Things to Do in Czech Republic with Family
Welcome to the Czech Republic a spectacular blend of history, culture, and natural beauty all packed into the heart of Europe. This enchanting nation isn't just a paradise for solo adventurers and couples but also a playground for families seeking a diverse and engaging holiday experience. Whether you're exploring the fairy-tale architecture of Prague, discovering the educational museums of Brno, or embarking on a scenic outdoor adventure in the Bohemian Paradise, the Czech Republic offers something special for visitors of all ages
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Key Cities for Family Activities
When visiting the Czech Republic with your family, several cities stand out for their rich offerings that cater to all ages. Here, we explore the top cities and their must-visit attractions that are perfect for a family holiday.
1. Prague: A City of Fairy Tales and History
Prague, the capital city, is a magical destination for families. Known for its stunning architecture and historical significance, the city offers a wealth of activities that are both fun and educational.
Prague Castle: Step into history at one of the world's largest ancient castles, offering stunning views and intriguing exhibits.
Prague Zoo: Ranked among the world's top zoos, it is perfect for a day out with the kids, featuring a wide variety of animals and interactive exhibits.
- Location: U Trojského zámku 3/120, 171 00 Prague 7
- Schedule: Open daily; hours vary seasonally
- Cost: Adults €10, Children 3-15 €8, Children under 3 free
- Features: Wide variety of animals, interactive exhibits, playgrounds
Petrin Hill: Ideal for a leisurely stroll or a ride up the funicular for panoramic views of the city.
2. Brno: Science and Adventure
Brno, the Czech Republic's second-largest city, blends science with culture, providing a stimulating environment for curious young minds and adults alike.
Villa Tugendhat: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this historical gem offers educational guided tours that fascinate architecture enthusiasts of all ages.
- Location: Černopolní 45, 613 00 Brno
- Schedule: Tuesday to Sunday, guided tours only
- Cost: Adults €14, Students/Seniors €8, Children under 6 free
- Features: Modernist architecture, guided tours, historical significance
Brno Technical Museum: A haven for tech buffs, with hands-on exhibits on engineering, mechanics, and astronomy.
Moravian Karst: Just outside Brno, this natural wonder features guided cave tours and scenic hiking trails, ideal for adventurous families.
3. Cesky Krumlov: Step Back in Time
Cesky Krumlov is a picturesque town with a fairy-tale feel, famous for its beautiful castle and quaint streets lined with Renaissance and Baroque architecture.
Cesky Krumlov Castle: Explore the extensive grounds of this beautifully preserved castle, complete with a revolving auditorium and lush gardens.
- Location: Zámek 59, 381 01 Český Krumlov
- Schedule: Open daily; hours vary seasonally
- Cost: Adults €7, Students/Seniors €5, Children under 6 free
- Features: Castle tours, revolving auditorium, gardens
Egon Schiele Art Centrum: Families can enjoy interactive art workshops and view captivating exhibitions.
- Location: Široká 71, 381 01 Český Krumlov
- Schedule: Daily, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Cost: Adults €6, Students/Seniors €4, Children under 10 free
- Features: Art workshops, exhibitions, café
Rafting on the Vltava River: A fun and active way to see the town from a different perspective, suitable for older children and teens.
4. Liberec: Nature and Fun
Liberec offers a unique blend of natural beauty and entertainment, making it a great stop for families who enjoy both indoor and outdoor activities.
Jested Tower: Offering spectacular views from its unique, hyperboloid structure atop the Jested Mountain.
Liberec Zoo: Focuses on conservation and education, providing children with the opportunity to learn about rare and endangered species.
Centrum Babylon Liberec: This entertainment complex includes a water park, amusement rides, and cultural events, ensuring fun regardless of the weather.
- Location: Nitranská 1, 460 12 Liberec
- Schedule: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Cost: Entrance fees vary by activity
- Features: Water park, amusement rides, cultural events
Themed Activities and Attractions
The Czech Republic offers a variety of themed activities and attractions that cater to families with diverse interests. From educational pursuits to thrilling outdoor adventures, here's a guide to help you choose the best experiences for your family trip.
1. Educational Experiences
Foster a love of learning with these educational and engaging activities suitable for children and adults alike:
Technical Museum in Prague: Dive into the world of science and technology with interactive exhibits that explain physics, chemistry, and mechanics in fun, accessible ways.
- Location: Kostelní 42, 170 78 Prague 7
- Schedule: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
- Cost: Adults €8, Students/Seniors €4, Children under 6 free
- Features: Science and technology exhibits, hands-on displays
National Museum in Prague: Recently renovated, this museum offers a plethora of exhibits ranging from natural history to cultural artifacts, providing a comprehensive overview of Czech and global history.
Museum of Romani Culture in Brno: A unique cultural experience that offers insight into the history and culture of the Romani people through educational programs and exhibitions.
2. Outdoor Adventures
Embrace the natural beauty of the Czech Republic with these outdoor activities that combine adventure with the great outdoors:
Boating in the Bohemian Switzerland National Park: Rent a canoe or a raft and navigate the serene rivers that cut through this stunning landscape.
Hiking in the Sumava National Park: Explore the vast network of trails in one of Europe’s oldest national parks, suitable for families and offering everything from gentle walks to challenging hikes.
Biking along the Elbe River: Take a family bike ride along the scenic routes that follow the Elbe River, offering safe and beautiful paths with plenty of rest areas and picnic spots.
3. Cultural Encounters
Immerse your family in the rich cultural tapestry of the Czech Republic with these culturally enriching activities:
Folklore and Harvest Festivals: Participate in traditional Czech festivals where you can experience folk dancing, music, and the local culinary delights.
Black Light Theatre in Prague: A mesmerizing theatrical performance combining black light technology and fluorescent costumes to create magical visual effects.
Visit a Puppetry Workshop: Learn about the traditional art of puppetry which is a significant part of Czech cultural heritage. Participate in workshops where children can make and manipulate their own puppets.
4. Historical Journeys
Step back in time with these activities designed to educate and fascinate visitors about the Czech Republic's rich history:
Karlštejn Castle: Just a short train ride from Prague, this iconic medieval castle offers themed tours that bring the history of Czech royalty to life.
Silver Mines in Kutná Hora: Don a miner's lamp and descend into the historical silver mines where you can learn about the medieval mining processes and the town’s economic history.
Battle of Austerlitz reenactment: Witness or participate in the annual reenactment of this famous Napoleonic battle, a thrilling historical spectacle.
Specialized Guides
To help you make the most of your family trip to the Czech Republic, we've put together specialized guides that cater to various interests and seasonal highlights. These guides provide detailed information on day trips, holiday specials, and more to ensure a memorable experience for the whole family.
1. Day Trips from Major Cities
Explore beyond the city limits with these exciting day trip ideas, perfect for families looking to experience more of the Czech Republic:
From Prague:
- Kutná Hora: Discover the famous Sedlec Ossuary, also known as the Bone Church, and explore the medieval silver mines.
- Karlštejn Castle: Visit this impressive Gothic castle surrounded by beautiful countryside, offering guided tours suitable for kids.
- Český Ráj (Bohemian Paradise): Enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and exploring the picturesque sandstone formations and castles in this natural reserve.
From Brno:
- Moravian Karst: Explore the Punkva Caves and the Macocha Abyss, one of the largest sinkholes in Central Europe.
- Lednice-Valtice Complex: Visit this UNESCO World Heritage site with its stunning chateau, vast gardens, and unique minarets.
- Slavkov (Austerlitz): Learn about the Battle of Austerlitz and visit the historic battlefield and chateau.
From Cesky Krumlov:
- Lipno Lake: Perfect for outdoor activities such as boating, swimming, and cycling in the summer, and skiing and ice skating in the winter.
- Vyšší Brod Monastery: Discover this serene Cistercian monastery with its impressive library and art collections.
- Hluboká Castle: Explore this stunning castle and its extensive English-style park.
2. Holiday and Seasonal Specials
Experience the Czech Republic’s festive spirit with these holiday and seasonal activities:
Christmas Markets: Wander through the enchanting markets at Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, enjoying festive treats and handmade gifts.
Winter Wonderland at Letná Park: Engage in ice skating and family-friendly winter sports with a beautiful view of the city.
Karlovy Vary International Film Festival: Enjoy outdoor film screenings and family-friendly movie events in this beautiful spa town.
Prague Fringe Festival: Experience a variety of performances including theater, comedy, and music suitable for all ages.
Easter Markets: Visit markets across the country, especially in Prague, where you can enjoy traditional crafts, Easter eggs, and local foods.
Harvest Festivals: Participate in local harvest celebrations with folk music, dance, and traditional Czech food and drink.
3. Accommodation Tips
Find the best places to stay with your family with these accommodation tips:
Prague: Consider staying at hotels with amenities like kid’s clubs, family rooms, and babysitting services, such as Hotel Savoy or Hilton Prague.
Brno: Look for accommodations like Courtyard by Marriott or Grandhotel Brno that offer comfortable family rooms and proximity to major attractions.
Cesky Krumlov: Stay in charming guesthouses like Pension Ametyst or Hotel Ruze, which provide a cozy atmosphere and family-friendly services.
Farm Stays: Experience rural life at eco-farms such as Biofarma Sasov near Jihlava, where kids can interact with animals and learn about sustainable farming.
Chateau Stays: Enjoy a luxurious stay at chateaux like Chateau Herálec or Chateau Mcely, offering beautiful surroundings and family-oriented activities.
4. Dining with Kids
Discover the best places to eat with children and tips for a hassle-free dining experience:
Prague: Try Vytopna Railway Restaurant, where miniature trains deliver your food, or Pizza Nuova for its family-friendly atmosphere and delicious Italian cuisine.
Brno: Enjoy meals at Borgo Agnese, known for its welcoming environment and diverse menu that caters to young taste buds.
Cesky Krumlov: Dine at Laibon, offering vegetarian dishes with a lovely view of the Vltava River, or Svejk Restaurant for traditional Czech cuisine.
Reservations: Always book ahead, especially for popular family-friendly restaurants.
Menus: Check if the restaurant offers a kids’ menu or is willing to modify dishes to suit children’s preferences.
Activities: Choose places that provide coloring books, play areas, or other distractions to keep children entertained while waiting for food.