Old Town Square, Prague Castle Complex, St. Vitus Cathedral, Charles Bridge, Astronomical Clock, Prague National Museum - the list of places to see in Prague are endless. Each of these attractions offer visitors a peek into the rich Bohemian history spanning over a millennia. Prague in December is a great time to explore these sights plus witness one of the most enjoyable times of the year – Christmas and Holidays season! From Christmas markets to special shows, there is a lot to do in December. Coming December, unearth the secrets behind them on walking tours and sample the Czech culture through unique beer tours, river cruises and bus tours. Here's all you need to know to make the most of your trip to Prague in December.
Why is Prague in December a must-visit?
Winter wonderland – Prague harks back to a dreamy era even on its sunny best, but imagine the Prague Castle, church spires and red roof tops covered with snow! The city looks straight out of an enchanting fairytale and one you can’t stop admiring. The temperatures are freezing but it’s the captivating views that will warm you up.
Holiday Spirit – Most tourists visit Prague in December to enjoy traditional European holiday festivities. Each and every square like the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square is abuzz with Christmas Markets. Thanks to the rich Jewish history, the city also witnesses the Hanukkah festivities.
Choose your buzz – If you are visiting Prague in December you can choose the kind of atmosphere you want. The Christmas markets and other events are on all through the month but the tourists start trickling in only towards Christmas. The first half of the month is much more relaxed and you will get better rates on airfares and accommodation as well.
Prague Weather in December
Winter has set its grip firmly in Prague in December. The skies are overcast and the temperatures are dropping steadily. During the day the average temperature is around 4°C and drops to around 0°C at night, however towards the end of December you can experience -1°C. You will experience snow towards the end of December.
Prague in December : Things to Do
1
Prague Castle
The Prague Castle has been the home of Roman Emperors, Bohemian Kings, and now the President of Czech Republic. Its history spans over a millennia with construction starting in 870 and finishing only in 1929! In December, you can visit the ‘Story of Prague Castle’ exhibition to learn more about the complex.
December Timings
Prague Castle Complex – Everyday – 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Historical Buildings – Everyday – 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
119 08 Prague 1, Czechia
Getting There ›
2
Old Town and Jewish Quarter
When in Prague there is no way you can leave without walking the streets of Staré Město and Josefov! A walking tour with an expert will take you through the attractions but more importantly tell you about its people, including the Jewish community, who made this historic city their home.
December Timings
Tour starts at 9:50 AM everyday
Staroměstské nám, 110 00 Staré Město, Czechia
Getting There ›
3
St. Vitus Cathedral
The St. Vitus Cathedral is the Czech Republic’s most important Church and is located within the Prague Castle Complex. The church has iconic Gothic architecture and its wall contain the tombs of many Bohemian Kings and Roman Emperors. Skip the line and explore this magnificent church this December!
December Timings
Monday-Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Great Tower of St. Vitus Cathedral: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
III. nádvoří 48/2, 119 01 Praha 1, Czechia
Getting There ›
4
A Day Trip to Terezin Concentration Camp
Just 70KM away from Prague is the remnant of one of the largest concentration camps of the Nazi regime. Over 33,000 Jews lost their lives at the camp, but there innumerable stories of hope surviving during the dark times. Take a guided tour to learn about the camp’s tragic history.
December Timings
Tour runs every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10:00 AM
G578+G3 Terezín, Czechia
Getting There ›
5
Vltava River Cruise
It is never too cold to be out on the Vltava River in Prague! Enjoy a comfortable cruise with heated boats as you travel down the lifeline of the city and marvel at the architecture along the way. Enjoy views of Charles Bridge, National Theatre, Prague Castle, and Old Town along the riverside.
December Timings
Depends on the chosen tour
Prague, Czechia
Getting There ›
6
Prague National Museum
Prague is an ancient historical city dating back to the Roman Empire. You can witness its history and heritage not only at the Prague National Museum but also in its open-air squares Wenceslas Square and Old Town Square. Take a guided tour and skip the line to spend more time inside exploring.
December Timings
Tour starts Sunday – Friday – 9:55 AM and 1:55 AM
Prague, Czechia
Getting There ›
7
Dancing House
In a neighborhood packed with traditional and amazing Baroque, Art Nouveau and Gothic architecture, the Dancing House stands out for its unique ‘Deconstructivist’ architecture. The building has become a landmark over the past decades and a symbol of Prague’s amalgamation of old and new and the rise of a modern metropolis.
December Timings
Monday-Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Jiráskovo nám. 1981/6, 120 00 Nové Město,
Czechia
Getting There ›
8
Beer Tour of Prague
The Czech love their beer and on this tour you can get to visit the most happening pubs in the city and mingle with the locals to share this love for beer! These iconic pubs have even been graced by US presidents, and you will sample their beer.
December Timings
Tour starts everyday at 6:00 PM
Discover Prague Tour Office, Celetná 12, Prague
Getting There ›
9
Day Trip to Kutna Hora
Does the thought of dead remains in a basement bring you the chills? Take a trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kutna Hora and head down to the basement of the All Saints Church to find macabre bone formations! While grotesque, these are artistic works and made to commemorate all the lives lost.
December Timings
Every day – 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Old Town, 110 00 Prague 1, Czechia
Getting There ›
10
Tour 4 Charity – See the Best of Prague
Take a guided tour of Prague and explore all its major attractions for over three hours and get to know rare anecdotes about the city’s history and culture. What’s more, your trip cost will go towards community building in Prague and directly help hospitalized and orphaned children at Chance 4 Children charity.
December Timings
Tour starts every day – 10.15 AM
Municipal House, nám. Republiky 5, 110 00 Staré Město, Czechia
Getting There ›
Prague in December : Events to Look Out For
Christmas Markets
All through December
Lively and festive Christmas Markets come up across Prague’s popular neighbourhoods including Prague Castle, Peace Square, Republiky Square, Tyl’s Square, Wenceslas Square, and Old Town Square. Enjoy local Christmas delicacies like mulled wine and gingerbread, watch street shows and pop-ups and witness Christmas lighting at the markets.
Tutankhamen Real Experience
All through December
Tutankhamen is one of the most well-known Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt and this exhibition at the Historical Building of the National Museum explores the different facets of his life. With a combination of original artefacts and unique audio-visual presentation, the exhibition brings to life the enigma of Tutankhamen.
Mikuláš
5th December 2019
Mikuláš or St. Nicholas Day is celebrated with much fanfare in Prague, especially at Old Town Square. You will find a bearded St. Nicholas (Inspiration behind Santa Claus), the Angel and the Devil, parading in town and distributing candy for the good kids! It is an exciting celebration and kid-friendly.
The Nutcracker at Hybernia Theatre
22nd December – 30th December 2019
The Nutcracker Ballet is a Christmas institution worldwide and the story of the Nutcracker and the Rat King has enthralled generations over time. This winter, the ballet will come alive at the Hybernia Theatre in a shortened version that will appeal to audiences of all ages.
Prague in December : 3-day Itinerary
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