Things to Do in Czechia in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Czechia
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- Christmas markets in full swing from November 27 through December 23, with Prague's Old Town Square market ranking among Europe's most authentic, featuring locally-made wooden toys and trdelník pastry for 80-120 CZK
- Dramatically reduced tourist crowds - major attractions like Prague Castle see 60% fewer visitors compared to summer, meaning no queues and better photo opportunities without crowds
- Peak cozy season for traditional Czech pubs (hospoda culture) - locals embrace zimní posezení (winter sitting) with mulled wine (svařák) for 50-80 CZK and hearty goulash perfect for sub-zero temperatures
- Cheapest accommodation rates of the year - hotel prices drop 40-50% from summer peaks, with luxury Prague hotels available for 2,500-4,000 CZK per night versus 6,000+ CZK in July
Considerations
- Daylight severely limited to just 8 hours (sunrise 7:50am, sunset 4:00pm) meaning outdoor sightseeing must be compressed into narrow timeframe and many activities feel rushed
- Weather is genuinely harsh - temperatures frequently drop to -8°C (18°F) with biting winds reaching 25 km/h (15 mph), making outdoor walking tours uncomfortable for more than 90 minutes at a time
- Many castles and outdoor attractions operate reduced hours or close entirely - Karlštejn Castle closes weekdays, Český Krumlov's castle gardens are inaccessible, limiting sightseeing options significantly
Best Activities in December
Prague Castle Complex Winter Tours
December transforms Prague Castle into a fairytale setting with minimal crowds and dramatic winter lighting. St. Vitus Cathedral's stained glass windows create stunning light displays in low winter sun between 11am-2pm. The courtyards covered in light snow provide Instagram-perfect shots without summer's tour groups. Indoor areas like Old Royal Palace offer warmth between outdoor sections.
Christmas Market Food Tours
Czech Christmas markets offer unique winter street food unavailable other times of year. Try klobása (grilled sausage) for 80-120 CZK, lokše (potato pancake) with poppy seeds, and traditional medovina (honey wine) that locals drink to stay warm. Markets operate daily until December 23rd, with prime eating hours 4-8pm when stalls are fully stocked and atmosphere peaks.
Traditional Czech Pub Crawls
December is peak hospoda season when locals escape cold weather in centuries-old pubs serving winter specialties. Experience authentic Czech drinking culture with svařák (mulled wine) and fernet stock (herbal liqueur) that locals use to combat winter cold. Historic pubs like those in Malá Strana district maintain coal-heated interiors and serve goulash and knedlíky perfect for freezing weather.
Český Krumlov Day Trips
This UNESCO town becomes a medieval winter wonderland in December with snow-covered red rooftops and tourist-free streets. The Vltava River often partially freezes, creating magical reflections of Gothic and Renaissance buildings. Indoor attractions like Český Krumlov Castle's painted tower and baroque theater provide warmth while outdoor walks along ramparts offer stunning winter photography opportunities.
Karlovy Vary Thermal Spa Experiences
December makes thermal springs incredibly appealing as outdoor temperatures drop while healing springs maintain 30-72°C (86-162°F) year-round. The contrast between sub-zero air and warm mineral waters creates unique spa experiences. Historic spa buildings offer indoor treatments while outdoor hot spring walks through colonnades feel magical with steam rising in cold air.
Classical Concert Experiences
December is prime season for Czech classical music with special Christmas concerts in historic venues like St. Nicholas Church and Municipal House. Many concerts feature works by Czech composers Dvořák and Smetana in intimate settings with superior acoustics. Venues are beautifully heated providing perfect respite from outdoor cold while experiencing Czech cultural heritage.
December Events & Festivals
Prague Christmas Markets
Traditional markets at Old Town Square, Wenceslas Square, and Lesser Town Square featuring handcrafted wooden toys, Czech crystal, and traditional foods like trdelník and klobása. Live folk music performances and nativity scenes create authentic Central European Christmas atmosphere.
St. Nicholas Day Celebrations
Traditional Czech holiday where costumed St. Nicholas, angels, and devils walk through Prague streets giving gifts to children and interacting with locals. Best experienced in Old Town Square and residential neighborhoods where locals participate actively.
New Year's Eve Prague Celebrations
Massive street party centered on Wenceslas Square with live music, fireworks over Prague Castle, and outdoor beer stands. Locals celebrate with champagne toasts at midnight and traditional Czech folk music continues until 3am.