Prague, the heart of Europe, is a city that effortlessly blends Gothic charm, Baroque beauty, and modern vibrancy. With its cobblestone streets, spired skyline, and a cozy wintery atmosphere, Prague in December is pure magic! Here’s a glimpse into my four-day journey through this enchanting city.
Day 1: Arrival in Old Town and Christmas Market Magic
Welcome to the heart of Prague! Begin your journey by checking into a hotel in the Old Town (Stare Mesto), a perfect base to explore the city’s historic gems.
- Old Town Square Christmas Market: Dive into the festive spirit at one of Europe’s most magical Christmas markets. The towering Christmas tree, set against the Gothic backdrop of the Church of Our Lady Before Tyn, is nothing short of magical. Sip on mulled wine, savor traditional Czech treats like trdelník (chimney cake) filled with Nutella and enjoy the market’s lively atmosphere, complete with carolers and artisans for an unforgettable experience.
Day 2: Castles, Bridges, and Lesser Town Wonders
This day is all about exploring Prague’s grandeur. A morning walk across Charles Bridge sets the tone. This historic stone bridge, adorned with Baroque statues, connects Old Town with the Castle District. Arrive early to enjoy its serene beauty and capture picturesque views of the Vltava River.
- Prague Castle (Pražsky Hrad): As the largest ancient castle complex in the world, Prague Castle is a must-visit. Your main circuit pass includes:
- Saint Vitus Cathedral: Marvel at the Gothic masterpiece, its stained-glass windows, and climb the tower for panoramic city views (extra ticket required to climb the tower).
- Golden Lane: This quaint street with its colorful medieval houses felt like a step back in time. Imagining the castle guards living here added depth to the experience.
- Don’t forget to check out Starbucks Viewpoint & Vchlídka Na Opyši. These viewpoints offer sweeping vistas of the city from just outside the castle walls.
- Take a break and enjoy lunch on the terrace of Lobkowicz Palace Restaurant and Café with panoramic views of Prague’s rooftops and spires.
- From the Prague Castle, stroll through the cobblestone streets of Mala Strana (Lesser Town). Climb up the stairs of St. Nicholas Church Bell Tower for one of the best views over the district.
- A short walk away is the Lennon Wall. This vibrant wall of graffiti is an ever-changing tribute to John Lennon and peace.
- Next, head over to the quirky Narrowest Alley. This Instagram-worthy alley with traffic lights for pedestrians was an unexpected delight. We were there with almost no crowd and we went back and forth a couple of times!
- Dinner at Charles Bridge Restaurant is the perfect capstone. Watching the illuminated bridge while savoring traditional Czech cuisine was unforgettable. Try the crispy duck with purple cabbage and Czech dumplings if it is still on the menu.
Day 3: Old Town’s Historical Gems
On this day, step back in time with a deep dive into Prague’s Old Town and its cultural landmarks.
- Start the day with a cozy breakfast or brunch at U Prince’s Terasa Rooftop Restaurant with the best view of Old Town Square and beyond. The other option for panoramic views is the historic Town Hall Tower.
- The Astronomical Clock is a marvel of medieval engineering and the oldest functioning astronomical clock in the world. Watching the hourly Procession of the Apostles is a quintessential Prague experience. (You’ll be walking by this clock tower a lot so don’t worry if you miss it by a few minutes.)
- Head over to Klementinum Astronomical Tower. The guided tour here will reveal the ornate Baroque Libray Hall and stunning views from the tower. Make sure to prebook the tour because it will be sold out during heavy tourist season, which we unfortunately found out for ourselves.
- Next, walk through Prague’s Jewish Quarter to explore its historic synagogues and cemeteries.
- Circle back to Old Town Square for a snack and drink break at the Christmas Market before visiting Church of Our Lady Before Tyn. This Gothic church is home to the tomb of famed Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe.
- Walk through the Powder Tower, one of the original city gates, to the Palladium Shopping Centre on Republic Square. It is the largest shopping mall in central Prague and there is also another smaller Christmas Market for a cozy experience. You can head inside the mall to escape the cold too.
Day 4: The Charm of New Town and Modern Prague
The final day was dedicated to New Town (Nove Mesto), a district that contrasts Old Town’s medieval ambiance with its 14th-century modernity. Explore the vibrant New Town and its unique mix of historical and modern landmarks.
- Start the day with a bus ride to Petrin Hill and Tower, Prague’s version of the Eiffel Tower. As the highest viewpoint in the city, the views are worth every step. The observation deck and surrounding gardens are perfect for a leisurely walk.
- The Dancing House, nicknamed Ginger & Fred, is a must-see in New Town. Its quirky design is a fun contrast to Prague’s traditional styles. Head up to the Glass Bar Rooftop for some drinks with another unique views of the city. Or have a nice meal at Ginger & Fred Restaurant.
- Continue the day with a stroll through Wenceslas Square, home to another charming Christmas Market. Steeped in history, this square has witnessed pivotal moments in Czechoslovakia’s past, making it more than just a shopping and dining hub.
- From there, wander down Na Příkopě, Prague’s vibrant shopping street. Lined with luxury boutiques and charming cafes, it’s the perfect place to pick up last-minute souvenirs or simply soak in the festive atmosphere.
- Before saying goodbye to this magical city, return to the Old Town Christmas Market for one final dose of holiday cheer. With a warm cup of hot chocolate or mulled wine in hand, watch the twinkling tree and reflect on the beauty of Prague, a city that feels like a living fairytale.
Prague is a city that steals your heart. Whether you’re marveling at its architectural wonders, soaking in its history, or enjoying a cozy moment at a Christmas market, every corner has a story to tell. As I left, I knew this wouldn’t be my last visit to the City of a Hundred Spires.
Would I go back in December? Absolutely—it’s the perfect time to see Prague at its most magical.
