Prague is one of the only 4 destinations open to vaccinated Israelis without the need for isolation upon return, although a new regulation effective today requires all travelers to present a negative PCR test done within 72 hours before departure; so we’ve asked Peter Zazula, Chief concierge at the Four Seasons Hotel Prague, to recommend the ten best sights and attractions for families, days before the Jewish holidays and while the weather is still good.
1. Prague Castle
This complex of ornate buildings, courtyards, and monuments features everything, from the Old Royal Palace to St. Vitus’ Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Younger children will love exploring the Royal Gardens, while teens will be fascinated by the White Tower’s history of torture and intrigue.
2. Petřín Hill and Petřín Tower
It is impossible to miss Petřín Tower (a smaller replica of the Eiffel Tower), perched as it is on top of Petřín Hill, the large hill that towers above Mala Strana. There are several interesting sights on Petřín Hill: The Mirror Maze, featuring popular distorting mirrors, is one of the highlights. The most entertaining way to reach Petřín Hill is to take the funicular, a cable car that climbs up the hill.
3. The National Technical Museum
Older children will enjoy the collections of historic transportation methods, including antique bicycles, cars, trains, and planes. Among the permanent collections, you can also explore the history of photographic and film, metallurgy, acoustics and noise ecology, mining for ores and coal, and the evolution of telecommunications.
4. Museum of Toys
A nice little place with lots of antique trains and dolls! There are few things for the kids to touch, but there are plenty of mysterious mechanical objects such as music boxes and steam-powered toys for children to speculate about.
5. Prague Zoo
Considered one of the best in Europe, it could easily keep a family busy for a whole day. Take a look at the Must Do section and find a timetable of the most important events in the Zoo during the day. Some of the most popular pavilions are the Indonesian Jungle and the Monkey Island, where visitors can practically play with the cute lemurs. Another favorite is the Children’s Area and the Children’s Petting Zoo, a specially built farm where kids can enter some enclosures and play with different domesticated animals (rabbits, sheep, pigs, ponies, hens, ducks, and geese).
6. Marionettes
Puppetry is a large part of Czech culture, and wonderful marionette shops can be found around the city, featuring Spejbl and Hurvínek (the Czech equivalent of Punch and Judy). Also available are fun workshops for the whole family, where both parents and kids can learn to make their own marionette.
7. Cruising on the Vltava River
Under the vaults of Charles Bridge is a historical 19th-century canal boat called Vodouch, decorated with original wooden interiors and charming brass details. Skilled shipmasters take guests on a boat ride around the city center, with views of the famous landmarks of Prague.
8. Old Town Square
The lively square, sitting at the heart of Prague, is full of the bustle of street vendors, mimes, and bustling cafés. A pastel mix of Baroque buildings surrounds the square, but the 15th-century Astronomical Clock is the real draw for kids. Arrive here on the hour (9 am to 9 pm) to see the automated procession of the 12 apostles. St. Nicholas Church also sits on the Square, and even small children will be amazed by its soaring dome, colorful frescos, crystal candelabra, and gold-leaf decorations.
9. Go-karts
If you are looking for a more thrilling activity, there is a go-karts arena located in the suburbs of Prague. The track is one of the longest in Europe, affording a full session of adrenaline fun on a 1000 yard long course, with up to 14 go-karts available.
10. Segway Tours
Segway, e-scooters, or trikes tours are an excellent way for a group or a family to explore the Castle area, Mala Strana, some of the best viewpoints in the city, Prague canyons, Letna Hill, and more. And for the parents, there are also fun and beer Segway tours.
Renowned for its riverside elegance in Europe’s Golden City and located at the heart of Prague with stunning views of the Vltava River and Prague Castle, Four Seasons Hotel Prague has recently received a five-star rating by Forbes Travel Guide’s 2021 star awards.
Established in 2001, the neo-classical Baroque building has 157 guest rooms, of which 19 are elegant suites. The hotel boasts restaurants as well as Ava Spa, awarded four stars by Forbes Travel Guide and combining modern and traditional treatments.
