Prague has many attractions to offer children on holiday with their families. Essentially, the city feels like a medieval fantasy, with its fortresses, cathedrals and castles sparking children's fantasies about princesses and knights. For starters, there is an entire castle district to explore. Next, Petrin Hill is home to a fantastic mirror maze and pony-riding area for kids to enjoy. The park areas for outdoor activities are a delight for kids and parents alike, while the local Toy Museum, the second largest collection of its kind in the world, will keep children entertained for hours. The Czech Republic also has a rich puppet tradition, with shows at the Black Light Theatre and the National Marionette Theatre usually charming the little ones. For young animal lovers, Prague has a Sea World and a zoo for kids to explore. A visit to see the chiming of Prague's medieval Astronomical Clock is also a must. Taking a cruise to see the attractions along the banks of the river is a popular activity for the whole family. Children seem to love this mode of sightseeing, and the atmosphere on the spacious ferry boats is relaxed and informal. All in all, Prague is a great destination if you're travelling with kids.
Petrin Hill is in the centre of Prague, perfectly located to offer all-round stunning views of the picturesque city. Rising above the Vltava River, it is almost entirely covered by recreational areas and parks. Petrin Hill offers many attractions for children and adults on holiday in Prague, beginning with the funicular ride up the hill. It is a fun experience for kids, followed by an exciting climb up the miniature TV tower. The tower is a small version of Paris' Eiffel Tower. Called the Petrin Observation Tower, it may not sound tall at 197 feet (60 metres), but it is a vantage point from which to see the whole of Prague. With breath-taking views, it is well worth the climb of 299 steps, especially on a clear day, when it's possible to see Snezka, the highest peak in the Czech Republic. Kids love finding each other in the bludistì (mirror maze) hall, and pony rides on the hill are also a popular activity. The observatory is a fascinating attraction for older kids. The parks are also just wonderful for a bit of time outdoors, away from the imposing buildings of the city which can get a bit daunting, especially in the crowded tourist season.
Address : Lesser Town, Prague 1
Transport : Walk along a wooded path or take the funicular from Újezd Street.
Prague's medieval astronomical clock, also known as the Prague Orloj, is mounted on the southern wall of the Old Town City Hall, and is popular with tourists eager to watch the clock's show every hour. It comprises three main components, namely the astronomical dial, which represents the position of the sun and the moon in the sky, 'The Walk of the Apostles' showing moving sculptures, and a calendar dial with medallions representing the 12 months. The show begins with Death, represented by a skeleton, pulling the bell cord with one hand while holding a Clessidra (hourglass) in the other. The Apostles then come out of the windows in a procession and return back inside. Once the windows close, a cockerel flaps and crows in an alcove followed by the chimes of the hour. The parody is accompanied by the Turk shaking his head, the Miser watching his bag and Vanity admiring himself in a mirror, and makes a wonderful spectacle for visitors to Prague. All in all, the hourly show lasts about three minutes. Otherwise, visitors can climb the tower and see the clock mechanisms from the interior. They can also enjoy great views of the Old Town Square from the top.
Address : Old Town City Hall
Housed in the Old Count's Chambers of Prague Castle, the Toy Museum is a wonderful attraction for kids, and is endlessly captivating for adults. The museum contains several exhibition rooms, takes up two floors, and is said to be the second biggest collection of its kind in the world. There are displays of playthings from across the globe and across the centuries, with some of the artefacts dating as far back as Ancient Greece. The museum's comprehensive Barbie collection is chronological and displays the changes in fashion that Barbie has undergone over the generations. Unsurprisingly, the Barbie collection is a favourite with little girls. Other highlights include the mechanical toy trains and the huge collection of teddy bears. There are also traditional Czech dolls and toys, which offer some fun insight into the culture. This is a great attraction for the whole family and it is consistently popular with visitors to Prague.
Address : Jioska 4, Prague 1
Telephone : +420 224 372 294
Transport : Tram 22 to Prazsky hrad.
Opening times : Open daily 9.30am to 5.30pm
Admission : CZK 70. Concessions available.
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