On the terrace of the historic Riding School inside the castle grounds a forest of roughly forty spruce trees from Lány is set up each Advent, decorated with traditional Czech blown-glass ornaments and illuminated sculptures of pilgrims, animals and the Three Kings.
Your guide to celebrating Christmas at Prague Castle
Gothic spires dusted with snow overlook courtyards twinkling with lights, carols echoing through St. Vitus Cathedral, and the scent of mulled wine drifts from wooden market stalls. That's Prague Castle for you during Christmas. Stay on this page to know more about the festive vibe at Prague's postcard-perfect castle.
What to expect at Prague Castle during Christmas?
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Explore the castle’s festive market
Browse dozens of artisan stalls on St George’s Square inside the castle complex. You can buy hand-crafted gifts, sip some warm mulled wine, and get views of St. Vitus Cathedral.
Enjoy advent choral performances
On Sundays in Advent, students and the Castle Guard band perform carols outside the Golden Gate in the Third Courtyard.
Take the Christmas stroll through decorated spaces
From late November to early January, wander through the Riding School Terrace forest, the Chapel of the Holy Cross nativity scene and take part in workshops in Mocker’s Houses.
Capture the winter panorama of the city
As daylight fades, enjoy sweeping views of Prague, snow-dusted rooftops, twinkling lights and the grand tree at the castle.
Prague Castle Christmas exhibition
Riding School Terrace forest
Bethlehem Yurt
During Advent a large felt yurt created by the Forman Brothers’ Theatre stands on the Riding School Terrace. Inside you’ll find a carved nativity scene, a tea-corner and board games; in front of it, light-sculptures of travelling figures welcome you in.
Advent Carols at the Golden Gate
Every Sunday during Advent at 2pm, the Golden Gate of St. Vitus Cathedral hosts advent carols. The Castle Guard and Czech Police Band perform traditional Christmas songs, followed by heartfelt choral performances from students of Prague’s elementary art schools.
Plan your visit to Prague Castle at Christmas
- Prague Castle complex grounds: Open daily from 6am to 10pm throughout the year.
- Historical buildings (St. Vitus Cathedral, Old Royal Palace, Golden Lane, etc.): Open during winter hours from November 1 to March 31, 9am to 4pm.
- Last entry to the historical buildings is typically 30-45 minutes before closing.
- Christmas Eve (December 24): Castle closed to visitors.
- Christmas Day (December 25) and subsequent days: Open during regular winter hours as above.
Prague Castle is situated on a hill overlooking the city in the Hradčany district, near the city center.
Address: Hradčany, 119 08 Prague 1
Getting there
- Metro: Malostranská station (Line A) about 15-minute walk uphill.
- Tram: Lines 22, 23, and 41 stop at Pražský hrad (Prague Castle) tram stop right at the castle entrance.
- Parking: Limited parking near the castle; recommended to use city parking garages such as Parking Ruzyně or Parking Kotva. Costs vary but expect €3-5/hour in garages.
- Restrooms: Available at key points inside the castle complex, including near the main historical buildings and museum entrances.
- Lockers/coat check: Coat checks are available at some venues within the complex; lockers are limited. Size restrictions apply (typically small bags); no major fees but small charges may apply during peak season.
- Gift Shop: Located near the exit of the main visitor route, the gift shop offers souvenirs such as postcards, books, Czech crystal, jewelry, traditional crafts, and Christmas-themed items during the season.
- Dining options: Several cafes and restaurants are located within or near the castle grounds including the popular Lobkowicz Palace Café, with views of the city and traditional dishes.
- Accessibility: Most areas of Prague Castle are wheelchair accessible, including key attractions like St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, Golden Lane, and the Royal Gardens.
FAQs for visiting Prague Castle during Christmas
Festive events and decorations typically start in late November and continue until the first Sunday in January, aligning with Advent and the New Year celebrations.
Expect larger crowds in the afternoons and on weekends, especially around the market at St. George’s Square. Early mornings or weekday visits are quieter and ideal for photos.
The Christmas Market, Advent concerts, and the 'Christmas Stroll' are free. However, standard entry tickets are needed to access castle interiors like St. Vitus Cathedral or the Old Royal Palace.
Take tram 22 to Pražský hrad. It drops you right near the main entrance. The cobblestones can be icy, so wear proper footwear and expect a short uphill walk.
Yes, the castle grounds and St. Vitus Cathedral are beautifully illuminated after dusk. The terrace near the Old Royal Palace offers panoramic views of Prague’s twinkling skyline.
