Christmas in Prague: A 48-Hour Itinerary
With its cobblestone streets, Gothic architecture, and festive markets, the city offers an unforgettable experience. Here’s a guide to spending 48 hours in Prague during Christmas time, complete with places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and how to make the most of your trip.
Christmas in Prague - Day 1:
Arrival and Exploring Old Town
Morning: Arrival and Check-In
Where to Stay:
- Luxury: Hotel Kings Court – Located near Old Town, this hotel combines historic charm with modern amenities.
- Mid-range: Hotel Residence Agnes – A boutique gem offering exceptional service.
- Budget: Hotel Mosaic House – Affordable, eco-friendly, and centrally located.
- If you are traveling with a motor home, stay at Autocamp Trojska.
They are located close to a tram for getting into town and Jolana was amazing to deal with.
Check in, drop off your bags, and prepare for an adventure-filled day.
Mid-Morning: Old Town Square and Christmas Markets
Head straight to Old Town Square, where Prague’s largest Christmas market awaits. Marvel at the massive Christmas tree adorned with sparkling lights and ornaments. Browse stalls selling handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and traditional Czech treats like trdelník (a sweet pastry rolled in sugar and cinnamon).
Lunch: Warm up with a bowl of goulash served in a bread bowl or sample klobása (grilled sausages) from the market’s food stalls, gluhwein is also an excellent way to warm up and for €5 you get to keep the mug as a souvenir.
We found an AWESOME restaurant called Kozlovna Apropos..try the goulash soup, fried bread with cheese spread and of course the goulash in the bread. It was so good we had dinner and lunch there!
Afternoon: Old Town Exploration
- Visit the iconic Astronomical Clock and watch the hourly show as the figures of the Twelve Apostles emerge.
- Stroll along the narrow streets, discovering charming shops and cafes.
- Stop by the Church of Our Lady Before Týn for a glimpse of its stunning Gothic interior.
Evening: Dinner and Night Walk
- Dine at U Modré Kachničky, a restaurant known for its traditional Czech dishes like roast duck with dumplings and red cabbage.
- After dinner, take a leisurely walk across the Charles Bridge, illuminated by soft lights and offering a stunning view of Prague Castle.
Christmas in Prague - Day 2:
Prague Castle and Beyond
Morning: Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral
Begin your day at Prague Castle, the largest ancient castle complex in the world. Explore the Golden Lane, Old Royal Palace, and St. Vitus Cathedral, which looks even more enchanting in the winter light.
Late Morning: Malá Strana (Lesser Town)
Descend into Malá Strana, a picturesque neighbourhood with baroque buildings and hidden gardens. Don’t miss the John Lennon Wall, a colourful tribute to love and peace.
Lunch: Stop at Café Savoy for a hearty Czech meal or a sweet treat like medovík (honey cake).
Afternoon: Václav Havel Christmas Market
Make your way to Wenceslas Square, home to another beautiful Christmas market. Shop for traditional Czech glassware and sip on svařák (mulled wine) as you soak in the festive atmosphere.
Evening: River Cruise and Farewell Dinner
- Book a Vltava Dinner River cruise for a romantic and scenic experience. Enjoy Czech and international cuisine as you glide past Prague’s illuminated landmarks.
- If you prefer a more grounded experience, dine at Lokál, a popular beer hall known for its fresh Pilsner and classic Czech dishes.
Must-Try Seasonal Treats
- Vanilkové rohlíčky: Crescent-shaped vanilla cookies.
- Vánočka: Braided Christmas bread with raisins and almonds.
- Becherovka: A spiced herbal liqueur, perfect for warming up on a chilly evening.
Tips for a Magical Christmas in Prague
- Weather: Pack warm clothing, as temperatures can drop below freezing.
- Currency: The Czech koruna (CZK) is used; bring some cash for market stalls. Euro’s are accepted and the exchange rate is fair. Avoid small ATM machines as they charge exorbitant fee’s. We only used our debut cards which were accepted everywhere.
- Transportation: Prague’s public transport system (metro, trams, buses and Uber) is efficient and easy to use.
- Language: While Czech is the official language, many people speak English, especially in tourist areas.
With its enchanting atmosphere, delightful cuisine, and rich history, Prague is a dream destination to visit during the Christmas season. Our European Christmas Market Camper Road Trip would not have been the same without adding Prague to the itinerary!
If you liked this article, also see our article entitled Top European Christmas Markets!
