Planning a city break in Prague and wondering where to stay, how to organise an apartment, or even where to change the baby while you explore? This guide brings together practical advice for travellers who want the charm of Prague’s Old Town, the comfort of a holiday apartment, and family‑friendly tips that make the trip smoother for everyone.
Why Base Yourself in Prague Old Town
Prague’s Old Town (Staré Město) is the historic heart of the Czech capital and one of the most atmospheric districts in Central Europe. Staying here means most of the city’s highlights are within a short walk, which is especially helpful if you are travelling with children or prefer to minimise public transport.
From the cobbled streets around Old Town Square to the riverfront views of Charles Bridge, the area combines centuries‑old architecture with cafés, bakeries, and small grocery shops. Many visitors choose Old Town as their base precisely because they can step out of their door and be instantly surrounded by Prague’s most iconic sights.
Holiday Apartments vs. Hotels in Prague
Prague offers a wide range of places to stay, from boutique hotels to serviced apartments and privately managed holiday flats. For travellers who appreciate extra space, the ability to self‑cater, or a more home‑like atmosphere, apartments are an appealing option.
Advantages of Staying in an Apartment
- More space: Separate living and sleeping areas are useful for families, groups of friends, or couples on a longer stay.
- Kitchen facilities: Simple cooking options make it easier to cater to picky eaters, prepare baby food, or enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your own pace.
- Local feel: Apartments often sit in residential buildings, giving you a sense of everyday life in Prague rather than a purely tourist environment.
- Flexible routines: Later dinners, afternoon naps, and laundry days become simpler when you are not tied to hotel schedules.
What to Look For in a Prague Apartment
When comparing Prague apartments, pay attention not just to photos but also to practical details that can affect your stay, especially in the historic centre where buildings are older and layouts vary.
- Location within Old Town: Some streets are very lively at night, while others are quieter and more residential. Decide whether you prefer nightlife or calm evenings.
- Building access: Check whether there is an elevator, how many flights of stairs you will navigate, and how wide the staircases are if you plan to bring a stroller.
- Noise levels: Old Town’s charm comes with church bells, tram lines nearby, and late‑night foot traffic. Look for soundproof windows or reviews mentioning quiet bedrooms.
- Heating and ventilation: Prague can be cold in winter and warm in summer, so reliable heating and ways to ventilate the apartment are important.
- Family‑friendly amenities: If you are travelling with a baby or toddler, check in advance for cots, highchairs, or a safe layout without steep, unprotected staircases.
Travelling to Prague With a Baby: Changing Tables and Gear
The mention of a stellebord (changing table) highlights a common concern for parents visiting Prague: where and how to manage baby care in a city full of historic streets and cafés. With a bit of planning, Prague can be very manageable for families.
Where You Will Find Changing Tables in Prague
Dedicated changing facilities are not universal in Prague, but they are becoming more common. You are most likely to find them in:
- Larger shopping centres and department stores in and around the centre, where family restrooms often include changing tables.
- Modern cafés and restaurants that focus on brunch or families; many add simple baby facilities to attract local parents.
- Museums and cultural venues with a family focus, which may provide baby‑changing areas near restrooms.
When facilities are limited, having a portable changing mat in your day bag can be very helpful. Many parents simply use a quiet corner of a café restroom or return to their nearby apartment in Old Town between sightseeing stops.
Baby‑Friendly Packing Tips for Prague
Streets in the historic centre are full of cobblestones, narrow pavements, and occasional steep stretches, so choosing the right gear can save you effort.
- Stroller: A sturdy stroller with good suspension and lockable wheels handles cobblestones best, but it should also be light enough to carry up stairs if needed.
- Baby carrier: A soft carrier or sling is useful for crowded trams, steep alleys, and historic buildings without lifts.
- Layered clothing: Prague’s weather can change quickly. Dressing babies and small children in layers makes it easier to adapt from chilly streets to warm cafés.
- Compact changing kit: Pack diapers, wipes, a foldable mat, and a small spare outfit in one pouch so you can manage quick changes wherever you are.
How to Choose the Right Area of Prague to Stay In
While many travellers prefer Old Town for its atmosphere, Prague has several central districts that work well for short stays. Understanding the character of each neighbourhood will help you decide where to look for apartments or hotels.
Old Town (Staré Město)
Ideal if you want to be in the middle of everything, Old Town is where you will find the Astronomical Clock, Old Town Square, and easy access to Charles Bridge. Accommodation here suits visitors who enjoy walking and do not mind a livelier atmosphere during the day and evening.
Lesser Town (Malá Strana)
On the opposite side of the river, below Prague Castle, Lesser Town is picturesque and slightly calmer, with baroque buildings, gardens, and riverside paths. It is a good option for couples and families who want a quieter feel but still be within walking distance of major sights.
New Town (Nové Město)
Despite its name, New Town is also historic but feels more spacious and modern than Old Town. It offers easy tram and metro connections, shopping streets, and a mix of local restaurants and cafés. Travellers who like a balance of residential life and sightseeing often enjoy staying here.
Getting Around Prague From Your Accommodation
One of Prague’s biggest advantages for visitors is its compact centre. If you are staying in or near Old Town, you can reach many attractions on foot. For longer distances, the public transport system is straightforward and usually stroller‑friendly.
- Trams: Scenic, frequent, and perfect for short hops between districts. Some stops and vehicles require lifting a stroller, so a lightweight design helps.
- Metro: Efficient for crossing the city quickly. Many stations have elevators, but not all, so check station maps in advance if mobility is a concern.
- Walking: Expect uneven cobblestones in the oldest streets and around major squares. Good shoes make a big difference on a full day of sightseeing.
Sightseeing Highlights Near Old Town Apartments
Choosing accommodation close to major sights can shorten your walking time and make it easier to return for naps, snacks, or quick breaks.
- Old Town Square: The centrepiece of Staré Město, framed by pastel houses, the Church of Our Lady before Týn, and the Town Hall.
- Astronomical Clock: Families often time their visit to see the hourly clock performance, which is especially magical for children.
- Charles Bridge: Early mornings or late evenings offer quieter moments to enjoy the statues and river views without crowds.
- Riverside promenades: Ideal for stroller‑friendly walks, especially at sunset, with plenty of benches to rest.
Food Shopping and Self‑Catering in Prague
One benefit of staying in an apartment is the option to cook or assemble simple meals. In and around Old Town you will find small grocery shops, bakeries, and markets where you can pick up essentials.
- Supermarkets and minimarkets: Stock basics like bread, dairy, fruit, snacks, and baby items such as wipes and diapers.
- Bakeries and cafés: Useful for quick breakfasts, pastries, and snacks to take back to your apartment.
- Local specialties: Try a few Czech staples such as fresh bread rolls, local cheeses, and seasonal fruit to enjoy at your own dining table.
Practical Tips for a Comfortable Stay
Whether you favour an apartment or a hotel, a few practical habits can make your Prague visit smoother.
- Check arrival instructions carefully: Historic buildings may have specific entry codes, courtyard gates, or reception hours.
- Plan a flexible first day: Allow time to get to know your neighbourhood, locate the nearest grocery shop, and identify cafés or restaurants that look child‑friendly.
- Organise a small day bag: Keep passports, some cash, a map or offline app, water, and baby essentials easy to access, so you are not constantly returning to your accommodation.
- Respect quiet hours: Residential buildings in Old Town can be sensitive to noise at night; keeping voices down in stairwells and corridors helps maintain good relations with neighbours.
Making the Most of Your Stay in Prague
From choosing a well‑located apartment in Old Town to planning baby‑friendly sightseeing breaks, a little advance thought allows you to enjoy Prague’s architecture, riverside views, and café culture without feeling rushed. Whether you are travelling as a couple, with friends, or as a family with a stroller in tow, Prague’s walkable centre and growing range of family‑oriented services make it an appealing destination for a relaxed city break.