adminLike every year, we were looking for a cozy city to explore during the Christmas holidays. This time, the decision was quite last-minute. No London or Paris this year. We checked Google Flights and Skyscanner, and the cheapest destination during the festive season turned out to be… Prague! It was a ‘only carry on luggage’ plane ticket, that means packing light! I use this checklist for carry on luggage.
Prague had been on our list for a while, and in winter, the city feels truly magical. I had visited more than 20 years ago, so it was about time to refresh my memories. Think twinkling Christmas lights, festive markets with stalls full of treats, and grand historic buildings dusted with snow. Just be prepared for the cold!
Finding an affordable hotel was less easy. Prague is extremely popular around Christmas and New Year, and you’ll notice that in the prices—especially as New Year’s Eve approaches, rates go up significantly. Luckily, we found a charming hotel just outside the city center, located near tram line 17. Within 10 minutes, we were in the heart of the city, without the price tag of a central hotel. Line 17 is also known as the sightseeing line by the way.
Hotel tip: hotel U Zlateho Jelena (in the city center), Hotel Troja (outside the city center)
Getting Around
From the airport to the city center, the easiest way to travel is by taxi—but be aware: regular taxis are quite expensive. A better option is to use Uber or arrange an airport shuttle through your hotel. Many hotels offer this service at a fixed price.
Within the city, trams are the best way to get around. Prague is quite spread out and consists of several neighborhoods, each with its own charm. A tram ride is not only cheap and convenient but also a great way to enjoy the city views along the way.
Eating and Drinking During Christmas in Prague
Prague is surprisingly affordable when it comes to food and drinks—unless you stay in the tourist hotspots. Especially along the route from Prague Castle to the Old Town Square, you’ll often pay too much for average meals.
My tip: take a turn down a side street and look for smaller, local restaurants. You’ll eat deliciously and spend much less.
Don’t forget to try a trdelník: a traditional sweet pastry you’ll find on almost every street corner during the holidays. Sometimes filled with chocolate or ice cream, and always utterly delicious. After one of these calorie bombs, you probably won’t be hungry for a while!
Restaurant tips:
- Breakfast: Fine Café, Cukrkavalimonada, Danté’s Bistro & Bar
- Lunch: Café Louvre, Laboratorio della Pizza
- Coffee & comfort food: Head Shot Coffee (best coffee ever!), Waffle Point U Kajetana
The Best Places to Visit in Prague During Christmas
Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí)
The Old Town Square is the beating heart of Prague during the holiday season. In the center stands a giant Christmas tree, richly decorated and magically lit up at night. The Christmas market surrounding the tree is one of the most beautiful in Europe, featuring wooden stalls with local goods and street food, live performances, and lots of festive cheer.
Don’t miss:
- The Astronomical Clock on the Old Town Hall strikes every hour, attracting a small crowd. Personally, I found the crowd just as photogenic as the clock itself! Do you want to enter the building? Get your skip the line ticket here!
- The views from the Town Hall tower are stunning—especially at sunset.
- Just off the square, you’ll find a library with a book tower installation at the entrance that’s absolutely worth a photo stop.
Charles Bridge (Karlův most) at Sunrise
This iconic bridge connects the Old Town with the Malá Strana district. Decorated with 30 statues, it oozes medieval charm. During the Christmas season, the bridge is beautifully lit and often filled with live music, artists, and souvenir stalls.
Top tip: Go early in the morning to enjoy the peace and take crowd-free photos. Arrive later, and you’ll have to elbow your way through! Halfway across the bridge, there’s a small sculpture that includes a dog—legend says that if you rub the dog, you’re sure to return to Prague one day.
Prague Castle (Pražský hrad)
No Christmas visit to Prague is complete without exploring the largest castle complex in the world. It includes churches, palaces, courtyards, and cobbled streets. The atmosphere here is calmer than in the Old Town, and the views over the city are breathtaking.
Tip:
- Tickets are available at the entrance, but queues can be very long. Most people don’t realize there’s a second ticket office at the Golden Lane further inside—same price, no waiting.
- Climb the castle steps in the late afternoon for sunset views over Prague’s orange rooftops.
- Don’t miss the Wallenstein Gardens, home to free-roaming peacocks!
-> get your tickets for a visit to the Prague castle here!
Wenceslas square (Václavské náměstí)
Technically a boulevard rather than a square, Wenceslas Square is lined with lights and hosts a second Christmas market—more modern than the one in Old Town. Here, you’ll find artisanal products, fashion accessories, and warm snacks.
At the far end stands the National Museum. Even if you’re not a museum person, the building itself is worth a visit—but do check the adjusted opening hours during the holidays.
Letná Park & Petřín Hill
Letná Park sits just above the Vltava River and offers panoramic views of Prague’s historic center, including its many bridges. In winter, it’s a peaceful place to escape the crowds. Bring a hot tea and soak in the serenity and views.
The Lennon Wall
A colorful mural tucked into a quiet street near the castle, this wall became a symbol of peace, freedom, and love in the 1980s following John Lennon’s death. It remains a place of expression for artists and activists to this day.
The head of Franz Kafka
This kinetic sculpture is a modern art marvel. If you’re walking nearby, make sure to pass by—it’s mesmerizing to watch it move!
The Dancing House (Tančící dům)
A striking modern building in a city full of historic architecture, designed by the same architect as the Guggenheim in Bilbao. Inside, you can visit rotating art exhibitions or grab a drink at the rooftop café. This is a popular Instagram spot, so expect a queue to get in!
Karel Zeman Museum
Dedicated to the father of special effects in film, this museum is super fun—especially for kids!
Museum of illusions
The name says it all. This museum is a playful, interactive space filled with optical illusions—another great pick for families.
-> get your tickets here and skip the line!
The narrowest street in the world
So narrow that it has traffic lights for pedestrians! It’s more of a marketing gimmick by the restaurant at the end, but still a quirky photo opportunity.
“Man hanging out”
Perhaps the most surprising piece of art in the city—look up as you wander through the Old Town or you might miss this sculpture of Sigmund Freud dangling high above the street.
Looking for other winter destinations in Europe? Check Bergen in Norway!
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Prague is still on my list, and I’d love to visit during Christmastime! Thanks for sharing these great ideas :). I’d probably head to Old Town Square and Prague Castle first. Xx Sara
Prague is a dream location for me. I’ve wanted to visit for such a long time. Your blog is one of the best I’ve read, thank you.
I’ve been to Prague multiple times, but never around Christmas. If I can travel during the holidays, I find myself being drawn to the most un-Christmas-like places for warm weather and beaches haha! This is a great list, though and I’ve visited all of these locations except the museum of illusions, and honestly, I would love that place so I’ll have to put it on my list for next time!
Prague is such a beautiful city. I loved visiting, over 20 years ago. I would love to return during Christmas time. It always looks os magical with the lights.
I haven’t been to Prague yet, but it’s been on my list for a while. I bet it’s beautiful during Christmas time. I would love to visit all the places you’ve mentioned in the article.