Exploring Prague: A 3-Day Winter Wonderland
Prague in December is like stepping into a fairy tale. The cobblestone streets dusted with snow, the twinkling lights of Christmas markets, and the scent of mulled wine filling the air create a truly magical atmosphere.
If you’re planning a short getaway to this beautiful city, 3 days is the perfect amount of time to soak up its festive spirit. We did a Christmas Market trip of Vienna followed by a short train ride to Prague and it was filled with magic! Let’s take a tour of the best sights and experiences that will make your winter escape unforgettable!
Sneak Previews:
Day 1: Old Town Prague and Heart of the Christmas Market
Day 2: Castle Views, Magical Vibes, and the Charles Bridge
Day 3: Hidden Gems, Christmas Charm, and Day Trip Options
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Day 1: Strolling Through Old Town and the Heart of the Christmas Markets
Check-in to your accommodations- Once you settle in, time for a walking tour!
Walking Tour
Start your adventure with a walking tour of Old Town! Whether you choose a guided tour or prefer to explore on your own, a walking tour is a fantastic way to dive deeper into the city’s rich history. Your journey will take you past iconic landmarks such as the Astronomical Clock (be sure to catch the hourly show!) and Týn Church.
We loved learning about the fascinating insights into Prague’s medieval past, architectural gems, and fun stories with 100 Spires City Tour ! Other great ways to explore Prague is with a Guided paid experience such as Best of Prague Walking Tour and Cruise with Authentic Czech Lunch.
Must-Do
Climb the Old Town Hall Tower for a breathtaking view of the historic center (great place for sunset too!)
Wander the quiet side streets around the square, where you’ll find cozy cafes and small shops that make Prague so special.
Lunch
After the tour, head to a nearby restaurant for a traditional Czech meal. Try Svíčková (beef in creamy sauce) or knedlíky (Czech dumplings) for an authentic taste of the local cuisine. We even tried some vegetarian dumplings at a place called Knedlín. They were so filling and delicious!
Evening
Head to Old Town Square, the vibrant heart of Prague, where the Christmas markets are in full swing. Stalls overflow with local crafts, holiday treats, and warm beverages. The towering Christmas tree is a sight to behold, its sparkling lights illuminating the square and adding to the festive atmosphere. Take a moment to sip a cup of svařák (mulled wine) and breathe in the seasonal scents of roasted nuts and cinnamon. Be sure to try the region’s honey wine too and let us know what you think!
Day 2: Castle Views, Magical Vibes, and the Charles Bridge
Morning
On your second day, start by heading to Prague Castle, one of the largest ancient castles in the world. As you walk through the castle complex, marvel at the grandeur of St. Vitus Cathedral with its stunning stained glass windows and the Golden Lane, where tiny houses now house quirky shops and museums.
Optional: Opt for a guided tour to learn about the castle’s fascinating history- Prague Castle with Tickets Guided tour.
Don’t miss the changing of the guard at the castle gates—an impressive ceremony that happens every hour.
Be sure to check out the Prague Castle Christmas Market! Set within the Prague Castle complex, this smaller market offers a cozy atmosphere with beautiful views.
Must-Do:
Take a stroll down from the castle to the Charles Bridge, one of Prague's most iconic landmarks. The bridge, lined with statues of saints and offering stunning views of the city, is especially magical when dusted with snow and lit up by the glow of street lamps in the evening. Be sure to visit both during the day and at dusk for a magical feel.
Explore Malá Strana (Lesser Town) just below the castle. The cobblestone streets, festive decorations, and quaint cafés make this area a perfect spot for a winter wander.
Explore Kampa Island or continue your journey by visiting the Lennon Wall, a short walk from the castle area. The vibrant, graffiti-covered wall is a symbol of peace and freedom, and it’s particularly moving during the holiday season. If you’re in the mood, stop by one of the nearby cafés for a warm drink and enjoy the charming surroundings.
Dinner:
For dinner, indulge in a hearty Czech meal at a cozy local restaurant. Goulash paired with a glass of Czech beer will warm you up for a cozy evening.
Day 3: Hidden Gems, Christmas Charm, and Day Trip Options
Option 1: Stay in Prague – Hidden Gems and Christmas Charm Off the Beaten Path
Morning-choose your own Adventure!
1. Begin your final day in Vyšehrad, a historic fort that offers sweeping views of the city. The peaceful atmosphere and the impressive St. Peter and Paul Basilica make this a fantastic spot to unwind and soak in the views. Plus, the holiday markets here are less crowded, offering a more local vibe.
2. If you prefer something more local sightseeing and cool architecture: visit the famous Dancing House and the Franz Kafka - Rotating Head
3. Consider a Prague Foodie Tour - explore a city through food!
4. Historical Car Sightseeing Tour - ride in a beautiful car through an amazing backdrop of charming Prague Streets!
5. Prague City Food Tour - Spend the day eating and drinking with a local guide! A great way to explore the culture through food.
Afternoon:
Next, head to Wenceslas Square, another iconic Prague landmark. During the holidays, check out the Wenceslas Square Christmas Market (Václavské Náměstí): which happens to be less crowded with cool stalls with traditional Czech treats.
While you’re here, visit the National Museum if you’re keen on exploring Czech history and art. The square itself is a beautiful sight during the holidays, adorned with lights and decorations that create a festive atmosphere.
Afterward, take a short walk to Petrin Hill. While better known as a summer destination, the hill’s Petrin Lookout Tower offers a stunning winter view of the city, especially with the crisp December air. It’s a must-do! We took a funicular up to avoid a wintertime hike. There’s a line but it goes quickly!
Once atop, check out the nearby Strahov Monastery, grab a beer and a meal or snack in the beer hall, and take in the picturesque views. There was even a delicious vegetarian warm lentil dish that we tried!
Evening:
Christmas Market Hopping:
Check out all the lovely markets in the area! While you can always go back to the main Old Town Square, here are a few more to the ones mentioned above. Be sure to check online for times/openings.
Havel's Market (Havelské Tržiště): A smaller, more local market near Wenceslas Square, offering fresh produce, handmade goods, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Republic Square Christmas Market (Náměstí Republiky): A quieter, less touristy market with festive stalls offering local crafts and food, just a short walk from the city center.
Palladium Shopping Center Christmas Market: A smaller, indoor market inside the Palladium shopping center, offering food, crafts, and holiday gifts, ideal for when you need a break from the cold.
Náměstí Míru Christmas Market: Located in Vinohrady, this is a quieter market with a more local feel, featuring food, mulled wine, and holiday decorations.
Tylovo Náměstí Christmas Market: A charming and less touristy market in the Vinohrady district, where you can find handcrafted goods and warm Czech treats.
If you happen to be there on the 12/24, that is when Prague celebrates Christmas thus it is a special time! At the Old Town Square, an open-air mass is held at night (check for updated times). Entrance is free, just turn up! We went to this and it was an absolutely beautiful experience to be a part of!
Option 2: Day Trip – Explore Beyond Prague
If you’ve already seen most of Prague’s highlights and want to venture a bit further, we recommend:
Český Krumlov
For a fairy-tale experience, take a 2.5-hour journey to Český Krumlov, a beautifully preserved town known for its winding streets, impressive castle, and medieval charm. The Český Krumlov Castle is one of the largest castle complexes in the country, and it offers a great view of the surrounding area. The town itself looks especially magical in winter, with its colorful buildings and snow-covered streets.
The best way to do this is by taking a full-day guided tour!