The Christmas markets in Prague are among the most beautiful in Europe and attract visitors from all over the world every year. The magical atmosphere of festively decorated squares, the aroma of mulled wine and trdelník (chimney cake) will put you in the holiday spirit – even if you’re not usually the biggest fan of Christmas celebrations.
In this article, you’ll find all the essential information about the Christmas markets Prague has to offer – where and when they take place, when the Christmas tree is lit, and what programme to expect.
Where to Stay
If you want to enjoy a few glasses of mulled wine at the Christmas markets, we recommend staying in the centre of Prague. Below you’ll find our favourites, but you can also check out the full list of the best accommodation here.
- Hotel Nerudova 211,
- MOOo by the Castle – a romantic hotel with views of Prague Castle,
- Domus Balthasar Boutique Hotel close to Prague Castle and Charles Bridge.
If you’re looking for budget-friendly hotel tips, check out our article.
Prague Christmas Markets: Locations
The Prague Christmas markets take place at the following locations:
- Wenceslas Square,
- Anděl,
- Old Town Square,
- Náměstí Míru (Peace Square),
- Náměstí Republiky (Republic Square),
- Náměstí Jiřího z Poděbrad (Jiřího z Poděbrad Square),
- Tylovo náměstí (Tylovo Square).
TIP: You can easily book guided Christmas market tours and activities in Prague through GetYourGuide.
Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
One of the main highlights of the Prague Christmas markets is the ceremonial lighting of the Christmas tree on Old Town Square. This event is always spectacular, accompanied by Christmas music and various performances. This year, the tree lighting will take place on Saturday, 29 November 2025, at 4:00 PM.
You might also be interested in: Christmas Markets in Vienna
Prague Christmas Markets: Dates and Duration
The Prague Christmas markets usually start at the end of November and run until early January. This year, the earliest ones begin on 25 November, and the last markets close on 6 January 2026.
Old Town Square Christmas Market
Old Town Square hosts the largest and most popular Christmas market in Prague. With a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, traditional stalls, and a cultural programme, it’s the heart of the city’s festive celebrations.
You can feast on traditional Christmas treats such as trdelník (chimney cake), roasted chestnuts, sausages, grilled skewers, and potato pancakes. And of course, no visit is complete without mulled wine, punch, or Czech Christmas sweets.
Retail stalls are open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and food stalls from 10:00 AM to midnight. A live programme runs on the main stage throughout the market season. Don’t miss the nativity scene, traditional folk craft demonstrations, and a mini zoo.
Wenceslas Square Christmas Market
Wenceslas Square is one of the busiest spots in Prague, and during Christmas it comes alive with stalls full of traditional Czech handicrafts, Christmas ornaments, and delicious food. You’ll find the stalls at the lower end of Wenceslas Square. Christmas goods stalls are open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, while food stalls stay open until midnight.
Christmas Market at Anděl
The market at Anděl is smaller but quite popular among locals. Thanks to its location, it’s easily accessible from the city centre and has a more relaxed atmosphere. You’ll find plenty of traditional Christmas goods and treats to take home. Street performers add to the festive entertainment.
Christmas Market at Náměstí Míru (Peace Square)
Náměstí Míru is known for its traditional Christmas market right in front of the Church of St. Ludmila. You’ll find many stalls selling handmade products, jewellery, and unique gifts. The market also features Christmas workshops for children, theatre performances, and concerts.
Christmas Market at Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky)
Republic Square is located right next to the Palladium shopping centre, making it an ideal spot if you want to combine your Christmas shopping with a market visit. The stalls offer advent wreaths and traditional treats such as Prague ham, roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and Christmas sweets.
Christmas Market at Jiřího z Poděbrad Square
This market has a quieter, family-friendly atmosphere. The stalls focus on handmade crafts and homemade goodies that make perfect Christmas gifts.
Christmas Market at Tylovo Square
The smaller market at Tylovo Square has a welcoming atmosphere, with stalls offering the traditional range of refreshments, ornaments, wreaths, candles, candle holders, toys, nativity scenes, sweets, and handcrafted items.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Christmas markets in Prague are the best?
The largest and most famous are the markets on Old Town Square, but each market has its own unique charm.
When is the tree lighting on Old Town Square?
The Christmas tree on Old Town Square is lit on Saturday, 29 November at 4:00 PM.
How to get to the Christmas markets?
The best way is by public transport – trams, metro, or buses. All major market locations are well connected.
What Czech specialities are worth trying?
We recommend trying trdelník (chimney cake), grilled sausages, mulled wine, and traditional Czech Christmas sweets.
When do Prague Christmas markets start in 2025?
The Prague Christmas markets run from 25 November 2025 to 6 January 2026.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
