Prague in winter, part 1
Prague is one sexy beast. She’s like the supermodel of European cities. She can’t take a bad picture. Anytime. Day or night. From any angle. She’s an absolute stunner!
That being said, I can’t imagine Prague being any more beautiful than she is in winter. The architectural majesty provides a breathtaking backdrop to a city bursting with festive atmosphere during the colder months.
Where to stay:
For a killer location, try the boutique Hotel Jalta. With gorgeous views over Prague’s buzzing Wenceslas Square, the rooms are small, but it’s just a 5-minute cobblestone street walk to all the famous sights. And any hotel that provides free WiFi and an in-room Nespresso coffee machine is a hit with me!
The Hotel Jalta is classified as a cultural monument and has an underground bunker that’s been turned into a museum
What to see:
Throw on your walking shoes (and a warm coat), hit the streets and get lost in the romantic maze of medieval streets. Stay somewhere central and you’ll easily be able to stroll to all the famous sights.
You can’t miss Frank Gehry’s iconic twisted Dancing House – the non-traditional design really stands out amongst Prague’s famous baroque and Gothic buildings. Unless you’re an engineer or an architect, I guarantee you’ll walk away wondering, “How did they build THAT?”
The Dancing House was originally named Fred and Ginger after the famous dancers
You’re sure to stumble upon some of sculptor David Cerny’s famous figures. His works can be seen all over Prague. I found the Big Babies on my morning walk. They’re kinda creepy, but I couldn’t resist the photo opp.
Creepy, but photo-worthy
Linger in the Old Town Square and watch what happens when the medieval Astronomical Clock strikes the hour. It’s a Prague must-do, so you’ll need to battle the crowds for this one.
While you’re there, climb the clock tower to enjoy the most picturesque views of the city. I challenge you to take a bad picture from this vantage point!!
Terrific views from the top of the clock tower
The Charles Bridge is in surprisingly good nick considering it was built in the 15th century. Make sure your phone is fully charged for this one, because those baroque statues lining the bridge make for some very pretty pictures. If you don’t enjoy battling hordes of tourists, arrive at dawn and enjoy an unforgettable sunrise.
Charles Bridge is lined with 30 baroque statues of religious figures
For the quintessential Prague experience, jump on Tram 22. It runs from Namesti Miru past the National Theater and across the Vltava River up to Prague Castle. Allow yourself at least half a day to visit the city’s most famous landmark – it’s the largest ancient castle complex on the planet! The series of alleyways, churches, gardens, and buildings will have you “oohing” and “ahhing” at every turn.
Time your visit for after lunch and enjoy a late afternoon classical concert at St George’s Basilica church. The high ceiling and romantic setting provide the perfect opportunity to honour Prague’s musical heritage, and it will certainly enhance the festive feel of your trip.
The Xmas markets in Prague are regarded by many as the best in Europe! They’re free to enter and open nightly at both Wenceslas Square and the Old Town Square. If you’re lucky enough to be browsing the markets when it starts snowing, you’ll feel like you’re on a movie set or in a fairytale.
Xmas markets are held in many major European cities from late November to mid January
The larger market in the Old Town Square is filled with brightly decorated wooden huts and stalls selling food and plenty of trinkets. Jewellery, toys, ceramics, candles, Xmas tree ornaments, gloves, scarves – you’ll have no problem picking up a pretty Prague memento here.
If the enormous Christmas tree and the sparkling lights don’t put you in the festive spirit, a few swigs of Gluhwein certainly will. When the mercury drops below zero, nothing beats a cup of hot, sweet, fruity wine.
Of course, the food’s not bad either…
For Prague’s best food, drink and shopping in Prague, check out my next blog post ‘Prague in winter, part 2‘!
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