This Christmas market turn an already fairytale city into a cinematic winter set, and nowhere captures that magic better than the main market in Old Town Square. Here, the Gothic spires of Týn Church sit behind a towering Christmas tree and a sea of wooden chalets, creating one of Europe’s most photogenic festive scenes.
One of Europe’s most photographed Christmas markets
By late November, Old Town Square becomes the glowing heart of Christmas in the city of Praguewith lights draped from historic facades and a giant tree dominating the cobbles. The contrast between the warm golden bulbs and the sharp Gothic silhouettes makes evenings especially atmospheric, as if the whole square has been staged for a film.
The market runs annually from late November through early Januarytransforming the square into a fairy-tale scene dominated by the soaring Gothic towers of Týn Church and the Astronomical Clock.
Central to this magical setting is a towering 20-metre Christmas tree, festooned with thousands of LED lights, giant stars, and red and gold baubles, creating a stunning visual centrepiece that illuminates the winter nights.
Highlights of Prague’s Christmas markets
The market features dozens of beautifully decorated wooden chalets offering traditional Czech crafts and seasonal delights. Visitors find hand-blown glass ornaments, embroidered linens, wooden toys, and straw decorations, many crafted by local artisans preserving centuries-old techniques. Alongside the crafts, the air fills with aromas of mulled wine (svařák), hot mead, roasted nuts, and cinnamon pastries like trdelník, inviting guests to sample iconic Czech winter treats. Food stalls also serve hearty dishes such as carp soup, reflecting authentic festive culinary traditions.
In addition to shopping and eating, the market offers cultural experiences including live music, carol singing led by local choirs, and artisanal demonstrations such as blacksmithing and sword-making, which connect visitors with the city’s rich heritage.
To really appreciate the scene, many visitors climb up to nearby viewpoints such as the Old Town Hall tower or small raised platforms within the square, framing the chalets and tree beneath the Týn towers. Whether you are people‑watching with a hot drink or hunting for that perfect photo, Old Town Square’s Christmas market delivers a classic European winter tableau that feels both timeless and irresistibly festive.
Prague’s Christmas markets are regularly ranked among Europe’s bestpraised for their historic charm, immersive atmosphere, and genuine holiday spirit.
Beyond the main market in Old Town Square, other festive markets in Wenceslas Square and around the city extend the celebration, creating a vibrant, city-wide seasonal festival that runs till early in the new year. The blend of architectural grandeur, local craftsmanship, traditional foods, and cultural festivities makes this market a quintessential festive destination and a perfect embodiment of Prague’s fairy-tale allure during the holiday season.
Getting to Europe’s most photographed Christmas markets from London
Getting to Prague’s Old Town Square Christmas Market from London is straightforward and convenient.
The fastest and most popular way is to fly from London to Prague Václav Havel Airport. Direct flights operate daily from major London airports, including Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stanstedwith a flight time of around 2 hours.
From Prague airport, take bus 119 to Nádraží Veleslavín metro station (Line A), and then transfer to the metro to reach Staroměstská station in Old Town, which is just a short walk from the Christmas market in Old Town Square.
