Why Winter is the Best Time to Visit Prague

While some people prefer to visit the beautiful city of Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, in the spring and early summer, the winter is actually one of the most special times to visit the city and experience a traditional winter break in one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.

Hailed by some as a “winter jewel”, Prague city breaks in winter give the traveller some much-needed respite, and while the city will be colder in the winter months, a few days in Prague can undoubtedly invigorate every world-weary traveller.

Why Winter?
First of all, there will probably be snow and lots of it in Prague in the winter, and with snow comes all sorts of wonderful traditions and celebrations that are unique to Eastern Europe. The Prague Christmas Markets open on the 30th of November every year, and generally stay in the city until the 14th of January.
Known as Vánocni trhy, the most popular Christmas markets are held in the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square, which are just five minutes’ walk from each other, while smaller, and less well-established markets can also be found nearby in Republic Square and Havel’s Market.

Popular with both tourists and locals, these markets bring true Christmas magic to the dark and dreary winter months, and consist of wooden huts selling traditional crafts, such as jewellery, candles, lace, toys and glassware. However, the markets aren’t just about shopping, but also provide visitors with numerous opportunities for indulgence, with the chance to see many local delicacies, such as Trdelnik, a hot and very sweet sugary pastry. You’ll also find tasty local meats, such as ham and sausages, which are prepared, cooked and sold within the market.

What Else Is There to Do?
Aside from the Christmas markets, Prague also offers ample opportunities for the winter traveller to experience the unique magic and joys of the city at Christmas. One thing that the city is also well-known for is the plethora of classical music performances that take place in and around the city in November and December.
Many concerts take place in venues such as concert halls and old churches, so look at what will be available before you travel, and if classical music isn’t your thing, then the winter is also opera and ballet season in the city, so you may be spoilt for choice during your stay!

What About Affordable Attractions?
While travelling to popular destinations in the run up to Christmas can be expensive, finding low-cost or free things to do while you’re there is very possible, and Prague is no exception. You can choose to partake in one of the city’s many walking tours, which are free, but it is advisable to make a small donation at the end of the tour. And if an organised tour isn’t your thing, walking around the markets, admiring the beautiful Christmas lights and other sights, costs absolutely nothing. All you need to bring is a comfortable pair of shoes, a map and your sense of adventure, and you can find places in the city that you might never have visited otherwise.

The cold and dark winter months can seem like the worst time to travel, but November and December can be the perfect time to fly somewhere you’ve never been before and Prague city breaks are a perfect way to explore a new city at one of the most magical and beautiful times of the year. So, why not book a last minute holiday to Prague this winter? It really is the best time to visit the city.

Authors Bio: Angela Brown is a keen traveller who has done several trips to Prague, along with every country in the EU and is now combing through the rest of Europe one step at a time.

Image courtesy: TripNotice.com