Last Updated on November 17, 2023
A city famous for its romantic cobblestone lanes, beautiful baroque facades and warm, noisy beer halls might not scream child-friendly city break. But Prague is full of surprises.
After three years living in the Czech capital, I’m still astonished by how many things there are to do here with kids. In fact, I blame Prague for the fact we’ve been so hopeless at exploring the rest of the Czech Republic; there’s always somewhere new to discover in town.
As evidence of this, this article started off life as “50 things to do in Prague with kids”.
Let me say now there are plenty more family activities in Prague which haven’t made the list. To stop this becoming enormous, I’ve featured parks, playgrounds, cafes and museums in the city centre. I’ve also included a handful of favourite family day trips a little further afield.
In terms of the order, I’ve attempted to group them by neighborhood and indicate if you’ll need to hop in a tram, metro or car to get there. It certainly isn’t written in order of preference, though. Beautiful old Vysehrad appears at #65.
So, let’s begin our tour of child-pleasing Prague with a stroll down one of the city’s Art Nouveau passageways to find #1 on the list – a secret garden in the middle of the city.
Family attractions in the New Town (central Prague)
1. Swing, climb and build sandcastles in Prague’s most picturesque playground. You wouldn’t know it, but the tranquil Franciscan Gardens are moments from the bustle of Wenceslas Square.
2. Close by, in Pasáž Světozor, is local favourite – Ovocný Světozor. Order a banana and strawberry soft-serve ice cream. You’re welcome.
3. Head down the retro Lucerna Passage and gawp at David Cerny’s surprising sculpture of King Wenceslas riding a dead upside-down horse.
4. Order a drink at the train-themed restaurant Výtopna and watch it arrive at your table under the steam of a miniature locomotive.
5. Caught in a shower? Head for shelter at Prague’s National Film Museum and play with zoetropes and stop-motion animation.
6. In need of more museum fun? Strut your stuff in an infinity disco room and lie on a bed of nails at the Museum of Senses.
7. Take a spin on the Venetian carousel at Hamleys and then shoot between floors on the twirling snake slide. Teens may like the VR experience and laser tag here.
8. The grand neo-Renaissance main building of the National Museum is stuffed full of multimedia installations, natural history exhibits and a glittering hall of minerals. Book one of the 90-minute slots at the newly opened Children’s Museum and play a host of interactive games.
9. Scatter some skittles at Bowling Celnice. Still a learner? Bumper lanes are available.
10. Build a city from large soft blocks at The Museum of Prague City (temporarily closed for refurbishment).
11. On Saturday mornings, stock up on fruit, flowers and perníčky (gingerbread) at the Naplavka Farmer’s Market (usually closed in Jan and Feb). Take some oats or seeds and feed the ducks and swans that congregate on the river here. Cafes spill out onto the embankment in the summer months.
12. After wandering Naplavka, head to the good-sized playground at Vyton. On a warm day, a play in the small splash pad and a scoop of gelato from nearby Puro Gelato are a must.
13. Alternatively on Sundays, have brunch in the Globe Bookstore (reservations recommended). This English bookshop and cafe has lots of books to browse while you wait for your pancakes to arrive.
Looking for the best hotels for families in Prague? Visit this helpful article.
Family attraction on the river islands (central Prague)
14. Stroll over to beautifully-appointed Slovanský ostrov and hit up the colourful playground. Riding the miniature train (summer season only) is a toddler rite of passage.
15. On the other side of the Vltava river, Children’s Island has play equipment galore. The decent amount of shade makes this a perfect summer outing.
16. Fancy more island-hopping? Head next to Střelecký ostrov, where you’ll find a rope-course playground and stunning views of Charles Bridge. During the summer months, dip your toes in the water before sipping homemade lemonade from the super cute Coco Van.
17. Lovely Kampa Island is home to two playgrounds: the one hidden on top of the toilet block next to the Kampa Museum (much prettier than that sounds) as well as the one nestled at the foot of Charles Bridge (arguably the best view in Prague).
18. In need of a snack? The Scout’s Institute on Kampa has a lovely cafe serving homemade lemonade, coffee, beer, quesadillas and cake overlooking the Vltava. Practice your skills on the table football inside.
19. Don’t miss David Černý’s giant, faceless babies. You can find them crawling in the dirt outside the Kampa Museum. Want more surprising art installations? Leave the babies and walk to the river’s edge to spot the queue of yellow penguins.
Family attractions in the Lesser Town (central Prague)
20. Stop for a photo by the John Lennon Wall – a symbol of peace and freedom in a handsome part of town.
21. Pioneering Czech director Karel Zeman attracted fans from Picasso to Tim Burton. Get lost in his beautiful, quirky films in the interactive Karel Zeman Museum.
22. For some excellent shock value, wander through the courtyard by the Franz Kafka museum and admire David Černý’s peeing sculptures.
23. Spot peacocks, swans, fish and playgrounds in Prague’s Lesser Town (otherwise known as Malá Strana). I divulge all my best tips for exploring this pretty neighbourhood with children here.
Family attractions in Smíchov (a short tram/metro ride from central Prague)
24. Fancy driving a Prague tram? Head to the button-filled Kingdom of the Railways to test your skills out on their simulator.
25. Shoot down the 10m long slide at Park Sacré Coeur before walking over to the nearby free Natural Science Centre to admire kangeroos, lizards and llamas.
Family attractions around Petrin (central Prague)
26. Before jumping on the funicular railway from Újezd to the top of Petřín Hill, indulge in ice cream at Angelato. Alongside traditional favourites, they serve flavours such as lavender, nettle and olive. Take it to the good-sized playground behind Újezd station.
27. Once at the summit of Petrin Hill, climb the 299 steps to the top of the Petrin Lookout Tower (a mini Eiffel Tower) before heading to the 19th-century mirror maze. The Hall of Smiles is full of warped-fairground mirrors. Silly poses at the ready!
28. This cool website shows where you can pick fruit for free. Petrin is a great place to find berries in the summer and apples and pears in the early autumn.
Family attractions around Prague Castle
29. Walk from Petrin over to the Strahov Monastery. With its resemblance to a set from Hogwarts, Harry Potter fans might well enjoy a peek in the beautiful Strahov library. While there, marvel at the eclectic Cabinet of Curiosities, which includes a narwhal horn (once used to prove the existence of unicorns).
30. Ever wanted to see the Lord’s prayer written on a single hair or a camel train in the eye of a needle? Just across from the library, be amazed at the intricate art on display at the Museum of Miniatures.
31. Sidestep the crowds in Prague Castle and instead wander the cobblestone streets of the nearby New World (Nový Svět). Work out the professions of the people who used to live there by looking at the signs over the medieval cottage doors. Next, run off steam at the playground, before pausing for a hot chocolate and cake at Kavárna Nový Svět.
32. Take the unassuming stairway from the Powder Bridge down to the Deer Moat. This kilometre-long natural ravine is named after the rutting herds that once grazed there. Now home to inviting lawns, wooden walkways and an echoing 84-metre pedestrian tunnel, it’s the perfect place to run off steam beneath the soaring splendour of St Vitus Cathedral.
33. Hop on the beautiful historical tram on Line 41 (usually running from April – November on weekends and public holidays). At the terminus stop (Prague-Střešovice), mini-transport enthusiasts will love the vintage vehicles on display at the Public Transport Museum. Ding ding!
Family attractions in the Old Town (central Prague)
34. Get those listening ears on for one of the Czech Philharmonic’s children’s concerts. While in the beautiful Rudolfium, visit the free gallery, which is home to ArtPark, a creative corner with colouring, bean bags and wooden blocks.
35. The Municipal Library of Prague is home to a wonderful children’s section, including a couple of shelves of English books and boxes of toys. Be sure to peer down the infinity book tunnel.
36. Arrive at the beautiful mediaeval Astronomical Clock on the Old Town Square just before the hour. Watching the clockwork procession of the Twelve Apostles is fun (although come prepared for tourist crowds). Kids may well enjoy ascending the 70-metre-high Old Town Hall Tower to peek out across the city. There’s a lift should you need to save weary little legs.
37. Immerse yourself in a world of fun at Lumia Gallery Prague. This interactive museum of digital art is one big sensory playroom for young and old alike.
38. Don medieval dress and explore the playroom at the historic House at the Golden Ring.
39. Want to find a decent Prague restaurant with a play area? For a small charge, kids aged three and over can climb, jump and relax in the supervised kids’ zone at Food Lab. Just be sure to check the play area opening times.
40. Another family-friendly choice is splurging at La Casa Argentina on bustling Dlouhá. Kids will love the slides and ball pit.
41. Meanwhile, a carpeted play area and yummy pizza makes Pizza Nuova a popular family haunt. Be sure to reserve a table at the weekends.
Family attractions in Holešovice (a short tram ride from central Prague)
42. Letna Park is home to playgrounds, beer gardens, a historic carousel and some of the best views of Prague. Head to the park’s giant metronome and watch the skateboarders performing their tricks to its beat.
43. For two weeks in mid-August, Letna becomes home to contemporary circus festival Letní Letná. The performances and accompanying children’s programme are always a riot.
44. Ride a mini tractor, go pretend fishing and spin the vintage carousel at the newly-renovated, highly-interactive Agricultural Museum.
45. Next door, the National Technical Museum has the world of trains, planes and automobiles to admire.
46. Roam around handsome Stromovka. This once-royal game reserve now serves as Prague’s largest park. Playgrounds, cafes, duck ponds, a planetarium and stunning vistas await.
47. Brave the ghost train at Matějská pouť (St. Matthew’s Fair). This rollercoaster-packed fair arrives at Prague Exhibition Grounds in Holešovice each year to herald the start of spring (usually open from late February until the end of the Easter holidays).
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48. Toddlers and preschoolers can delight in artist experimentation at the National Gallery of Prague’s term-time children’s workshops. While there be sure to stop by light, bright Kolektor Cafe for coffee and cake.
49. Step upon the beautiful wooden Airship Gulliver, that appears to float above Contemporary Art Gallery DOX. There is also a kid-friendly cafe and small play area.
50. Tweens and teens will love the contemporary circus performances at Jatka78. The website helpfully gives recommended ages and whether Czech is required. The artsy café is worth stopping by if you are in the area. In the summer, there are also performances in Stromovka park.
Family attractions in Troja (catch public transport from central Prague)
51. Prague’s Botanical Gardens are on a fair, old slope – so be ready for a walk and some tired little legs. Fish tanks in the greenhouse and ice cream on the lawn, as well as a musical playground at the top of the gardens, make it worth the trip.
52. Prague Zoo is expansive – and on top of spotting all the animals, there are some great playgrounds. Borrow a little cart to save kids moaning about the walk (free, but passport ID required as deposit) or jump on the miniature train. From April to October, it’s possible to arrive at the zoo via a boat trip (followed by a kilometre-long walk).
Family attractions in Vysočany (a tram/metro ride from central Prague)
53. Beware! The roof of Prague’s Galerie Harfa Shopping Centre has been overrun by humungous dinosaurs. Outside the winter months, come face to face with a velociraptor at DinoPark Praha. Calm your nerves afterwards at the nearby musical playground.
54. Want a real-life exhilaration rush? Zoom down the 800m double-looped bobsleigh track at Bobova draha Prosek (under 8s must be accompanied by an adult, check the calendar for closures). Recover at the nearby playground.
Family attractions in Karlín (a tram/metro ride from central Prague)
55. Kids can tear about the playground and parents can sip drinks while reclining in deckchairs at Kasárna Karlín. This former army barracks is now a not-for-profit cultural hub.
56. Create your own ice cream cookie sandwich at Parlor.
Family attractions in Žižkov and Vinohrady (a short tram/metro ride from central Prague)
57. The Žižkov TV Tower is Prague’s tallest (and arguably ugliest) building. Take the lift to the viewing platform, swing back in the suspended chairs and enjoy the view. At the tower’s base, kids can enjoy a small mini-golf course.
58. Climb a cute, model water tower at popular Vinohrady playground Dětské hřiště U Vodárny. Then head to Jiřího z Poděbrad Square, where you’ll find another (small) playground and, on Wednesday – Saturday, an excellent farmer’s market.
59. Take in the city views, while lazing on the lawn at Riegrovy Sady, before heading to the park’s good-sized playground. On hot days, run headlong through the mini splash pad.
60. Czech restaurant Vinohradsky Parliament and Belgian restaurant Bruxx share a decent-sized play area. Grownups can order while the kids dive into the ball pit.
61. Havlíčkovy sady is modelled on an Italian Renaissance Garden. But fountains and grape-vines aside, it’s the playgrounds and beautiful café with outdoor seating which makes it a favourite with parents and kids.
Family attractions in Prague 10 (catch public transport from central Prague)
62. A brilliant water play area, excellent paths for bikes and scooters and a good-sized playground make public Malešický park well worth a visit.
63. Turn the large Archimedes water screw at Gutovka. Close to a metro station, this private sports ground has a skate park, climbing wall and mini-golf in addition to a water-playground.
64. Hot days call for a shady playground with a paddling pool. Dětské hřiště Pod Kapličkou may be a little out of town, but it’s only a 10-minute walk from the metro and it ticks all the boxes.
Family attractions in Vyšehrad (a short tram/metro ride from central Prague)
65. Vysehrad (Prague’s other, often overlooked castle) is the perfect location for a family picnic. Build up an appetite at the cute castle playground and follow lunch with a stroll, taking in the city views. From here you can follow the stairway down to the playground at Vyton in the New Town (#12 on the list).
Family attractions in Podolí (a short tram/metro ride from central Prague)
66. Didn’t think Prague had a beach? Well it does! Kinda. Head to the man-made sandy shore at Zlute Lazne. Here you can also splash through paddling pools, hire pedalos and paddleboards and even take a dip in the Vltava.
Family attractions in Průhonice (catch public transport or take a taxi from central Prague)
67. The Dendrological Gardens (open April to October), with its playground and fish ponds, provide the perfect setting for a picnic. Just note no bikes are allowed. And yes, I had to Google ‘Dendrological’. It means the study of trees. You’re welcome.
68. Průhonice Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Tackle the family trail (2.5km) followed by a snack at the café. The only downside: no playground or bikes.
69. Make a splash at Aquapalace Praha. This huge waterpark features a children’s pirate pool, 12 slides and a wild river ride.
Family attractions in Zličín (catch public transport or a taxi from central Prague)
70. Another sure-fire energy burner is Toboga Fantasy – a 6000m² indoor playroom filled with trampolines, climbing frames and epic slides.
Family attractions around Prague 6 and the airport (catch public transport or a taxi from central Prague)
71. Get connected to nature at beautiful Divoká Šárka. The tram drops you at the entrance. In the summer, shoot down the inflatable slide at the reserve’s Lake Dzban. In the winter, this is where you’ll find Lumina Park, a twinkling world of light installations.
72. A summer palace shaped like a star? Obora Hvězda is truly heavenly. Enjoy the shaded playgrounds, explore the woodland and then head to the café by the palace (open from April to October) for ice cream or cake.
73. Fancy a ROARsome morning out? The Dinosauria has fossils, dino models and a VR experience.
74. Last but certainly not least is epic Majaland. This 9,000 m2 indoor amusement park has a collection of small rollercoasters, playgrounds and miniboats. It’s in the same complex as the Dinosauria, close to the airport, and is brilliant for toddlers through to tweens.
Getting around Prague with kids
Prague’s city centre is relatively compact and easy to navigate on foot. Although if the younger members of your party have tired legs – the city’s tram and metro network will quickly zoom you around town. Just be aware that some of the older trams and metro stations can be awkward with a pushchair.
To plan your journey (including barrier-free access) and for up-to-date fares check out the DPP website or the PID App which are available in English. You can buy tickets directly on the App or from corner shops or Metro stations. It’s now also possible to use contactless to pay directly on trams.
Prague’s cobblestones and steps can provide its challenges if travelling with a pushchair. Either be prepared to pick it up occasionally or come with a good baby carrier.
Wondering how to get to and from Prague airport? The cheapest way is via public transport (which involves catching 119 bus to Nádraží Veleslavín station and then changing to metro Line A).
However, to avoid wrangling children and suitcases on and off buses, we often use Prague Airport Transfers, as they provide children’s car seats and we’ve always found them reliable and reasonably priced. Alternatively, Uber or Bolt lift-hailing apps are convenient options.
Children’s supplies in Prague
German shop DM has branches across the city. DM sells milk formula, nappies, baby food and children’s snacks and smoothies. Their own-brand products are generally affordable and of good quality.
Run out of reading material? Check out one of Prague’s English bookshops.
Where to stay in Prague with kids?
Discover the best hotels in Prague for families in this new article, with suggestions for luxury aparthotels through to budget stays with a pool.
And so, I hope I may have inspired you to put Prague on your family’s travel list! And please do leave me a comment with your Prague recommendations.
p.s. If like me you are not a Czech speaker, using Google Translate with many of the above websites will be your friend.
p.p.s Some links on this website are affiliate links. If you purchase something using them, I may get a small commission towards the upkeep of the blog at no extra cost to you. Thank you!
Holiday preparation
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20 comments
It’s nice to know there are so many things to do in Prague with kids since it is high on our bucket list. I’m pinning this for later to get ideas when we finally book a trip. #farawayfiles
Thank you, Allison! I do hope you find it useful!
Is it bad that many of these things for kids to do, I want to do too! Haha! Next time I visit Prague again, I want to do so many things especially the swan paddle boat!! Pinned! #FarawayFiles
Ha! No not bad at all – I’m often the most enthusiastic among my family – especially when it comes to picnics, paddle boats and ice cream!
I love the idea of a cafe with babysitters. And one that has a train bring you your drink! What an incredible collection of activities – a must for anyone visiting, by the looks of things.
Thanks, Nell! Yes, who doesn’t want their drink brought by train?
Not having kids I never really thought about what you would do in a place like Prague. But it looks like there’s plenty – good resource to have when I’m recommending things for friends with kids.
Thank you, Paul. Yes – lots to do – and many of them are lots of fun for grown-ups too.
Epic list! I always think to myself – I can’t believe I haven’t been to Prague. Such a beautiful city with so much to do, as you’ve shown here. Definitely saving this one for later! Thanks for linking up with #farawayfiles
Haha! Yes it felt fairly epic when I was writing it! 😅 Yes – you really should add it to your list – it is a beautiful city.
Wow, Jenny! What an incredible selection of activities and foodie treats you’ve chosen. No wonder you stay in your home city so much. I know my kids would love to have their drinks delivered by train and ride on one of those gigantic swans. Fabulous share for #FarawayFiles
Yes the swan boats are quite something! I love it when they appear on the river as then I know Spring has arrived.
This is an incredible list, Jenny! I love that you have opened my eyes to Prague – it sounds and looks amazing and has so much to offer families. I hope one day we have an opportunity to see it in person and I have pinned this article for future reference. 🙂
Jenny, you and your kids ARE Prague! This is such a fantastic list for kids and bigger kids too. The peeing sculpture would be a first for me (teehee) and love the sound of the Museum of Miniatures. I simply must visit soon.
You really must! And yes, although I did write it for kids – so many things are my favourite too! The peeing sculpture is definitely worth a peek!
This is fantastic, thank you very much! We’ve been to Prague before, but only managed the main tourist areas/attractions and beer!! We now have a 5 year old and we need a much different itinerary for our visit in April. I’ve already made a note of lots of these. Hopefully the weather will be kind to us for a few parks!
Thank you for commenting, Kathryn. And I hope you have a wonderful trip. I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you that you get a bit of lovely Prague spring sunshine!
This list made our trip to Prague! (I think we made it to about 10 of the places on your list over the past 3 days). Loved the playground recommendations. Looking forward to reading your Sri Lanka writing- I’m thinking that’s our next family trip.
We’ve been living in Prague for about 3 months and we are working our way through this list. Absolutely love it! In 55 you mention the city’s finest doughnuts, what is the shop name? Thanks!
Thanks, Kirsty! So glad my list is useful. I’ve just had a quick look – and I think the donut shop in JZP is now closed. I need to update the list… Sorry – but good luck; there are loads of lovely bakeries and cafes around there now!