Christmas in Prague: A Magical Time of Year
The Advent and Christmas season is truly one of the most beautiful times of the year, especially in Prague’s Old Town, where festive decorations, a towering Christmas tree, and the warm glow of traditional lighting of the gas lamps create a fairy-tale atmosphere. During this time you can enjoy Prague’s Christmas markets—often ranked among the best Christmas markets in—visit Christmas exhibitions, and admire intricate nativity scenes. Treat yourself to Advent concerts, a hot drink such as mulled wine, or even hot chocolate as you wander past food stalls offering festive specialties. And if you love winter fun, rent skates and enjoy outdoor rinks across the city center.
Whether it’s your first time in the city or your annual tradition, there’s no better way to welcome the festive season and end the year in Prague. Merry Christmas!
8 Reasons to Visit Christmas Prague
1. Beautiful Christmas Markets
Christmas in Prague fills the city with a magical Christmas spirit. The world-famous Old Town Square Christmas Market—makes the city one of the best places to spend your Christmas holiday. CNN, The Times, and US News & World Report have all listed Prague among the best Christmas markets worldwide.
This year, the Old Town Square market runs from late November (29 November 2025) to 6 January 2026, open daily from 10:00–22:00. Here, you’ll find market stalls selling Czech crafts, festive foods, and local produce. Enjoy live performances on the central stage with the astronomical clock and old town hall tower as your backdrop.
But these aren’t the main markets only worth seeing. You can also explore the Wenceslas Square Christmas Market, Náměstí Republiky ( Republic Square), and various smaller markets, including those at Náměstí Míru (Peace Square) and Tylovo Náměstí. These local Christmas markets offer a more authentic, small-market atmosphere and are easy to access.
A short walk from most attractions, the markets are a great place to try Czech treats and buy gifts.
2. Christmas Concerts
Around Prague, beautiful music fills historic concert halls and churches. From the National Theatre to the Estates Theatre, Rudolfinum, and State Opera, you can enjoy seasonal performances, including Christmas carols. Many concerts take place inside atmospheric churches, offering an unforgettable blend of classical music and baroque interiors.
3. Nativity Scene Exhibitions
Nativity scenes are a cherished Czech tradition. You’ll find them in many churches, including the famous Baroque display at the Church of Our Lady of the Angels. In Malá Strana, the Church of Our Lady Victorious houses the famous Infant Jesus of Prague (often called the Baby Jesus), dressed in white for Christmas. The sacristy showcases exotic nativity scenes donated by worshippers worldwide.
At Vyšehrad, the Basilica of St. Peter and Paul displays another beautiful nativity scene.
The Nativity Club’s annual exhibition—Nativity Scenes and Christmas Traditions—takes place in the Church of Our Lady of the Snows at Jungmann Square, featuring nearly 200 nativity scenes made from wood, dough, glass, ceramics, gingerbread, and more.
4. Christmas Exhibitions
Prague hosts several Christmas exhibitions with workshops. The ones at Prague Castle and the Bethlehem Chapel are among the most popular. These offer a full day of festive discovery for families, couples, and groups.
5. Food and Drink
Prague’s festive Christmas markets feature many Czech treats. Try roasted Prague ham, classic sausages, and warm trdelník. Enjoy a hot drink like mulled wine, mead, or traditional famous Czech beers. Don’t forget Christmas cookies and gingerbread!
Visitors eager for authentic cuisine can book a traditional Czech Christmas Eve dinner, often featuring carp and potato salad.
6. Gifts
The pre-Christmas period is ideal for finding presents for your loved ones. Besides regular shops, the Christmas markets offer handmade crafts and unique souvenirs. Typical Czech gifts include Bohemian crystal, garnet jewelry, wooden toys, and traditional puppets.
7. Light Parks
If you’re visiting Prague with children, don’t miss the city’s magical light displays, especially Lumina Park and Winter Wonderland, which feature fairy-tale-inspired installations. The Prague Zoo and Botanical Garden also host dazzling displays. For something unique, explore the interactive Signal Space on Rytířská Street.
8. Outdoor Ice Skating
Outdoor rinks open gradually in November. Popular spots include Karlín, Letná, and the rink under the Žižkov Tower. In the city center, enjoy skating at Na Františku or at the lower part of Wenceslas Square. Rentals are available on-site, making it a great choice even for beginners.
After skating, warm up with a hot drink and enjoy the festive atmosphere before heading back to your hotel.
More Magical Prague Moments
A walk across Charles Bridge, views of the Vltava River, or a visit to Prague Castle offers unforgettable city views, especially among the festive decorations of the season.
On Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, or any winter day, Prague is a great place to experience huge Christmas energy and festive mood. Whether you’re exploring the main Christmas markets or discovering hidden corners and local produce, Prague is one of the best things to experience in winter.
Enjoy Prague during the start of Advent and Merry Christmas!

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