Prague's Christmas markets in 2023 offer diverse and enchanting experiences. The Old Town Square Christmas Market, open from December 2 to January 6, is the largest and most vibrant, featuring over 100 wooden huts selling Czech handicrafts and sweets. It's set amidst historic architecture, including the Old Town Hall and the Church of St. Nicholas. A highlight is the grand Christmas tree, accompanied by festive music and performances. Entry is free, making it a must-visit for its atmosphere and range of Czech delights. The Wenceslas Square Christmas Market, operational from December 2, 2023, to January 6, 2024, stretches along Wenceslas Square. It's known for its lively atmosphere with wooden stalls selling handicrafts, toys and traditional food. The market, near major landmarks like The National Museum, offers free entry and a festive experience with live music and caroling. The Republic Square Christmas Market, located at Náměstí Republiky, operates from late November until December 30th. This market, set against the Palladium shopping center, features around 30 stalls selling handmade gifts and Czech specialties. Its relaxed, local vibe contrasts with the more bustling Old Town Square Market. Visitors can enjoy unique gifts and decorations from local artisans and its proximity to attractions like the Municipal House enhances its appeal. Tyl's Square Christmas Market, in the Vinohrady neighborhood, offers a more local experience. Open from late November to December 24th, this market is known for its high-quality handicrafts, festive decorations and family-friendly atmosphere, including a petting zoo. The Peace Square Christmas Market in Vinohrady, open until December 24th, is an intimate and less commercial option. Its wooden huts sell traditional goods and the market's relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for leisurely exploration. Prague's attractions like the Church of St. Ludmila adds to the market's charm. All these markets are accessible and free, each offering a unique glimpse into Prague's festive spirit and cultural richness.
Listed below are the best Christmas Markets in Prague in 2023.
- Old Town Square Christmas: The Old Town Square Christmas Market IS taking place from December 2 to January 6. Open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM, with food stalls available until midnight, it's the largest Christmas market in Prague, drawing visitors to Staroměstské náměstí. Entry is free and visitors can enjoy a range of Czech culinary delights, handicrafts and the magical ambiance of Christmas. Nearby attractions include the Astronomical Clock, the Gothic Powder Tower and the Art Nouveau Municipal House, among others, making the Old Town Square Christmas Market an essential destination for experiencing the festive spirit in Prague.
- Wenceslas Square Christmas Market: The Wenceslas Square Christmas Market in Prague is a festive destination, operational from December 2, 2023, to January 6, 2024. This market, located at Václavské náměstí in central Prague, is characterized by its vibrant atmosphere, adorned with Christmas lights and decorations. It stretches along the 750-meter length of the square, from the Můstek metro station to the Saint Wenceslas statue near the National Museum. Visitors to the Wenceslas Square Christmas Market can explore numerous wooden stalls selling Czech handicrafts, ornaments, toys, winter clothing and accessories. Notable nearby sights include The National Museum, The Gothic Powder Tower and the Old Town Square, home to another renowned Christmas market. Entry to the market is free, providing visitors with an enchanting experience of Christmas spirit and joy.
- Republic Square Christmas Market: The Republic Square Christmas Market in Prague, located at Náměstí Republiky in Prague 1, offers a unique and authentic festive experience. This market, operating from the last week of November until December 30th, provides extended hours on Christmas Eve, remaining open until 2:00 pm. Set against the backdrop of the Palladium shopping center and bordered by notable streets like Celetná and Na Příkopě, the market features around 30 wooden stalls. The market's location near several attractions, including the Municipal House and the Palladium Shopping Centre, adds to its appeal. Visitors can also explore the nearby historic and cultural sites like Celetna Street and the Art Nouveau Café Slavia, enhancing their holiday experience in Prague.
- Tyl’s Square Christmas Market: The Tyl's Square Christmas Market is located in Tylovo náměstí, 120 00 Praha 2. Tyl Square is a triangular pedestrian zone located northeast of the city center in the residential neighborhood of Vinohrady. The square is bounded by Škrétova, Slezská and Tylova streets. It lies just east of the IP Pavlova metro station, one stop from the city center. The square is also a short walk from the landmark Church of St. Ludmila on nearby Náměstí Míru. The Tyl's Square Christmas Market is open annually from late November through December 24th in Tyl Square (Tylovo náměstí) in the Vinohrady district of Prague. It is scheduled to open on Saturday, November 26th and run daily until Sunday, December 24th. The market's hours are from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm each day.
- Peace Square Christmas Market: The Peace Square Christmas Market, held at Peace Square (Náměstí Míru) in the Vinohrady district of Prague, is a charming and intimate holiday destination. This market typically opens in mid to late November and runs until December 24th, with daily operating hours from 10 am to 7 pm. Entry to the market is free and it's known for being less commercial and more affordable, making it an ideal spot for those seeking unique gifts at reasonable prices. Additionally, nearby parks like Riegrovy Sady and cultural attractions such as the National Museum of Agriculture offer further opportunities for exploration and enjoyment in the area.
1. Old Town Square Christmas Market
The Old Town Square is the largest Christmas market in Prague, Czech Republic. The market is located on Staroměstské náměstí in Prague 1 and will be open from Saturday, December 2, 2023 to Saturday, January 6, 2024. The market opens daily at 10 AM and closes at 10 PM, with food stalls open until midnight. The grand opening ceremony with the Christmas tree lighting is on the first Saturday of December. The square is surrounded by Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance buildings like the Old Town Hall with its Astronomical Clock, the Týn Church and the Church of St. Nicholas. The market fills the square with over 100 festively decorated wooden huts.
The market features over 100 wooden huts selling traditional Czech handicrafts, glassware, wooden toys, winter accessories, Christmas decorations, sweets and more. In the Old Town Square Christmas Market, a majestic illuminated Christmas tree is placed at the center, brought from a different Czech region annually. With festive music, performances, nativity scenes and delicious food, the Old Town Square market perfectly captures the Christmas spirit.
The Old Town Square Christmas market is located on Staroměstské náměstí in Prague 1 and will be open from Saturday, December 2, 2023 to Saturday, January 6, 2024 The market opens daily at 10 AM and closes at 10 PM, with food stalls open until midnight. The grand opening ceremony with the Christmas tree lighting is on the first Saturday of December.
Visitors should visit the Old Town Square Christmas market for its atmosphere, variety of handicrafts and gifts for sale, delicious Czech food and drink, live entertainment and Christmas spirit. It is the largest, most famous and most atmospheric market in Prague. The Christmas tree lighting ceremonies with music are magical.
Entry to the Old Town Square Christmas market is free. Visitors don't need to pay anything to access and walk around the market. Visitors will only need to pay for any food, drinks or items they purchase from the individual stalls and vendors. The Old Town Square market is surrounded by top attractions like the Astronomical Clock on the Old Town Hall, the gothic Týn Church, the baroque Church of St. Nicholas, the Jan Hus Memorial, the Gothic Powder Tower and the Art Nouveau Municipal House. Nearby streets lead to the Jewish Quarter, Wenceslas Square, Charles Bridge and more.
2. Wenceslas Square Christmas Market
The Wenceslas Square Christmas Market is also one of the Christmas markets held in Prague, Czech Republic. The Wenceslas Square Christmas Market features dozens of wooden huts and stalls selling Czech handicrafts, ornaments, toys, winter clothing and accessories, as well as food and drinks. The market has a festive atmosphere with Christmas lights and decorations throughout the square. There is live music, carol singing and other entertainment on the stage.
The Wenceslas Square Christmas Market for 2023 opens Saturday, December 2, 2023 to Saturday, January 6, 2024, daily from 10 am to 10 pm. Wenceslas Square Christmas Market is located at 110 00 Nové Město, Wenceslas Square in central Prague, Czech Republic. The full address is Václavské náměstí 110 00 Nové Město, Czechia. The Christmas market stretches the length of the square, which is 750 meters long and 60 meters wide. It starts at the bottom of the square near the Můstek metro station and continues up to the statue of Saint Wenceslas on horseback at the top of the square, close to the National Museum.
The Wenceslas Square Christmas Market brings a festive atmosphere with colorful Christmas lights, festive decorations, cheerful music and lively entertainment that fills visitors with holiday spirit. Visitors can browse numerous stalls selling unique locally-made handicrafts like carved wooden toys, painted glass ornaments, decorative wreaths, intricate lacework, ceramics and more. gingerbread and sweet trdelník cake washed down with steaming hot mulled wine.
Wenceslas Square Christmas Market is free to enter. There is no admission fee to access the market area and browse the stalls. The Wenceslas Square Christmas Market is surrounded by several major attractions and landmarks, being situated right in the heart of historic Prague. First, The National Museum which is located at the top of Wenceslas Square near the Christmas tree. Second, The Gothic Powder Tower is one of the original 13 gates in the Old Town wall. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city. Third, the Old Town Square is a 10-minute walk from Wenceslas Square. It is home to the famous Old Town Christmas Market, the Old Town Hall and the Astronomical Clock. Lastly, the Mucha Museum which is a 5-minute ride from Wenceslas Square Market. It is dedicated to Art Nouveau artist Alfons Mucha and is on Panská Street.
Wenceslas Square is known by its alternative Czech name ‘Václavské náměstí' to locals, so sometimes the Christmas market held there is referred to as “Václavské náměstí Christmas Market” and Václavák Christmas Market”. ‘Václavák' is a widely used shortened nickname for Wenceslas Square in colloquial Czech, named after Saint Wenceslas. Václavák Christmas Market is a common informal way to refer to the Wenceslas Square Christmas Market.
3. Republic Square Christmas Market
The Republic Square Christmas Market is located in Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky) in Prague 1, 110 00, Czech Republic. The Republic Square is situated at the northwest corner of the Old Town, adjacent to the Art Nouveau Municipal House and near the Powder Gate. The Christmas market sets up on the cobblestoned area directly in front of the Palladium shopping center, which is located on the east side of the square. Republic Square is also bordered by Celetná Street to the south and Na Příkopě Street to the west. The official hours are from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm each day over this time period. The market has special extended hours on Christmas Eve, December 24th, remaining open until 2:00 pm.
The Republic Square Christmas Market is a Christmas market held in Republic Square, located in the city center of Prague, Czech Republic. The market is set up with around 30 wooden stalls decorated with Christmas lights and ornaments that sell a variety of handmade Christmas gifts, decorations and local food and drink specialities. Some of the items visitors can find at the market include wooden toys, candles, wreaths, mistletoe, ceramics, jewelry and Christmas sweets. Several stalls also serve warm beverages like mulled wine, mead and hot chocolate to help visitors stay warm while browsing the market. Though smaller than the more famous Old Town Square Christmas Market, the Republic Square Christmas Market has a more intimate, authentic vibe and is popular with both tourists and locals.
The Republic Square Christmas Market has a more relaxed, local vibe that makes it worth a visit. With only around 30 stalls in a spacious square, it does not feel overly crowded like the famous Old Town Square Market. The products are unique handmade gifts and decorations from local artisans that make for special holiday souvenirs. The market's proximity to the Palladium shopping center is also convenient for combining shopping with browsing the stalls. Visitors looking for a Christmas market with old-world charm will enjoy the intimate ambience of the Republic Square Christmas Market.
The Republic Square Christmas Market is free to visit. The prices at the Republic Square Market's stalls are more affordable than those at the larger and more central Old Town Square Market. There is no admission cost just to walk around and take in the sights, sounds and smells of the charming market, visitors should come prepared with some cash if they plan to shop and sample food/drink items from vendors.
There are several nearby attractions in Republic Square Christmas Market in Prague. First, the Municipal House which serves as a testament to early 20th-century artistic excellence. Second, The Palladium Shopping Centre, a modern 5-story mall with over 200 shops and restaurants, offers a contemporary contrast to the historic surroundings. Third, Celetna Street, a pedestrianized thoroughfare adorned with historic houses, shops and restaurants, provides a snapshot of Prague's rich historical past at the doorstep of Republic Square. Fourth, Art Nouveau Café Slavia which was established in 1884 along the river, stands as an iconic meeting place for artists, writers and intellectuals, enhancing the square's historical and cultural significance. Lastly, the Dancing House, a unique architectural landmark designed by Frank Gehry, symbolizes modern creativity amidst the traditional Prague skyline, adding a touch of architectural diversity to the Republic Square vicinity.
The Republic Square Christmas Market does not appear to have any used alternative names. It is simply referred to as the Republic Square Christmas Market or in Czech “Vánoční trhy na Náměstí Republiky”. Some may call it the Christmas Market at Republic Square or in Czech “Vánoční trhy na náměstí Republiky”. But Republic Square Christmas.
4. Tyl’s Square Christmas Market
The Tyl's Square Christmas Market is located in Tylovo náměstí, 120 00 Praha 2. Tyl Square is a triangular pedestrian zone located northeast of the city center in the residential neighborhood of Vinohrady. The square is bounded by Škrétova, Slezská and Tylova streets. It lies just east of the IP Pavlova metro station, one stop from the city center. The square is also a short walk from the landmark Church of St. Ludmila on nearby Náměstí Míru. The Tyl's Square Christmas Market is open annually from late November through December 24th in Tyl Square (Tylovo náměstí) in the Vinohrady district of Prague. It is scheduled to open on Saturday, November 26th and run daily until Sunday, December 24th. The market's hours are from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm each day.
The Tyl's Square Christmas Market is a Christmas market that takes place annually in Tyl Square (Tylovo náměstí) in Prague, Czechia. It is one of several Christmas markets that pop up around Prague during the festive season. The Tyl's Square Christmas Market features classic wooden huts decked out with Christmas garlands and lights. Vendors in the huts sell a range of Christmas goods, including ornaments, decorations, candles, toys, winter accessories, glassware, ceramics and an assortment of sweets and baked goods. Compared to some of Prague's larger and more central Christmas markets, Tyl's Square offers a more local neighborhood feel. It attracts mostly locals rather than tourists, giving it an authentic ambience.
Tyl's Square Christmas Market is perfect for those seeking an authentic local experience. It is smaller and less crowded than some of Prague's larger markets. The market is set against a backdrop of Art Nouveau and Neo-Renaissance buildings. A standout feature of this market is the high-quality handicrafts available. Visitors can discover an array of locally made items, including glassware, ceramics, toys and unique gifts, all crafted by skilled artisans from Prague. Tyl's Square is suitable for families and even features activities like a petting zoo, which is sure to delight younger visitors.
The Tyl’s Square Christmas Market is free to visit. Visitors are welcome to wander through the wooden huts and stalls at their leisure without having to buy a ticket. The market does accept donations in collection boxes placed around the square. These donations help support projects for children in need, but contributing is completely voluntary for visitors.
Tyl's Square Christmas Market enjoys a great location close to notable attractions around Prague. First, St. Ludmila Church is located just a block away at Peace Square (Namesti Miru), within easy walking distance of Tyl's Square. It stands in the impressive neo-Gothic St. Ludmila Church. Second, Jan Palach Memorial is located in the vicinity of Tyl's Square, near the IP Pavlova station on Metro Line A. This memorial commemorates the Czech student who famously protested against the Soviet-led invasion of 1968. Third, Vysehrad is a short distance south of Tyl's Square lies the atmospheric Vysehrad. This historic site, encompassing a castle, fortress and cemetery, dates back over 1,000 years. Fourth, Prague Botanical Garden is a short walk from Tyl’s Square Christmas Market. The garden showcases over 4,000 plant species and allows visitors to enjoy a variety of plant life and landscaped beauty. Lastly, Parukarka Park: Parukarka Park is adjacent to the Botanical Garden, Parukarka Park is a hilltop oasis that offers panoramic views over Prague. The park is a favorite among locals and tourists alike for its scenic vistas, walking paths and a sense of tranquility, all while being in close proximity to Tyl's Square.
The Tyl's Square Christmas Market has an alternative name “The Christmas Market on Tylovo Square”. Tyl's Square is the English name translated from the Czech Tylovo náměstí.
5. Peace Square Christmas Market
Peace Square Christmas Market is held annually at Peace Square in the Vinohrady district of Prague.The market features rows of wooden huts and stalls set up around the square, each selling traditional Christmas goods, decorations, gifts and food. Vendors sell items such as wooden toys, puppets, glassware, ceramics, candles, jewelry, winter accessories, Christmas cookies and gingerbread. There are also stalls with hot and cold drinks like mulled wine, mead, Christmas punch and hot chocolate.
The Peace Square Christmas Market is located in Namesti Miru, 120 00 Praha 2, Czechia. It is just off the Namesti Miru metro station, on metro line A (green line) and only 3 metro stops from Wenceslas Square in central Prague. The Peace Square opens annually in mid to late November and runs until December 24th. The market opens daily at 10am and closes at 7pm, giving visitors ample time to browse the stalls, snacks on food and drinks and soak up the Christmas atmosphere.
The Peace Square Christmas Market in Prague stands out as a must-visit destination. This market allows visitors to mingle with locals and experience the city's festive season as a resident might. The intimate and friendly atmosphere of the Peace Square market is another significant draw. It is smaller and more relaxed than the bigger markets, allowing visitors to wander leisurely through the stalls without feeling overwhelmed. Being less commercial than the main tourist markets, the prices here tend to be more reasonable. This affordability makes it an ideal spot for those looking for interesting gifts that won't break the bank.
Entry to the Peace Square Christmas Market is completely free. There is no admission fee or tickets required to access the market. Visitors are welcome to wander around the stalls and take in the sights, sounds and scents without needing to pay anything.
The Peace Square Christmas Market is located near several captivating attractions. First, the neo-Gothic Church of St. Ludmila which not only serves as a backdrop to the Christmas market. Second, the Vinohrady District, celebrated for its stunning Art Nouveau buildings, offers a post-market exploration opportunity with cafes, boutique shops and bohemian atmosphere. Third, the Riegrovy Sady Park, is a spacious hilltop park and ideal for leisurely walks and picnics. Lastly, the National Museum Agriculture offers a unique perspective on Czech history, showcasing farming tools, techniques and the evolution of agriculture in the Czech Republic.
What food can visitors eat in Prague Christmas Market?
Listed below are Czech foods visitors can eat in Prague Christmas market.
- Prague Ham (Pražská šunka): Prague Ham is juicy, tender meat usually accompanied by thick slices of rye bread, mustard and horseradish for topping. Skilled vendors then carve slices right off the bone and serve them up fresh and hot on a plate or sandwich.
- Sausages (Klobása): Sausages have varieties include garlic-infused Czech kielbasa and the spicy, paprika-laced debreciner. Sausages and crispy fried onions with piquant mustard make perfect accompaniments.
- Bramboráky: Bramboráky is a crisp potato pancake that is made from grated raw potatoes mixed with flour and egg, then fried up in hot oil. Bramboráky are often served plain, but can also be topped with salty bacon bits, pungent Gouda cheese or earthy mushrooms and onions.
- Trdelník: Trdelník is a Christmas market favorite. Strips of yeast dough are wrapped around a metal rod and cooked over an open fire, then rolled in sugar, cinnamon and walnuts while still hot. Vendors sometimes inject the hollow pastry with chocolate or fill it with ice cream for added decadence.
What to drink when Prague Christmas Market opens?
Listed below are the drinks you can have at Prague Christmas Market.
- Mulled Wine (Svařák): Mulled Wine is a Christmas market drink featuring red wine infused with spices and citrus. Vendors ladle the piping hot concoction from large cauldrons into paper cups. The aromatic steam carries notes of orange, cinnamon, clove and cardamom.
- Mead (Medovina): Mead is made by fermenting honey with water and has an alluring golden hue. The slightly alcoholic mead offers a soothing contrast to the bitterness of the cold.
- Grog: Grog is like an alcoholic twist on good old-fashioned hot cider. Grog consists of rum, lemon, sugar and hot water, this simple mixer makes an excellent adult winter warmer.
- Punch (Punč) : Punch is a combination of rum, lemon, spices and sugar combined in hot fruity perfection. Czech Christmas punch is often garnished with orange slices and cinnamon sticks, which add even more festive aroma.
What can people buy in the Prague Christmas Market?
Listed below are the things you can buy in Prague Christmas Market
- Christmas Tree Ornaments: Christmas Tree Ornaments are artfully painted glass baubles, delicate beaded garlands and wire angels are just some of the ways to decorate your tree. These ornaments feature Bohemian glass beads and crystals glitter brightly.
- Wooden Toys: Wooden Toys are being sold by skilled craftsmen who carve charming traditional toys like nutcrackers, rocking horses, spinning tops and Matryoshka nesting dolls.
- Jewelry: Jewelry made by Czech artisans are renowned for delicate wire-wrapped jewelry, Bohemian garnet pieces and Art Nouveau-style enameled flower brooches and pins.
- Winter Accessories: Winter Accessories are hand-knitted woolen scarves, ear flap hats, touchscreen gloves and sheepskin mittens make excellent gifts.
- Beeswax Candles: Beeswax Candles are scented candles made from natural beeswax and set in holders of engraved glass, wood or pewter to add festive hygge to any space.
- Ceramics: Ceramics are hand-painted mugs, plates and bowls depicting seasonal motifs like roosters, angels and snowflakes make charming additions to your holiday table settings.
How to get to Prague Christmas Market?
Reaching Prague's magical Christmas markets is simple by using the city's efficient public transportation system. The major markets are located in the historic city center, easily accessible via metro, tram or bus. To get to Old Town Square, take metro line A to Staroměstská station or tram 2, 17 or 18 to the Staroměstské náměstí stop. It's just a short 5-minute walk from the station to the central Christmas market. This Gothic square is also readily walkable from hotels in Old Town.
For Wenceslas Square, metro lines A and B stop at Můstek station. Alternatively, trams 3, 5, 6, 9, 14 and 24 all stop right on Wenceslas Square itself, at the Václavské náměstí stop. From Mustek station, it's only about a 10-minute stroll downhill along the square to reach the market. The Christmas market at Republic Square is right next to the Náměstí Republiky metro station on the yellow B line. Take any B-line train there and you'll exit right by the market. Travelers can reach the Peace Square market via the Náměstí Míru metro stop on the green A-line. It's only a minute or two walk from the station to the market.
For the market at Prague Castle, take tram 22 or 23 from Malostranská metro station up the hill to the Pražský Hrad stop. From there, a 5-minute uphill walk reaches the market. Prague's entire public transit system is very tourist-friendly, with signs and announcements in English. Ticket machines have an English option. And the metro is safe and straightforward to navigate with color-coded lines.
Where to stay in Prague during the Prague Christmas Market?
Here are the best hotels to stay near Prague Christmas Market.
- Hotel Rott: Hotel Rott is located just 3-minute walk and in the very center of Prague's Old Town, notably at The Little Square (Malé Namesti). The hotel's design and décor reflect the elegance of the late 19th century, yet it is equipped with all the modern conveniences you might expect from a high-quality accommodation. The hotel receives a visitor rating of 4.6 in Google Maps.
- Hotel Clementin Old Town: Hotel Clementin Old Town is a 4-star hotel and 6-minute walk from Prague Christmas Market. It is steps away from various restaurants, shops and bars and offers a good breakfast along with a range of services, including air conditioning and laundry facilities. The hotel receives a visitor rating of 4.6 in Google Maps.
- DOMINICAN Hotel: DOMINICAN Hotel is located at Jilska 7, a 4-minute walk from Old Town Square. The hotel is equipped with amenities including free WiFi, air conditioning, breakfast options, laundry services and room service, ensuring a comfortable stay for its guests. The hotel receives a visitor rating of 4.6 in Google Maps.
What are the best restaurants to eat in Prague Christmas Market?
Here are the best restaurants to stay near Prague Christmas Market.
- Lot of Wine Prague: Lot of Wine Prague is located just a minute away from Old Town Square. The restaurant includes French, Seafood, Mediterranean and Deli options. The price range is quite broad, from very affordable to higher-end options, catering to a diverse set of preferences. The restaurant receives a visitor rating of 4.8 in Google Maps.
- Restaurace Mincovna: Restaurace Mincovna is situated in the Stare Mesto of Prague, very close to the Old Town Square. This restaurant offers a blend of European, Czech, Eastern European and Central European cuisines. It caters to various dietary needs with vegetarian and gluten-free options available. The restaurant receives a visitor rating of 4.5 in Google Maps. Restaurace Mincovna is considered on of the best restaurants to eat in Prague.
- Bar Restaurant Orloj: Bar Restaurant Orloj is located at StaromEstske nam. 550/18 Staré Město, It offers European and Czech cuisines with options for late-night dining and drinks. The restaurant has a mixed reputation, with some praising its location and offerings, while others find the service and food less than optimal. The restaurant receives a visitor rating of 4.3 in Google Maps.
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