tower, Prague’s version of the Eiffel Tower. The nearby Mirror Maze offers a distorting diversion and everyone will enjoy a scenic tram ride (try Route 91) through the city. Other best bets include the Planetarium, the Museum of Toys and the Prague Zoo.

Photography Robert Harding Picture Library Ltd/Alamy

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CottoCrudo, the first restaurant in Central/Eastern Europe to win a Michelin star, has river views, a great wine list and some Bohemian flair on the menu. Aromi is an inexpensive alternative that’s well regarded for its great home cooking.

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Shopping: Gifts and Homewares

If a visit to the House of Black Madonna has inspired you, then make for Modernista. Kubista is another good place for local gifts. For contemporary Czech design, try Designshop at DOX in Prague 7.

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The Lobkowicz Palace, just below Prague Castle, houses one of the world’s most extraordinary private art collections and more: books, musical instruments, and autographed manuscripts by Mozart, Haydn and Beethoven.

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Itinerary: A Perfect Prague Day

After seeing Prague Castle, walk through the area of Novy Svet. You’ll find very few people, and the gas streetlights give you a feel of how Prague was 200 years ago. Then have lunch at the Lvi Dvur restaurant.

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Itinerary: A Perfect Prague Day
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Prague, a city of spires, fairy-tale castles and beautiful town squares, is ideal for exploring with children of all ages.

Located in the heart of Europe, the conveniently situated Four Seasons Hotel Prague is the perfect place to begin discovering the charms of this city’s Old Town and New Town as well as its historic Jewish Quarter. Whether you choose to visit during the flower-filled spring and summer months or during the festive Christmas Market period, Prague is a city with limitless offerings for families. Here are some favourites.

Travel With Kids: Things To Do in Prague