Imagine strolling through cobbled streets as snowflakes dance around medieval spires and golden lanterns. Head to the Czech capital from November to March, and you could experience these storybook scenes yourself. In winter, Prague moves to a slower, more magical rhythm.
In this guide, you'll discover everything you need to know about visiting Prague in winter. We've gathered local tips from our travel consultants who know the city inside out.
You'll learn when to go, what weather to expect, and which Christmas markets to visit. Whether you’re looking for cosy cafés or snow-dusted viewpoints, we've covered all the essentials for your perfect winter trip.
- Start planning your winter escape with these European Christmas market tours
When is winter in Prague?
Winter in Prague begins in late November and lasts until early March. In December, the daylight fades early, around 4:30 PM, and the city glows under streetlamps and festive lights.
In December and January, temperatures hover around 0°C (32°F) during the day and often dip below freezing after sunset. You might experience snowfall from late November, but January and February are the best times to see a Prague blanketed in snow.
By March, you can feel the first hints of spring as temperatures become milder, climbing towards 8–10°C (46-50°F).
Why visit Prague in winter?
In summer, Prague is beautiful and lively. Come winter, the pace changes. The air turns crisp, and the city’s famous landmarks become peaceful.
Beyond the postcard-perfect snowy scenes, visiting Prague in winter means experiencing a different side of this beloved city.
Prague becomes fairy-tale-like in winter. The castle is particularly magical, especially when viewed from across a snow-covered city.
- Emily, Trip Designer
Local tip: Although winter is usually a more peaceful time to explore Prague, the 4 Advent weekends leading up to Christmas draw lots of visitors to the city.
Advent weekends before Christmas can be busier than summer. But if you visit midweek, you'll find the Christmas markets quieter and more atmospheric.
- Jana, Travel Consultant
Winter is also a great time to tuck into hearty Czech dishes like beef stew, roast pork, and dumplings, which feel tailor-made for chilly days. Imagine biting into a steaming chimney cake (“trdelník”) – it tastes even better in the cold.
During winter, I recommend trying mulled wine. It's a big part of Czech culture.
- Gabriela, Travel Consultant
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How to spend Christmas in Prague
If you’re visiting Prague in December, you're in for a treat. Strings of fairy lights stretch over the streets. Church bells echo through the cold. And everywhere you look, there's a sense of wonder.
The city leans into the season with a calendar of festive events. You’ll find concerts in churches across the city, and outdoor performances in the Old Town Square.
Don’t miss the chance to take a walking tour that weaves through the historic streets. You can weave past the Old Town Hall, where you can watch the iconic Astronomical Clock come to life.
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When do the Christmas markets start in Prague?
Christmas kicks off in late November, when the first markets open their wooden stalls. Most run until early January, though a few wrap up on Christmas Eve. If you're wondering when to visit, early December is best for soaking up the festive buzz.
I really recommend visiting Prague’s Christmas markets. They're some of the best in Europe. One of my favourite things to do is grab a chimney cake or a langoš, flame-baked flatbread topped with sour cream and cheese – super popular and tasty.
-Gabriela, Travel Consultant
Each of the city’s Christmas markets brings its own flavour. Some specialise in handmade gifts, others in delicious festive treats. These are just a few of Prague’s must-visit markets.
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1. Old Town Square (“Staroměstské náměstí”)
Right in the heart of the city, Old Town Square is transformed by a towering Christmas tree. There are daily music performances, and dozens of beautifully decorated stalls.
Don’t miss: Hot mead, traditional biscuits, and handmade Christmas decorations.
2. Wenceslas Square (“Václavském náměstí”)
Just a short walk away is Wenceslas Square. You'll smell sausages grilling, potato pancakes sizzling, and see chimney cakes (“trdelník”) spun fresh over open coals.
Don’t miss: Hot punch, grilled sausages (“klobása”), and festive gifts like wooden toys or scented candles.
3. Prague Castle (“Pražský Hrad”)
Perched above the city, this quieter market sits inside the grounds of Prague Castle. The small, authentic market has an unbeatable view of Prague below.
Don’t miss: Roasted almonds, mulled wine, and artisanal crafts.
4. Peace Square (“Náměstí Míru”)
This market is a local favourite. It opens earlier than most, usually around 20 November, and wraps up on Christmas Eve. Set outside the beautiful neo-gothic Basilica of St. Ludmila, it has a slower pace and community feel.
Don’t miss: Gingerbread, tree decorations, and hand-knit woollens.
Things to do in Prague in winter
Prague in winter isn’t just about Christmas. Even after the markets pack up, there’s plenty to see, taste, and do. You might enjoy museums, relaxed walks, or cosy cafés – this city suits a slower pace. Prefer guided tours that reveal hidden stories or warm indoor escapes? Prague has those too.
Read on to uncover some of the top things to do in Prague at this time of year.
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1. Discover iconic landmarks
There’s something peaceful about wandering through Prague’s historic centre in winter.
At Prague Castle, you can walk through calm courtyards and look up at the soaring spires of St. Vitus Cathedral. Inside, the stained glass catches the winter light in rich colours. Over on Golden Lane, the small colourful houses look like something out of a fairy tale, especially with a dusting of snow.
A stroll across Charles Bridge is always a highlight. But in winter, with fewer people around, you can stop to admire the stonework and take in the views over the Vltava River.
I will never stop recommending climbing the Lesser Town Bridge tower on Charles Bridge. Most visitors miss this opportunity, but it offers some of the best views in Prague.
- Emily, Trip Designer
2. Uncover Prague’s history
If you're curious about Prague’s history, winter is a great time to explore it.
In the Jewish Quarter, known as Josefov, you can step into some of the oldest and most significant buildings in the city. The Old-New Synagogue continues to hold services after centuries of use.
Just around the corner, the Jewish Museum takes you through the past and present of Prague’s Jewish community, while the Old Jewish Cemetery gives you a moment to pause and reflect.
3. Go ice skating
In winter, ice rinks appear across Prague. One pops up in Ovocný trh, tucked between buildings in the Old Town. Letná Park has another, where you can skate with a view over the rooftops. If you stay in the centre, you’ll find that Wenceslas Square also has one.
Why not rent a pair of ice skates? You don’t need any experience to enjoy a few laps. Just wrap up warm and have a go.
4. Warm up with hearty food and drink
Czech cuisine, hearty and comforting, really comes into its own in winter. A plate of svíčková, slow-cooked beef with creamy sauce and dumplings, will warm you from the inside out. You might also like roast duck and red cabbage – a great match for a crisp Czech lager.
As temperatures drop outside, Prague's legendary beer culture is the perfect excuse to linger indoors.
Beer culture is huge in Prague. Tank beer, an unfiltered Czech speciality, has become very popular. There are even venues that specialise in it.
- Jana, Travel Consultant
Local tip: For traditional Czech food and tank beer, head to Lokál or Dva Kohouti. Both are beloved by Prague residents and serve traditional dishes. The further you venture from Old Town Square, the more authentic your experience will be.
5. Discover Prague's historic cafés
If you're in the mood for something sweet, peek into one of Prague's historic cafés. The city’s rich café culture dates back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, during the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
Café Imperial is among the most stunning. Its ornate art nouveau tiles and high ceilings will transport you to another era. Franz Kafka was once a regular here, and you can almost feel the literary history as you sip your coffee and indulge in Czech pastries.
Or, for a cosy coffee spot, visit Villa Werichová in the Kampa neighbourhood. This hidden gem is tucked away from the tourist spots and serves homemade cakes that locals rave about.
6. Visit museums and galleries
For a break from the cold, Prague’s galleries and museums are the perfect retreat.
The Klementinum Library is known as one of the most beautiful in the world, and it’s easy to see why. Shelves stretch up toward painted ceilings, and light filters through tall windows.
The National Museum, just off Wenceslas Square, is packed with fascinating exhibits on natural history, music, art, and more. The National Gallery, which showcases Czech and European works, is also well worth a visit.
For something a little more off-beat, visit the Illusion Art Museum, or the Pilsner Experience to learn about Czech brewing.
- Gabriela, Travel Consultant
What's the weather like in Prague in winter?
Winter in Prague lasts from late November to early March. Each month is different, so knowing what to expect can help you pack smart and plan well.
November marks the shift from autumn to winter. Mornings are crisp, and you might see the first snowfall of the season. Temperatures range from 2–7°C (35–44°F), and you’ll notice the days getting shorter.
December is when winter settles in. The city glows under festive lights, and snow is more frequent. Daytime highs hover near 0°C (32°F), and the sun sets about 4:30 PM.
January is the coldest month of the year. Nighttime temperatures can drop to -4°C (25°F), while daytime rarely climbs above 1°C (34°F).
February tends to be milder than January, though snow is still common. So, it’s a great time for sledging, ice-skating, and peaceful park walks.
March brings a hint of spring. You could still see snow, but most days temperatures reach 8–10°C (46–50°F). Trees begin to bud, and the city slowly warms up.
Does it snow in Prague?
Yes, and it’s beautiful! Snowfall can start in late November, but it’s most common in January and February. During these months, the city gets around 11–12 snowy days each month.
It doesn’t always pile up, but when it does, it creates a peaceful hush across the rooftops and a soft crunch underfoot. Statues, spires, and old stone walls look striking with a dusting of white. It’s one of the things that makes Prague feel so enchanting at this time of year.
What to pack for a winter trip
To stay comfortable, bring a winter coat – something thick, windproof, and waterproof. Sturdy boots with a good grip are a must for walking on snowy cobblestones.
Layering is also important. Thermal base layers and jumpers will help you adjust between warm cafés and chilly streets. Don’t forget a hat, scarf, gloves and thick socks. They’ll make a big difference when you’re out exploring all day.
Plan your Prague winter escape
Escape to Prague this winter, and get ready to make memories you’ll cherish long after your trip ends! You might find yourself sipping mulled wine at a Christmas market, gliding across an ice rink, or admiring the view from Charles Bridge.
With Nordic Visitor, organising your getaway is simple. Your dedicated travel consultant knows Prague inside out and will create your ideal itinerary. You can personalise your trip by adding extra nights, optional tours, or winter experiences such as walking tours and Christmas market visits.
We’ll take care of arranging your accommodation and local transport, such as train tickets or car hire. You’ll also get personal recommendations and insider tips to help you make the most of your time in the Czech Republic. Plus, our 24/7 helpline means you can travel with peace of mind.
Discover the magic of Prague in winter on a European Christmas market tour. These carefully tailored itineraries include Prague, Munich, Vienna, and Budapest.
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