Prague Zoo
About
Prague Zoo is one of Europe's top-rated zoos, featuring over 5,000 animals across beautifully landscaped grounds overlooking the Vltava River. Despite the description's modest reference to a 'small neighborhood zoo,' this is actually a world-class facility spanning 140 acres with impressive exhibits like the Indonesian Jungle, African House, and a beloved children's zoo with hands-on animal encounters that captivate kids of all ages.
Highlights
- ✓Chairlift ride offering panoramic views of Prague and the zoo grounds
- ✓Children's Zoo with goat petting area and interactive farm animals
- ✓Indonesian Jungle pavilion with orangutans and tropical rainforest atmosphere
- ✓African House featuring hippos and other African wildlife
- ✓Multiple playgrounds strategically placed throughout the zoo
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive right at opening (9:00 AM) to see animals at their most active and beat tour groups
- 2.The chairlift offers stunning views and saves little legs from walking uphill, highly recommended for families with young children
- 3.Download the zoo map in English from their website beforehand as signage is primarily in Czech
- 4.Bring Czech koruna (CZK) for small purchases as some food stands may not accept cards
- 5.Visit the children's zoo early before school groups arrive around 10:30 AM on weekdays
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday or Wednesday) in spring or fall for pleasant weather, active animals, and smaller crowds. Summer weekends can be very busy with both tourists and locals.
What to Know
Adult admission is around 250 CZK (approximately $11 USD), with discounts for children. The zoo has restaurants and snack bars throughout, stroller rentals available, and most paths are accessible though the hilly terrain can be challenging.
Seasonal Notes
The zoo is open year-round with extended hours in summer (until 7:00 PM). Winter visits (November to February) have shorter hours but fewer crowds and animals like snow leopards are more active. Special events occur during Easter and Christmas seasons.
Nearby Eats
The zoo has several on-site dining options, but nearby Troja neighborhood offers Restaurant U Cedru (family-friendly Czech cuisine) and Bistro Nona (pizza and pasta favorites with kids). The historic Troja Chateau cafe is a 5-minute walk away.
More Activities Near Žižkov
Ohrada Park Mini Zoo
Ohrada Park Mini Zoo offers an intimate, hands-on animal experience perfect for young families exploring Prague's Žižkov neighborhood. This charming neighborhood zoo features petting areas where children can interact directly with friendly animals, plus educational programs that make learning about wildlife fun and accessible. The smaller scale means less overwhelming crowds and a more relaxed pace ideal for little ones.
Park Židovských obětí
Park Židovských obětí offers a peaceful green escape in Prague's vibrant Žižkov neighborhood, perfect for families needing a break from sightseeing. This quiet park features pleasant walking paths where little ones can run freely, open grass areas ideal for picnics or ball games, and thoughtful monuments that provide older children an opportunity to learn about local history in a calm setting.
Gymnázium J.V. Ponicana
This community sports facility in Prague's vibrant Žižkov district offers local families access to swimming pools and athletic programs year-round. While primarily serving residents, visiting families can often access the facilities for a taste of authentic Czech recreation, providing a refreshing break from traditional tourist attractions and a chance for kids to burn energy alongside local children.
Riegrovy sady
Riegrovy sady is a beautiful hilltop park in Prague's Žižkov district that offers families a perfect blend of playground fun, open green spaces, and stunning city views. This local favorite provides a relaxing escape from museum hopping, where kids can burn energy on play equipment while parents enjoy the panoramic vistas of Prague's historic skyline.