February Weather in Prague: What to Expect?
What is the Weather like in February in Prague?
In February, winter is drawing to a close in Prague, but it remains the second coldest month of the year. It’s essential to dress warmly, complete with a hat, scarf, and gloves. While temperatures are slightly higher than in January, they are still quite chilly. You can expect temperatures to range from -1 to 9°C (30 – 48°F), with slightly warmer days towards the end of the month. Occasionally, temperatures can drop as low as -10°C (14°F). There are about 9 days in February when it might snow. If you’re lucky enough to visit during a snowfall, you’ll experience one of the most magical moments in wintertime Prague. The city covered in snow is truly enchanting.
Throughout February, as with the rest of winter, I recommend wearing a warm winter coat and waterproof, comfortable winter boots with non-slip soles. The cobblestone’s sidewalks can become very slippery when icy.
Remember to take breaks to warm up to avoid freezing. The best places to do this are restaurants (some outdoor ones even have gas heaters on their terraces), cafes, museums, galleries, or heated public transportation. Churches, however, are not heated, so they won’t provide much warmth.
My tip: Public transportation in Prague is heated, including the metro, buses, trams, and trains.
Temperatures
February temperatures in Prague range from -1 to 9°C (30 – 48°F). On a few days, they can drop as low as -10°C (14°F). Sub-zero temperatures often cause the cobblestone sidewalks, which are common in Prague, to become icy. Therefore, it’s important to be cautious while walking around the city to avoid slipping. Non-slip soles on your shoes are a must. High heels and smooth-soled shoes are not recommended in this weather, as they can make navigating the cobblestones quite treacherous.
The coldest days are usually in the first half of February. As the month progresses, temperatures begin to rise, and the second half of February is significantly warmer. You might find you no longer need gloves and scarves, but it’s still a good idea to keep a winter coat and hat on hand.
My tip: A thermos for hot drinks, hand warmers and an umbrella for cold rain and snow may be useful.
Average Temperature in February in Prague (°C)
Average Temperature in February in Prague (°F)
Average Temperature by months in Prague (°C)
Average Temperature by months in Prague (°F)
Snowy and Rainy Days
In February, you have the second-best chance of seeing snow in Prague, with January being the only month with a higher likelihood. Throughout February, there are approximately 9 days of either snow or rain. On about 7 of these days, it might snow briefly and lightly, creating only a thin layer of snow that either melts quickly or forms a light dusting. However, on average, there are 1.2 days in February when you can experience more significant snowfall, resulting in snow that lasts for several days. During these snowfalls, an average of 4.9 cm of new snow can accumulate.
If you want to experience Prague covered in snow, consider visiting in January or during the first half of February.
Sunset, Sunrise and Shining Hours
Compared to January, February in Prague offers more daylight. At the beginning of February, you can expect about 9.5 hours of daylight, with sunrise around 7:30 a.m. and sunset around 5:00 p.m. By the end of February, this increases to 11 hours of daylight, with sunrise at 6:45 a.m. and sunset at 5:45 p.m.
This extra daylight gives you the feeling of longer days, allowing you to plan more activities and walks. In the first half of February, there is typically less sunshine, averaging only about 2.5 hours per day due to frequent overcast skies. However, in the second half of the month, the skies tend to clear up more often, providing nearly 4 hours of sunshine per day on average. This makes the latter part of February a slightly better time for outdoor photography, activities, and walks.
Sunset and Sunrise throughout the Year
Our Weather Data Research
We conducted our own research using data from the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute, which measures temperature, precipitation, and other weather-related data at several locations in Prague and Czech republic. Our focus is on weather conditions in the city center, as this is where most tourists spend their time. Weather data from other areas might distort the forecast and statistics relevant to tourists.
We also found that climate change has altered Prague’s weather patterns in recent years. If we relied on the historical statistical data used by other websites and even Google, we would be looking at averages spanning the past 30 or even 100 years. This would significantly distort the current weather situation in Prague over the last 11 years.
Therefore, after careful consideration and study, we base our data on measurements from the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute, specifically from the Prague Klementinum meteorological station. This station is located just a few meters from the Charles Bridge, right in the heart of the city, providing the most relevant data for tourists. Our statistics cover the past 11 years, offering a sufficiently large sample size considering global climate changes. This gives a reliable statistical overview of the weather you can expect in Prague today.
Things to Do in Prague in February?
Even though it will still be quite cold outside, planning your outdoor activities around noon and in the afternoon will allow you to enjoy the warmest possible weather. This way, you can comfortably explore Prague’s most important landmarks on foot.
Besides the usual must-see attractions such as the Old Town Square with the Astronomical Clock, Wenceslas Square with the statue of Saint Wenceslas, Prague Castle with St. Vitus Cathedral, Charles Bridge, the National Museum, and the National Theater, you can also experience the following in Prague during February:
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Your Love
I recommend a Valentine’s dinner at a restaurant offering a tasting menu, a charming historical horse-drawn carriage ride in Old Town Square, or an evening boat cruise with a romantic dinner.
Spice Up Your Valentine’s Celebrations with a Little Bit of Erotica
To add a bit of spice to your Valentine’s Day celebrations, consider visiting the Sex Machines Museum in Prague, which features a collection of historical erotic devices and gadgets. You could also enjoy a slightly spicy cabaret performance at the Czech Cabaret Show in Hybernia Theater or the playful Prague Burlesque Show in Royal Theater. Just be sure to gauge your partner’s mood and preferences.
Stroll with Hot Punch or Mulled Wine
Grab a cup of the best punch or mulled wine from a stall near Hotel U Prince on Old Town Square and take a marvelous walk through the evening streets of Prague. It’s a delightful way to relax and enjoy your time with a warm drink in hand.
Experience Snowy Prague
If you’re lucky, you can explore Prague during snowfall or just after a fresh layer of snow. The city is transformed into a magical winter wonderland that is absolutely breathtaking, especially at spots like the Charles Bridge or from the views atop Prague’s towers.
Traditional Pig Slaughter Events – Zabíjačka
Throughout winter, traditional pig slaughter events, known as zabíjačka, take place, although public events are rare. If you know locals in Prague or nearby villages, try to get an invite. It’s a bit morbid but offers a fascinating glimpse into Czech rural traditions.
Events to Visit in Prague in February
In February, Prague hosts three very important events, including St. Matthew’s Funfair. While Prague’s summer season is renowned for its cultural offerings, these winter events and festivals also draw crowds specifically to the city. If you find yourself in Prague in February, these activities can greatly enhance your visit:
St. Matthew’s Funfair – Outdoor Amusement Park with Carousels and Rollercoasters
It is the largest amusement park in Prague. Every year around St. Matthew’s Day (February 24th), Matějská pouť begins, featuring rides, rollercoasters, bumper cars, horse rides, cotton candy, and shooting galleries. You can try adrenaline-pumping rides. Locals love it and often spend an entire weekend day there.
Bohemian Carnival / Masopust
This event takes place on the weekend at the end of February or early March, 40 days before Easter. It is an outdoor festival filled with stalls selling food and traditional products made from pork. The carnival is often accompanied by artistic and musical programs that reflect old Christian customs and the preparation for Lent before Easter. You’ll often see horses, children’s activities, and have the chance to try traditional Czech pig-slaughter dishes.
Go Dancing at a Ball / It is Ball Season
February in Prague hosts many social dance events and balls. If you love ballroom dancing and have evening gowns and suits, be sure to buy a ticket for one of the balls: the Austrian Ball, the Spanish Ball, the Czech-Slovak Ball, the Czech Ball at the Municipal House, the Rudolfinum Ball, and more.
Holidays and Vacations in February
There are no public holidays in the Czech Republic during February. However, Prague’s schoolchildren have a week-long spring break in February. The city is divided into two groups: one half of Prague has its break during one week, while the other half has it the following week. Families with children often take advantage of this time to go on vacation, typically heading to the mountains for skiing in the Czech Republic, Austria, or Italy. As a result, Prague is a bit quieter during this period.
Here are the dates for the spring school holidays in Prague:
- 2024: Prague 1 to Prague 5 from February 2 to February 11; Prague 6 to Prague 10 from February 2 to February 11.
- 2025: Prague 1 to Prague 5 from February 10 to February 16; Prague 6 to Prague 10 from February 17 to February 23.
- 2026: Prague 1 to Prague 5 from February 16 to February 22; Prague 6 to Prague 10 from February 23 to March 1.
- 2027: Prague 1 to Prague 5 from February 22 to February 28; Prague 6 to Prague 10 from March 1 to March 6.
During these weeks, you’ll find that Prague is a bit less crowded, offering a more relaxed experience for visitors.