Prague is not often the first place that springs to mind when planning a family holiday but, it is actually a very good choice for a variety of reasons: Towering spires, a huge Medieval castle and a pretty river where you and the kids can enjoy a boat ride, are just some of the attractions for couples with small children to Prague, but by far the biggest one is cost. Although prices have been rising steadily in Prague for years with the increase in tourism, it remains a very affordable place – ideal if you are travelling on a budget!
Here are some tips on when to visit and what to do while you are there…………………
Although Prague is very pretty in winter, it’s also pretty cold! Spring is nice but summer is better if you are visiting with family and want to be able to make the most of those outdoor cafes and enjoy a few boat rides on the river. If you don’t feel up to rowing along the River Vltava, opt for an hour long cruise and do a spot of sightseeing from the water.
If you can’t face the steep trek up to the castle (especially if you have little ones in toe), take tram number 22 from the town centre; this ride is quite an adventure in itself for children who have never been on a tram before. After gawping at the castle, you can head to the Toy Museum, housed within the same complex.
A stroll across the famous Charles Bridge is great for some free entertainment with its statues and portrait artists…not to mention the views!
The local cuisine is maybe not the most inspiring of European cuisines but it is usually a hit with children as it is not spicy. As with a lot of Eastern European countries, cuisine tends to be a little stodgy and heavily meat and potato based. It is, however, very cheap even if you decide to have a proper, sit down meal in a restaurant in the evening.
There is plenty of family-friendly accommodation to choose from in Prague, the main dilemma really is whether to go for something in the picturesque Stare Mesto (Old Town) or head to one of the more conveniently located hotels around Wenceslas Square. Prague also has a zoo and a few museums which may be of interest to children.
There are several low cost airlines offering flights from the UK to Prague: easyjet, Jet2 and ryanair to name a few.
There really is plenty to keep a family entertained in Prague and the low prices on accommodation, eating out and tourist attractions are a great incentive to choose this rather than another European destination.