Christmas markets in Czechia: Prague, Brno, Český Krumlov and Olomouc

Czechia is one of the best countries for a Christmas trip – fairy-tale architecture, medieval towns, strong Christmas traditions and reasonable prices. Prague is the big star, but smaller towns offer an equally beautiful and often calmer festive atmosphere. For other countries, see our guide to Christmas markets in Europe.

When and how to go

• Season: markets open in late November – around the first Sunday of Advent. In Prague they run until 6 January, in smaller towns usually until 23 December.
• Getting there: there are direct flights from Sofia to Prague. Brno and Olomouc are about 2.5 hours by train from Prague, and Český Krumlov about 3 hours by bus.
• Documents and money: Czechia is in the EU and Schengen – Bulgarian citizens travel with an ID card. The currency is the Czech koruna (CZK).

Prague

Gothic spires, baroque palaces and cobbled lanes – in winter Prague's historic centre looks like a Christmas fairy-tale set.

Christmas markets

• Old Town Square – the most famous market, with a giant tree in front of the Týn Church and dozens of stalls with ornaments and Czech food. In 2026 – from 28 November to 6 January 2027.
• Wenceslas Square – a busy market with local specialities and gifts.
• Prague Castle – a smaller, very picturesque market in the historic complex.
• Náměstí Míru – the locals' favourite, in front of St Ludmila Church, calmer and less touristy.

What else to see

Prague Castle with St Vitus Cathedral and Golden Lane, Charles Bridge early in the morning or lit up at night, the Astronomical Clock on Old Town Square and Letná Park with views of the bridges over the Vltava.

What to eat

Czech goulash with dumplings, fried cheese, vánočka – sweet Christmas bread, and mulled wine (svařák). Trdelník – a pastry roll baked on a spit – is everywhere, but it is more of a tourist attraction than an old Czech tradition.

Brno

Czechia's second city is young and artsy, with lots of cafés and bars – a great alternative to Prague.

Christmas markets

• Freedom Square – the main market with big decorations, local food and drink.
• Cabbage Market – on the historic market square, with traditional crafts.
• Dominican Square – smaller and cosy.

What else to see

Špilberk Castle on its hill, the twin-spired Cathedral of Sts Peter and Paul, Villa Tugendhat – a UNESCO-listed modernist masterpiece (booking required), the Old Town Hall with the famous "Brno dragon" – actually a stuffed crocodile, the Capuchin Crypt and the underground passages beneath the centre.

Český Krumlov

A UNESCO-listed medieval town in South Bohemia, with cobbled lanes, colourful façades and a castle above the Vltava. If you want a romantic and peaceful Christmas, this is the place.

Christmas markets

• Svornosti Square – the main market with handmade ornaments and Czech specialities. It runs from late November to early January.
• Christmas events around the castle – concerts and festive events.

What else to see

The vast castle complex and its colourful tower with panoramic views, Latrán Street, the Gothic St Vitus Church and the Egon Schiele Art Centrum.

Olomouc

One of Czechia's most underrated cities – baroque fountains, beautiful squares and a university vibe, but far fewer tourists than Prague.

Christmas markets

• Upper Square – the main market with traditional crafts, sweets and an ice rink. It runs from late November to 23 December.
• Lower Square – smaller and cosy.

What else to see

The Holy Trinity Column – a UNESCO-listed baroque monument, the unusual astronomical clock on the town hall, St Wenceslas Cathedral and the Archdiocesan Museum.

What to eat

Olomoucké tvarůžky – a strong-smelling local cheese, Moravian koláče pastries and Moravian wines.

Tip: Prague is perfect for a long weekend, and with a week you can add Český Krumlov. Dresden in Germany is only about two hours by train from Prague – a great add-on for Christmas market lovers.

Dates are based on information available in November 2026 and may vary by source – check the city's website before you travel.

Need help planning?

The Clio Travel team will help you with your flight to Prague, hotels and transfers to the smaller towns. For more ideas, see our guide to Christmas markets in Europe.