Dear travelers,
If you’re planning a winter trip, or you just need some cozy wanderlust to warm you up today, let me take you with me in Prague, through the Old Town Square, the legendary Astronomical Clock, hidden alleyways, beer tastings (lots of them), immersive art, rooftop views, and a Christmas tree that literally puts on a show every 30 minutes.
Grab a svařák (that’s mulled wine in Czech!), and let’s go.
Old Town Square: Where Christmas Lives Its Best Life
I stepped into Old Town Square like the main character in one of those Hallmark Christmas movies where everything is overly magical, except this time the magic was real.
Why Old Town Square Feels Like Stepping Into Narnia
Cobblestone streets glowing under golden lights
Wooden Christmas stalls with the smell of sausages, cinnamon, and roasted chestnuts
Choirs echoing between Gothic towers
A Christmas tree so tall and sparkly it could get its own Netflix special
Honestly, I stood there for a moment and forgot to even take out my phone. Shocking, I know.
The Famous Christmas Tree (a.k.a. the Diva of Prague)
Let me tell you: this tree is not like other trees. It is the tree.
Every half hour, it launches a full light show. The crowd gathers, the lights dim, and the tree starts twinkling along with the music. Full applause at the end. Literal rounds of applause. For a tree. And yes, I clapped too.
If you want holiday magic, come here in the evening. Trust me. It’s the closest you’ll get to living inside the final scene of Love Actually.
The Prague Astronomical Clock: The 600-Year-Old Timekeeper That Still Shows Off
Just a few steps from the Christmas market sits one of the most iconic clocks in the world: the Prague Astronomical Clock.
What Makes the Clock So Special?
It’s one of the oldest working astronomical clocks in the world
Every hour, the Apostles do a mini on-the-hour parade
The whole thing looks like a medieval sci-fi instrument
The trick? Go early. Before the masses arrive.
Charles Bridge: The Fairytale Walk You Can’t Skip
Charles Bridge is the kind of place that makes you question whether you accidentally fell into a historical drama set somewhere between the 14th century and a Netflix fantasy series.
I wandered onto it expecting “nice views” and instead got hit with full cinematic energy. Street musicians tuning violins like they’re preparing for a scene in Amélie. The silhouettes of 30 sculpted saints line the bridge like silent guardians. And a soft golden light was glowing behind Prague Castle.
Why Charles Bridge Feels Like a Real-Life Movie Set
Built in the 1300s
Gothic towers at each end make you feel like you’re entering a portal
Stone statues that watch over you (in a gentle, not-creepy way)
Views of Prague Castle, the river, and pastel houses along the banks
Artists painting, musicians playing, vendors selling handmade jewelry
It’s romantic. It’s atmospheric. It’s photogenic.
Pro Tip: Go Early
Visit before 9 AM. You’ll get the bridge:
with fewer crowds
with softer morning light
and without bumping elbows with every other tourist in Europe
Prague Castle: The Hilltop Giant I Didn’t Visit This Time (But Still Think About)
Okay, confession time: I didn’t make it up to Prague Castle on this trip, my fingers were frozen and my stomach was full of trdelník. I visited on my first and second trips to the city, and it still feels like a quiet little postcard in my memory.
But Prague Castle (or “Hradčany” if you want to sound like a local) isn’t just a castle. It’s basically a mini city sitting on top of the real city, like the ultimate hilltop kingdom. Here’s what I remember loving the most:
The views: You look out over all of Prague, the red rooftops, the river curves, the bridges, the tiny moving dots of people below. It feels like holding the whole city in the palm of your hand.
St. Vitus Cathedral: Massive, gothic, dramatic…
The courtyards: Open, airy, full of history, perfect for wandering, especially in the morning when it’s quieter.
It’s the place you go when you want the full “Wow, I’m really in Prague” feeling.
Even though I didn’t go this time, if you’re visiting Prague for the first time (especially in winter), Prague Castle is a must. It’s the crown of the city, literally and metaphorically.
Christmas Market Snacks You Must Try (No Negotiations)
If you know me, you know my main form of exploration is eating my way through a country, so here’s what you need to try at the Christmas markets in Prague.
Essential Christmas Market Eats
Trdelník (chimney cake): warm, cinnamon, doughy perfection
Pražská šunka (roasted Prague ham): the smell alone will lure you in
Klobása (grilled sausage): grab mustard and bread, you won’t regret it
Svařák (mulled wine): your hand warmer + mood booster
Vanilla-scented pastries you didn’t know existed
It’s the kind of food that makes you want to hug the vendor.
Hidden Gems & Quirky Spots You Shouldn’t Miss in Prague
This is where Prague gets fun. Beyond the fairytale square, there are quirky, artsy, unexpected little corners that give the city its personality.
The Narrowest Street in Prague (Yes, It Has a Traffic Light)
I swear, this lane is so narrow it might actually be the world’s smallest runway.
It’s called Vinarna Čertovka, and it’s basically a shoulder-width alleyway connecting two corners near the canal.
What to Expect
It’s so narrow that pedestrians take turns
There’s a red/green traffic light for humans (!!!)
Great photo spot if you want something unique
Fun surprise to stumble upon after beer tastings
Honestly, it felt like walking into a hidden Harry Potter passage. I kept waiting for a secret door to open.
Lumia Gallery: The Digital Wonderland You Didn’t Know You Needed
Now, if Old Town Square is your medieval fantasy, Lumia Gallery is your futuristic fever dream.
This place is 1,300 m² of immersive light, sound, and digital art.
Why I Loved It
It’s interactive
It’s super Instagram-worthy (yes, I am that person)
Every room surprises you
Warm break from the cold
Perfect contrast to historical Prague
Also, photosensitive visitors be aware: lots of flashing lights.
After wandering through Lumia Gallery, we did what any good tourist in Prague would do…
Beer Tastings Everywhere (Because… Czech Republic)
Prague is like a beer playground. You can barely turn a corner without finding a tasting flight. We went to a bar right opposite Lumia Gallery (Staroměstský pivovar U Supa), and it was the perfect breather after the digital light extravaganza.
Beer Tasting Tips
Look for “degustation sets”
Try a mix of local pilsners and craft brews
Bars are cozy and warm, great winter break
Ask the bartender for seasonal picks
And Czech bartenders? They pour like they’re trying to make you stay. (And honestly, we did.)
The Surrounding Museums and Views You Don’t Want to Miss
Prague is museum-packed, but these ones are steps from the square and 100% worth it.
Madame Tussauds Prague
Sure, it’s touristy, but in a fun, “take goofy photos with your friends” kind of way. Perfect if you need an indoor activity while waiting for the next tree light show.
The Banksy Museum
A must for street-art lovers. Full of political, snarky, thought-provoking pieces. It balances out the medieval aesthetics with something modern and gritty.
Bring your inner rebel.
Prince Terrace: One of the Best Views in Old Town Square
This was one of my favorite surprises: a terrace overlooking the entire square.
What You See from Up There
The Christmas tree glowing magically
The crowd below buzzing around
The towers of Týn Church rising dramatically behind
A perfect sunset view
If you want that iconic I-was-here Instagram moment? This is the spot.
Lennon Wall: Colorful, Iconic, and Full of Hope
The Lennon Wall is one of Prague’s most famous street-art spots. Layers upon layers of paint, messages of love, rebellion, and peace.
Franz Kafka’s Rotating Head
A giant metallic head made of rotating panels that constantly shift like a Rubik’s cube. Watch it move. Let your brain melt slightly. Carry on.
Practical Tips for Visiting Prague in Winter
What to Pack
Warm coat (like… warm warm)
Gloves & scarf
Boots with grip (cobblestones + ice = cartoon-style slipping risk)
Power bank (you will take many pictures)
Weather Reality Check
Around 0°C
Sunset around 4 PM
Snow? Possibly. Magic? Definitely.
Money & Logistics
Czech crowns (CZK), card is accepted everywhere too
Public transport is easy
Old Town is fully walkable
Prague was a perfect blend of old and new, tradition and surprise. And I left with my heart a little warmer (and my belly very full).
If you get the chance, go at Christmas. Go with someone you love. Go with an open heart. And if you need any help planning it, you know where to find me.
Truly yours,
The Creation of Us
P.S.: Some of the links are affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support!
