The two best-known markets are on Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square. Both are in the heart of the city and usually open together with a ceremonial tree lighting. Old Town Square is the postcard version, with the big tree, wooden stalls and the Astronomical Clock in the background. Wenceslas Square is longer and simpler, and often a little calmer.
Other markets worth knowing
Smaller markets appear in several districts. Peace Square (Náměstí Míru) and Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky) are popular with locals and usually have shorter queues. There is also a market at Prague Castle. Which markets run, and when, is announced each autumn, so confirm the list before you go.
What to eat and drink
Expect mulled wine (*svařák*), hot punch and mead, grilled sausages, potato pancakes (*bramboráky*), roasted chestnuts and gingerbread (*perníčky*). Trdelník is everywhere, although it is a tourist favourite rather than a traditional Czech dish. Most stalls accept cards, but cash helps at the smallest ones.
When to go
Evenings are the most atmospheric and also the busiest, especially at weekends and in the second half of December. For quieter streets, visit on a weekday morning or early afternoon and return after dark if you want the lights. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowds.
Arriving in the Advent season
Flights fill early in December and the centre is crowded in the evening. A pre-booked transfer is easier than a taxi hunt with winter luggage:
- Your driver waits after you land. See what to expect at the airport.
- Parts of the Old Town are pedestrian zones, so the driver takes you to the nearest point a car can reach. Check the exact drop-off with your hotel.
- Winter clothes mean bigger bags. See Prague with children and luggage to pick the right vehicle. A Minivan takes up to 7 passengers.
- Flying in late or leaving early? Read late-night and early-morning transfers.
Book your airport transfer early in December. The price is fixed and you pay the driver in cash or by card in the car.
Christmas markets beyond Prague
If you have a free day, the most popular choice is Dresden, about two hours away. Vienna, Nuremberg, Munich and Bratislava also have well-known markets: see our transfers to Vienna, Nuremberg, Munich and Bratislava. For a full overview, see Christmas markets from Prague.
Winter day trips that are not markets
Winter is a good time for Kutná Hora, Karlovy Vary, Český Krumlov in Advent, Bohemian Switzerland and mountain scenery in the Krkonoše: Špindlerův Mlýn in winter. Planning a trip beyond Prague? Read about Vienna, Nuremberg, Munich and Bratislava. Day trips depend on weather and road conditions. For more ideas, see best day trips from Prague.
Get your fixed price and pay the driver in cash or by card in the car.