Prague Christmas Market Guide (Map + Dates 2026)

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In this Prague Christmas Market 2027 guide, you’ll find everything you need to plan your holiday trip. I’ll cover the best markets to visit (because Prague has six, not just one), a map with all their locations, and where to find authentic gifts and souvenirs. I’ll also share my personal favourite, which isn’t the famous market at Old Town Square, but a hidden gem you won’t want to miss.

Prague Christmas Market Review 2026

Prague’s two main Christmas markets are at Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí) and Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí). Old Town Square, with its grand Christmas tree, feels like something straight out of a holiday postcard. If you only have time to visit one market, this is the one you shouldn’t miss. But if you have time to explore a little more, you’ll find smaller markets around the city, including Náměstí Míru (my personal favourite) and Havel’s Market. Entry to all the winter markets in Prague is free.

One thing to keep in mind when visiting Prague: the Czech Republic uses its own currency, the Czech koruna (CZK), even though it’s part of the European Union. Be sure to have cash, as most of the market stalls don’t accept cards.

Also, if possible, try to avoid weekends, as the crowds are usually bigger. That said, if a weekend is your only option, don’t worry too much. I visited on a weekend myself (as I had little choice) and found the crowds still manageable, especially compared to Vienna.

💖 My favourite hotel in Prague: Allure Hotel & Residence
⭐ Rating: 9.7 | 2,860+ reviews
Location: just a short walk from the winter market in Old Town Square and a metro station
What I loved: spacious comfy rooms, excellent breakfast
Check details & availability: Booking.com | Expedia

I visited the Prague Christmas Market during a holiday trip that also took me to Vienna and Budapest. To be honest, compared to the traditional Christmas markets in Germany and Austria, I found the one in Prague a bit underwhelming. The stalls felt repetitive, with many offering similar food items and mass-produced goods. It was a little hard to find any truly unique, handcrafted items.

That said, I’d still highly recommend visiting the market for the unique and magical backdrop. Prague is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, and it truly feels magical at Christmas. If you’re just there for the markets, one day will do. But if you’re hoping to do a bit more, like catch a Christmas concert or experience a beer spa (which I absolutely recommend), I’d suggest staying at least two nights.

Prague Christmas Market Dates 2026

Old Town Square Christmas Market	28 November 2026 – 6 January 2027
Wenceslas Square Christmas Market	28 November 2026 – 6 January 2027

These are the official opening dates for the two main Christmas markets. There are also four smaller markets that open a few days earlier but close just before Christmas. You’ll find their exact opening dates further down in the guide.

I’d recommend visiting Prague before Christmas, when these smaller winter markets are open. I find them much more charming, with lots of local food and gifts, and they were packed with locals. They felt much more authentic than the main market at Old Town Square, which I found quite commercial.

Prague Christmas Market Map

Here’s an interactive map with the exact locations of all the markets.

Best Christmas markets in Prague 2026

Old Town Square Christmas Market

The Old Town Square Christmas Market is one of the most iconic and picturesque in Prague. Situated in the heart of the city, it’s set against the stunning backdrop of the Old Town Hall and the Church of Our Lady before Týn. If you only have time for one market, make it this one, it’s definitely a must-see. It was also my favourite, especially for its magical atmosphere.

The giant Christmas tree in Old Town Square is stunning, with thousands of twinkling lights that make the whole place feel like something out of a holiday dream. You definitely don’t want to miss the light show, which takes place every every half-hour from 4:30 PM to 9:30 PM. This year, the music is Vltava by Bedřich Smetana, and it adds a beautiful touch to the festive atmosphere.

If it’s your first time in the city, check out my Prague itinerary. It covers the best things to see and do, plus my tips for skipping the lines and my recommendations for good local restaurants.

Another highlight is the stage with Christmas carol performances, which take place from 4 PM to 7 PM. There’s also an elevated platform that gives you a great view of the market. If you’re visiting at the weekend, as I did, be ready for long queues, especially in the evenings.

Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí) Opening times
From 28 November 2026 to 6 January 2027
Daily from 10 AM to 10 PM
24th December – 10 AM to 2 PM
25th and 26 December – 12 PM to 10 PM
31 December – 10 AM to 3 PM
1 January – 12 PM to 10 PM
Address: Staroměstské náměstí, 110 00 Josefov, Czechia
Old Town Square Market official website

Best hotels near Prague Christmas Market

For more recommendations, check out my guide on where to stay in Prague, Czech Republic.

Wenceslas Square Christmas Market

Wenceslas Square Christmas Market is the second most popular holiday market in Prague. Located in one of the city’s most famous squares, surrounded by shops and historic buildings, it has a more modern feel.

The market stretches from the National Museum all the way to Můstek metro station. In the centre, there’s a large ice rink that divides the market into two parts – the lower and upper sections. I personally found the upper part more charming, especially with the National Museum beautifully lit up at night. Additionally, the trees along the square, all decorated with twinkling lights, really give it that magical festive feel.

Wenceslas Square (Václavské náměstí) Opening times
From 28 November 2026 to 6 January 2027
Daily from 10 AM to 10 PM
24th December – 10 AM to 2 PM
25th and 26 December – 12 PM to 10 PM
31 December – 10 AM to 3 PM
1 January – 12 PM to 10 PM
Address: Václavské náměstí, 110 00 Prague 1, Czechia

Best Prague Tours & Experiences

Peace Square Christmas Market

Just a 15-minute walk from Wenceslas Square, you’ll find the Peace Square Christmas Market. This one has a more local feel, and I barely saw any tourists since it’s a bit farther from the city centre. If you’re heading there, I recommend taking the green metro line A and getting off at Náměstí Míru station. Typically, I don’t put markets off the beaten path in my top recommendations, but this one is definitely worth the detour. And if you’re after authentic souvenirs, it’s a must!

Nestled with the Church of St. Ludmila as its stunning backdrop, Peace Square Christmas Market is a true hidden gem. The decorations are magical, with garlands of twinkling lights and a large Christmas tree. Also, it was one of the few markets in Prague where I found stalls selling handcrafted gifts and local products.

Peace Square (náměstí Míru) Opening times
From 20 November to 24 December 2026
Daily from 10 AM to 8 PM
Address: Náměstí Míru, 120 00 Praha 2-Vinohrady, Czechia
Peace Square market official website

In addition to these three markets, you’ll find several smaller and cosier markets around the city. These are perfect if you’re looking for a more authentic and less crowded experience. My favourites include the markets at Mariánské Square, Republic Square, and Tyl Square. I also came across a market at Na Kampě Square, but it was just a handful of food stalls. It was not quite enough to call it a proper market.

In past years, there used to be a market at Prague Castle, and I was really looking forward to it. However, when I got there, I was surprised to find only a large Christmas tree, with no market in sight. I later learned it had been cancelled for two years in a row, but none of the guides I read mentioned this update. Actually, I had a hard time finding any reliable information during my research for this holiday trip, which is why I decided to create this guide.

Marianske Square Charity Christmas Market

This small market is set in the picturesque Mariánské Square, with the charming New City Hall as its backdrop. Run by nonprofit organisations, the stalls offer handmade goods, crafts, and treats. It’s the perfect spot to find unique gifts like local ceramics, ornaments, and toys, all while supporting a great cause.

I came across the Mariánské Square Charity Christmas Market completely by chance while passing through the area. It wasn’t in any of the guides I read during my research, so I assume it’s a relatively new addition. Like the market at Peace Square, it had a local vibe, with stalls offering truly unique and one-of-a-kind items.

Marianske Square (Mariánské Náměstí) Opening times
From 28 November 2026 to 6 January 2027
Daily from 12 AM to 8 PM
Address: Mariánské Náměstí, Josefov, 110 00 Prague 1, Czechia

Republic Square Christmas Market

The Republic Square Christmas Market is set in front of the Palladium shopping centre, perfectly positioned between the Old and New Town. It’s surrounded by stunning landmarks like the Grand Municipal House and the Gothic Powder Tower. I found this market is noticeably quieter than the more popular ones, making it a peaceful escape from the crowds. It focuses primarily on traditional Czech foods, offering roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, ham and sausages.

Republic Square (náměstí Republiky) Opening times
From 25 November to 24 December 2026
Daily from 10 AM to 8 PM
Address: Náměstí Republiky, New Town, 110 00 Prague 1, Czechia

Tyl Square Christmas Market

Just a short walk from the Peace Square is the Tyl Square Christmas Market. It is one of Prague’s smaller, cosier festive spots. Like Peace Square, it’s tucked away from the tourist spots, offering a more authentic, local experience. I found the atmosphere the same – hardly any tourists and stalls offering authentic Czech crafts and products. It’s the perfect place to mingle with locals or shop for unique holiday gifts without the larger crowds.

Tyl Square (Tylovo náměstí) Opening times
From 26 November to 24 December 2026
Daily from 10 AM to 8 PM
Address: Tylovo náměstí, 120 00 Vinohrady, Czechia

What to do in Prague at Christmas

Beer spa with unlimited beer

Beer baths have been around since the Middle Ages, and I can tell you, they really do wonders for your skin, hair, and even your nervous system. If you’re looking for something totally unique in Prague, this Beer spa with unlimited beer is an absolute must-try! You’ll relax in a private beer-filled bath and enjoy unlimited beer from the tap. Plus, you can add a massage if you want to make the experience even more relaxing.

Christmas carols

If you love Christmas carols, make sure to check out the main market at Old Town Square. The stage hosts musicians, dance troupes, and folk groups dressed in traditional costumes from all over the Czech Republic. Performances take place daily from 4 PM to 7 PM. There’s also a smaller stage at Wenceslas Square, where you can catch performances from Thursday to Sunday, 4 PM to 6 PM.

Classical Concert at the Mirror Chapel

If you’re a classical music fan like me, you can’t miss the concert at the Mirror Chapel. Located in the Clementinum, this Baroque chapel with its stunning mirrored walls creates a magical atmosphere. The Royal Czech Orchestra’s performance adds to the charm, and the intimate setting makes it feel even more special!

Lamp lighting ceremony on Charles Bridge

​​During Advent, you can watch a unique lighting ceremony on the Charles Bridge. The lamplighter, dressed in period costumes, lights the historic gas lamps with a long pole and burning pole. The ceremony takes place daily between 4 PM and 4:30 PM, starting from Křížovnické náměstí. It’s a unique tradition only seen during Advent, as the lamps are otherwise lit automatically for the rest of the year.

Climb the Old Town Hall Tower

To enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Old Town Square Christmas market, climb the Old Town Hall Tower. I recommend doing this after dark, after 4 PM when the market looks magical with all the lights. The lines are often long, so make sure to book your tickets in advance here.

Prague Christmas market food

There are plenty of traditional Czech foods to try at the Christmas market, but here are some of the most popular ones you shouldn’t miss.

Perník

Perník is one of my favourite Czech treats, especially during the holidays. It’s a type of gingerbread made with flour, honey, sugar, and a mix of spices like cinnamon and ginger.

My tip: For some of the best gingerbread cookies I’ve had in Prague, I definitely recommend checking out Perníčkův sen. They offer gingerbread in all sorts of shapes and flavours, from classic to chocolate-covered, and even ones filled with plum jam.

Klobása

Klobása is a traditional Czech sausage. It’s typically made from pork and beef, and seasoned with garlic, paprika, and other spices.

Pražská Šunka

Pražská Šunka is a traditional Czech smoked ham, famous for its rich flavour and tender texture. It is typically seasoned with a mix of spices and roasted over an open flame. Pražská Šunka is often served with ​​sauerkraut as a side dish.

My tip: when ordering ham, be careful as the price shown is usually for 100g, not the full portion. While some people refer to this as the ham scam, I didn’t find it misleading, as the signs clearly state the prices are per 100g. However, if you’re not paying close attention, you might mistake it for a price for the full portion.

Svařák

Svařák is the most popular beverage during the holiday season in Prague. This is mulled wine, made by heating red wine with cinnamon, cloves, orange peel, and sugar. Unlike the markets in Germany and Austria, mulled wine in Prague is served in paper cups, so you don’t have to pay a deposit for the mug.

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FAQs about Prague Christmas Market

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