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The Prague Christmas markets are a must-see attraction during the holiday season. The markets are held in various locations throughout the city, including the Old Town Square, Tylovo náměstí, Peace Square (Náměstí Míru), Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky), and many more. The Prague Christmas Market takes place from 2nd December 2024 to 6th January 2025.
Visitors can sample traditional Czech foods such as roast pork, gingerbread, and Trdelník (a popular Czech pastry) while browsing the festive stalls. The markets are also a great place to find unique gifts and handmade crafts. One of the most popular locations is the Old Town Square market, which offers a spectacular view of the St. Vitus Cathedral and other historic buildings. The Prague Christmas markets are an unforgettable experience that should not be missed when visiting the city during the holiday season.
Visit the charming Tylovo náměstí (Tylo’s Square) while exploring the festive atmosphere of the Prague Christmas Markets for a truly Czech holiday experience.
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at the local Christmas markets, where the enchanting ambiance of the town square and Wenceslas creates a magical setting. Explore the typically Czech stalls, offering an array of seasonal delights and traditional crafts, making it a perfect destination to experience the heartwarming traditions of the holiday season.
Experience magical atmosphere in Prague during its Christmas markets
Prague has one of best Christmas markets in Europe. The city’s cobbled streets smell of cinnamon and clove during the holidays. Mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, hot mead, blood sausages, succulent ham, barbequed pork with potatoes, sweet pastries, and other treats are everywhere.
The Christmas markets in Prague are the best in all of the Republic of Czech , an essential part of the country’s holiday charm. They illuminate the city and unite residents and visitors in a magical “winter wonderland.”
More than boasting a delectable assortment of food, the festive atmosphere is amplified by live music, showcases of artisan items, and all-day Christmas carols during Prague Christmas events. Besides, during the month of December, there are numerous local occurrences and activities for foreign visitors to explore.
How Do the Czech Celebrate Christmas?
In the Czech Republic, Christmas is a major Christian holiday. Advent marks the start of the holiday season. Prague Christmas time is rich in fascinating traditions. Most Czechs celebrate Christmas with their family members and friends because it is a time of calm and love, regardless of religious affiliation. To celebrate Christmas, Czechs begin the holiday on the evening of December 24th, known as Christmas Eve.
Preparations for Czech Christmas begin four weeks before the big day at the start of Advent. Late November or early December is typically the onset. In addition to opening Christmas markets in public squares, many people start constructing their nativity scenes on Advent’s first Sunday.
While St. Mikulas (St. Nicholas) brings gifts in early December, the Czechs believe that Baby Jesus gives presents at Christmas. As such, most kids dine near the Christmas tree, anticipating hearing a bell that heralds his arrival. They also open gifts on Christmas Eve, a bit earlier than in some Western countries.
Food is also an essential component of their traditions. Czechs believe that what you eat affects your attitude and future luck. Locals may fast on Christmas Eve because they believe that the Golden Pig, which is deemed to bring good fortune in the coming year, will fly into the sky if they do not eat all day.
Some traditions, such as putting up a Christmas tree, singing the Christmas carols, taking a stroll, and even paying respects at a cemetery to someone who has passed on, still are widely practiced.
On Christmas day, most locals attend mass and then have a family meal after church.
Which Christmas Markets Are Worth Visiting in Prague?
The Czech Christmas markets are among the best in all of Europe. The stunning holiday decor, historical settings, and enchanted locales make for an unforgettable experience. You can find what you’re searching for in Prague during Christmas, whether it’s a quiet, quaint shop or a bustling, tourist-friendly market with an authentic twist.
The Christmas Markets in Prague are open every day in Old Town Square, well-known Prague Castle, and Republic Square.
It’s customary for the Christmas markets in Prague to start on the first Saturday of Advent, which often falls in late November or early December and end on Christmas Day. Some shops stay open until the Three Kings’ Day (January 6). The markets are open from 10 AM to 10 PM. The entrance is free.
Visitors to these marketplaces come to buy and sample sumptuous cuisine, but they can also find quality artisan goods and unique knick-knacks. The Christmas markets in Prague offer the ideal all-inclusive holiday experience.
Christmas markets in Old Town Square
Prague’s largest Christmas market lies a few meters away from the famous Astronomical Clock and Gothic Tyn Church. The Old Town Square is a shopping haven where you can find one of the Prague Christmas market food. You can find several gift shops, food stalls, and quaint restaurants here. Hundreds of crafters throng the bustling market too.
The Staroměstské náměstí is home to a large, brightly-decorated live Christmas tree. Every day, at dusk, the tree is lit to illuminate Prague’s night sky. There are nativity scenes, theater, and live music performances throughout the season. The market’s observation bridge is also an excellent spot for capturing stunning photos of the sparkling Christmas lights.
Enjoy the Christmas tree lighting in the Old Town Square
If you consider yourself a holiday enthusiast and you’re in Prague during Christmas, make sure to see the Old Town Square Christmas tree lighting ceremony. It’s traditional, it’s beautiful, and the Christmas season just wouldn’t be the same without it.
This 22 meters Christmas tree is the most breathtaking feature of the Christmas Markets in the Czech Republic. You can also find the largest Advent market in all of the Republic of Czech on Old Town Square.
Address: Staroměstské nám., 110 00 Staré Město, Czechia
Nearest Metro Stops: Staromestska (line A), Namesti Republiky (line B), Mustek (lines A & B)
Christmas markets in Wenceslas Square
Only five minutes from Old Town Square is Prague’s second most famous Christmas market. The Wenceslas Square is next to the newly restored National Museum. And while there isn’t much live entertainment here, it is always packed with locals and tourists.
The market lies on the busy Václavské námst avenue, lined by souvenir shops, cafes, and galleries. If you’re a foodie, you’d enjoy Wenceslas Square, with its kiosks of traditional and regional cuisines. It’s also home to specialized shops selling handcrafted wood and steel items. Children would love the petting zoo near its Christmas tree too.
At 5:00 PM, every afternoon, the Wenceslas Square market lights up the tree. A stunning animated light performance inspired by two poems by Bedřich Smetana and Vadim Petrov follows.
Address: Václavské nám., 110 00 Praha 1, Czechia
Nearest Metro Stops: Muzeum station (line A & C), or Mustek station (line A & B)
Christmas Markets in Republic Square
One of Prague’s most well-known landmarks is Namesti Republiky. Located between the historic district and the modern district, this square is the heart of the city.
Náměstí Republiky, just a short walk from Prague’s historic city center, is home to a delightful Christmas market. The Christmas market at Namesti Republiky is less crowded and, hence, less touristy than the markets at Old Town Square or other major squares. Items including Czech pashmina scarves, beer mugs, wooden toys, vivid prints of Prague, and also lace are all available at this market. The Republic Square is near the Palladium shopping center, close to Old Customs House.
Just off the square are some truly magnificent structures, such as the Municipal House, Powder Tower, and Kings Court Hotel.
Although small compared to other metropolitan markets, the Republic Square market still attracts its fair share of visitors. Its character more than makes up for its small size. It’s a local, cozy shopping destination decorated with modest, wooden stalls right in the middle of the city.
The Republic Square market has no more than thirty stores selling various toys, sweets, and souvenirs. It’s also a great place to find mistletoe, which is scarce elsewhere. Best of all, prices are far cheaper than other Christmas markets in Prague.
Address: Rybná 17, 110 00 Staré Město, Czechia
Nearest Metro Stops: Náměstí Republiky (line B)
Start your shopping spree on the high-end strip between Republic Square and Wenceslas Square!
9 Things To Do In Prague For A Magical Christmas
Christmas is a season of joy and magical thrills, so you can’t afford to spend it somewhere boring. Rather than moping around the winter wonderland, now’s the time to enjoy the thrills of Christmas that Prague has to offer. Right here, you’ll find 9 things to do in Prague for a magical Christmas. Let’s go:
1. Hop On The Vltava River Dinner Cruise
Wrap up Christmas on an amazing 3-hour boat cruise on the Vltava River. Besides the beautiful sights lit up by Christmas lights and fireworks, the best part about the Vltava River cruise is the buffet. Now, you can enjoy some of the finest Prague dinner cuisines whilst taking in some jaw-dropping sights. You definitely shouldn’t enjoy this alone.
Highlights
- Experience a 3-hours luxury cruise of Prague
- Enjoy an amazing night view of Prague’s major landmarks illuminated by Christmas lights and fireworks.
- Relish the tasty buffet of Czech and international cuisine
- Enjoy a live music serenade on the cruise deck
Includes
- 1,244 CZK (€ 49) ticket
- Buffet dinner menu with an array of Czech and international meals
- Complimentary welcome drink
- Live music
- Free WiFi access
2. Experience An Immersive Show At The Black Light Theater
Prepare to have your mind blown at the Black Light Theater this Christmas. Enjoy the amazing 4D shows that tell beautiful stories without words. The mix of UV lights and fluorescent colors will have you totally immersed into the silent stories at the Black Light Theater. You definitely should check it out for Christmas.
Highlights
- Enjoy an amazing night at the Czech Black Light Theater
- Experience an interactive 4D show of UV lights, colors, and non-verbal action
Includes
- 584 CZK (€ 23) ticket
- 65-minutes of immersive non-verbal performance
3. Experience The Best of Swan Lake At The Hybernia Theater
If you’re in Central Prague for Christmas, then you shouldn’t miss out on the Swan Lake Experience. What awaits you at the Hybernia Theater is a ballet show of utmost class and beauty. World class ballet dancers and soloists will create an amazing Christmas show that’ll leave you longing for more. The Swan Lake Experience is a moment when fairytales come to life on Christmas.
Highlights
- Enjoy an immersive array of exclusive Christmas ballet performances
- Experience classic fairytale stories of princes, princesses and magic told in ballet
Includes
- 863 CZK (€ 34) ticket
- 105-minute of non-stop ballet performances at the Hybernia Theater
4. Discover Prague Legends In A Dungeon Tour
For 1 hour, you can take a chilling adventure into Prague’s darker history. Wander around Gothic churches, abandoned monasteries and cemeteries. The most spectacular part of the tour would be to encounter the famed headless horseman of Prague, and the legendary Golem. Have no fear, you’ll have a guide dressed for the occasion.
Highlights
- Visit the dark side of Prague as you stroll through Gothic churches, old cemeteries and monasteries.
- Encounter the horror legends of Prague – the Headless Horseman, and the Golem.
- Enjoy chilling stories about Prague’s history and legends with entertaining costume displays by local guides.
Includes
- 470 CZK (€ 18.50) ticket
- 1-hour guided tour through Prague’s darker corners.
- Costumed local guides fitting the gothic tour theme
5. Enjoy A 3-Course Dinner At The Mozart Ballroom Concert
Amadeus Mozart is a musical powerhouse, and that’s why Prague offers a special concert in his honor. You can enjoy 2:30 hours of amazing musical performances by world class arias and duets from Mozart’s opera. Thrilling performances of The Magic Flute, The Marriage of Figaro and Don Giovanni, will definitely leave you inspired. What’s more is that you get to enjoy a 3-course dinner at the concert. For every segment of the concert, there’s a light dinner to complement it.
Highlights
- Enjoy an exclusive concert at the fabled Mozart Ballroom
- Enjoy an amazing array of Mozart’s classics
- Enjoy a traditional 3-course dinner from Czech and Austrian cuisines
Includes
- 2,005 CZK (€ 79) ticket
- 1-hour exclusive concert with 3 beautiful segments
- 3-course dinner with complimentary drink
6. Enjoy The Srnec Performance At The Original Black Light Theater
Check out the amazing performance of one of Prague’s most popular plays at the original Black Light Theater of Jiri Srnec. It’s an immersive experience where stories are told in vocal silence, dancing and visual effects. Be careful though, the mesmerizing display of colors and gestures can be hypnotic. It’s 1:30 hours of amazing performances that’ll immerse you in the wonders of Christmas. It’s definitely an experience worth having.
Highlights
- Visit the Jiri Srnec Black Theater
- Experience an immersive show of vocal silence, dancing and amazing colors
Includes
- 609 CZK (€ 24) ticket
- 1.5 hours of immersive display of colors, dance and vocal silence
7. Check Out The Classical Concert In The Spanish Synagogue
The Spanish Synagogue isn’t left out in the magic of Christmas. At the Spanish Synagogue, there’s a classical concert waiting for you. It’s the perfect place to enjoy various performances of classical and modern music of Jewish origin. The Prague FOK Symphony Orchestra will give a live performance of some of the best Jewish musical compositions. It’s a full hour of classical and modern compositions that’ll leave your heart satisfied.
Highlights
- Enjoy 1-hour of rich classical and modern Jewish songs and musical compositions
- Listen to famous Jewish compositions played by expert Prague musicians
- Observe the immersive beauty and acoustic perfection of the Spanish Synagogue
Includes
- 900 CZK (€ 38.36) ticket
- 1-hour of classical and modern Jewish songs and musical compositions
- Access into the beautiful Spanish Synagogue
Where to Go for the Best Christmas Czech Cookies in Prague?
It wouldn’t be Christmas without the many cookies baked and eaten over the Advent season. Baking Christmas cookies are a long-standing (and time-consuming) tradition in Czech Republic. Here are the top three Christmas sweet stores in Prague.
Sweet-Shop Myšák
The legendary Vodiková Street sweet shop, built during the First Republic in 1911 by František Myák, is a favorite of many local celebrities.
Just off Wenceslas Square on the bustling Vodikova Street, you will find the reconstructed Myák confectionery, which had previously occupied a Rondo-Cubist structure that had fallen in 2006. In 2008, the legendary candy store reopened after undergoing a complete rebuilding in the spirit of restoration and remembrance.
Today, the pâtisserie pays homage to Myák’s great pastry-making legacy with a broad range of traditional bread varieties, classic and original cakes, and gourmet pastries. Breakfast, coffee, and sundaes are also available at the sweet shop. So if you’re looking for a sugary snack in the afternoon, head on over to Myšák.
Address: 710/31, Vodičkova, Nové Město, 110 00 Praha, Czechia
Website: https://www.mysak.ambi.cz/
Confectioner Skála
Confectioner Skála is the creation of renowned Czech confectioner Luká Skála. In addition to its highly-praised kremrole (cream rolls), its menu is brimming with pastries, cakes, and seasonal specialties. The pastry shop also sells handmade jams and pralines.
studio is one of the most well-known theaters in all of Prague. This allows you to enjoy both a sweet treat and an exciting play in one convenient outing.
It’s also worth noting that the great painter in Czech Josef Mánes previously called the theater home.
Address: Dlouhá 727/39, 110 00 Staré Město, Czechia
Website: https://www.cukrarskala.cz/en/
Erhart’s Sweet-Shop
This is among the best confectioneries in Prague and may be found at the Erhart Café, which is housed in a historical site from 1937.
Erhart Cafe has been offering delicious cakes and pastries to locals and tourists since 1937. The cafe serves ten to twenty of its signature cakes daily. Aside from its unique pastry creations, the cake shop sells traditional sweets such as chocolate bonbons. The variety isn’t huge, but there’s still plenty of options. Everything is created on the spot, right there, and it’s absolutely fantastic. The master “chef” here makes incredible personalized cakes for customers.
Address: Vinohradská 2022/125, 130 00 Praha 3-Vinohrady, Czechia
Christmas is a great time to visit Prague. Surrounded by renaissance and gothic architecture, the city features a variety of Christmas markets that you and your loved ones can enjoy.
Czech Republic Christmas Markets Need To Be Seen
While the Christmas markets can be quite touristy and are packed with souvenir stalls, they still offer plenty of fun for visitors to enjoy. Prague (Czech Republic) Christmas is wonderful. It’s a beautiful city to visit at Christmas time, and visiting Prague Christmas markets is certainly an excellent way to experience the local tradition and culture during this special time.
Experience the magic of Prague’s Christmas markets to the fullest with our top picks of best hotels, located in the heart of the city and just a stone’s throw away from the bustling marketplaces, offering comfortable accommodations and unforgettable holiday memories.
