Where To Stay In Prague: A Family-friendly Guide

The Charles Bridge, with its stunning views of the Vltava River and Prague Castle, left me spellbound. Prague, the City of a Hundred Spires, captivated me, and I knew I had to share its magic with my family.

Planning our trip, the question of where to stay in Prague was paramount. We sought a neighborhood and accommodations that would offer comfort, convenience, and immerse us in the city’s history, culture, and family-friendly attractions.

Central Prague: Balancing Convenience and Charm

As we delved into our research, it became clear that the heart of Prague, the Central Prague area, would be an ideal starting point. This bustling district, with its iconic landmarks and lively atmosphere, offered a perfect blend of cultural immersion and family-friendly activities.

Staré Město (Old Town): Where History Comes Alive

The historic Staré Město, or Old Town, quickly captured our interest. This charming neighborhood, with its cobblestoned streets and striking Gothic architecture, was a magnet for families. We were drawn to the Astronomical Clock, a must-see attraction that had captivated generations of visitors, and the vibrant Old Town Square, where we could stroll and soak up the lively atmosphere.

While the central location of Old Town was undoubtedly convenient, we were mindful of the potential for crowds and noise. However, as we explored the neighborhood, we discovered a wealth of family-friendly restaurants and the serene Kampa Island, which provided a delightful respite from the hustle and bustle.

Malá Strana (Lesser Town): Picturesque Charm and Tranquility

Intrigued by the prospect of a more peaceful and scenic experience, we turned our attention to the Malá Strana, or Lesser Town, neighborhood. Nestled along the Vltava River, this charming area offered a welcome contrast to the bustling Old Town, with its winding streets, romantic atmosphere, and stunning views.

As we wandered through the Lesser Town, we marveled at the Charles Bridge, a iconic landmark that connected us to the Petřín Hill and its captivating funicular ride. The John Lennon Wall, with its ever-evolving murals, piqued the interest of our children, and the family-friendly cafes and restaurants provided the perfect places to refuel and recharge.

Exploring Beyond the City Center: Where to Stay in Prague

While the central neighborhoods of Prague had so much to offer, we were eager to venture beyond the well-trodden tourist paths and discover the hidden gems that the city had to offer.

Vyšehrad: A Historic Fortress and Tranquil Oasis

Our search led us to the enchanting Vyšehrad, a historic fortress situated just southeast of the city center. As we approached this lesser-known gem, we were immediately struck by the peaceful atmosphere and the stunning views of the Vltava River.

The Vyšehrad Fort itself was a fascinating blend of history and natural beauty, with the Vyšehrad Cemetery and Slavín Monument offering educational opportunities for our family. The expansive parkland surrounding the fort became our oasis, where we could picnic, explore the walking trails, and enjoy a respite from the bustling city.

While Vyšehrad was slightly farther from the main attractions, the tranquil ambiance and the chance to immerse ourselves in the city’s history made it a worthy contender for our family’s home base.

Choosing the Perfect Accommodation

With the neighborhoods explored, our attention turned to finding the perfect accommodation to suit our family’s needs. We knew that the right hotel, apartment, or Airbnb could make all the difference in ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Hotels: Catering to Families

As we scoured the options, we were delighted to discover a wealth of hotels in Prague that catered specifically to families. In the historic Old Town, the Hotel Maximilian and Hotel Josef Prague caught our eye with their spacious rooms, family amenities, and proximity to the city’s top attractions.

In the picturesque Lesser Town, the Hotel Pod Věží and the Aria Hotel Prague offered a more intimate and charming experience, with stunning views and easy access to the Charles Bridge and Petřín Hill.

Apartments: A Home Away from Home

Intrigued by the prospect of having more space and the convenience of a kitchen, we also explored the option of renting an apartment. Platforms like Vrbo and Airbnb offered a wealth of family-friendly accommodations, with features like multiple bedrooms, laundry facilities, and cozy living spaces.

The ability to prepare our own meals and have a dedicated “home base” for our family’s explorations added an extra layer of comfort and flexibility to our Prague adventure.

Airbnb: Unique Experiences with Caution

While Airbnb presented an opportunity to discover more unique and personalized accommodations, we approached this option with a discerning eye. We carefully read reviews, communicated with hosts, and ensured that the listings met our family’s specific needs, such as child-friendly amenities and a safe, comfortable environment.

Embracing the Family-Friendly Side of Prague

As our planning progressed, we discovered that Prague was not solely a romantic destination, but a city that had much to offer families. From interactive museums to captivating parks, there was a wealth of activities to keep our children engaged and entertained.

Museums and Attractions: Igniting Curiosity

The National Museum, with its diverse exhibits, and the Lego Museum, which catered to our children’s love of building, were just a few of the family-friendly attractions that piqued our interest. We also explored the Petřín Lookout Tower, which offered stunning panoramic views of the city, and the Museum of Communism, which provided a thought-provoking historical perspective.

Parks and Green Spaces: A Breath of Fresh Air

Recognizing the importance of outdoor spaces for children, we were delighted to discover Prague’s abundance of family-friendly parks. Letná Park, with its expansive green areas and playgrounds, became a favorite for our family, while the tranquil Petřín Hill and the lively Riegrovy Sady provided the perfect backdrops for picnics, games, and leisurely strolls.

Exploring the City’s Unique Offerings

Beyond the museums and parks, Prague had a wealth of unique experiences that captivated our family’s imagination. We marveled at the traditional Czech art of puppet-making, took a leisurely boat trip on the Vltava River, and even participated in interactive tours that brought the city’s history to life.

Navigating Prague with Ease

As we finalized our plans, we recognized the importance of understanding how to navigate Prague with our family. The city’s public transport system, with its efficient tram and metro networks, proved to be an invaluable resource, allowing us to explore the city with ease and convenience.

Public Transport: Accessible and Family-Friendly

The Prague metro and tram lines were clean, safe, and accessible, making them a practical choice for families with young children and strollers. We opted for a multi-day pass, which provided us with the flexibility to hop on and off as we explored the city’s diverse neighborhoods.

Taxis and Ridesharing: Supplementing Our Journeys

While we primarily relied on public transport, we also utilized taxis and ridesharing services for longer distances or when we wanted the added convenience. We were mindful to choose reputable companies and ensure the availability of child seats, prioritizing the safety and comfort of our family.

FAQ

Q: Are there any family-friendly restaurants in Prague?

A: Absolutely! Prague is home to a variety of family-friendly restaurants, offering both traditional Czech cuisine and international options. Many establishments cater to families with children’s menus, high chairs, and even play areas to keep the little ones entertained.

Q: Is Prague safe for families?

A: Prague is generally considered a very safe destination for families. The city has a low crime rate and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any travel destination, it’s always important to be mindful of your surroundings and take standard precautions when exploring the city with children.

Q: What are some must-see attractions for kids in Prague?

A: Some of the top attractions for families in Prague include the iconic Astronomical Clock, the enchanting Charles Bridge, the Petřín Lookout Tower, the engaging Lego Museum, and the educational National Museum. These landmarks and attractions offer a great mix of history, culture, and interactive experiences for children of all ages.

Conclusion

As we finalized our plans for our family’s Prague adventure, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. This city, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and family-friendly offerings, had captured our hearts. By carefully selecting the perfect neighborhood and accommodation to suit our needs, we knew we were set up for an unforgettable experience.

From the charming Staré Město and the picturesque Malá Strana to the tranquil Vyšehrad, each Prague neighborhood offered a unique perspective and a wealth of opportunities for our family to create lasting memories. And with the city’s efficient public transport system and a range of family-friendly activities, we were confident that our Prague journey would be both enjoyable and stress-free.

As we prepared to embark on our trip, I couldn’t wait to see the awe and wonder in my children’s eyes as they explored the spires, parks, and museums of this captivating city. Prague had truly become a family-friendly destination, and we were thrilled to be among the countless families who had discovered the magic of this enchanting place. With our bags packed and our spirits high, we were ready to immerse ourselves in the heart of Prague and create a family adventure for the ages.