Walking through the cobblestone streets dusted with snow is one experience that lives with you long after you leave Prague.
Even though it ranks as one of the most awe-inspiring cities in Europe, Prague in winter takes it up a notch, making one feel like they are living in a children’s fantasy novel.
However, without meticulous planning, any trip to paradise may sour and become a nightmare. And same is the case with visiting Prague in winter.
Temperatures drop as low as -15°C, and winter lasts from December to February.
Prague has piqued the interest of many looking for an affordable but eventful holiday escape as a budget-friendly destination, full of amazing architecture, a great food scene (including vegan) and music festivals!
Visiting during winter is budget-friendly except for the last week in December when tourists come to see the Christmas markets. There are also many amazing day trips you can take from Prague. Here are the best destinations in Prague in winter.
Prague Castle
An all-year stop for the city’s visitors, visiting Prague Castle in the winter means short lines, which is precious, especially if you have a long itinerary.
The rigorous security checks (three to be exact) can be a painful ordeal for many as you are forced to empty your pockets before going through metal detector scanner frames.
Whereas you are forced to wait for hours in summer under the scorching sun, visiting the castle in the winter means shorter lines and less crowded.
And between late November and the first week of January, the castle runs two Christmas markets with over 70 stalls selling just about everything from handmade toys to food and drinks.
Prague Zoo
Recently ranked as the 4th best in the world due to the exceptional maintenance, the Prague Zoo in the winter is one experience worth every penny.
From the beautiful New Zealand parrots to multi-colored wolves, there are many animals to glimpse on your visit to the zoo in the winter.
And if you visit around noon, you will also catch the Indian elephants in the outdoor enclosure.
On top of the incredible sights of animals, the zoo has an illustrious list of activities planned during the Christmas season, such as making Christmas cards, lighting the Christmas tree, feeding the animals, face painting, and others.
Charles Bridge
One of the most romantic escapes in the city, the Charles Bridge comes alive in the winter season with impeccable lighting shining upon the dusty snow.
The bridge welcomes thousands who flock to enjoy the nights under the regal gas lumps operating for centuries.
With most of the city operating electric lighting since the 1950s, Charles Bridge is one of the few places on the continent to take a trip down memory lane.
And every day in December until 23rd, a lamplighter makes the whole experience surreal, manually turning on all the lamps on the bridge as was the case back in the day.
The National Theatre in Prague
The winter has always been synonymous with musical concerts for centuries in Prague. Mozart conducted “Don Giovanni” in Prague, and the city is also the birthplace of Antoni Dvorak and Bedrich Smetana.
If you are an ardent lover of the arts, then a trip to the National Theatre is one that will brighten your trip.
Built off the contributions of Czechs of different social statuses and the Austrian-Hungarian Emperor, the theatre is a beaming symbol of national cultural heritage.
Whether it is ballet, opera, or drama, you are spoilt for choice with alternate shows for non-Czech speaking visitors. So check out the Nutcracker at the National Theatre this Christmas.
Winter in Prague summary
Prague in winter offers a magical experience that is hard to forget. Despite the frigid temperatures, the city’s charm and affordability make it a popular destination for budget-conscious travelers looking for an eventful escape.
Planning a winter trip to Prague requires some careful consideration, but it can be a rewarding experience, especially if you know where to go.
The Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, Prague Zoo, and National Theatre are just a few of the top destinations worth visiting during the winter season. So, bundle up and get ready to make unforgettable memories in this fairy tale city.
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