Prague Christmas Market Dates, Location and Tips
Enjoy a magical Christmas experience in Prague, where the traditional Christmas markets, enchanting holiday décor and historical settings combine for an unforgettable holiday.From glowing wooden huts to steaming cups of svařák, it’s a December delight that blends tradition, warmth, and a touch of magic.
When does the Prague Christmas market start?
The Prague Christmas Market is expected to start on Saturday, 29 November 2025, and will run until Tuesday, 6 January 2026.
When will the Prague Christmas Market Stalls be open?
Market stalls at the Prague Christmas Market in Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square are typically open daily from 10am to 10pm, with food and drink stalls often serving until midnight.
Do you need tickets to enter the Prague Christmas market?
Entry to the Prague Christmas Market is completely free, so you can enjoy the festive atmosphere without worrying about booking in advance.
Where are the Christmas Markets in Prague?
Prague’s Christmas markets are scattered across the city, each offering a unique holiday experience. The most popular ones are in the city centre, attracting both locals and visitors for their festive charm.
- The Christmas market at the Old Town Square:The heart of Prague’s Christmas celebrations. Expect a huge decorated tree, carol performances, and a lively atmosphere with dozens of stalls selling handmade crafts, festive food, and mulled wine.
- The Christmas market at Wenceslas Square: Just a short walk from Old Town, this bustling boulevard hosts a charming market lined with food stands, Christmas ornaments, and gift ideas under glowing lights.
Beyond these main markets, Prague Castle also hosts a large Christmas market near St. George’s Basilica, while smaller markets can be found at Republic Square, Na Kampě Square, Havel’s Market, Peace Square, and Tyl Square, each adding its own festive touch to the city.
Things to do at Prague Christmas Markets
The Prague Christmas Market brings together magical sights, warming aromas, and festive traditions in one of Europe’s most enchanting cities. Whether you’re strolling hand in hand, visiting with loved ones, or exploring solo, this winter wonderland has something for everyone. Here are a few things not to miss:
- Admire the giant Christmas tree: Old Town Square is home to a towering, beautifully decorated tree that lights up each evening, complete with a timed light show that draws crowds and cameras alike.
- Sip on svařák (Czech mulled wine): Stay cosy with a cup of svařák or honey mead (medovina), perfect for sipping as you wander through the glowing market stalls.
- Sample traditional Czech street food: Treat yourself to local favourites like roasted ham on the spit, chimney cake (trdelnÃÂk), sausages, and sweet pastries, all made fresh at the stalls.
- Visit nearby churches: Step inside historic churches like Týn or St. Nicholas to admire nativity scenes or enjoy a quiet Christmas concert away from the crowds.
- Take the kids on the carousel: Younger visitors will love the charming wooden carousel in Old Town Square, along with warm treats like cocoa and chimney cakes for a sweet festive outing.
How to reach the Prague Christmas markets?
If you’re planning to visit the Prague Christmas markets, here are some easy ways to get there:
- By tram: Several tram lines, including numbers 5, 17, 18, 20, and 22, stop near the historic centre. Staroměstská and Karlovy Lázně are the most convenient stops for the main Christmas market areas.
- By metro: The easiest way to reach the main markets is by taking Metro Line A (green line). Get off at Staroměstská or Mustek stations, both are just a few minutes’ walk from Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square.
- By bus from the airport: If you’ re arriving via Václav Havel Airport, hop on Bus 119 to NádražÃ Veleslavín station, then switch to Metro Line A and ride to Staroměstská. From there, it’s a short walk to the heart of the market.
Is Prague worth visiting at Christmas?
Visiting Prague at Christmas feels like walking through a storybook scene. The historic Old Town Square comes alive with festive stalls selling handcrafted gifts and mouthwatering seasonal snacks. The city’s Gothic and baroque architecture glows under twinkling lights, setting the stage for a cosy and romantic escape. Whether you’re sipping hot mulled wine in a snug cellar bar or tucking into Czech classics like roasted ham and sweet pastries, the atmosphere is pure magic. And if you’re up for some winter fun, there are ice rinks dotted around the city just waiting to be enjoyed.
When is the best time to visit Prague Christmas Market to avoid crowds?
The best time to visit the Prague Christmas Market to avoid crowds is on weekday mornings, especially Monday to Thursday between 10am and 12pm. During these hours, the market is much quieter, giving you space to browse the stalls, snap photos, and enjoy a peaceful festive atmosphere. If you’re visiting later in the day, aim for early evenings before 5pm, as crowds tend to build up after work hours and into the night, particularly on Fridays and weekends. Also, try to avoid public holidays and the days just before Christmas Eve, when both locals and tourists flock to the markets.
What mode of payment is accepted at the Prague Christmas Market?
It’s best to carry Czech Crowns (CZK) when visiting the Prague Christmas Market, as cash is the most widely accepted form of payment at the stalls. While some vendors are beginning to accept contactless payments like Google Pay, Apple Pay, and credit/debit cards, not all stalls are equipped for cashless transactions. A few may accept Euros, but typically at a less favourable exchange rate. To avoid any hassle and enjoy the full festive experience, having Czech Crowns in cash is the most reliable option.
Where to stay in Prague?
For an unforgettable experience, it’s best to stay in the heart of Prague’s city centre, where the Christmas Markets are conveniently located and easily accessible on foot. This central area encompasses several districts, including the captivating Old Town with its stunning Old Town Square, the vibrant New Town centred around Wenceslas Square, and the charming Lesser Town, which you can reach with a leisurely stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge. You can also explore the exclusive Prague Christmas Market getaway deals on this page for a memorable holiday break.
Other things to do in Prague
There are many things to do in Prague beyond the Christmas markets, and the city offers a delightful array of fabulous experiences.
- Vltava River Dinner Cruise: Admire Prague’s iconic Christmas-lit landmarks while enjoying a delicious dinner, accompanied by live music and panoramic views of the city.
- Black Light Theater: Experience a captivating 4D performance blending visual effects and theatre, showcasing unique black light illusions in an unforgettable artistic experience.
- Swan Lake Ballet: Watch the world-renowned Swan Lake ballet at the historic Hybernia Theater, a magnificent setting for this classical masterpiece.
- Mozart Ballroom: Attend an elegant musical extravaganza at the Mozart Ballroom, featuring stunning performances of Mozart’s works in a historic venue.
- Prague Castle: Visit one of the largest ancient castles in the world, offering breathtaking views and a rich history, including St. Vitus Cathedral and the Old Royal Palace.
Christmas Markets in Czech Republic
Beyond Prague, the Czech Republic offers a variety of enchanting Christmas markets that capture the festive spirit. Explore these charming destinations for delightful seasonal experiences:
- Brno: The second-largest city in the Czech Republic, Brno’s Christmas market is set in the picturesque Freedom Square, featuring local crafts, delicious food, and a stunning Christmas tree.
- Český Krumlov: This fairytale town boasts a magical Christmas market in its historic centre, where visitors can enjoy traditional Czech treats against a backdrop of mediaeval architecture.
- Plzeň: Known for its famous beer, Plzeň also hosts a vibrant Christmas market in Republic Square, offering unique local gifts and delicious seasonal dishes.
- Olomouc: The Christmas market in Olomouc's Upper Square is renowned for its charming atmosphere, featuring beautifully decorated stalls and traditional performances that entertain visitors throughout the festive season.
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