Things To Do In Prague In Winter

Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It is renowned for its stunning architecture, its vibrant culture, and its history and has become an increasingly popular tourist destination. In winter, Prague is transformed into a fairytale wonderland, with snow-capped streets, cosy cafes, and a festive atmosphere. From exploring the captivating sights of the city to enjoying a festive winter market, there is plenty to do in Prague during the winter months. This guide will provide you with the best activities and experiences in the city so that you can make the most of your winter visit to Prague.

History of Prague

Prague has a long and interesting history that dates back almost ten centuries. Founded in the 9th century by Bohemian tribes, the city soon developed into an important political and cultural centre. By the 14th century, Prague had become one of the largest cities in Europe and it was home to many prominent artists and intellectuals. During the 16th and 17th centuries, Prague flourished as a centre of Baroque art, sculpture, and architecture. In more recent times, the city has become a hub for international business and finance and has become a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.

City Facts

Prague is the largest city in the Czech Republic with a population of approximately 1.3 million people. It is one of the oldest cities in Europe with its first written records dating back to the 9th century. The city is renowned for its stunning architecture which includes Gothic, Baroque and Art Nouveau styles. Prague is also known for its vibrant nightlife, its rich cultural heritage, and its unique cuisine.

What to See in Prague

Prague is home to many captivating sights that make for a memorable visit. Here are some of the must-see sights in the city:

Old Town Square

The Old Town Square is one of the most popular attractions in Prague and a definite must-see while you are in the city. Located at the heart of the Old Town, it is surrounded by some of Prague’s most famous buildings including the Town Hall, Church of Our Lady Before Tyn, and the Astronomical Clock. It is also home to numerous cafes and restaurants where you can take a break from sightseeing to enjoy some delicious Czech food.

Charles Bridge

The Charles Bridge is one of Prague’s most iconic landmarks. Built in 1357 on orders from King Charles IV, it is one of the oldest surviving bridges in Europe. Today, it is a popular spot for both tourists and locals alike who come to admire its stunning views over the Vltava River and enjoy its vibrant atmosphere.

Prague Castle

No visit to Prague would be complete without stopping by Prague Castle. Situated on a hill overlooking the city, it is one of the largest castles in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Inside, you will find an array of stunning chapels, courtyards, towers, and galleries as well as numerous museums and galleries.

Strahov Monastery

The Strahov Monastery is another must-see sight in Prague. Established in 1143, it is one of the oldest monasteries in the Czech Republic and is renowned for its stunning architecture and its vast library which houses thousands of rare books and manuscripts.

Winter Activities in Prague

In winter, Prague comes alive with a range of activities that make it an ideal destination for a winter break. Here are some of our favourite winter activities in Prague:

Visit a Christmas Market

Prague’s Christmas markets are not to be missed! From traditional markets to modern events featuring live music and local delicacies, there are plenty of markets to explore during your visit. Some of the most popular Christmas markets are located at Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square.

Ice Skating

Ice skating is a great way to enjoy the winter months and there are plenty of places to do it in Prague! The biggest ice rink in the city is located at Ovocný trh Square where you can skate surrounded by some of Prague’s most iconic buildings. You can also take a trip to one of the many ice rinks outside of the city such as Na Františku Ice Rink or Ice Park Žižkov which offer something a little different.

Walking Tours

Explore Prague’s history on a guided walking tour. There are plenty of tours available that will take you through some of Prague’s most famous sights such as Charles Bridge and Old Town Square as well as some lesser-known sights such as the Jewish Quarter and Strahov Monastery.

Enjoy Local Cuisine

Sample some of Prague’s delicious local cuisine. From hearty Guláš (beef stew) to Trdelník (a traditional pastry), there are plenty of traditional dishes that are perfect for warming up on a cold winter’s day. You can also find plenty of international restaurants if you’re looking for something different.

Popular Tours in Prague

In addition to these activities, there are also many popular tours available in Prague that will help you make the most out of your visit. Here are two popular tours that we recommend:

Prague Castle Tour

For those interested in history, art, and architecture, a tour of Prague Castle is a must-do activity during your visit to Prague. On this tour, you will have a chance to explore the castle up close, learning about its colourful history as well as admiring its stunning Baroque architecture. You will also get a chance to visit some of its most impressive chambers such as St Vitus Cathedral and Vladislav Hall as well as its numerous galleries and museums which house some remarkable works of art. You can book a Prague Castle Tour on Viator which will provide you with an experienced guide who will take you through all of the major highlights of this historic landmark.

Czech Beer Tour

The Czech Republic is renowned for its beer and what better way to sample some of its finest brews than on a tour? On this tour, you will have a chance to explore some of Prague’s best beer bars as well as visiting some breweries to learn about the history and production process behind Czech beer. You will also be able to sample some rare and unique beers that you won’t find anywhere else! You can book a Czech Beer Tour on GetYourGuide which will provide you with an experienced guide who will take you through all of Prague’s best beer bars as well as providing you with an insight into its rich beer culture.

Conclusion

Winter in Prague is an enchanting time of year that offers plenty of things to do and see for visitors from all over the world. From exploring the captivating sights of the city to enjoying some traditional Czech cuisine or sampling some local beer on a tour, there are plenty of activities that make it worth visiting during this time of year. We hope this guide has provided you with some helpful information about things to do in Prague during winter so that you can make the most out of your visit!