Christmas Markets in Prague 2024-2025

Prague is especially enchanting during the Christmas season, and its charm comes to life at the Christmas markets (vánoční trhy) in squares like Old Town Square, Republic Square, and Wenceslas Square. Visitors can stroll through lit-up alleys and enjoy traditional Czech Christmas cakes, Bohemian crystals, wooden toys, and other holiday treats. The markets are open daily from 10 am to 10 pm, running from December until January 6, including Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day.

Old Town Square Christmas Market (November 30, 2024–January 6, 2025)

The Christmas market at Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí) in Prague is the largest in the country, nestled among Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque buildings near the Jan Hus statue. Its centerpiece is a massive Christmas tree illuminated with thousands of lights, which are lit several times each evening to music. The market features stalls offering local treats like trdelníks, klobása, langoš, palačinky, and šunka, along with mulled wine, grog, and hot chocolate. Daily live performances and concerts enhance the festive atmosphere. The market is open from 10 am to 10 pm, with free entry.

Wenceslas Square Christmas Market (November 30, 2024–January 6, 2025)

Wenceslas Square, located just a five-minute walk from Old Town Square, features an artificial Christmas tree and a charming market filled with Czech Christmas delicacies such as vánočka (braided cake) and mulled wine (svařák). Vendors offer handmade items like wooden toys, glass decorations, and blacksmith-made iron crafts. In addition to food, this market has more shops selling souvenirs, paintings, and holiday gifts compared to Old Town Square. There's also a small ice skating rink. The market operates daily from 10 am to 10 pm.

Republic Square Christmas Market (November 30–December 30, 2024)

Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky) offers a more local Christmas market experience, just a short walk from Old Town Square. This market attracts fewer tourists and is popular with residents. Another notable spot is 'Christmas at the Exhibition Grounds,' featuring entertainment for children. Smaller markets can be found at Havel's Market, on Kampa Island, and at Prague Castle in front of St. George's Basilica. These smaller markets offer a mix of food, hot drinks, and souvenirs, providing a cozy and less crowded alternative to the larger markets.

Na Kampě Square Christmas Market (November 30, 2024–January 1, 2025)

Na Kampě Square Christmas Market, located by Charles Bridge in Lesser Town, offers a charming holiday experience in a picturesque setting. Nestled on the west side of the Vltava River, colorful buildings surround this small market, adding to its festive atmosphere. Though modest in size, its location and cozy ambiance make it one of the most enchanting Christmas markets in Prague. The market operates daily from 10 am to 8 pm, providing visitors with food, crafts, and seasonal delights.

Havel's Market (Havelské tržiště) (all year round)

Havel’s Market, located between Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, is a permanent outdoor market in Prague that transforms into a festive destination during December. Decorated for the Christmas season, it offers a festive ambiance with seasonal goods and local crafts. As the only year-round market in the city center, Havel’s Market is a convenient stop for both locals and tourists. Its opening hours are daily from 6 am to 6:30 pm, making it a lively spot to explore throughout the day.

Krampus in the Czech Republic

One of the biggest Christmas events in the Czech Republic is Krampus, the companion of St. Nicholas, who punishes misbehaved children. This tradition has become widely celebrated in the country, featuring various events such as the famous Krampuslauf in České Budějovice and numerous Krampus shows in Prague.