November is Prague’s off-season, meaning fewer tourists. Autumn is in full swing – trees are bare, and the first snow begins to fall in the late November, though it often melts by noon. The city’s misty, gray mornings add a magical atmosphere, with fog drifting over the river, giving Prague a noir-like feel. It’s a great time to capture the city in moody, black-and-white tones, where blurred silhouettes and the river evoke a melancholic charm.
As the fog lifts and sunlight breaks through, Prague slowly wakes up. The view of the Vyšehrad Railway Bridge with fog over the river and Prague Castle behind feels like stepping into an industrial or steampunk scene. By midday, the city returns to its usual pace, but those cold, misty mornings are unforgettable.
November also marks the quickest drop in daily temperatures. Early in the month, it’s still mild at 12°C (53°F), but by mid-November, it cools to around 10°C (50°F). By the end of the month, daytime averages are 5°C (41°F), with nights dipping to 1°C (34°F).
Misty, Magical, and Historic: Things to Do in November
Here’s my list of places I recommend enjoying and visiting in November (beyond the usual landmarks and popular attractions):
1. Celebrate Saint Martin’s Day with Wine and Festive Food
In mid-November, Prague comes alive with Saint Martin’s Day festivities. Around November 11th, markets pop up in spots like Náplavka, Jiřího z Poděbrad Square, and Letná. These markets are perfect for sampling seasonal Czech dishes – think roast goose, duck, pâtés, smoked meats, and fresh pastries. Of course, the highlight is tasting St. Martin’s wines, the first young wines of the year, known for their light, fresh, and aromatic flavors.
The Saint Martin’s festivities are beloved by us – the locals – , and we enjoy celebrating them. Give it a try and experience this charming tradition for yourself.
2. Savor a Traditional Saint Martin’s Feast with Roasted Goose and Wine
Saint Martin’s Day isn’t just celebrated in markets. Many restaurants across Prague offer special menus for the occasion. A typical meal begins with creamy kaldoun soup, followed by a succulent, slow-roasted goose served with red and white cabbage, and a variety of dumplings. It’s a hearty and festive way to experience Czech cuisine.
Pro tip: Be sure to reserve a table in advance, as this is a beloved tradition for locals. Families and friends often gather for a festive lunch, especially if it coincides with the season’s first snowfall – a magical moment that often happens around this time!
3. Commemorate the Velvet Revolution and the End of Communism
Commemorate the Velvet Revolution and the End of Communism
Every year on November 17th, we remember the start of the Velvet Revolution in 1989, the most important moment in our’s modern history. What began as a peaceful student protest on Národní Street was met with brutal force by police, sparking a wave of demonstrations that led to the fall of communism.
Národní Street becomes a special point for commemorations, with people laying flowers, lighting candles, and remembering this patriotic event. Though it’s a public holiday, most shops remain open, and the city feels quieter, except for the historic heart of the revolution, where crowds gather to honor the day.
4. Immerse Yourself in Prague’s Christmas Markets During Advent
Prague’s Christmas magic begins with the first Sunday of Advent, four weeks before Christmas Eve. By then, the city is glowing with festive lights, and its famous Christmas markets come to life. Held in major squares, these markets offer delicious Czech treats, mulled wine, and seasonal drinks.
The centerpiece is a dazzling Christmas tree, surrounded by wooden nativity scenes and, at some locations, even live animals like sheep and donkeys.
For an added festive touch, larger markets often feature live music, carolers, and performances that bring Christmas or christians stories to life.
5. Watch the Magical Christmas Tree Lighting in Old Town Square
The lighting of the Christmas tree in Old Town Square is one of Prague’s most enchanting Advent traditions, drawing tens of thousands of locals and tourists. To ensure everyone can enjoy it, the tree is lit several times daily in 30-minute intervals.
The lightning ceremony kicks off with a lively countdown, followed by a moment of silence just before the tree illuminates to the sound of traditional Czech carols or festive songs. Though it only lasts a minute or two, it’s a beautiful, shared moment that brings the entire square together in the holiday spirit, filled with warmth, happiness and a touch of nostalgic reflection.
My Tip: For a more intimate experience, try to catch one of the earlier or later lightings, when the square tends to be less crowded.
6. Visit Prague Sound festival
This international festival of contemporary music is a hidden gem in Prague’s vibrant cultural scene, blending modern classical, jazz, hip-hop, and electronic music. Running throughout November, it offers an immersive experience for fans of cutting-edge sounds and contemporary genres.
7. Savor Autumn’s Wild Game Feasts
As autumn sets in, Prague’s restaurants come alive with traditional Wild Game Feasts, marking the start of hunting season. From late October to November, local hunters supply freshly caught game like deer, wild boar, and pheasant, all prepared under strict conservation practices. Dishes such as venison goulash, wild boar with dumplings, and roasted pheasant are paired with seasonal sides like mushrooms and cranberries, creating an unforgettable culinary experience.
Try Malostranská Beseda, Kolkovna restaurants, or the refined Obecní dům for a good experience with Prague’s wild side.
