Prague has a rich and fascinating history. The city has experienced invasions and revolutions. In other words, Prague has seen it all. In this article, we would like to write shortly about five events that has impacted the city and its history greatly. If you want to learn more about the different events, go to Wikipedia or some other source that you trust. You can also join a guided tour in Prague to learn more.
1. Foundation of Prague Castle (9th century)
Prague Castle is the largest castle complex in the world. It has been the place from which Czech rulers have governed the country for more than thousand years. The construction of the castle started in the 9th century making it one of the oldest castles in Europe.
2. Construction of the Charles Bridge (1357)
Charles Bridge is one of the most famous landmarks in Prague. The bridge, which crosses the Vltava River, was built in the 14th century. For a long time it was the only connection between Prague Castle and the city’s Old Town, but if you visit Prague today, it is only one of many bridges. But, the truth is that tourists coming to Prague only remember the name of one bridge as they go home and that is the Charles Bridge.
3. Defenestration of Prague (1618)
The Defenestration of Prague was a pivotal event in the start of the Thirty Years’ War, a major European conflict that lasted from 1618 to 1648. In 1618, Czech rebels threw Habsburg officials out of a window of the Prague Castle, sparking the conflict.
4. Prague Spring (1968)
The Prague Spring was a period of political liberalization and mass protest in Czechoslovakia. It began on January 5 in 1968, and it ended approximatelz 7 1/2 months later due to the Soviet Union-led invasion on August 21, 1968. The period was characterized by attempts to institute reforms and greater political freedom, but the invasion put an end to these hopes.
5. Velvet Revolution (1989)
The Velvet Revolution was a non-violent political revolution that took place in Czechoslovakia in 1989. The revolution led to the end of 41 years of Communist rule in the country. The Velvet Revolution was highlighted by mass demonstrations and strikes in Prague, as well as other cities throughout the country.
These events have all played a significant role in shaping the history of Prague. By learning about these events, we can gain a better understanding of the city’s rich past and the important role it has played in European history. If you wan to learn more about Prague, join a guided tour, take a look at the other articles in our Prague Guide, and come discover the city for yourself soon!
Prague is a beautiful and historic city with plenty to offer families looking for fun and a memorable vacation. From exploring the city’s stunning architecture and museums to trying out delicious local cuisine and experiencing the city’s vibrant culture, there’s something for everyone in Prague. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best activities and attractions for families traveling to Prague, providing ideas and inspiration for a fun-filled and unforgettable trip. Whether you’re traveling with young children or teenagers, Prague has plenty to offer families looking for an adventure. Let’s dive in!
Prague Castle:
Prague Castle is a great place to go with kids. The castle complex offers a range of activities suitable for children, and it’s a great way to introduce kids to the history and culture of the city.
One of the main attractions that kids will love is the Golden Lane, which is a picturesque alley of colorful houses that was once the homes of castle guards and craftsmen. Kids can explore the tiny houses and learn about life in medieval times.
Another attraction that kids will love is the Toy Museum, which is located within the castle complex. The museum features a collection of over 2,000 toys from different eras, and kids can play with some of the exhibits and learn about the history of toys.
St. Vitus Cathedral, which is located within the castle complex, is also an impressive attraction that kids will enjoy. The cathedral features beautiful stained glass windows and intricate stone carvings, and it’s a great way to introduce kids to Gothic architecture and the history of the Czech Republic.
Additionally, the castle complex has several gardens and courtyards that are great for kids to explore and run around in, and there are several restaurants and cafes within the castle complex that offer kid-friendly menus.
Charles Bridge:
The Charles Bridge in Prague is a fun and unique experience for kids for several reasons.
First, the bridge is a pedestrian-only zone, so kids can run and play without worrying about traffic. The bridge is also lined with street performers, musicians, and artists, creating a lively and entertaining atmosphere that kids will enjoy.
Additionally, the bridge offers stunning views of the Vltava River, the Prague Castle, and the city skyline. Kids can enjoy the views and take in the beautiful surroundings, while parents can take memorable family photos.
The bridge is also home to several interesting statues, including the famous statue of St. John of Nepomuk, which according to legend, brings good luck to those who touch it. Kids will enjoy seeing and touching the different statues and learning about their history and significance.
Prague Zoo:
Prague Zoo is one of the most popular attractions for families in Prague. It’s located in a beautiful natural setting and is home to more than 4,000 animals from all around the world. The zoo is open all year round and offers a range of educational activities, including animal feedings and educational programs for kids.
One of the highlights of Prague Zoo is its “Africa” exhibit, which features a range of African animals, including giraffes, zebras, and elephants. The zoo also has a “Gorilla Pavilion,” which is home to a group of western lowland gorillas, and a “Polarium,” which features animals from the Arctic and Antarctic regions, including penguins, seals, and polar bears.
The zoo offers a range of animal feedings and shows throughout the day, including feeding times for lions, tigers, and penguins. There are also daily demonstrations and shows, such as the bird of prey demonstration and the sea lion show.
In addition to the animal exhibits, the zoo also has a range of other attractions, including a children’s zoo, a playground, and a petting zoo.
Letna Park:
Letna Park is a beautiful and expansive park located in Prague, and it’s a great destination for families with kids. Here are some cool things to do in Letna Park.
Play on the Playground: Letna Park has a large playground with plenty of swings, slides, and climbing equipment for kids to enjoy. It’s a great place for kids to run around and burn off some energy while parents relax on a nearby bench.
Visit the Beer Garden: The Letna Beer Garden is a popular destination for families, with plenty of outdoor seating and a great selection of Czech beers and snacks. Parents can enjoy a cold beer while the kids run around and play on the nearby grassy areas.
Take a Walk or Bike Ride: Letna Park has plenty of walking and biking paths that wind through the park, offering stunning views of the city and the river. Families can rent bikes, explore the park together, or take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery.
Play Sports: Letna Park has several sports fields and courts, including a soccer field, a basketball court, and a skate park. Families can bring a ball or frisbee and play a game together, or watch some of the local players in action.
National Museum:
Taking your kids to a museum might be too much for some, but the National Museum in Prague has a lot to offer if you are ready for a challenge. The museum has a wide range of exhibits, covering everything from natural history to Czech culture and history, making it a great place for kids to learn and explore.
One of the museum’s highlights for families is the exhibits on natural history, which include displays on dinosaurs, animals, and plants. Kids can see life-size models of dinosaurs, explore the different habitats of animals, and learn about the natural world around them.
The museum also has exhibits on Czech history and culture, including displays on famous Czech figures and events. Kids can learn about the country’s history, see artifacts from different periods, and understand how the country has changed over time.
In addition to the exhibits, the museum also features several interactive activities and workshops for kids, including crafts, games, and other hands-on activities. These activities are a great way for kids to engage with the exhibits and learn in a fun and interactive way.
Petrin Hill:
Petrin Hill is a popular destination for families with kids in Prague, and there are plenty of fun and engaging activities for kids to enjoy. Here are some things that kids can do at Petrin Hill:
Ride the Funicular: The funicular is a popular way to reach the top of Petrin Hill, and kids will love the short ride up the steep slope. The funicular offers great views of the city and the hillside, and it’s a fun experience that kids won’t forget.
Visit the Mirror Maze: The Mirror Maze is a fun attraction for kids, with a labyrinth of mirrors that create all sorts of optical illusions. It’s a great way to challenge kids’ perception and spatial awareness, and it’s a lot of fun to explore.
Climb the Petrin Tower: The Petrin Tower is a miniature version of the Eiffel Tower, and it offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding area. Kids will love climbing the tower’s 299 steps to the top; the view from the top is truly breathtaking.
Explore the Gardens: Petrin Hill has several gardens and parks that are perfect for kids to explore, with plenty of open spaces and natural beauty. Kids can run around, play games, or have a picnic in one of the many grassy areas.
Ride a Bike or Scooter: Petrin Hill has several biking and scooter paths that wind through the park, offering great views and a fun way to explore the area. Families can rent bikes or scooters and explore the park together, or bring their own and enjoy a leisurely ride.
Vysehrad:
Families like Vysehrad for many reasons. First and foremost, the historic fortress and castle are fascinating places for both adults and children, with a rich history that dates back over 1,000 years. The fortress features impressive ramparts, towers, and gates, while the castle has beautiful gardens, courtyards, and a stunning view of the city. Kids will love exploring the various nooks and crannies of the castle and imagining what life was like in medieval times.
In addition to the castle, Vysehrad has several parks and playgrounds perfect for families with kids. The Vojanovy Sady Park, in particular, is a great place for kids to explore, with a playground, a pond, and plenty of trees and green space. Parents can relax on a bench while their kids play, or join in on the fun themselves.
Old Town Square:
The Old Town Square is a popular destination for families with kids in Prague, and there are plenty of fun and interesting activities for kids to enjoy. Here are some things that kids can do at the Old Town Square:
Visit the Astronomical Clock: The Astronomical Clock is a must-see attraction in Prague, and kids will love watching the clock’s moving figures and intricate designs. The clock puts on a show every hour, and it’s a great way to learn about the city’s history and culture.
Ride a Horse-Drawn Carriage: Kids will love riding in a traditional horse-drawn carriage, which offers a unique and memorable way to see the city’s sights. The carriages offer a great way to explore the city’s historic streets and buildings.
Visit the Tyn Church: The Tyn Church is a stunning Gothic cathedral located in the Old Town Square, and it’s a great way to experience the city’s rich history and architecture. Kids will love the intricate designs and details of the church, and it’s a great way to learn about the city’s religious traditions.
Try Local Food and Drink: The Old Town Square is home to several restaurants and cafes that offer delicious local food and drink, including traditional Czech cuisine and famous Czech beer. Kids can try out new and exciting foods and drinks, and parents can enjoy some of the city’s best culinary offerings.
Watch Street Performances: The Old Town Square is a popular destination for street performers, with musicians, magicians, and other artists entertaining crowds throughout the day. Kids will love watching the performances and getting in on the action, and it’s a great way to experience the city’s vibrant culture and energy.
National Technical Museum:
The National Technical Museum in Prague is a great place for kids to learn about the history of technology and engineering. The museum has a wide range of exhibits, from transportation to astronomy and more, and many of them are interactive, making them engaging and fun for kids.
One of the museum’s highlights for kids is the transportation exhibit, which features a range of vehicles, including cars, trains, airplanes, and even a real steam engine. Kids can explore the different vehicles, climb aboard some of them, and learn about the history of transportation and engineering.
Another popular exhibit for kids is the planetarium, which features shows that take visitors on a journey through the universe. The shows are visually stunning and educational, and they are a great way for kids to learn about astronomy and the wonders of the cosmos.
The museum also features several hands-on exhibitions where kids can try their hand at different engineering and science activities, including building bridges, experimenting with sound and light, and exploring the properties of electricity and magnetism.
Miniature Museum:
The Miniatur Museum in Prague is a unique and fascinating attraction that is perfect for families with kids. The museum features an extensive collection of miniature models, including buildings, vehicles, and other objects, all of which are incredibly detailed and accurate.
The museum is divided into several sections, each showcasing a different theme or era. Visitors can see detailed models of famous landmarks from around the world, including the Eiffel Tower, the Taj Mahal, and the Colosseum. There are also models of famous historical events, such as the Battle of Waterloo and the sinking of the Titanic.
One of the most impressive sections of the museum is the model railway, which features a large and intricate train system that runs through a detailed miniature landscape. Kids will love watching the trains go by and trying to spot all the tiny details, such as miniature people, animals, and vehicles.
In addition to the models, the museum also features several interactive exhibits, including a hands-on model-building station where kids can create their own miniature models.
Wenceslas Square:
Wenceslas Square is one of Prague’s most popular and bustling areas, and visitors can enjoy several family-friendly activities while exploring the area.
One of the main attractions is the National Museum, located at the top of the square. The museum has various exhibits suitable for children, including displays on natural history, science, and Czech culture. There are also regular workshops and events for kids, including crafts and hands-on activities.
Another fun activity for families is to take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the square. Kids will love the novelty of riding in a carriage, and it’s a great way to see the sights and take in the atmosphere of the square.
There are also several street performers and musicians in the area, creating a lively and entertaining atmosphere. Kids can enjoy watching the different performers and even participate in some of the shows and games.
The square is transformed into a Christmas market in December and early January, with festive decorations, traditional food and drink, and a range of fun activities for kids, including ice skating and carousel rides.
Finally, the square is surrounded by a range of shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it a great place to stop for a snack or a meal. Many restaurants and cafes offer kid-friendly menus and activities, and there are several ice cream and sweet shops in the area.
River cruise:
Children might find it tiring to walk around the city to explore the different sights and attractions. But it suddenly feels much better and nicer if they can see it all while enjoying a boat trip on the Vltava river. That is why a river cruise on the Vltava river is a fantastic family activity in Prague.
There are boat trips where you simply look out the window and enjoy the view, while other tours come with live music, dinner opportunities, and other options. If it is cold outside, you can sit inside and enjoy the view by looking out the window. But it is possible on almost all boats to sit outside which is a refreshing and a beautiful experience, especially on a warm summer evening.
Chocolate Museum:
Families love the Chocolate Museum in Prague because it’s a fun and interactive attraction that offers a unique and tasty experience for visitors of all ages.
The museum is located in the heart of the city. It offers a fascinating insight into the chocolate-making history, from the ancient Mayan and Aztec civilizations to the present day. Visitors can learn about the origins of chocolate, how it’s made, and how it’s used in different cultures and cuisines.
One of the main highlights of the museum is the chocolate-making workshop, where visitors can learn how to make their own chocolate creations under the guidance of an expert chocolatier. Kids will love getting hands-on and making their own chocolate bars, truffles, and other delicious treats.
The museum also offers a range of tastings, including different types of chocolate from around the world and a range of chocolate-based desserts and beverages. Kids will love tasting the chocolates and trying out new flavors and textures.
In addition to the chocolate-making workshop and tastings, the museum features a range of interactive exhibits, including a chocolate fountain, a 3D chocolate printer, and a virtual reality experience that takes visitors on a journey through the history of chocolate.
Where should the family stay in Prague?
We have just told you about fantastic family activities in Prague. But have you given any thoughts about where to stay in Prague? When you travel with kids, it is important to make things as easy as possible. That is why we will include the names of three hotels in Prague that will make exploring Prague all the more fun and easier.
Novotel Praha Wenceslas square
The hotel has a perfect location in the center of Prague a few minutes from the Wenceslas square. They have family rooms available, a fantastic view from the rooftop terrace, and a swimming pool that the kids can use to relax in between the different sightseeing programs. The hotel also has a fitness room and a wonderful breakfast available.
This hotel isn’t in the center, but if you like to travel by tram, you can get to the old town within 10 minutes. The hotel is made for sports lovers as it has indoor swimming pools, courts for badminton, table tennis possibilities, a fitness center, and much more. This is a cheap hotel compared with many others in Prague, so if you don’t mind living outside the city center, this might become a big hit with the entire family.
It is nice to live in a hotel, but for a family on a trip, it is often way better to live in an apartment where they have their own fridge, can cook their own food, and run by their own timeline in a better way. Mordecai 12 Apartments in Prague is ideal for such travelers. The apartment is located centrally in Prague, not far from the Old Town Square, the Charles Bridge, and other important locations in the old town.
If you come with kids to Prague, you might not visit the most expensive and finest restaurants in Prague. You eat because you are hungry, and the most important is to eat something that is prepared quickly and that you know everyone will enjoy.
Maybe you dislike fast food, but it is nice to know that you can find many fast-food restaurants in Prague. As a result, you can easily eat a Big Mac at McDonald’s or a crispy chicken at KFC if that is what the family prefers.
If you visit a more serious restaurant, several meals are still suitable for children. Italian restaurants are considered family-friendly as they serve pizza, pasta, and other popular dishes. If you end up in a traditional Czech restaurant, popular meals include the Wiener Schnitzel and the traditional Goulash. One of Prague’s most popular sweet pastries is Trdelnik, a cylindrical-shaped cake made by wrapping dough around a stick and roasting it over an open flame. It’s then rolled in sugar and cinnamon, making it a sweet and delicious treat that kids are sure to love.
You are ready for a fantastic holiday with the entire family in Prague.
In conclusion, Prague is a great destination for families with kids, offering a range of attractions that combine history, culture, nature, and fun. Whether it’s exploring castles and parks, indulging in delicious food and cultural experiences, or learning about science and technology, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city.
