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Visiting Czechia in winter

Discover Czechia in the Christmas Season

Get ready for a journey through twinkling markets, snow-dusted rooftops and cosy traditions: welcome to Czechia at Christmastime! From the fairytale charm of Prague to the festive warmth of Brno and the winter magic of Český Krumlov, this Christmas route takes you through the most beautiful cities in the country.

The perfect Christmas route through Czechia

Whether you’re sipping hot mulled wine under Gothic spires or exploring cobbled streets adorned with lights, each stop offers a unique way to experience Czechia’s festive spirit.

1. Prague: Where magic meets tradition

The capital shines brightest during the festive season. Prague’s Old Town transforms into a real-life Christmas postcard: wooden chalets fill the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, selling everything from hand-carved toys to gingerbread hearts.

Don’t miss the giant Christmas tree - always a highlight - and the scent of trdelník (sweet rolled pastry) wafting through the frosty air. Warm up with a cup of svařák (Czech mulled wine) while watching the astronomical clock strike the hour.

Insider tip: Escape the crowds by visiting the smaller Christmas markets at Náměstí Míru. For panoramic views of the city lights, climb up to Letná Park or take an evening river cruise on the Vltava.

Festive must-do: Attend a Christmas concert at St. Nicholas Church or the Rudolfinum — the sound of carols echoing in these historic halls is pure magic.

2. Brno: A warm welcome in the south

Brno, Czechia’s second-largest city, is where tradition meets creativity. The city’s main market at Náměstí Svobody glows with lights and laughter, and locals come together to enjoy live music, street food and hot punc (a fruity punch that rivals mulled wine).

For a more local vibe, stroll to Dominikánské náměstí, a smaller square with artisan stalls and regional delicacies. Try the vánočka (a braided Christmas bread) and pair it with a steaming cup of mead.

Insider tip: Take a break from the markets with a visit to Villa Tugendhat, designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and a UNESCO World Heritage site, or climb the Old Town Hall tower for views of the sparkling city below.

Festive must-do: Experience the city’s light projection shows — every December, Brno turns its facades into vibrant displays of art and storytelling.

3. Olomouc: A baroque gem in winter splendour

Olomouc may be smaller, but it’s often called one of Czechia’s most beautiful Christmas destinations. The city’s UNESCO-listed baroque Holy Trinity Column stands proudly in the main square, surrounded by festive wooden stalls and a huge ice-skating rink. Sip on hot honey wine while admiring the city’s unique astronomical clock, or join locals for an evening stroll under the twinkling lights. The atmosphere here is relaxed and authentic; fewer tourists, more magic.

Insider tip: Don’t miss the chance to try olomoucké tvarůžky, a local cheese with a distinctive flavour, best enjoyed fried at one of the market food stalls.

Festive must-do: Visit St. Wenceslas Cathedral for a Christmas concert; its soaring Gothic interior makes the music unforgettable.

4. Liberec: A winter wonderland in the mountains

Nestled at the foot of the Jizerské Mountains, Liberec is a dream for anyone who loves both Christmas markets and snow adventures. The city’s main square, Dr. E. Beneše Square, hosts a charming market offering handmade crafts and hearty Czech food.

From there, it’s only a short ride to Ještěd Mountain, crowned by the futuristic Ještěd Tower. Take a short walk up for panoramic views over a winter landscape that looks like it’s straight out of a snow globe.

Insider tip: Combine your Christmas sightseeing with a bit of skiing or snowboarding at the nearby resorts — perfect for mixing culture and adventure.

Festive must-do: Visit the Liberec Zoo or iQLANDIA Science Centre if you’re travelling with family, both have special winter programs for kids.

5. Plzeň: Where beer meets Christmas cheer

Plzeň (Pilsen), the birthplace of the world-famous Pilsner beer, knows how to celebrate in style. The city’s main square, Náměstí Republiky, comes alive with wooden stalls selling handmade decorations, candles, and local treats. The Gothic St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral dominates the skyline, and its tower offers stunning views over the market below.

Warm up inside one of the city’s legendary beer halls with a freshly poured Pilsner Urquell and some pečené kaštany (roasted chestnuts). The combination of golden beer and festive lights makes for an unforgettable evening.

Insider tip: Take a guided tour of the Pilsner Urquell Brewery; it’s fascinating year-round, but the Christmas edition includes seasonal tastings and festive decorations.

Festive must-do: Catch a ballet performance of The Nutcracker at the J. K. Tyl Theatre - it’s a local holiday tradition.

6. Český Krumlov: Fairytale Christmas by the river

Few places capture the spirit of a storybook Christmas like Český Krumlov. This UNESCO-listed town is breathtaking at any time, but under a light layer of snow, it becomes pure magic. Stroll through the medieval streets lined with lanterns and admire the beautifully decorated castle towering above the Vltava River.

The town’s Advent Market in the main square is small but atmospheric, focusing on local crafts and homemade sweets. Choirs perform carols in the evenings, and the scent of roasted almonds fills the air.

Insider tip: Visit the castle grounds in the early morning for stunning views before the day-trippers arrive; the winter quiet adds to the charm.

Festive must-do: Don’t miss the live nativity scene and traditional Christmas parade, a local favourite that brings the community together every year.

7. České Budějovice: Cozy charm and a cup of Budvar

The southern city of České Budějovice (Budwies), home to the famous Budweiser Budvar beer, makes for a perfect final stop on your Christmas route. Its spacious main square, Přemysl Otakar II Square, hosts one of the most beautiful markets in the country, with a large ice rink at its centre.

As the snow falls softly on the pastel-colored buildings, enjoy a cup of mulled wine or a locally brewed beer. The festive stalls offer everything from traditional Czech ceramics to honey-based products — ideal for last-minute gifts.

Insider tip: Visit the nearby Hluboká Castle, which looks especially enchanting in winter.

Festive must-do: End your journey with a Christmas dinner in a cosy local tavern — roast duck, dumplings, and red cabbage make the perfect finale to your Czech adventure.

Are you a fan of activities? Adapt your itinerary!

Nature

Escape the city lights and explore the snowy landscapes of Bohemian Switzerland National Park or the Šumava Mountains. Winter hikes, frozen waterfalls, and tranquil forests make these areas perfect for nature lovers.

Adventure

For thrill-seekers, head to Krušné Hory (Ore Mountains) for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. You can also try ice climbing or winter cycling trails for a unique Czech winter experience.

Family

Travelling with kids? Combine sightseeing with fun stops like the Liberec Zoo, iQLANDIA Science Centre, or the Christmas-themed steam train rides from Prague. Many towns host special children’s workshops and festive puppet shows during Advent.

Culture

Immerse yourself in Czech traditions by attending an Advent concert, visiting a local theatre, or joining a Christmas craft workshop. Cities like Brno and Olomouc also offer modern art exhibitions and festive film screenings throughout December.

History

Discover Czechia’s rich past through its castles and old towns. Visit Karlštejn Castle near Prague, the medieval streets of Kutná Hora or the UNESCO sites of Telč and Třebíč for a glimpse into centuries of heritage, dressed in winter charm.

FAQ: Travelling in Czechia

How do I move within the country?

Czechia has an excellent public transport network. Trains and long-distance buses connect all major cities, while regional transport and trams make getting around locally easy and affordable. For a scenic experience, choose the train — the routes between Prague, Brno and Český Krumlov are especially picturesque in winter.

Where can I exchange money?

The Czech currency is the Czech koruna (CZK). You can exchange money at banks, official exchange offices (směnárna), or simply withdraw cash from widely available ATMs. Avoid exchanging money on the street or in tourist traps near major attractions.

What is the usual daily budget?

Travelling in Czechia is generally affordable, with good options for every type of traveller:

- Budget Travellers: around $60–$90 per day; stay in hostels or guesthouses, use public transport, and enjoy hearty local meals or street food.
- Mid-Range Travellers: around $100–$230 per day; comfortable hotels, a mix of restaurants and cafés, and activities like guided tours or concerts.
- Luxury Travellers: from $350+ per day; boutique or 5-star stays, fine dining, private excursions, and spa experiences.

When is the best time to visit Czechia?

Czechia is beautiful year-round, but for a truly magical experience, visit from late November to early January, when Christmas markets open and festive decorations light up every city. If you prefer fewer crowds and milder weather, spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are also ideal for exploring.

Useful information

Here are some general information about your trip to Czechia that will be useful for organising all your travel arrangements.

  • Rental Car: From $49 per day
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  • Visa: No visa required for up to 90 days, only a valid passport
  • Restaurants: Average price per meal is around $15
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