Prague. The city of a hundred towers. Synonymous with the baroque splendor of the Old Town, the Hradčany, the Charles Bridge, the medieval astronomical clock and the incomparable beer. All this creates the ideal setting for a romantic atmosphere that really enchants visitors to the city in the run-up to Christmas. A visit is therefore worthwhile and so we have the best tips for Advent in Prague ready for you.
Getting there
We chose the train, and can recommend it for sure. Both Regiojet and ÖBB offer a connection several times a day from Vienna, which takes an average of 4:30 hours. Alternatively, there is the possibility to start the journey by bus, also for this there are several providers such as Flixbus. Of course, you can also come with your own car.
However, we would like to point out that there may be complications in terms of both traffic and parking, especially during the busy period before the holidays. Tip at the Prague train station: Spend any waiting time at Café Fantova in the historic part of the station. Here you can sit on swings at the bar, look at the beautiful Art Nouveau dome and enjoy a pastry.
How to Pay in Prague
In the Czech Republic, payments are still made in koruna. The exchange rate at the time of our research was 1€ = 25 CZK. Countless exchange offices line the old town, but it is easier and ultimately cheaper to pay by card. And this is possible almost everywhere without exception. So you don’t need cash at the Christmas markets either.
Christmas Markets in Prague
Throughout the city you can find several enchanting markets of different sizes. What they have in common is the excellent culinary supply of traditional Czech dishes and drinks. Be it Prague ham smoked over an open fire, potato pancakes with sauerkraut or drinkable honey wine – there is something for everyone here. The best tips for Advent in Prague must therefore include some Advent markets. We have decided on the following:
Christmas Market Old Town
There is actually no getting past it. The market extends over the entire huge square and is accordingly well attended. The large number of stalls, however, ensures that waiting times are kept within limits even during the biggest rush. Traditional dishes and goods made according to old craftsmanship are offered for sale here. The lively hustle and bustle between the Teyn Church and the Old Town Hall is a must see – best with mulled wine in one hand and Tredelník in the other.
St. Wenceslas Square Christmas Market
The historically significant square in the center of Prague is home to a traditional Christmas market. Actually located in the lower part, it now also expands towards the National Museum with its stalls. In addition to traditional Czech handicrafts, Prague’s second largest Christmas market features wooden toys, ceramic figurines and Czech specialties.
St. Wencesla’s Vinyard
Quasi our insider tip. And actually not a classic Christmas market. However, the winery directly below the exit from Prague Castle is so festively decorated that you should not miss it. In addition to a long bar, which offers you the usual hearty food and excellent mulled wines, you can retreat to the tent to warm up. Highlights are the great view over the city and the very cleverly draped decorative pieces, which will form the proverbial perfect frame for your next Instagram post.
Urban Escape
If the hustle and bustle of Wenceslas Square, Charles Bridge and the Old Town Square is too much for you – which we can understand – head to our favorite oasis of peace in Prague: Vyšehradské sady. The park is located about 3 kilometers south of the Old Town. You can reach it from there by streetcars 3, 2, 17 and 18. The park is located around a medieval castle. It offers beautiful views and some sights, for example the so-called “Devil’s Columns”. Here you can take a walk or go for a run, like we did.
Beer & Food
Not many cities have a similar density of largely authentic pubs as Czech capital. Since they are simply part of the city, they have to be among the best tips for Advent in Prague. The best thing to do is to go to one of the beer pubs decked out for Christmas and feast on the golden drink, which is ideally tapped directly from the tank into your glass. If they also play a Christmas number, you’re sure to get into the right mood while enjoying the anticipatory festive roast.
A side tip: The most popular places, such as Lokál, are very crowded. Especially if you want to have dinner, you should book in advance. With this in mind, we hope you have a great time and Merry Christmas.
