Prague Christmas Markets: Old Town Square under a giant tree

Prague's Christmas markets centre on the Old Town Square, where a giant tree stands between the Gothic Týn Church and the Old Town Hall. Smaller markets fill Wenceslas Square and other districts, all with mulled wine, sausages and handmade crafts.

Fun facts

• Prague's astronomical clock was installed in 1410 and is still working.
• Czech families traditionally buy a live carp before Christmas for the Christmas Eve dinner.
• Trdelník is sold everywhere, though it is not an old Czech speciality.

What to see

• The Christmas tree and stage on the Old Town Square.
• The astronomical clock's hourly show of moving apostles.
• The market at Náměstí Míru in front of the Church of St Ludmila.

What to taste

• Svařák, Czech mulled wine, sold in every market.
• Prague ham roasted on a spit, sold by weight.
• Vánočka, braided Christmas bread with raisins and almonds.

What to do

• Cross Charles Bridge early in the morning to avoid crowds.
• Walk up to Prague Castle for views over the snowy roofs.
• Try Czech beer in a traditional pub away from the centre.

💡 Tip: From the airport take bus 119 to the Nádraží Veleslavín metro or the Airport Express bus to the main station. Check that prices for ham are per 100 g, not per portion.