January Weather in Prague: What to Expect?
What is the Weather like in January in Prague?
January is the coldest month of the year in Prague, right in the heart of the city’s winter. Temperatures often fall below 0°C (32°F), and freezing conditions are common throughout the month. This means you have a good chance of seeing snow-covered landscapes and frozen ponds and lakes. However, the Vltava River hasn’t frozen over in more than 50 years, so the cold isn’t quite that extreme!
Winter in Prague is truly enchanting, with fewer tourists and plenty of activities to enjoy. Just be sure to dress warmly. I recommend layering your clothing – a sweater over a shirt and a warm winter coat or long jacket on top. If you have thermal underwear, you’ll definitely appreciate it during January in Prague.
Despite the cold, Prague is very walkable in winter. Don’t forget to bring a winter hat, gloves, scarf, warm socks, and comfortable waterproof winter boots with non-slip soles. The sidewalks, often paved with granite cobblestones, can become quite slippery when it snows or freezes. While Prague’s road maintenance crews clear the main roads, sidewalk upkeep is usually the responsibility of adjacent property owners. This means not all sidewalks and squares might be perfectly cleared, especially after a night of heavy snowfall.
Plan for regular warm-up breaks, whether on public transportation (buses, trams, metro, and trains are all heated), in landmarks (churches are typically unheated, but museums and galleries are), or in the many restaurants, cafes, and shops.
My tip: A thermos for hot drinks, an umbrella for cold rain and snow, and hand warmers can come in handy.
Temperatures
January temperatures in Prague typically range between -2 and 7°C (28 – 45°F). Occasionally, there can be extreme cold spells with temperatures dropping below -15°C (5°F), but these usually last only a few days. For most of January, temperatures hover around freezing, with cold but not frigid conditions that would create ice. The coldest days are generally around January 22nd, after which temperatures usually begin to rise, averaging around 4°C (39°F).
Average Temperature in January in Prague (°C)
Average Temperature in January in Prague (°F)
Average Temperature by months in Prague (°C)
Average Temperature by months in Prague (°F)
Snowy and Rainy Days
January offers the highest chance of snowfall in Prague, with an average of 4.3 centimeters (1.7 inches) of new snow accumulating throughout the month. It’s not a lot, but that’s typical for Prague – snowfall is usually minimal and the snow stays on ground for a few days if the temperature is below 0°C (32°F). The greatest likelihood of snow is in the first half of January, with less frequent snowfall as the month progresses.
In January, there are 12 days when it rains or snows. However, it usually rains because the temperature is above freezing, or the snow that falls melts almost immediately. On average, only 2 days in January see more than 1 cm (0.4 inches) of snow that stays on the ground without melting. This snow typically remains as long as the temperature is below freezing. On average, January sees a total snowfall of 4.3 cm (1.7 inches).
Sunset, Sunrise and Shining Hours
January sees the least sunshine of the year in Prague. The sun rises around 8:00 (8 a.m.) and sets around 16:00 (4 p.m.), providing roughly 8 hours of daylight at the beginning of the month, increasing to 9 hours by the end of January. The skies are often cloudy, and on average, you might only see the sun for 1 to 2 hours a day. The overcast conditions can make it challenging to capture photos with a bright blue sky – you’ll need a bit of luck for that.
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 January?
Since it’s cold in January and the sun sets early, it’s best to plan your outdoor activities for the afternoon when it’s light and the temperatures are at their highest. For instance, a walk across Charles Bridge is ideal around noon. During the day, try to warm up indoors by visiting attractions, taking guided tours, or spending time in restaurants and using public transportation.
My tip: Churches are not heated, so they won’t provide any warmth.
In addition to the usual attractions like the Old Town Square with the Astronomical Clock, Wenceslas Square with the statue of Saint Wenceslas, Prague Castle with St. Vitus Cathedral, Charles Bridge, museums, art galleries, synagogues, churches, and artworks by David Černý, here are some activities you can try in Prague in January:
Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Prague
Almost every bar, club, and restaurant in the city hosts special New Year’s Eve celebrations with buffets and drinks. Alternatively, you can enjoy the lively street celebrations in the city center, which remain vibrant despite the fireworks ban.
Enjoy the Christmas Markets
The Christmas markets last until January 6th and retain their magical atmosphere throughout the holiday season. The stalls offer typical Czech food, drinks, and souvenirs. You can find these markets on almost every major square.
Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride
For around 1000 CZK / 40 €, you can take a ride in an old carriage pulled by horses around Old Town Square. My favorite time is at dusk, when the streets around Old Town Square and Pařížská Street are beautifully illuminated. The coachman will provide a warm blanket if you get cold.
Stroll with Hot Punch or Mulled Wine
Grab the best punch or mulled wine from U Prince on Old Town Square and enjoy a leisurely walk through the evening streets of Prague. It’s a wonderful way to relax with a warm drink in hand.
Experience Snowy Prague
If you’re lucky, you can explore Prague during snowfall or after a fresh snow. The city is transformed into a magical winter wonderland that is absolutely breathtaking.
Visit Nativity Scene Exhibitions
In early January, various museums and locations in Prague display nativity scenes, such as at Loreta, the Charles Bridge Museum, and the Infant Jesus of Prague. These exhibitions showcase the exquisite craftsmanship of woodcarvers preserved through the ages.
Celebrate Three Kings Day (Epiphany) with a Procession
On January 6th, join the procession from Malostranské Square to Old Town Square celebrating the Three Kings, who brought gifts to baby Jesus. The two-hour procession features the Three Kings and often a camel.
Commemorate Jan Palach Day
On January 19th, you can honor Jan Palach and his sacrifice protesting the Soviet occupation of Czechoslovakia. You can lay flowers or light a candle at his memorial near the National Museum.
Admire Ice Sculptures
In January, Prague hosts various ice sculpture exhibitions, historically held at Pankrác and Riegrovy Sady. You can marvel at the skill of the sculptors and enjoy modern figures carved from ice.
Ice Skate in the City Center
Many major squares and shopping centers in Prague set up temporary ice rinks during winter. For a small fee, you can rent skates and enjoy skating on the ice. It’s a unique experience for tourists and a fun activity for locals.
Dinner Cruise on the Vltava River
A romantic dinner cruise on the Vltava River is a great idea for a date. You can enjoy good food, live entertainment, and the enchanting illuminated views of Prague from the water.
Visit a Winter Cinema
For a truly unique experience, visit the Sunset Cinema, an unconventional outdoor cinema you can reach only through a secret path.
Traditional Pig Slaughter Events
Throughout winter, traditional pig slaughter events 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.
Sledding and Tobogganing
If it snows, grab or rent a sled or toboggan and hit the hills. Popular spots for sledding include Petřín, Stromovka, and Letná.
Admire Frozen Waterfalls in Divoká Šárka
Located further from the city center, Divoká Šárka’s frozen waterfalls are a must-see for nature lovers in winter.
Try Traditional Craft Workshops
Experience traditional Czech crafts by making candles, gingerbread, puppets, ceramics, or jewelry in one of the many workshops. It’s a fun way to engage with local traditions.
Stroll through Nový Svět and Malá Strana
Snow, evening darkness, and the soft yellow light from street lamps create a charming winter atmosphere in the narrow streets of Nový Svět (The New World) and Malá Strana (The Lesser Town).
Ride a Historic Tram or Train
A ride on a historic tram or train through snow-covered Prague offers a unique and picturesque experience.
Winter Plant Exhibitions at the Botanical Garden
Annual winter exhibitions at the Botanical Garden feature tropical plants in heated pavilions, providing a warm escape from the cold.
Visit the Zoo in Winter
Though some animals might be hiding or sleeping, a visit to the zoo can still be enjoyable if you dress warmly and have a full day to explore.
Walk through Snow-Covered Cemeteries
While it may seem morbid, walking through snow-covered cemeteries can be a serene and contemplative experience. The winter atmosphere adds a unique charm.
Events to Visit in Prague in January
January may not host the kind of events and festivals that draw crowds specifically to Prague, as the city’s summer season is more known for its cultural offerings. However, if you find yourself in Prague in January, these events and activities can enhance your visit:
January 1st Zoo and Botanical Garden Special On January 1st, enjoy discounted admission to the Prague Zoo and Botanical Garden for just 1 CZK. It’s a great opportunity to explore these attractions at a minimal cost.
January Sales and Discounts January sales and discounts start right after Christmas and continue throughout the month. You can often find great deals, as the European Union ensures the fairness of discounts, making it likely that the sales will be genuine.
Light Parks If you enjoy light installations, check out Lumina Park or the “Světla vyprávějí” (Lights Tell Stories) event. These parks feature beautiful LED light sculptures and are perfect for an evening stroll.
Warm Up at Aquapalace For a day of relaxation, head to Aquapalace, located just outside Prague. This aquacenter offers pools and saunas, providing a perfect way to warm up. It’s an excellent outing for families, though it can be a bit pricey.
Holidays and Vacations in January
January 1st is New Year’s Day, a public holiday in the Czech Republic when most shops are closed. By law, stores larger than 200 square meters must remain closed, but it’s common for even smaller shops to be shut, at least for the morning, if not the entire day. New Year’s Day is a significant holiday, and since most Czechs celebrate New Year’s Eve with parties and festivities, many spend January 1st recovering, catching up on sleep, and trying to shake off the effects of the previous night’s alcohol.