Main markets are open: 30th of November 2019 – 6th of January 2020
The main Christmas markets in Prague on Old Town Square and on Wenceslas Square are open from 30th of November 2019 till 6th of January 2020. The opening of Christmas markets has become an integral part of the holiday season in Prague. Come and experience the magical atmosphere and enjoy a variety of festive drinks, foods and other activities. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about the Christmas market season in Prague and what market locations you should visit. We will also cover the best Christmas market locations outside Prague.
Christmas markets in Prague
Most popular markets:
Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí)
Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí)
Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky)
Prague Castle (Pražský hrad)
Peace Square (Náměstí Míru)
I.P Pavlova (Tyl Square Markets)
Christmas Markets outside Prague
Visiting Prague during the Christmas season is a magical experience and that is why it is often one of the busiest times of the year. The Christmas markets in Prague have been regularly voted as the best Christmas markets to visit in the world. Yes, the market on the Old Town Square is the most famous one that everyone wants to visit, however, Prague has many other beautiful markets, each with their own magical atmosphere. Here are our tips on which markets to visit to enjoy a lovely cup of mulled wine while browsing the decorated wooden stalls with local handcrafted Christmas items.
Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí)
(November 30th, 2019 – January 6, 2020)
The Old Town Square Christmas market is the most famous from the list and for a good reason. The markets are centered around the magnificent Christmas tree with beautiful decorations that are center of discussions for the local people every year. This year, the ceremonial lighting of the Christmas tree is on the 30th of November, so if you’re in Prague during this period, be sure to check it out. An open-air stage where Christmas concerts and festive plays are held is open every year.
Directions:
By tram: tram stop Staromestska. Lines (2, 17, 18)
By metro: Staromestska station (line A), or Mustek station (line A/B)
Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí)
(November 30th, 2019 – January 6, 2020)
The Christmas markets on Wenceslas Square are the second most popular markets, located in the lower part of Wenceslas Square. The markets are especially beautiful in the evening when the dominant of the Wenceslav Square – The building of The National Museum, is lit up.
Directions:
By tram: tram stop Vodičkova. Lines (3,5,6,9,14,24)
By metro: Muzeum station (line A/C), or Mustek station (line A/B)
Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky)
(November 30th – December 29th 2019)
The markets on the Republic Square open sooner that most Christmas markets in Prague so be sure to visit them if you’re in Prague at the end of November. The markets are located on the Square between the Palladium Shoping centre and the Powder Gate.
Official website with program.
Directions:
By tram: tram stop Namesti Republiky. Lines (6,8,15,26)
By metro: station Namesti Republiky (yellow line B)
Prague Castle (Pražský hrad)
When it comes to the most impressive surroundings of the markets and an amazing view of Prague from the top of the hill. The Christmas markets at the Prague Castle are the clear winner. They are hosted at Náměstí u Sv. Jiří (St. George’s Square) and Stájový dvůr. Local market sellers from Czech Republic will offer a wide range of festive foods, beverages and products to buy.
Directions:
By tram: either of these tram stops works: Kralovsky letohradek, Pohorelec, and Prazsky hrad. Tram no. 22 (Prazky hrad) is the most used by visitors, but it will require a hike up to the castle. To steer clear of the hike, get off at Pohorelec.
By metro: stations Malostranska (line A) or Hradcanska (line A).
Peace Square (Náměstí Míru)
(November 20th – December 24th 2019)
The Peace Square markets are also open already during the last two weeks of November. People in Prague often say that these are their most favourite Christmas markets in all of Prague. The beautiful wooden stalls with traditional food, beverages, and craftwork lie in a nice park in front of the church of Saint Ludmila. These markets tend to be less commercial than some of the others, that is why they have become the local favorite.
Directions:
By tram: stop Namesti Miru. Lines (10,13,16,22)
By metro: station Namesti Miru (line A).
I.P Pavlova (Tyl Square Markets)
(November 26rd – Decemebr 24th 2019)
During the warm months of the year, the Tylovo náměstí often hosts farmers markets. Once the Christmas season starts, the square is transformed into a nice little Christmas market with lovely mulled wine and festive food.
Directions:
By tram: stop I.P.Pavlova. Lines (6,10,11,13,16,22,23)
By metro: station I.P.Pavlova (line C).
Christmas Markets in the Czech Republic (outside Prague)
Although most tourists that are in the Czech Republic during the Christmas season visit the markets in Prague. Pretty much every city in the Czech Republic has their own Christmas markets that are just as beautiful.
Cesky Krumlov
If you’re planning a trip outside Prague, be sure to visit the markets in the historical town of Cesky Krumlov, where the markets are open from 1st of December till 7th of January on the Svornosti Square (Náměstí svornosti) in the historical centre. During your visit you can learn about the traditional trades and handcraft manufacturing as well as tastings of Bohemian Czech dishes and excellent mulled wine.
Olomouc
The Olomouc Christmas markets are often described as the best markets in Moravia, some locals even say they are the best markets in all of Czech Republic! You can taste more than 100 hundred different types of Christmas punch in local stalls as well as a wide variety of mulled wines.
Pilsen
If your visiting the capital of beer, Pilsen, during the pre-Christmas season, do not miss the local markets that start on November 24th and close on December 24th. You can witness the live Nativity scene held on Christmas Eve. You can also enjoy shows of traditional craftsmanship, special beer tastings, mulled wine and sausages. While you’re here, have a taste of the Chodske cakes, which have their origins in Pilsen.
Where to stay in Prague during the Christmas season
The Christmas season is a popular time of year to visit Prague. If you’re planning your trip in 2019 and you are looking for accommodation near the Prague city centre, we have many apartments to offer. Check out the Prague Residences website for apartments near the Old Town Square Christmas Markets (5 minutes walking distance) and our Blue Oak apartment hotel website for apartments near the Prague Castle (5 minutes walking distance).
