Things to Do in Prague in January

Prague is one of Europe’s most beautiful and historically-rich cities. It’s a city steeped in history and culture, with a unique blend of grandeur and modernity. From the iconic Charles Bridge and ancient castles, to trendy new restaurants, amazing nightlife and endless opportunities for entertainment, Prague is a city that offers something for everyone. January is a great time to visit the city, as the winter months offer an array of unique activities and experiences, from ice skating to exploring the Christmas markets. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your visit to Prague in January.

A Brief Introduction to Prague

Prague is the capital and largest city of the Czech Republic. It’s located in the heart of Central Europe and is one of the most visited cities in the world. With over 1.3 million inhabitants, it’s also the 14th largest city in the European Union. Founded in the 9th century, Prague is one of Europe’s oldest cities and is renowned for its beauty and cultural significance. With its cobblestone streets, ancient castles, cathedrals and bridges, Prague is a city that radiates charm and history. It’s also a vibrant, modern city with an excellent public transportation system and loads of entertainment options.

Prague is known for its stunning architecture, with buildings ranging from Gothic to Baroque. It’s also known for its vibrant nightlife, with clubs and bars that stay open late into the night. There are also plenty of cultural attractions, such as galleries, museums, churches and theatres. Prague is home to some of the world’s best beer, as well as excellent restaurants serving traditional Czech dishes. The city also offers plenty of shopping opportunities, from traditional open-air markets to trendy malls.

Things To Do In Prague in January

January is a great time to visit Prague, as the city is full of festive cheer and holiday spirit. Here are some of the best things to do in Prague in January:

Explore the Christmas Markets

Prague’s Christmas markets are an absolute must-see during the festive season. The markets are held in various places throughout the city, including Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square. The markets offer a wide range of traditional Christmas decorations, handicrafts, souvenirs, food and hot drinks. You can also enjoy some traditional carols and even take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride around the city.

Go Ice Skating

Ice skating is one of the most popular winter activities in Prague. You can go ice skating on various ice rinks throughout the city, including at the O2 Arena and at Na Františku Square. If you don’t have your own skates, you can rent them at most ice rinks. It’s an excellent way to get some fresh air and exercise while exploring the city.

Visit the Prague Castle

The Prague Castle is an impressive structure located on the banks of the Vltava river. It’s one of the largest castles in the world, with an area of nearly 70,000 square meters. The castle dates back to the 9th century and was once home to kings and emperors. Today it’s a popular tourist attraction and a great place to explore Prague’s history and architecture.

Take a Cruise on the Vltava River

A cruise on the Vltava river is a great way to explore Prague from a different perspective. You can take a boat tour from Old Town Square or from near Charles Bridge. The boat tours usually last around an hour and offer stunning views of Prague’s skyline. You can also enjoy some hot drinks and snacks on board while admiring the views.

Explore Petrin Hill

Petrin Hill is a beautiful park located just outside of Prague’s Old Town area. It’s a great place to go for a walk or a picnic on a sunny day. There are also some great views of Prague from the top of Petrin Hill. You can also ride up to the top in an old-fashioned funicular railway or take a leisurely stroll up through peaceful gardens and trees.

Visit Troja Castle

Troja Castle is an impressive Baroque-style castle located in Prague’s Troja district. It was built in the 17th century as a hunting lodge for members of the aristocracy. Today it’s open to visitors who want to explore its impressive interiors or admire its gardens. Troja Castle also houses a fascinating art collection and a zoo with many endangered species.

See a Performance at Estates Theatre

The Estates Theatre is one of Prague’s oldest and most famous theatres. It was opened in 1783 and has hosted some of the greatest performances in European history, including premieres of works by Mozart and Dvorak. Today it still hosts regular performances from both local and international artists, so be sure to check out what’s on during your visit.

Popular Tours To Do In Prague in January

Here are two popular tours that you can book during your visit to Prague in January:

Prague Christmas Markets Tour

This three-hour tour takes you through some of Prague’s most famous Christmas markets, including Old Town Square, Wenceslas Square and Republic Square. You’ll have an opportunity to sample some traditional Czech food and drinks while admiring the festive decorations and enjoying live music. At the end of the tour you’ll have time to explore on your own and do some last-minute Christmas shopping. Book this tour here.

Prague City Walking Tour

This three-hour walking tour takes you through some of Prague’s main attractions, including Old Town Square, Charles Bridge, Wenceslas Square and more. You’ll learn about the city’s history from knowledgeable guides while admiring its stunning architecture. The tour also includes entrance tickets for some attractions, so you don’t have to worry about queuing up for tickets on your own. Book this tour here.

Conclusion

Prague is an amazing city to visit during any season, but January offers unique experiences that you won’t find any other time of year. From exploring Christmas markets to admiring stunning castles and taking boat tours down the Vltava river, there are plenty of things to do in Prague in January. So if you’re planning a visit this winter season, be sure to check out these activities and tours for an unforgettable experience!