If there’s one time of year when Prague completely transforms, it’s Christmas. From late November to early January, the “City of a Hundred Spires” fills with lights, the smell of mulled wine and Christmas markets that turn every square into a fairy-tale scene. If you’re planning a trip for the holidays, here’s everything you need to know about the Prague Christmas markets and the festive season.
When do the Prague Christmas markets open?
The Christmas markets usually open in late November or on December 1 and stay open until early January (normally until January 6, Epiphany). The high point of the season is Christmas Eve (December 24), when many Czech families keep up the tradition of eating fried carp with potato salad at home.
The best Christmas markets in Prague
- Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí): the biggest and most iconic market in the city, with a huge lit-up Christmas tree, a living nativity scene and dozens of stalls selling crafts, ornaments and traditional food. It’s a must, and there’s often live music.
- Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí): a little less crowded than Old Town Square, with more of a food focus. Perfect for trying a hot trdelník or a Czech sausage as you walk.
- Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky): smaller and less touristy, ideal for buying local wooden crafts without the crowds of the center.
- Peace Square (Náměstí Míru): a market with a more local feel, in front of the impressive Church of St. Ludmila and away from the busiest tourist areas.
Travel tip: the markets usually open from about 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Going mid-morning on a weekday is the best way to enjoy them without the evening and weekend crowds.
Things to do in Prague at Christmas
- Ice skating: every winter, temporary ice rinks pop up around the city, for example on Ovocný trh near the Estates Theatre. It’s popular with locals and visitors alike.
- Mulled wine (svařák): spiced hot wine is the drink of the season. Every stall has its own recipe, so it’s worth trying it at more than one market.
- Christmas concerts: churches in the historic center, such as St. Nicholas and St. Salvator, hold special Christmas and classical music concerts throughout December.
- Snowy views from above: if you’re lucky enough to get snow, going up Petřín Lookout Tower or to Prague Castle gives you one of the most magical views of the city at this time of year.
Czech Christmas food
Besides trdelník, sausages and mulled wine, at the Prague Christmas markets you’ll find seasonal specialties like vánočka (a braided sweet Christmas bread), roasted chestnuts and much more.
What to pack: Prague weather in December
December temperatures are usually between -2°C and 5°C (28–41°F), with a chance of snow. Bring warm layers, gloves, a scarf and comfortable closed shoes, since you’ll spend a lot of time outdoors walking between markets.
Practical tips
- Book your accommodation early: December is high season and prices go up, especially around Christmas and New Year’s.
- On December 24 and 25, many shops and some restaurants close or shorten their hours, so plan your meals ahead on those days.
- Daylight is short in winter (it gets dark around 4:00 p.m.), but that actually works in your favor: you get to enjoy the lit-up city for most of the afternoon.
Our advice
For many travelers, Christmas is the best time to visit Prague, as we explain in our guide to the best time to visit Prague. While you’re here, join one of our free walking tours to hear, from a local guide, the stories and traditions that make this season so special in the Czech capital.
