How to enjoy Prague in December? We know the best places where you can buy Christmas presents, take your friends to a party, or hide before the Christmas rush. May this year’s Christmas in Prague be one the finest holidays for you!

1. Christmas markets in Holešovice

The most famous Christmas markets are traditionally held in Old Town Square. Their fame, however, also means a lot of people and a stereotypical offer of goods. You can avoid the crowds in the more relaxed atmosphere in Náměstí Míru Square, for example. An ideal place for Christmas shopping is the exhibition grounds in Holešovice. Under one roof, there are dozens of stalls with handmade items and interesting tips for Christmas presents.

2. Mulled wine in Old Town Square

The overpriced mulled wine sold in the city centre is part of the Christmas time in Prague. Its low quality and high price is soon forgotten. What’s important is the warming effect on your body when you’re watching the tree lights and street decorations: Christmas is here.

3. Boat party

December is a month of business and private parties. While people spend Christmas holidays with their families, the Advent is the time of meeting friends. Restaurants are often booked far in advance. Invite your dear ones to a boat and try an evening cruise on the Vltava River. The party will be a unique experience you’ll remember for a long time.

4. Midnight mass in the Břevnov monastery

Although the Czechs are a nation of atheists, Christmas Eve midnight masses in Prague’s churches are crowded. Everyone wants to experience the exceptional atmosphere of the festive evensong. Visit any church in Prague, and you won’t be disappointed.

5. The most famous Nativity scene in Prague

Christmas also means the Nativity scenes. There is one in almost every church in Prague. In the monastery church of Our Lady of the Angels, near the Prague Castle, you’ll be impressed by the great baroque Capuchin life-size Nativity scene. Every hour you’ll be also greeted by the famous Loreto carillon which is a European rarity.

6. Outing in the Cibulka forest park

Surprisingly, you can rest and relax quite close to the bustling Plzeňská Street. You won’t find many people in the Cibulka forest park, just beautiful nature. You can also climb the stone, thirteen-metre-high observation tower there. To get to Cibulka, take a train from the main station or the Smíchov station and enjoy the romantic journey.

7. Bob sledding on Petřín Hill

In Prague, you and your kids can enjoy the snow on Petřín Hill. When you get tired of climbing the hill, take the funicular. If the snow conditions are good, choose any from the many paths to sled or ski down the hill.

8. Outdoor ice rink in the city centre

In Ovocný trh Square near Wenceslas Square, an ice area of 14x30m is open every year. Every day, from 5 December to the end of January, you can skate under the open sky in the atmosphere of the old Prague until 10 pm. Bring your own skates, or borrow some at the ice rink.

9. Cross-country skiing to Letohrádek Hvězda

When Prague is covered with snow, instead of cars, you’ll see cross-country skiers in the streets instead of cars! Do you also like cross-country skiing? Try the paths in the area of Bílá Hora in Prague 6, the sports circuit in Ladronka, or the relaxing path to Letohrádek Hvězda.

10. New Year’s Day at Letná

The New Year fireworks will start near the metronome in Letenské sady on 1 January 2017 at 6 pm. The light show with music will take more than 10 minutes. You’ll have the best view from the Vltava river banks and bridges, at Letná, on the top of Petřín Hill, at Vítkov or in Riegrovy sady.

Photo – source: Pixabay.com