Alexei Novak – First encounter with the Czech Republic in 2005 My acquaintance with the Czech Republic began with an unexpected inheritance – a distant relative left me a small house in a picturesque village near Brno. I planned to quickly process the documents and sell the property, but fate had other plans. When I first stepped over the threshold of this ancient house with its tiled roof, a strange feeling came over me, as if I had returned home. Apple trees bloomed in the garden, neighbors brought homemade bread and told stories about my ancestor – a Czech musician. Deciding to stay for a few months, I hardly noticed how they turned into almost 20 years of life between Prague and the towns of Moravia, where I constantly discover new facets of this country. The Czech Republic is multifaceted. Behind the postcard views of Prague and the famous beer lies a deep culture that often remains unnoticed by ordinary tourists. Those who find an approach to the locals discover a completely different country – not the one shown in guidebooks. Over these years I have conducted hundreds of tours to little-known corners of the Czech Republic and written two books on Czech cuisine and traditions. I've had the opportunity to consult for historical films shot in the Czech Republic and create an educational program about Czech culture. I help tourists in difficult situations and share my knowledge with everyone who wants to see the real Czech Republic – a country where every stone breathes history, and every mug of beer can be the beginning of an amazing friendship.
Christmas Markets in Prague 2025
When December snow blankets Prague in its pristine white covering, the city’s historic squares transform into a true winter fairy tale. Renowned for their beauty, Prague’s Christmas markets blend history with festive magic, creating an atmosphere that quickens the heart. The aroma of mulled wine wafts through the air, mingling with the scent of roasted chestnuts, while the sounds of Christmas carols echo along the cobblestone streets, beckoning everyone to join this incredible celebration.
Main Christmas Markets of Prague 2025
Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí)
Dates: November 29, 2025 – January 6, 2026
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Special Hours:
- December 24: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- December 25-26: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- December 31: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
- January 1: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: Center of Old Town, near Staroměstská metro station
Old Town Square is the heart of Christmas celebrations in Prague. Here, the city’s largest and most famous Christmas market annually attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. A magnificent 22-meter Christmas tree, sourced from the Liberec region, stands as the main attraction, adorned with thousands of sparkling lights and traditional Czech ornaments, creating a truly magical spectacle.
The square is lined with wooden pavilions decorated with garlands and festive decorations. Shoppers can find crafts by local artisans, including handmade ceramics, glass ornaments, wooden toys, embroidered tablecloths, and many other unique gifts. Bohemian glass products, a hallmark of Czech craftsmanship, deserve special attention.
From 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM daily, musical ensembles, dance groups in traditional costumes, and folk bands perform on the central stage. On weekends, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, children’s workshops invite little ones to create their own Christmas decorations.
Click here to learn more about creating a personal itineraryWenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí)
Dates: November 29, 2025 – January 6, 2026
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Special Hours: Same as Old Town Square
Location: From the National Museum to Můstek metro station
Wenceslas Square offers a distinctly different Christmas atmosphere. This elongated square resembles a wide boulevard, transforming into a lively shopping hub with Christmas stalls along its center.
Here, visitors can find a broader selection of souvenirs compared to Old Town Square, ranging from paintings by local artists to modern gifts. An ice rink is frequently set up in the square’s center, dividing the market into two parts. In the evening, the upper section of the square becomes especially enchanting when the National Museum building is illuminated.
The market is well-known for its vibrant cultural events program, regularly featuring concerts, dance shows, and various entertainment activities.
Intimate Christmas Markets
Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky)
Dates: November 25, 2025 – December 24, 2025
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Location: Near the Palladium shopping center and Powder Tower
Republic Square provides a serene alternative to the larger markets, offering a cozy atmosphere and significantly fewer visitors. It is celebrated for its high-quality handicrafts, including wooden toys, glass decorations, and ceramics adorned with folk patterns.
The market’s culinary offerings feature traditional Czech dishes such as goulash, fried cheese (smažený sýr), and potato pancakes (bramboráky). Don’t miss out on the warm beverages like mulled wine and mead (medovina).
Peace Square (Náměstí Míru)
Dates: November 20, 2025 – December 24, 2025
Opening Hours: Daily from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Location: Vinohrady district, at Náměstí Míru metro station
This market is particularly popular with locals and is regarded as one of the most authentic. Situated in front of the stunning Church of St. Ludmila, it creates a romantic ambiance. Here, you’ll find organic products, eco-friendly goods, and unique handmade gifts, all at more affordable prices.
Families with children will love the array of activities available, including workshops, festive games, and the opportunity to write letters to Santa Claus. Additionally, you can purchase a live Christmas tree here.
Click here to create a personal itinerary for CzechiaTylova Square (Tylovo náměstí)
Dates: November 26, 2025 – December 24, 2025
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Location: Vinohrady district, just a short walk from Peace Square
This is the most intimate of Prague’s markets, ideal for those looking to avoid large crowds. The cozy atmosphere and friendly vendors evoke a home celebration. The selection of ceramics, jewelry, and glassware is particularly impressive.
Kampa Island (Kampa)
Dates: November 25, 2025 – December 24, 2025
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Location: An island on the Vltava River, near Charles Bridge
The market on Kampa Island features stunning views of Charles Bridge and the city center, making it an ideal spot for a romantic stroll and souvenir shopping in a quieter environment. Its offerings include popular potato pancakes (bramboráky) and a variety of sweet pastries.
What to Try at the Markets
Traditional Czech Dishes
Trdelník — The hallmark of Czech Christmas markets, this sweet pastry is crafted from yeast dough wrapped around special cylinders and grilled over an open fire. Once finished, trdelník is sprinkled with cinnamon, sugar, and chopped nuts, served hot, and has a distinctive cylindrical shape with a hollow center.
Klobása — Czech sausages grilled and accompanied by bread and mustard. This hearty snack is ideal for warming up during chilly weather.
Bramboráky — Potato pancakes seasoned with garlic and spices, fried to a golden brown. They can be enjoyed as a standalone dish or as a side.
Goulash — Traditional Czech goulash served with knedlíky (dumplings), making it the perfect meal for a cold winter day.
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Warming Drinks
Svařené víno (Mulled Wine) — A Czech specialty made from red wine infused with cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and other spices, served in unique ceramic mugs that can be kept as souvenirs.
Medovina — A traditional mead, this sweet alcoholic beverage is made from fermented honey and has medieval roots. Served hot, it provides warming properties.
Vánoční punč — A festive Christmas punch combining mulled wine with rum or brandy and fruit juices.
Grog — A hot beverage made from rum, hot water, lemon, and spices.
Horká čokoláda — Rich Czech hot chocolate, especially delightful at the historic Café Slavia.
Sweets and Desserts
Perník — Traditional Czech gingerbread, often intricately decorated with patterns and icing.
Vanilkové rohlíčky — Vanilla crescents, these buttery cookies are shaped into crescent forms and infused with vanilla flavor.
Linecké těsto — Holiday cookies made from butter dough, with half covered in chocolate or jam.
Vánočka — A sweet braided bread featuring almonds, traditionally served during Christmas.
Souvenirs and Gifts
Traditional Czech Souvenirs
Bohemian Glass — Renowned worldwide, these hand-blown glass products include Christmas ornaments, vases, figurines, and decorations, each a unique work of art.
Wooden Toys — Classic Czech wooden toys such as marionettes, toy soldiers, and various animal figurines.
Ceramic Products — Dishes and decorative items adorned with traditional Czech patterns.
Leather Goods — High-quality bags, wallets, belts, and other accessories.
Local Artisan Products
Handmade Jewelry — Unique earrings, necklaces, and bracelets crafted from Bohemian glass, silver, and natural stones.
Embroidered Items — Tablecloths, napkins, and clothing featuring traditional Czech embroidery.
Wax Products — Candles in various shapes and scents, often embellished with Christmas motifs.
Natural Cosmetics — Soaps, creams, and other cosmetic products made from natural ingredients.
Entertainment and Activities
Musical Performances
All major markets regularly feature performances by local musicians, choirs, and folk groups, with Christmas carols and traditional Czech music being particularly popular. At Old Town Square, performances occur daily from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM on the central stage.
Children’s Activities
Many markets provide special programs for children, including:
- Workshops for making Christmas decorations
- Puppet shows
- The opportunity to write a letter to Santa Claus
- A petting zoo at Old Town Square
- Holiday games and contests
Ice Rink at Wenceslas Square
An ice rink is set up in the center of Wenceslas Square, where visitors can skate under the stars, enveloped in the festive atmosphere of the Christmas market.
Light Ceremony
Every day around 4:30 PM at Old Town Square, there is a ceremony to light the decorations on the main Christmas tree. This enchanting moment is accompanied by music, creating a special festive atmosphere.
Lamplighter on Charles Bridge
From 4:05 PM to 4:15 PM each evening during Advent, a unique tradition unfolds as a lamplighter in historical costume ignites the gas lamps on Charles Bridge, adding to the romantic ambiance of old Prague.
Special Events and Traditions
St. Nicholas Day (December 5-6)
This traditional holiday features individuals dressed as St. Nicholas, an angel, and a devil walking through the streets, with particularly colorful performances occurring at Old Town Square.
Click here to learn more about creating a personal itineraryChristmas Concerts
Throughout the market season, special Christmas concerts are held across the city, including:
- At the Clementinum (Baroque library)
- At the National Theatre (featuring “The Nutcracker”)
- In various churches throughout the city
New Year Celebrations
Markets remain open until January 6, offering a unique opportunity to celebrate the New Year in a festive setting. On December 31, many markets operate until 3:00 PM, and they reopen at 12:00 PM on January 1.
Alternative Christmas Venues
Manifesto Market
For those seeking an alternative to traditional Christmas market food, visit Manifesto Market in the Florenc district, where a diverse range of cuisine is offered within a festive atmosphere, complete with igloos for dining.
Prague Castle
While there is no large market at Prague Castle, the grounds are beautifully decorated for the holidays, and special Christmas events are hosted here.
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