Prague’s Old Town, known as 斯塔雷梅斯托 in Czech, is a magical place full of history, legends, and hidden gems. From the 老城广场 to the little streets leading to 查理大桥, and the Powder Gate that marks the border with the New Town, there’s plenty to discover.
If you want to uncover the stories of Old Town with your children, download this free printable “Legend of the Prague Astronomical Clock”! I turned the story into a fun puzzle for kids to enjoy.
I’ve also marked all the places mentioned in this article on a map to make exploring easier.
1. Tell Your Kids the Legend of the Astronomical Clock
在里面 老城广场, crowds gather every hour to watch the famous 天文钟. As the clock strikes, the skeleton rings its bell, the twelve apostles pass by the windows, and finally, the golden cockerel crows.
Although the show might feel short for kids (remember, it was built over 600 years ago!), the real magic comes from its legend.
👉 Use the free printable Legend of the Astronomical Clock:
Read the story together.
Let your children cut out pictures and glue them into the story in the right order.
This turns the history lesson into a fun, hands-on activity.
2. Buy Czech Pencils – The Best in the World
Did you know the world’s best pencils are made in Prague? KOH-I-NOOR HARDTMUTH, founded in 1790, produces high-quality pencils that have been trusted by teachers and artists for centuries.
When my son Chris brought home a school list, it included: “triangular crayons Koh-i-noor” and “Koh-i-noor pencil 2H.” That’s how reliable they are – they simply don’t break!
📍 Where to buy? Visit the Koh-i-noor store in Ungelt Courtyard, just a few steps from the Old Town Square.
Ungelt Courtyard itself is a fascinating historical spot: once a fortified merchant yard from the 12th century where foreign traders paid customs. Today, it’s a peaceful shortcut away from crowded Celetná Street – and home to this special shop.
3. Find the Upside-Down Horse in Lucerna Passage
At the top of 瓦茨拉夫广场, you’ll see the statue of St. Wenceslas on his horse. But did you know there’s another one?
Inside the Lucerna Passage, you’ll find a surprising sight: St. Wenceslas riding an upside-down dead horse hanging from the ceiling.
Created in 1999 by controversial Czech artist David Černý, this sculpture sparks curiosity and conversation.
When my son Marian saw it, he asked:
“Mom, is that horse dead?”
“Can you ride a dead horse?”
It’s quirky, thought-provoking, and guaranteed to capture children’s imagination.
4. Rent a Paddle Boat on the Vltava River
On a warm sunny day, take your family out on the 伏尔塔瓦河 for an unforgettable adventure.
We rented a four-person paddle boat from Slavonic Island for just 200 CZK (around €8). It was easier to paddle than I expected, and the views were breathtaking:
The kids loved chasing other boats and spotting birds. A few small “collisions” added to the fun!
This activity quickly became one of my favorite things to do in Prague’s Old Town with kids.
Final Tip
Even if you’re not traveling to Prague right now, don’t miss the printable Legend of the Astronomical Clock. It’s a wonderful way to bring a piece of Prague’s magic into your home.
✨ Save this list for your trip and let me know which activity your kids enjoyed most in Prague Old Town!
