Prague is the culturally vibrant capital of the Czech Republic known for architectural landmarks, historical monuments, colorful buildings and rich history. It is popularly known as the “City of Spires”, and offers Lots of things to do during the Christmas season. Highlights among all the events during Christmas in Prague There are wonderful Christmas markets here offering a variety of gifts. Prague offers countless activities that one can engage in during the Christmas season.
How to celebrate Christmas in Prague
If you are wondering what to do at Christmas in Prague, here are some experiences that are unique as well as exciting and should be tried at least once.
1. Try ice skating
One of the things every traveler must try during Christmas in Prague 2023 is ice skating. Although this activity is available during other seasons as well on artificially created ice skating rinks, skating on real ice during Christmas has its own charm. It doesn’t matter whether you are a professional in ice-skating or an amateur who has never tried this activity before, ice skating should be experienced by everyone. If one does not own a pair of ice skates, they can easily rent a pair at any local shop. One of the most unforgettable experiences can be enjoyed in Prague by ice skating on the Vltava River, which usually freezes over in the winter season.
2. Witness the Prague Christmas Markets
The experience of visiting Christmas Eve in Prague is incomplete without attending the festive Christmas markets organized by this city. The Old Town Square, the historic center of the city, is the center of the market during the Christmas season. One can see a large number of people bustling around the markets and exploring the various opportunities offered by these markets. The Christmas markets at Wenceslas Square are also worth visiting to enjoy the Christmas festivities in this city. These popular markets are open every day from December 2 to January 6, even during public holidays. One can participate in singing with Christmas carol groups, wander through various handicraft markets, enjoy hot drinks and taste delicious local cuisine.
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3. Stay at Hotel Joseph
Hotel Joseph Prague is the only designer hotel in the city and offers the best services and hospitality to stay during the Christmas season. The charm of the old world beauty of the city, including Prague Castle, Old Town Square, Charles Bridge and many other places, can be felt from the interiors of this hotel. The best experience can be had by staying in one of their premium rooms, which offer spectacular panoramic views of the city through their glass walls, which can be enjoyed while relaxing comfortably in bed. The hotel is located close to the city’s Central Square, yet away from the hustle and bustle of the city and provides the calm and serene atmosphere required during the peak tourist season.
4. Watch cultural programs and performances
Prague’s name is etched in the musical history of the world and one should not miss seeing the choirs, orchestras and dance performances presented by talented creative artists. During the Christmas season, the number of such shows increases in various theaters in Prague and most of them are fully booked even before the holiday season begins. The shows that stand out above the rest are hosted at Prague’s National Theatre, Karlin Theatre, and Estates Theatre. Classic performances include the famous Nutcracker ballet and Swan Lake.
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5. Prague River Cruise
Travelers who do not like to be around a lot of people and want to avoid crowded areas in Prague during Christmas can opt for a relaxing Prague river cruise. All of Prague’s major attractions can be seen by traveling on the Vltava River. These cruises have a guide who will help visitors onboard learn more about the historic city. Apart from this, the cruise also has a bar where one can enjoy refreshing beverages and start their Christmas party in Prague. To deal with the weather at Christmas in Prague, these cruise boats are equipped with operational heaters to keep everyone warm.
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6. Attend Christmas concerts
The most famous and highly rated church in Prague, St. Salvator Church hosts many Christmas concerts during the festive season. It is one of the most treasured historical properties of the city with magnificent architectural design and vast interior spaces. Many other churches in the city also organize several Christmas concerts in Prague, but the one held at St. Salvator Church is considered to be the best by far. Groups from all over the world gather at various historic churches spread across the city to sing carols and keep the festive spirit high. The best thing about these concerts is that it is open to all visitors and tourists and is free of cost.
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7. Enjoy traditional Czech cuisine
The highlight of a visit to Prague in December during the Christmas season is the various food stalls on almost every street in the city offering a variety of delicious street food unique to the traditional Czech cuisine. Some Christmas foods in Prague that every visitor must try include klebnik which is an open sandwich with different types of meat, longnose which is fried bread with vegetables, palasinky which is a French-style pancake, and Czech sausages. Which are very similar to the German bratwurst. You must try the delicious drink Svárk which is actually a form of Czech wine made from apples.
8. Shopping on Prague’s Shopping Streets
During Christmas, almost every high quality handicrafts and other goods are available at very low prices. Take advantage of this by visiting Prague’s famous shopping streets for a day of retail therapy. Buy souvenirs to take back home. Some of the best and unique souvenirs that can be purchased are Becherovka herbal liqueur, marionettes, and bohemian glasses. Marionettes are cute little puppets that are sold in Prague and are handmade and carved. These can be purchased from shops near Charles Bridge. Prague is a huge city, so consider shopping on the main shopping streets to save time and energy. These major shopping streets include Wenceslas Square, Republic Square and Old Town Square where you will find almost everything you want.
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9. Dine at Malinek Restaurant
Malinek Restaurant is a high-class dining venue that has been locally renowned for many years. This is a contemporary-style restaurant with a setting inspired by stylish Czech tradition. It has large glass windows from which a beautiful evening view of Charles Bridge can be seen. Every evening a live jazz music performance is organized in this restaurant. The menu here varies seasonally and includes the most famous traditional dishes prepared by the highly acclaimed in-house chef. Christmas Dinner Special is the most awaited event which is organized by this restaurant on Christmas day in Prague. To enjoy a meal here on this special evening, one must book in advance.
10. Stroll the city streets
If one is on a budget then one of the best things to do in Prague is to wander through the narrow cobblestone streets of the city with your loved ones. The unique Christmas atmosphere and all the festivities can be seen and enjoyed by walking around the well-lit city. The best time to visit the streets is in the evening when the whole city looks very lively and colourful. Historical monuments and buildings are decorated with colorful lights which present a wonderful sight. One can even escape from the congested roads and walk along the river bank for a peaceful time.
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Enjoy these experiences during the Christmas festive season in Prague. Each experience is truly mesmerizing and will inspire every visitor to stay and never leave this place. Book a curated tour of this amazing city through TourTravelHotels now.
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FAQs about Christmas in Prague
How cold is Prague at Christmas?
With an average daily temperature of 35.5 degrees Fahrenheit and not much difference between the high and low averages.
Is Prague open on Christmas?
Christmas markets are actually open on Christmas Day, but they close early on Christmas Eve. Public transportation continues to run, perhaps a little slowly, but it’s there.
What is there to do in Prague at Christmas?
Best things to do for Christmas in Prague:
1. Old Town Square Christmas Market.
2. Walk on the Vltava River at night.
3. Climb to the top of the Old Town Tower.
4. See swans on the Vltava River.
5. Climb to the top of the Charles Bridge Tower.
6. Christmas Market at Castle Hill.
7. Enjoy hot chocolate from Café Slavia.
Will it snow in Prague in December?
Average precipitation in December is less than 25 mm (1 in) and may be in the form of snow or light rain. The winter weather in Prague can be quite mild and you’ll be happy to wear gloves, a warm scarf and a hat.
Is Prague expensive?
The good news is that Prague prices haven’t really gotten worse. While the Czech city is 50-100% more expensive than the rest of the country, it is still great value compared to many other European capitals.
Is Prague Castle open on Christmas Day?
The Prague Castle market is open from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm on weekdays and from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm on weekends.
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