The Christmas markets are one of the best reasons to visit Prague in winter. Wooden stalls, a tall decorated tree, the smell of mulled wine and the Gothic towers of the Old Town make the city centre feel like a film set for a few weeks every year. If you are planning a trip, a proposal or a photo session, the first question is always the same: when do the markets start?
Prague Christmas market dates
For the 2024–2025 season the main markets ran from November 30, 2024 to January 6, 2025. The pattern is similar every year: the main markets open around the last weekend of November, at the start of Advent, and stay open every day, including Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, until early January. Exact dates and opening hours are confirmed by the city each autumn, so check the official Prague tourism website before you book flights.
Where to find the main markets
- Old Town Square: the largest and best-known market, set between the Church of Our Lady before Týn and the Astronomical Clock. The big Christmas tree stands here and the lighting of the tree marks the opening of the season.
- Wenceslas Square: a few minutes’ walk from the Old Town, with stalls at the lower end of the square. It is usually a little less crowded.
- Náměstí Míru: a smaller neighbourhood market in Vinohrady, in front of the Church of St. Ludmila. It is popular with locals and tends to open and close earlier in the season than the two main markets.
- Náměstí Republiky and Prague Castle: smaller markets that are easy to combine with sightseeing.
What to eat and drink
The markets are as much about food as they are about gifts. Typical things to try include:
- Svařák, the Czech version of hot mulled wine
- Medovina, a warm honey wine
- Grilled klobása sausages and Prague ham roasted over an open fire
- Trdelník, a sweet pastry rolled in sugar and cinnamon
- Perníčky, decorated gingerbread
The stalls also sell wooden toys, glass ornaments, candles, ceramics and other handmade gifts.
Best time of day to visit
The markets look their best after dark, when the lights are on and the tree is illuminated. In December the sun sets early in Prague, so you do not need to wait long. Weekends and evenings are the busiest. If you want room to walk and to look at the stalls calmly, go on a weekday morning or early afternoon and come back at dusk for the atmosphere.
Photography tips for the Christmas markets
- Shoot at blue hour. The half hour after sunset gives a deep blue sky that balances well with the warm lights of the stalls.
- Start early for empty streets. Charles Bridge and the Old Town are quiet at sunrise, even in December. A morning session followed by a short stop at the market works well for couples.
- Use the lights as a background. A wide aperture turns the fairy lights behind your subject into soft circles of light.
- Dress warmly, and plan your outfit. Temperatures are often around freezing. Coats, scarves and gloves in plain colours look good in photos and keep you comfortable.
- Keep batteries warm. Camera and phone batteries drain faster in the cold, so carry a spare in an inside pocket.
Planning a winter photo session in Prague
December is a popular month for proposals, engagement sessions and winter wedding photos in Prague. The decorations add a festive feeling without any extra styling, and if it snows the city looks even better. Because the market squares get crowded, it helps to work with a photographer who knows the quiet corners nearby and the right time to be at each one. Book early, as weekends in Advent fill up quickly.
