What to do for Christmas in Prague?

Prague, the enchanting capital of the Czech Republic, is often nicknamed the « City of a Hundred Spires ». With its preserved medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and festive markets, the city transforms into a true fairy tale during the Christmas season. The tradition of Christmas celebrations is deeply rooted here, with a multitude of activities and events that celebrate the magic of the season.

Whether it's the splendor of the illuminated Christmas markets, the captivating melodies of Christmas concerts, or the delicacy of traditional Czech dishes, Prague offers an unforgettable festive experience. In this article, we offer you a comprehensive guide to the must-see attractions and activities to enjoy in Prague to celebrate the magic of Christmas in grand style.

Festive lights and decorations

Christmas trees

The main spectacle in Prague at this time of year is the towering 25-meter Christmas tree erected in the Old Town Square, sourced from the Ústí nad Labem region in Northern Bohemia.

Adorned with red and gold baubles, the tree lights up daily at 4:30 PM, accompanied by music, featuring Karel Gott's Elizabethan serenade or Mariah Carey's All I Want For Christmas Is You. The tree lighting repeats every hour until 9:30 PM.

Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square also display wooden nativity scenes depicting the Nativity scenes with Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus, and the Wise Men.

At Old Town Square, Christmas workshops for children, offered on weekends (Saturday and Sunday) from 11 AM, introduce Czech festive crafts with the creation of traditional Czech Christmas items. A stable also allows children to pet farm animals. The atmosphere is enchanted by the sounds of choirs and folk groups, performing in traditional costumes in the late afternoon, with performances by children from all over the country.

School choirs from all over the country and folk groups, dressed in traditional costumes, also perform in the late afternoon on a specially installed stage at Old Town Square.

Christmas markets: between traditions and delicacies

Christmas markets (vánoční trhy), the key to festive magic in Czechia, stand out in Prague, transforming the city into a true winter haven for residents and visitors. With their colorful stalls, they offer a range of local crafts and traditional delights. More than just shopping venues, they invite you to savor enticing local cuisine. And to accompany this gourmet stroll, nothing beats a mulled wine or an authentic Czech beer. Thus, the Christmas market experience transcends mere shopping, awakening all the senses.

The major Christmas markets take place in the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, located in the heart of the city. A short five-minute walk allows you to move from one to the other.

Old Town Square Christmas Market

The Old Town Square Christmas Market is the beating heart of the festive season in Prague, with its magical atmosphere thanks to live music and Christmas carols, the scent of cinnamon and cloves in the air. Its decorated wooden chalets offer a variety of traditional handcrafted items, ideal for unique gifts.

Located in the heart of Prague, this market is a festive jewel with a spectacular view of the St. Vitus Cathedral.

To get there:

• Metro: stations Staromestska (line A), Mustek (lines A or B) or Namesti Republiky (line B)
• Tram: stop Staromestska (tram 2, 17 or 18)

Wenceslas Square Christmas Market

This market, while equally festive, presents a more modern approach with a different variety of stalls and products, offering an interesting alternative to the Old Town market.

To get there:

• Metro: stations Muzeum (lines A or C) and Mustek (lines A or B).
• Tram: stop Vaclavske Namesti (tram 3, 5, 6, 9, 14 or 24).

Prague Castle Christmas Market

The Prague Castle Christmas Market, with its historical backdrop, offers a royal ambiance. The stalls offer traditional handcrafted products in a magical setting, enhanced by the castle illuminations.

To get there:

• Tram: from the metro station Malostranska (line A), stop Prazsky hrad (tram 22 or 23).

Republic Square Christmas Market

Place de la République, the Christmas market is a vibrant spot where modernity meets tradition. With a variety of stalls, it's the perfect place to savor Czech delights while enjoying the festive atmosphere.

Other Christmas markets

The Havel market in the Old Town and Na Kampě square in the Malá Strana district also host a few Christmas stalls and a festive ambiance.

Not far from the center, two local Christmas markets are also worth a visit, especially if your stay occurs before the main markets open. Accessible within a 15-minute walk from Wenceslas Square:

• Peace Square (Náměstí Míru): from November 20 to December 24, 2023, from 10 AM to 8 PM.
• Tyl Square (Tylovo náměstí): from November 26 to December 24, 2023, from 10 AM to 8 PM.

These markets, with their beautifully decorated wooden chalets, offer a variety of handcrafted items such as ceramics, jewelry, glassware, embroidered lace, wooden toys, candles, Christmas decorations, winter hats and gloves, and traditional treats. Take the opportunity to enjoy local dishes and drinks while soaking up the unparalleled festive atmosphere.

Must-see attractions

Winter river cruises

The Vltava River winds through Prague, with many famous sites lining its banks. River cruises are thus an ideal way to explore the city and experience its unique atmosphere.

In December, the Christmas cruises, ranging from simple 2-hour excursions to luxurious dinners aboard festively decorated and heated boats, offer a memorable experience. Notably, the Prague Advent cruise, available on weekends, delights passengers with Christmas carols, mulled wine, and cakes, adding a festive touch to the many ways to explore the splendors of Prague at Christmas.

From walking tours to coach tours and river cruises, there are numerous ways to discover the wonders of Prague.

Shows and cultural events

Christmas concerts

Prague resonates with festive melodies during the Christmas season. Christmas concerts are held in iconic venues such as the Municipal House and St. Nicholas Church. They offer a variety of musical genres, from classical to gospel.

Classical music concerts

Experiencing a classical concert in Prague is highly recommended. This season, the atmosphere is enchanting, whether during Christmas concerts or regular recitals, held in grand concert halls, charming churches, or historic buildings.

The Czech Christmas Mass by the Prague Symphony Orchestra deserves special mention for its uniqueness:

• Czech Christmas Mass at Sts. Simon and Jude Church: November 29 and 30, 2023 and December 25, 2023
• Czech Christmas Mass at the Municipal House: December 20 and 21, 2023

And a series of concerts worth mentioning are the Christmas concerts at the Klementinum, which take place throughout the festive season and are simply spectacular.

Ballets and operas

The Christmas period is also marked by special performances of ballets and operas. The National Theatre, the Prague State Opera, and the Estates Theatre host captivating performances like The Nutcracker and The Magic Flute, enriching the city's festive atmosphere.

• The Nutcracker Ballet at the National Theatre: December 2, 3, 22, 23, 26, 27, 29, and 30, 2023 and January 4, 5, and 6, 2024.
• The Nutcracker Ballet at the Broadway Theatre: November 20 and 27, 2023, December 5, 20, 22, 24, 25, 27, and 29, 2023, and January 1 and 13, 2024.

Other events

For a typically Czech experience, Prague's black light theatres offer highly visual performances, enjoyable for all ages and nationalities.

And to enjoy authentic Czech hospitality, consider an evening in a medieval tavern or at a traditional Czech event. Both options, offered as "all-inclusive" packages, are ideal for warming up the cold winter nights.

Dining and culinary specialties

Traditional dishes

The Christmas culinary tradition in Prague is rich and varied. The traditional main dish is fried carp, served with potato salad. Sweet and spicy flavors blend in Christmas cookies and Czech pastries (trdelník), a delight for the taste buds.

Among other local delicacies, you will find:

• the traditional Christmas fish soup (rybí polévka)
• Made from carp, vegetables, cream, and brandy, over 1,500 kg of ingredients are used each year to prepare this soup.
• spit-roasted ham (šunka);
• grilled sausages (klobása);
• a flatbread topped with garlic, cheese, and ketchup (langoš);
• chips (hranolky);
• dumplings filled with smoked meat (knedlíky plněné uzeným masem);
• sweet dumplings (sladké knedlíky);
• Trdelník (or Chimney Cake)
• pancakes (palačinky);
• and gingerbread (perníčky).

Czech beers

When it comes to drinks, you will have the opportunity to enjoy renowned Czech beers like Pilsner Urquell, Budvar, and Staropramen, brewed in Prague.

Alternatively, choose a mulled wine (svařák), a punch (punč), a hot chocolate (horká čokoláda), a honey wine (medovina), or a grog - concocted from rum, water, lemon, and sugar.

Restaurants and cafes

For a complete immersion, the restaurant U Fleků is a must-visit with its medieval ambiance and traditional beer. The cafe Slavia, with its modern setting, offers a stunning view of the Prague Castle and the Vltava river, allowing visitors to enjoy local cuisine in a picturesque setting.

Several other establishments across the city also offer special menus for the Christmas season, allowing visitors to taste a variety of traditional dishes in a festive atmosphere.

Themed guided tours

Christmas-themed city tours

Discover Prague in a festive light with Christmas-themed guided tours. Explore lively Christmas markets, illuminated streets, and historical monuments in a magical winter atmosphere.

Tours of decorated castles and palaces

The castles and palaces of Prague don their finest Christmas decorations. Guided tours allow you to explore these beautifully decorated historical sites, blending history with the magic of the season.

Relaxation and wellness

Spas and wellness centers

Prague is renowned for its spas and wellness centers. Enjoy the relaxing ambiance of thermal baths and soothing massages to unwind during the winter season.

Outdoor activities

The winter period in Prague is also ideal for outdoor activities. The outdoor ice rinks, scattered throughout the city, add a festive and playful touch. Additionally, winter walks through snow-covered parks and along the banks of the Vltava river offer a peaceful and scenic way to enjoy Prague's winter beauty.

Practical tips

• Transport: opt for Prague's efficient public transport or walking to explore the city. Purchasing a transport card can be economical. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are practical alternatives.
• Accommodation: festivities are centered in the Prague 1 district, the urban heart. Prague 1, compact and pedestrian-friendly, is divided into areas easily accessible on foot. Popular sectors include the Old Town (Staré Město), centered around the Old Town Square, and the New Town (Nové Město), around Wenceslas Square. The Malá Strana district, on the other side of the river, is also attractive, accessible via the Charles Bridge. Choosing accommodation in Prague 1 allows quick access to Christmas markets and full enjoyment of nearby attractions, shops, and restaurants, all just steps from your hotel.

• Weather: Prague's weather in December is unpredictable, often hovering around -2°C. From sunny days to persistent snowfall, the weather varies greatly. Plan for warm clothing like a winter jacket, hat, gloves, and comfortable shoes for walking.
• If dining out or attending the opera is on your agenda, elegant attire may be required in some establishments.
• Tips to avoid crowds: visit popular attractions early in the morning or late afternoon. Small group or private guided tours offer a more peaceful and personalized experience.

Prague, with its cultural richness and festive traditions, offers a unique Christmas celebration. Whether strolling through Christmas markets, savoring traditional dishes, or exploring historic castles, every moment spent in Prague during the festive season promises to be memorable. Plan your trip well and consider booking your accommodation and event tickets in advance to fully enjoy the magic of Christmas in Prague!