13 Dec Prague – A Medieval Christmas
Welcome to Prague
Prague, the Czech Republic or “the City of a Hundred Spires,” is a unique medieval city with colourful baroque buildings, the famous medieval Astronomical Clock and Gothic churches.
Prague’s magical Christmas Market in the Old Town Square is bustling with Christmas stalls of ornaments, traditional Czech Christmas cookies, tablecloths, Frankincense, Czech Christmas potpourri, wooden toys, crafts, clothing accessories, scented candles or handmade soap.
Being the capital and largest city in the Czech Republic, it is the most popular city in Europe. Home to millions of people, it has enchanted visitors for centuries, making it one of the most popular destinations. Prague is a prominent place to visit for people who love history, art, architecture and music.
How To Get To Old Town
Vaclav Havel Prague Airport is located approx. 17 km from the city centre with transport options readily available. For comfort, we suggest a private pickup, taxi or Uber, which will cost €25-€35.
If on a budget, go with the shared shuttle option, which starts at €9.95 per person. Buses are another option but can get very crowded. Unfortunately, there is still no direct subway or train line from the airport as in the other metropolites. The journey takes approximately 35 minutes to the city centre depending on traffic. Click here for transport options.
Getting Around Prague
Prague’s public transport system is excellent and is a fun, convenient way to get around. With opportunities to visit notable sights, you can opt for metros, trams, bikes, Uber and bus services. You can buy several tickets in advance or one to three days’ pass for travelling around; best of all, you can use one ticket for travelling on any of the transport methods. Buy your tickets either at a Ticket machine or onboard. Alternatively, explore Prague on a walking tour or utilise one of the Big Bus Tours.
Places Of Interest
Staromestske Namesti (Old Town Square)
Founded in the 12th century, Staromestske Namesti is one of the most significant squares of historical Prague. The perfect place to be during Christmas time with festivities and Christmas Markets. The Square is dominated by the Baroque Church of St. Nicholas, the Gothic House at the Stone Bell, the Rococo Kinsky Palace and the monument of Jan Hus. Book tickets here.
Prague Castle
No trip is complete without visiting Prague Castle, a monument of cultural and historical importance and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of Europe’s most prominent ancient Castle, covering an area of over 18 acres! Its fascinating collection of historic buildings, museums and galleries have the most significant artistic and cultural treasures, including the crown jewels. Book your skip-the-line tickets here.
Christmas Carols on Charles Bridge
During Christmas, feel the cold air while listening to a small brass band play Christmas Carols as you walk past, making the atmosphere a magical Christmas night. Built-in 1357 by King Charles IV, ‘Charles Bridge‘ was the only means of crossing the river till 1841. It is an iconic bridge in Prague that allows you to wander back in time as you take in the superb view of the Vltava River and appreciate the many statues and old Gothic gates. It is one of the busiest bridges, so the best time to visit is usually in the early morning or late evening.
Christmas Chimes at the Astronomical Clock
The Astronomical Clock (also known as The Orloj) is an iconic 600 years old landmark of Old Town Square. The astronomical dial shows the sun and moon’s positioning despite telling the time. Look carefully, and you will see several figurines depicted as 12 apostles that appear on the chime every hour between 9 am – 11 pm. Book your tickets here.
Wenceslas Square
Wondering where to start your Prague trip, Wenceslas Square is one of your first options. It is a boulevard with restaurants, hotels, bars and coffee shops. During Christmas, the area is layered with snow and surrounded by ear-catching sounds of Christmas carols and a traditional ambience!
Residents have used this Square for hundreds of years, discovered initially as a horse market. It was historically named after King Wenceslas (the patron saint of Bohemia), whose statue stands proudly in front of the National Museum. The lively centre of social and cultural life with nightclubs, shops and cafes makes it a way to experience this vibrant place.
St Vitus Cathedral
Built over 600 years, the Cathedral has impressive Gothic architecture. It is one of the most essential and largest Churches in Prague. Pivotal to Czechia’s religious and cultural life, it has houses treasures ranging from the 14th century Mosaic of the Last Judgement to the Ornate Chapel of St Wenceslas. It has a wide area to cover with magnificent looks, especially in winter.
Christmas Market by Day
Christmas Market by Night
Czech Christmas Delicacies
Taste traditional Czech foods. Smell the fantastic aromas of traditional goulash, to the Chimney Cake to pickled cheese.
Drink hot mulled wine and warm honey liquor which is perfect in the cold wintery weather.
Traditional Czech Music & Dance
Where To Stay
When choosing a place to stay in Prague, consider being centrally located and close to all the attractions. In our opinion, Old Town is the best place to stay. The central area covers the best accommodation options just minutes from shopping, nightlife and attractions, from five-star hotels to hostel accommodation catering to all budgets.
Where To Eat
La Degustation Boheme Bourgeoise offers 19th-century Czech-cooked food refined to impress any of today’s hearty appetites. Alternatively, try Lokal U Bile Kuzelky for classic Czech food. A stylish gastro-pub boasting five locations in Prague. Try to book ahead of time, being so popular, it is always busy, and you might have to wait for a table.
For those sweet tooths, you must try Prague Street Food; Trdelnik or chimney cakes are a type of sweet pastry found in almost every stand or corner in Prague.
Final Thoughts
With traditional Christmas vows and magical Czech Christmas stories, check out the hidden gems throughout Prague! The city covers numerous places to visit, including many theatres, cinemas, and galleries where you can spend a memorable Christmas vacation.
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