How long are Christmas markets open in Prague?

Prague's main Christmas Markets, like those in Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, typically run from late November to early January (e.g., Nov 29, 2025 – Jan 6, 2026) and are open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM, with food stalls sometimes staying open until midnight. Hours are generally consistent daily, but checking specific market dates and times as they get closer to the season (late 2025/early 2026) is always best.

Do Christmas markets continue after Christmas?

Some smaller markets continue after Christmas into January and are known as winter markets. These often begin as Advent markets and then extend their season, offering a festive winter atmosphere.

How many days in Prague for Christmas markets?

How many days I need to visit Prague Christmas Markets? There is not a huge number of Christmas Markets in Prague and I would say that 2 days are good to visit them all. However, if visiting also the city and its landmarks, you might want to add some extra time.

Is Prague Christmas Market worth visiting?

For the Best Backdrop: Prague's Old Town Square Christmas Market. By far, the most impressive Christmas market in Prague in terms of backdrop and sheer wow-factor is the Christmas Market in Prague's Old Town Square, one of the most important tourist spots in the city.

Do you need cash in Prague Christmas Market?

Here are 10 Things you should know before Going to Prague's Christmas Markets: 1️⃣ Cash is king. Many do accept card/Apple Pay, but always make sure to keep some cash with you.

Our First Time In PRAGUE! 🇨🇿 Christmas Markets & City Tour (Czech Republic)

What is closed in Prague during Christmas?

However, for the Christmas period, large stores (over 200 sq m) and malls must close by noon 24th Dec and remain closed through the 26th (all are holidays). There are no legal closing restrictions on smaller stores, restaurants, cafes, bars, etc.

What not to do in Prague as a tourist?

As a tourist in Prague, avoid eating at Old Town Square restaurants, buying Russian Matryoshka dolls, exchanging money on the street for bad rates, getting scammed by "cannabis" cookies, and making a toast without eye contact. Also, don't forget your passport, stick only to central areas, ignore local customs like standing on the right on escalators, and be prepared for walking and crowds.
 

Is Prague very cold in December?

Prague weather in December is very cold with temperatures dropping as low as -3°C at night.

Where is the best place to stay in Prague for Christmas markets?

Most booked hotels

• Grandium Hotel Prague. Hotel in Prague 1, Prague. ...
• Hotel Bologna. Hotel in Prague 1, Prague. ...
• Old Town Square Apartments. Hotel in Prague 1, Prague. ...
• Art Nouveau Palace Hotel. Hotel in Prague 1, Prague. ...
• City Centre. ...
• Grand Majestic Hotel Prague. ...
• Ibis Praha Old Town. ...
• Metropolitan Old Town Hotel - Czech Leading Hotels.

Is 7 days in Prague too long?

We did a day trip to Karlstein Castle. Beautiful ride in the countryside and had a great lunch in the town. There are day trips to nearby to special towns like Cesky Krumlov, Kutna Hora, or Karlovy Vary. Yes, many people visit Prague for a week, and it's a great duration for both exploration and relaxation.

What is the most Christmassy city in Europe?

Berlin, Germany. It's official – Berlin takes first prize as the most festive city to celebrate the holidays in Europe.

What do Germans do on the 25th and 26th of December?

On December 25th (First Christmas Day) and 26th (Second Christmas Day, Zweiter Weihnachtstag), Germans enjoy official public holidays focused on quiet family time, large festive meals with traditional foods like roast goose or carp, exchanging gifts (which often happens on Christmas Eve), and visiting relatives, with most shops remaining closed as the celebration continues after the main gift-giving on Christmas Eve (Heiligabend).
 

Are the markets closed during Christmas?

United States stock markets will close early on Wednesday, Dec. 24, and will be closed on Thursday, Dec. 25, in observance of the Christmas Eve and Christmas Day holidays. The Nasdaq and New York Stock Exchange will both close at 1 p.m. ET on Christmas Eve, according to their websites.

How much is a meal for 2 in Prague?

Mid-Range Dining

For a step up in ambiance and service, mid-range restaurants in Prague offer excellent value for money. Expect to pay between €15 and €25 per person for a sit-down meal, including a main dish and a drink.

Is it okay to speak English in Prague?

Don't worry—many people speak English: In most tourist areas, restaurants, and hotels, staff usually speak decent English. However, it's helpful to know a few Czech phrases for polite interactions.

What's worth buying in Prague?

Here are the 10 best things to buy in Prague to remember your trip and share a piece of the city with friends and family.

• Bohemian Glass (Czech Crystal) ...
• Czech Marionettes (Puppets) ...
• Czech Garnet Jewellery. ...
• Prague Chocolate and Sweets. ...
• Czech Tea and Teapots. ...
• Czech Wooden Toys. ...
• Czech Pottery and Ceramics. ...
• Czech Leather Goods.

Is 100 Czech koruna a good tip?

In both Prague and the Czech Republic, it's standard practice to leave a tip, ideally 5% to 10% of the total bill, in restaurants and cafés. Locals usually round up the amount to the nearest 10 or 100 crowns. At the bottom of the receipt you'll see “service is not included”.

Where not to eat in Prague?

Don't Eat at Tourist-Trap Restaurants

Avoid eateries directly on the Old Town Square or along the main tourist streets unless you are okay paying premium prices. Instead, venture a few streets away to find authentic Czech cuisine at more reasonable prices.

What is the number one tourist attraction in Prague?

Prague Castle (Pražský hrad) is the No. 1 tourist attraction in Prague and Czechia, and the largest ancient castle complex in the world. It comprises palaces, grand halls, state apartments, churches, viewing towers, museums, art galleries, great courtyards, gardens, and St. Vitus Cathedral.

How to dress for Christmas in Prague?

Here's a quick summary of how to thrive in Prague's cold season:

1. Expect humidity and wind — they make it feel colder than the forecast says.
2. Dress in layers, from thermal wear to a waterproof jacket.
3. Wear quality waterproof shoes with warm socks.
4. Never forget your hat, scarf, and gloves.

What is closed in Prague on Mondays?

Many museums in Prague are closed on Mondays. Admission and opening hours vary, best checked on each venue's website. Seasonal guide lists current exhibitions and free open house days.

What's the best way to get around Prague?

The main modes of public transport in the city centre are the Prague Metro and trams. Buses and trains transport passengers into the city from the outskirts of Prague, as well as from towns and cities across Czechia and Europe.