Ads are how we keep our blog free for you to enjoy. We also use affiliate links; if you purchase them, we may receive a small commission at no cost to you.
4 Lovely Free Alternatives to the Prague Zoo
The Prague Zoo is one of the most popular attractions for kids. However, its size can be overwhelming for small children, and it might not be worth the investment in time and money.
Fortunately, there are other places in Prague where you can enjoy seeing animals with your kids without spending a penny, all while staying in the city center.
Here are four delightful spots to observe animals in Prague, free of charge.
4 Lovely Free Alternatives to the Prague Zoo.
Psst: Planning a trip to Prague? Here are some other posts:
The Ultimate Prague Itinerary (3, 4 or 5 Days)
The Guide to Petrin Hill
Best Parks in Prague
Pruhonice Park: A Magical Day Trip from Prague
Mini Prague Zoo with Kangaroos
(Conservatory that has Kangaroos)
This small zoo offers a variety of animals, including horses, birds, a playground, and even some kangaroos. You can watch the animals up close, and some of them can also be petted, making it a great experience for kids.
Location
Behind Nový Smíchov Shopping Centre. You can enter Smíchov Shopping Centre and go to the adjacent park from the mall’s second floor.
Address
Kobrova 3175/10, 150 00 Praha 5-Smíchov
Hours of Operation
Monday – Saturday, 9:00-18:00
Cost
Free
Visit Duration
1-2 hours
Facilities
There is no restaurant or cafe, but it’s close to Smíchov Shopping Centre where you can enjoy a food court and even a free play area.
Střelecký Island (Archer’s Island)
One of the most beautiful islands in Prague, Střelecký Island is famous for its stunning viewpoint of the Charles Bridge. The island is home to ducks and nutrias (coypus), an animal resembling an otter, roaming freely. Despite their looks, it’s amicable and used to tourists.
Location
Under Legion Bridge. You can access the island using stairs or an elevator in front of the bridge.
Address
Střelecký ostrov, 110 00 Praha 1
Hours of Operation
Open throughout the year
Cost
Free
Visit Duration
Up to an hour
Facilities
The island has one cafe, and there are several cafes and restaurants nearby.
READ MORE: The Ultimate Prague Itinerary (3, 4, or 5 Days)
Swans in the Vltava River
At a 10-minute walk from Nový Smíchov Shopping Centre towards the river, there is a spot where swans, ducks, and other birds gather. These birds are used to being fed by people, though feeding them is not recommended. Children will still enjoy seeing so many birds in one place.
Location
You can find groups of swans and ducks in different locations along the Vltava River
Point 1: A five-minute walk from Nový Smíchov Shopping Centre towards the river. (map)
Point 2: Descend towards the river in front of the Dancing House. Proceed along the Náplavka promenade to find a spot with a tiny nest of calm swans. (map)
Tip: If you are without children, visit at sunset for a beautiful view.
Hours of Operation
Open throughout the year
Cost
Free
Visit Duration
About half an hour
Peacocks in the Waldstein Garden
Discover one of the most beautiful gardens in the center of Prague. The Waldstein Garden features a large pond with big fish and freely roaming peacocks, including two albino peacocks. Peacocks can also be seen in Vojanovy Park, opposite the garden.
Location
In the center of Prague, down from Prague Castle.
Address
Letenská 123/4, 118 00 Malá Strana
Hours of Operation
Open only from April to October.
Monday – Friday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Saturday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Cost
Free
Visit Duration
About an hour
Facilities
There is no restaurant, and the toilets are relatively far away.
Prague offers a variety of delightful, free-of-charge animal encounters that are perfect for young children. Whether you visit the small zoo with kangaroos, stroll around Střelecký Island to see nutrias and ducks, watch swans on the Vltava River, or marvel at the peacocks in the Waldstein Garden, there are plenty of enjoyable activities that don’t require a trip to the large zoo.
Recommended Hotels:
The Art Nouveau Palace Hotel: A luxurious hotel located close to the Powder Tower at the entrance to the Old City. This hotel is situated right in the heart of Prague, making it convenient for visiting many attractions and tourist centers.
Hilton Prague Old Town Hotel: A well-regarded hotel next to the Powder Tower, placing you close to numerous tourist spots. Known for its excellent service and amenities, it provides a comfortable stay in a prime location.
Hotel Leon D’Oro: The hotel is conveniently located between Wenceslas Square and Old Town Square. Almost all tourist attractions are within walking distance, making it an ideal base for exploring Prague.
Hotel Golden Crown: An excellent budget-friendly option with a central location. This hotel provides good quality accommodations and is close to public transportation and parks, ensuring easy access to various parts of the city.
Click here to book your hotel.
Checklist Before the Flight:
- Air Ticket or Train Ticket to Prague: Ensure you have your travel tickets booked and ready. Find your next flight by Kiwi or Agoda.
- Book your accommodation in advance, preferably in Prague 1.
- Consider purchasing an eSIM card for easy internet access, using the Airalo app.
- Download Applications for Easy Mobility: BOLT for taxis and the PID public transport card application.
- Buy tickets to Popular Attractions in advance to avoid queues at major attractions.
- If you plan to explore out of Prague, consider renting a car for easy mobility.
What questions can I answer? Let me know below!
