7 magical experiences to enjoy in Prague in winter

7 magical experiences to enjoy in Prague in winter

From ice skating to black light theatre, discover the best things to do with this winter guide to Prague.

The charm of the medieval city of Prague really comes alive in winter. The Christmas markets brim with seasonal crafts and treats, and the concert halls buzz with the sound of seasonal music, ballet, and theater. There is no shortage of museums, like the Mucha Museum, and landmarks, like Prague Castle, to take in the city’s art, history, and culture. Whether you’re visiting with the whole family, as a couple, or with friends, discover the best things to do in Prague in winter.

Prague’s best winter activities at a glance

The best Christmas markets in Prague: The Old Town Square, Wenceslas Square, and Havelska Market are the most popular Christmas markets in Prague.

Activities for families in Prague during the winter: Christmas markets at the Old Town Square, ice-skating at Wenceslas Square, the castle complex at Prague Castle

Spend a unique evening in Prague in winter: Visit a black light theatre to experience the magic of a performance under ultraviolet light.

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Prague's many Christmas markets help to transform the city into a winter fairytale during the festive season.

1. Explore the Christmas markets

A winter guide to Prague wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Christmas markets. With copious quantities of mulled wine as well as handcrafted soaps and jewelry, it’s a celebration of the season. Under the glow of Christmas lights, this medieval city transforms into a winter fairytale, and you can find the main Christmas market in Staroměstské nám (Old Town Square). Cold beers are swapped for hot chocolates and coffees, and Czech specialties like Šunka (spit-roasted ham), and Perničy (spiced gingerbread) add a distinct fragrance to the air.

Why do it in winter?

The Christmas markets only take place between mid-November to early January.

Addresses and opening hours

Staroměstské nám., 110 00 Josefov, Prague 1. Open daily from late November to early January, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM.

Discover more of the Old Town Square

2. Discover Alphonse Mucha's art nouveau masterpieces

Escape the cold and step into the world's only museum dedicated to Czech Art Nouveau master, Alphonse Mucha to immerse yourself in his warm, intricate designs. Opened in 1998, the compact Mucha Museum in Prague showcases a stunning collection of Mucha's paintings, posters, drawings, and lithographs. For exclusive insights into the artist's life and work, book a guided tour with one of the professional museum guides at least seven days in advance.

Why do it in winter?

Visiting a museum is one of the best things to do in Prague in winter because they are a welcome indoor rest from the cold days and dark evenings.

Addresses and opening hours

Mucha Museum, Kaunický palác, Panská 7, 110 00 Prague 1. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

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The medieval Charles Bridge is over 650 years old.

3. Walk along Charles Bridge

A true icon of Prague, the 650-year-old Charles Bridge draws visitors into the city’s medieval heart, where its 30 Baroque statues stand along the cobblestone path. Whether viewed from a boat gliding on the Vltava River or explored on foot on a walking tour, this bridge captures the timeless charm and storied past of the city.

Why do it in winter?

Charles Bridge in winter takes on a charming atmosphere, with fewer crowds and, if you’re lucky, a dusting of snow. Early mornings or evenings are breathtaking, as the bridge is beautifully lit.

Find more tours featuring the Charles Bridge

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There are many pop-up ice rinks in Prague during the holidays.

4. Get your skates on at a pop-up ice rink

Experience winter magic at Prague's pop-up ice rinks, perfect for a romantic outing or family fun. Glide across the ice at Wenceslas Square, with its 100 by 40-foot rink providing ample space for skaters of all levels. There’s also a food stand where you can grab a snack or a hot beverage to warm up. Also, don't miss the opportunity to skate at Galerie Harfa mall’s rooftop rink for unforgettable city views.

Why do it in winter?

Indoor skating rinks are available all year long, but you can only skate outdoors in winter.

Explore more tours of the Wenceslas Square

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Photo: Stephen Lioy

Book a show at the HILT Black Light Theater.

5. See a show and be enchanted by Prague’s winter performances

You can’t cover the best things to do in Prague in winter without mentioning concerts and operas. Book a show at the National Theatre where there is a diverse range of classical ballet and opera performances. Prague is also home to black light theatre, a captivating theatrical experience where performers use mesmerizing visual effects, glowing props, and costumes under ultraviolet light. It’s universal because it’s a wordless performance perfect for all age groups. Visit the HILT Black Light Theatre for a world-class show ideal for families.

Why do it in winter?

With a rich variety of operas, ballets, and dramas, including many premieres and productions specifically tailored for the holiday season, Prague's theatres provide a warm and culturally rich escape from the winter chill.

Learn more about concert and shows in Prague

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Prague Castle is one of the largest castle complexes in the world.

6. Explore the majestic Prague Castle

Discover the world's largest castle complex, which has been a symbol of Czech history for over a century. Wander through the grand courtyards of Prague Castle, visit the Old Royal Palace, and marvel at the Gothic beauty of St. Vitus Cathedral. Also, don't miss the picturesque Golden Lane and the Renaissance gems in the Royal Garden, including Queen Anne's Summer Palace. The changing of the guard happens every hour during opening times at two gates, and another must-see is the ceremonial changing of the guard with lots of fanfare that takes place in Courtyard 1 daily at noon.

Why do it in winter?

Winter offers a quieter, more intimate experience at Prague Castle. With fewer tourists, you can enjoy the castle's grandeur at a relaxed pace and capture stunning snow-covered views of the city below.

Address and opening hours

Prague Castle, Hradčany, 119 08 Prague 1. From November to March, the castle complex is open daily from 09:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Find more Prague Castle tours

Winter in Prague: FAQs

1. Is it expensive to visit Prague in winter?

The city is generally cheaper than other major European cities, and the summer vendors have packed away their wares, hotels have dropped their prices, and everything gets even more reasonable, also making celebrating Christmas in Prague a good value option.

2. Is it worth visiting Prague in winter?

There’s a lot to see, do, and eat during the winter months. The city has many unmissable landmarks and attractions, like Prague Castle, Wenceslas Square, and Charles Bridge, which are less crowded at this time of year, making winter one of the best times to visit Prague.

3. What are the best things to do in Prague in winter?

You’ll find Christmas markets in every winter guide to Prague, and not without reason. You can enjoy mulled wine and handcrafted goods at the Christmas markets in Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square. For cultural experiences, visit the Mucha Museum to discover Art Nouveau masterpieces or attend a performance at a Black Light Theatre. Also, go ice skating at pop-up rinks, including the rooftop rink at Galerie Harfa, or take a walk along the snow-dusted Charles Bridge.

4. How many days do you need in Prague?

A typical visit to the city can be done in about three days, so a long weekend in Prague is an ideal break. This timeframe allows you to see the main highlights and get a good overview of the city's history, architecture, and culture.

5. What is the coldest month in Prague?

It’s usually coldest in January, with an average low temperature of 25 F (-4 C) and an average high of only 34 F (1 C ). Snowfall is possible from late November through February.

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