Prague Christmas markets start on 29 November and run daily throughout December until 1 January. Markets are usually open from 09.00 until 19.00. Major markets are located around Wenceslas Square and Old Town Square while smaller ones can be found around Havelska Trziste and Namesti Republiky. Another one is located at the Prague Exhibition Grounds, Vystaviste. But probably the most beautiful is the Old Town Square market where a giant Christmas tree lights up the centre of the square, while the space around is transformed into a marketplace with decorated wooden huts and market stalls selling all kinds of small crafts and Czech delicacies including carved toys, bobbin lace, ceramics, glass figurines and Christmas ornaments. To soak up the market atmosphere even more, why not try some tasty gingerbread cakes, barbecued sausages and mulled wine while street performers, local and international choirs, along with musical ensembles, take care of your entertainment?

Prague Christmas markets have a long tradition.

The main idea is to bring people together to share the holiday spirit and enjoy Christmas carols, hot food and mulled wine. But the markets are not just about shopping. They are all about feeling that special Christmas atmosphere. Sellers offer you not only a great opportunity to buy some unique gifts, but also the experience of strong traditions being kept alive. They bring the true meaning of Christmas to life.

Christmas is the most important celebration in the Czech calendar and from 24 December to 1 January most Czechs have extended family holidays; consequently the Prague streets become even more full of life. Just before Christmas, fishmongers bring in carp by the barrelful, drawing everyone into the Christmas mood. Christmas Eve is a day of abstinence from meat and for that occasion most families prepare fried carp served with a potato salad.

New Year's Eve dinner is also a great celebration: some families serving boiled pig's head with grated horseradish and apple; some do dinner in arty-style with plates of snacks and bottles of sparkling wine. But most young people head to the streets as on New Year's Eve there are spectacular views of fireworks and a mellower pace at Prague Castle or Vyšehrad.

Enjoy the festive atmosphere and share your kindness and love this time of the year! Christmas in Prague is just wonderful!

24 December - Christmas Eve
25 December - Christmas Day
26 December - St Stephen's Day
31 December - New Year’s Eve

Tip: Around Christmas Prague becomes very crowded, so booking a hotel room in advance is essential to guarantee the standard of accommodation that you want.