Karel Zeman Museum 🇨🇿

Step inside the imaginative world of pioneer Czech filmmaker Karel Zeman, whose revolutionary cinematic tricks inspired visionary directors like Tim Burton and Terry Gilliam. Located right in Malá Strana near the Vltava River, this interactive museum celebrates the golden age of movie special effects before digital CGI took over. You and your family will discover how Zeman brought Jules Verne's fantasy adventures to life through clever green screens, miniatures, painted backdrops, and stop-motion animation. Rather than just staring at static exhibits behind glass, you are encouraged to jump right into the action. You can hop aboard a flying machine, row a wooden boat through a vintage film set, control a mechanical nautilus submarine, and try out early optical trickery with your own camera. It is an enchanting, hands-on journey that sparks creativity for children while offering adults a nostalgic dive into classic movie history. Beyond the interactive displays, the museum offers boat trips along the Devil’s Stream (Čertovka), giving you a picturesque look at Prague's historic waterwheels. For families looking to escape the crowded squares and experience a delightful mix of vintage art, science, and cinematic magic, this charming attraction is an absolute highlight.

What to see at Karel Zeman Museum

• Interactive movie sets where kids can operate vintage special effect machinery
• Green screen photo opportunities inside classic Jules Verne fantasy scenes
• Original film puppets, scale models, and early animation set pieces
• Scenic boat trips available through the picturesque Devil's Stream canal

Visiting tips

Bring a fully charged smartphone or camera to take advantage of all the optical illusion photo spots throughout the exhibits.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Karel Zeman Museum is easy to reach on Prague’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Charles Bridge and Prague Castle. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Prague travel guide.