When the days start getting shorter and the temperature drops close to zero, it’s a sure sign that the most magical time of the year is approaching. Towns across the Czech Republic light up with thousands of twinkling lights, the squares fill with the scent of cinnamon, cloves and pine, and we can finally start looking forward to Advent. I’ve put together 14 tips for the best and most beautiful Czech Christmas markets, guaranteed to get you in the festive mood. Wrap yourself in a warm scarf, grab a cup of hot punch or mulled wine, and let’s take a look at where to head this year for the best atmosphere. 🎄
A quick summary for those short on time
- Prague: Old Town Square boasts the country’s largest Christmas tree, and this year’s market runs from November 28, 2026 to January 6, 2027, open daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm.
- Brno: Brno Christmas on Freedom Square runs from November 27 to December 23, 2026 — make sure you try the legendary local Turbomošt.
- České Budějovice: From November 18, 2026 to January 6, 2027, Přemysl Otakar II Square offers not just market stalls but also a popular ice rink and an observation wheel.
- Olomouc: The town is famous for its extensive mulled-wine zone on the Upper and Lower Squares, with this year’s market running from November 22 to December 24, 2026; the official opening takes place on November 22 at 6:00 pm.
- Ostrava and Zlín: If you love sweets, go try the traditional Wallachian frgál pastries. Ostrava Christmas runs from November 21, 2026 to January 6, 2027, and Advent Zlín starts on November 27, with the tree on Zlín’s Peace Square lit on the first Sunday of Advent, November 29, at 5:45 pm.
- Jihlava: Christmas in Jihlava kicks off on Sunday, November 29, 2026, at 4:45 pm with the tree lighting on Masaryk Square, right after which a unique circular ice rink opens around the plague column and stays open until February 7, 2027.
- Getting there and parking: For a calmer experience, I recommend going on weekday mornings, and in bigger cities, using park-and-ride lots on the outskirts and taking public transport into the center.
- Price guide: A cup of fragrant mulled wine usually costs around €3-4, and a sweet trdelník will set you back roughly €4-5.
- Our food tips: Our favorite thing at the markets is lining up for a good crispy potato pancake and warming up with a delicious hot apple cider.
The full destination guide: Czechia — guide and what to see
All 2026 Christmas markets: a calendar of dates and tips on markets across Europe
Czech Christmas Markets: A Bit of History
Did you know that Christmas markets here have a genuinely rich tradition that dates back deep into the Middle Ages? Originally, they had nothing to do with sipping mulled wine with friends. These markets started for purely practical reasons, as places where people could stock up on supplies before winter set in, buy ingredients for holiday baking, and pick up small gifts for their loved ones.
Over time, though, these purely practical shopping trips turned into a beautiful social event. Today, Christmas markets are mainly about getting together, soaking up the festive atmosphere, and enjoying some calm before the real Christmas rush kicks in.
💡 Tip: Don’t want to deal with transport and parking? Plenty of bus trips to Christmas markets run every year, and you can easily pick one that suits you on a portal like Invia.
14 Tips for the Best Christmas Markets in the Czech Republic
If wandering around decorated stalls is one of your favorite winter traditions, you’ll definitely appreciate my tips. I’ve picked out 14 places where the Czech Christmas markets are simply the most beautiful. You’ll find both the biggest and best-known ones, as well as smaller, cozier markets that have their own special charm.
💡 You might also be interested in: The Best Christmas Markets in Europe
Prague Christmas Markets
The Prague Christmas markets regularly rank among the most beautiful in all of Europe, and it’s no surprise why. The historic center gives the markets a truly fairy-tale backdrop. The heart of it all is Old Town Square, dominated every year by a massive Christmas tree with a breathtaking light display. This year, the markets on Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square run from November 28, 2026 to January 6, 2027 (open daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm), and the official tree lighting takes place on November 28.
Besides Old Town Square, make sure to check out the markets on Wenceslas Square, Peace Square (náměstí Míru), and Republic Square. The stalls are packed with handmade goods, ornaments, and of course plenty of treats. Warm up with excellent mulled wine or mead, and for something sweet, I recommend trdelník or traditional Czech gingerbread. Just keep in mind that it gets really crowded on weekends, so if you want to enjoy the atmosphere in peace, head over on a weekday morning instead.
Brno Christmas Markets
Brno Christmas has a reputation for being the most laid-back of all the markets in the country, and I have to agree. Brno’s Christmas markets aren’t confined to just one spot — they spread across the whole center, so you can stroll from Freedom Square through the Cabbage Market all the way to Dominican Square, where you’ll typically find a beautiful wooden nativity scene. This year’s edition officially runs from November 27 to December 23, 2026, although some stalls open as early as November 25, and sales continue through December 26. Freedom Square is usually open from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm.
Brno is well known for its excellent food scene, and that shines through at the markets too. Instead of the usual mulled wine, you can try the original Brno Turbomošt, and you’ll find plenty of stalls with local specialties, popular cheeses, potato pancakes, and langoš. A rich supporting program full of live music adds to the unique atmosphere, so you could easily end up spending the whole evening here with a cup in hand.
Ostrava Christmas Markets
If you’re heading to northern Moravia, the Ostrava Christmas markets won’t disappoint. They’re known for their spectacular light displays, which give the city just the right amount of magic. The heart of the action is Masaryk Square, though the festive atmosphere traditionally spills over to Jirásek Square and other spots in the center. Ostrava Christmas 2026 runs from November 21, 2026 to January 6, 2027; the organizer hasn’t yet announced the date of the tree lighting on Masaryk Square (last year it took place on Saturday, November 29, 2025).
The Ostrava markets pride themselves on a varied selection of regional treats. Look forward to roasted chestnuts, excellent Wallachian frgál pastries, and plenty of hot drinks that will reliably keep you warm even in the harshest frost. There’s also a popular ice rink, a wooden nativity scene, and vintage carousels, so even the youngest visitors will have a great time.
Opava Christmas Markets
Prefer a cozier, calmer atmosphere? Then head to Silesia. Opava is home to smaller, but no less charming Christmas markets, held on both the Upper and Lower Squares. Both spots transform for a few weeks into a cozy little Advent village. This year, Opava’s markets run from November 20 to December 23, 2026, and the tree on Lower Square will be lit on Sunday, November 29, at 5:45 pm.
At the stalls, you’ll mainly find traditional handmade goods from local craftspeople, Christmas ornaments, and plenty of local treats. The supporting program is impressive too, with carol singing, a Christmas theater performance, or concerts by well-known artists. It’s simply an ideal spot to stop, breathe in the festive calm, and enjoy Advent without the unnecessary rush.
České Budějovice Christmas Markets
If you’re from South Bohemia or planning a trip there, you really shouldn’t miss the popular České Budějovice Advent. The Christmas markets in České Budějovice are among the biggest and most varied in the whole region. They take place right on the historic Přemysl Otakar II Square, and in 2026 they run from November 18 to January 6, 2027.
Besides hundreds of wooden stalls filled with the scent of trdelník and roasted nuts, you’ll also find some unique attractions here. The square is traditionally dominated by a panoramic Ferris wheel, giving you a bird’s-eye view of all the festive bustle, and a popular ice rink stretching around the fountain. If you love traditions, you’ll certainly enjoy the beautifully carved nativity scene. The České Budějovice markets have an amazing atmosphere, perfectly rounded off by a daily music programme.
Uherské Hradiště Christmas Markets
The Slovácko region has its own unmistakable charm in every season, and Advent is no exception. Uherské Hradiště offers lovely markets centred mainly on Masaryk Square, where folk traditions blend with the typical hospitality of South Moravia. This year, the festive programme kicks off with the lighting of the Christmas tree on Friday, November 27, 2026, which is also when the Small Christmas Market opens (running until January 6, 2027); the Big Christmas Market takes place from December 12 to 22.
You can look forward to plenty of local treats, from excellent cheeses to homemade sweets to regional wines, which also taste great mulled on cold days. Uherské Hradiště prepares a rich Christmas-themed cultural programme every year, including children’s craft workshops, theatre performances and shows by cimbalom bands, which give the markets that authentic Moravian spark.
Liberec Christmas Markets
Liberec’s Christmas markets are traditionally held on Dr. E. Beneš Square, right in front of the gorgeous historic town hall. The stalls here offer traditional handmade goods, fragrant Christmas treats, and original gifts. Families with children will find plenty of activities, such as craft workshops and fairy-tale programmes. This year, the markets in front of the town hall run from November 26 to December 23, 2026.
The festive tree-lighting ceremony takes place already on Friday, November 20, at 5 p.m.
Hradec Králové Christmas Markets
Hradec Králové’s Christmas markets on Velké náměstí (Great Square) tempt visitors with fragrant mulled wine, warm mead, and handmade products. This year, the Advent village opens from November 29 to December 23, 2026. Besides dozens of decorated stalls, you’ll find a popular ice rink and a rich accompanying programme. Wrap yourself in a warm scarf and head out to listen to carols, watch craft demonstrations, or take the kids to creative workshops.
Zlín Christmas Markets
Zlín’s Christmas markets on náměstí Míru boast a varied offering, their own ice rink, and a great accompanying programme. Compared with other towns, Zlín has the advantage of blending typical Christmas treats with Wallachian traditions. Here you can enjoy sweet frgál pastries, warm up with Wallachian punch, and for meat lovers, the stalls also sell classic sausages. Advent in Zlín kicks off this year on November 27, and the Christmas tree is lit on the first Sunday of Advent, November 29, 2026, at 5:45 p.m.
Plzeň Christmas Markets
On náměstí Republiky in Plzeň, some of the largest and most beautiful Christmas markets in West Bohemia come to life. The whole space is dominated by a beautifully decorated Christmas tree and the majestic St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral, around which you’ll find dozens of stalls with regional treats, handmade goods, and original gifts. The Plzeň markets have huge charm thanks to the traditional Plzeň nativity scene and a lucky bell that you can ring for good fortune. The markets on náměstí Republiky take place this year from November 21 to December 23, 2026, and the tree is lit on the first Sunday of Advent, November 29.
Jihlava Christmas Markets
In Jihlava, the Advent village traditionally spreads across Masaryk Square, complete with a beautiful wooden nativity scene and a richly decorated Christmas tree. The stalls offer a wide range of handmade goods, decorations, and regional treats. The biggest hit of recent years is the unique circular ice rink that wraps around the plague column. Christmas in Jihlava begins on Sunday, November 29, 2026, at 4:45 p.m. with the tree-lighting ceremony on Masaryk Square; the ice rink opens right afterward and stays on the square until February 7, 2027.
Olomouc Christmas Markets
Olomouc rightfully boasts some of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Moravia, and their atmosphere is guaranteed to win you over. The main draw here is the legendary mulled-wine zone on Horní náměstí and Dolní náměstí, where you can choose from dozens of types of punch and mulled wine from around the world. The historic backdrop, with its astronomical clock and the Holy Trinity Column, lends the whole place an incredible romantic touch. This year, the Christmas markets in Olomouc run from November 22 to December 24, 2026, and officially open on Sunday, November 22, at 6 p.m.
💡 Detailed guide: Moravian Christmas markets: 13 prettiest spots
Tábor Christmas Markets
In Tábor, you’ll find smaller but all the more cozy Christmas markets with an amazing historical atmosphere. The town, with its rich Hussite past, offers not just traditional stalls but also a cultural programme that often includes old Czech customs and period performances. If you’re not keen on huge crowds, Tábor is exactly the right choice for you. On Žižkovo náměstí, the Old Czech Christmas Market takes place on December 12 and 13, 2026, and on náměstí T. G. Masaryka the Advent Village with an ice rink runs from November 27, 2026, to January 3, 2027; the town has not yet announced the date for the tree-lighting ceremony.
Karlovy Vary Christmas Markets
The Karlovy Vary Christmas markets combine the magic of Advent with the unique atmosphere of the spa colonnades. The main part is located near the Thermal Hotel and on the Mill Colonnade, where the smell of hot spa wafers and mulled wine drifts between the stalls of Christmas decorations. Strolling through winter Karlovy Vary with a cup of something hot in hand is an experience you shouldn’t miss. This year, the Christmas markets in Karlovy Vary run from November 29, 2026, to January 1, 2027, and the tree is lit on the first Sunday of Advent, November 29.
Where to Stay for the Czech Christmas Markets
If you want to experience the markets in the evening, when all the lights shine brightest, it’s worth staying right in the city centre. After your mulled wine, you won’t have to worry about the car or catching the last train, and in the morning you’ll be on the square before the crowds arrive. Here are the neighbourhoods we recommend:
- Prague: Old Town (Staré Město) is ideal for the markets, while New Town (Nové Město) and Vinohrady are cheaper options, and you’re just a few minutes by metro from Old Town Square. 👉 Accommodation in Old Town · More details in our article Prague Christmas Markets.
- Brno: sleep in the centre around náměstí Svobody, and all the main markets are within a 10-minute walk. 👉 Accommodation in central Brno · More details in our article Brno Christmas Markets.
- Ostrava: the best spot is the centre near Masaryk Square, where the main market is held. 👉 Accommodation in central Ostrava · More details in our article Ostrava Christmas Markets.
- Olomouc: look for accommodation in the centre between Horní náměstí and Dolní náměstí. 👉 Accommodation in Olomouc
- České Budějovice: sleep as close as possible to Přemysl Otakar II Square — the centre is small and easy to walk around. 👉 Accommodation in České Budějovice · More details in our article České Budějovice Christmas Markets.
- Liberec: the most convenient option is the centre near the town hall; a weekend trip can easily be combined with a visit to Ještěd. 👉 Accommodation in Liberec · More details in our article Liberec Christmas Markets.
Tip: Hotels near the big markets sell out first for Advent weekends (especially November 27–29 and December 4–6, 2026). Book as early as possible and choose options with free cancellation, so you can still change your plans later.
Practical Tips and Travel Advice
Christmas markets can be magical, but they can also get really crowded and exhausting. Here are a few tips to help you enjoy them calmly and comfortably.
When to Go and Where to Park
💡 Tip: If you want to avoid the biggest crowds, head to the markets on weekday mornings or early afternoons. Weekend evenings tend to pack the squares to bursting, which isn’t always pleasant with small kids in tow. As for parking, in bigger cities like Prague or Brno, I’d recommend using the park-and-ride (P+R) lots on the outskirts and then taking public transport comfortably into the centre. That way you’ll save yourself a lot of hassle hunting for a free spot. ☺️
What to Try at the Czech Markets
No visit to Czech Christmas markets is complete without hot trdelník, crispy potato pancakes (bramboráky), gingerbread, and langoše (fried flatbread). Lukáš and I always queue up for a proper potato pancake and a hot cup of apple cider. Stalls also commonly sell sausages, roasted pork knuckle, and other meaty specialities, so there’s really something for everyone. Mulled wine and punch are the classic go-tos, of course. Prices vary from city to city, but you’ll usually pay around €3–4 for mulled wine and roughly €4–5 for a trdelník.
Czech Christmas Customs and Traditions: From Ježíšek to Pouring Wax
Czech Christmas is full of beautiful traditions passed down from generation to generation. If you’re curious what happens behind closed doors — and out in the streets — here’s a quick rundown of the most important ones.
Who Brings the Presents?
Here, it’s not Santa Claus who brings the gifts, but Ježíšek (literally “Little Jesus”). He comes secretly on the evening of 24 December, and interestingly, nobody really knows what he looks like. He’s never depicted anywhere, has no official appearance, and everyone imagines him their own way. During Advent, kids write him letters with their secret wishes and leave them on the windowsill.
The Christmas Eve Dinner Table and Superstitions
A traditional Christmas Eve dinner consists of fish soup and fried carp served with a hearty potato salad. If you can manage to fast all day on Christmas Eve without eating, legend says you’ll see the famous golden piglet. One thing that’s often a shock for visitors are the live carp tubs that appear on street corners in every town from around 20 December onward, selling live fish straight out of the water.
Cookies and Sweets
Baking Christmas cookies (cukroví) starts right at the beginning of Advent, and in many families it turns into a friendly competition. People typically bake anywhere from 8 to 15 different kinds, including vanilla crescent cookies, jam-filled linzer cookies, “wasp nests,” and decorated gingerbread. On Christmas Eve morning, you’ll also often find a sweet braided vánočka bread on the table.
Magical Fortune-Telling and Traditions
After dinner, it’s time for family customs. One popular one is cutting an apple in half (if the core forms a star shape, it means good health; a cross shape foretells illness), or floating little walnut-shell boats with a tiny candle inside. Girls also try tossing a shoe backward over their shoulder toward the door to see if they’ll get married within the year. In the past, people commonly practiced pouring molten lead, but due to its toxicity this has been replaced with wax or tin melted over a candle. At midnight, many families head out to the traditional midnight mass.
The Advent Wreath, St. Nicholas, and “Barborky”
The countdown to Christmas is marked by the Advent wreath with four candles, lighting one more each Sunday. Already on 4 December, the feast day of St. Barbara, people cut cherry twigs known as Barborky, which are meant to bloom in a vase by Christmas. And on the evening of 5 December, St. Nicholas (Mikuláš) visits children accompanied by a devil and an angel — a huge event here (unlike in Germany, where he comes on 6 December).
The Country’s First Christmas Tree
Did you know that the tradition of public Christmas trees on town squares actually started in Brno? The very first Christmas tree of the whole republic was lit on 13 December 1924 on Freedom Square (náměstí Svobody). Behind it all was the writer Rudolf Těsnohlídek, who in 1919 found a frozen, abandoned little girl in a snowy forest near Bílovice nad Svitavou. Inspired by a trip to Copenhagen, he organised a fundraiser under the tree, and the proceeds helped finance the construction of the Dagmar children’s home, which is still operating today.
Where to Go Next: More Advent Tips
If the Christmas markets have caught your interest, check out these articles too:
- Prague Christmas Markets
- Brno Christmas Markets
- Ostrava Christmas Markets
- České Budějovice Christmas Markets
- Best Christmas Markets in Europe: 25 Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
When do Christmas markets in the Czech Republic usually take place?
Most markets start at the end of November and last until Christmas Eve, some even until January.
When are the Christmas trees lit?
Most cities light their trees on the first Advent weekend (November 28–29, 2026), some earlier: Liberec as early as November 20, Brno and Uherské Hradiště on November 27.
Where can I find the largest Christmas tree in the Czech Republic?
The largest and most famous tree is traditionally on display at Prague’s Old Town Square.
Is there an admission fee for the Christmas markets?
Entry to the squares themselves and to the Christmas stalls is completely free in all cities. You only pay for what you buy to eat or for attractions.
Can you pay by card at the stalls?
The situation is improving every year and many vendors now have card terminals. Still, I recommend carrying enough cash with you.
Which markets are best for families with children?
Zlín, Liberec and Plzeň offer plenty of workshops and a great program. Children will definitely appreciate the ice skating rinks and craft demonstrations as well.
What traditions can be found at the markets?
You can see blacksmithing demonstrations, wax casting, wood carving of nativity scenes, or listen to traditional carols.
Are there vegetarian foods at the markets too?
Definitely. Besides classic lángos and potato pancakes, you can have trdelník, gingerbread, roasted chestnuts, or the ubiquitous hot drinks.
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