Prague is a city that never fails to enchant its visitors or me. I love its charming medieval streets, stunning architecture, and rich cultural history, there’s always something to explore and enjoy. While the city has its timeless attractions, each season brings its own unique charm. In this post, I’ll focus on the special experiences you can enjoy, things to do and what to see in Prague during January, offering you a tailored guide to make the most of your visit during this nice winter time of year.
A Winter Wonderland in Prague: Things to Do in January
Prague in January is a magical experience, with crisp winter air, charming snow-covered streets, and a variety of activities that bring the city to life. While cold temperatures are to be expected, there’s no shortage of things to do, from outdoor adventures to cozy indoor escapes.
Here’s a guide to places I recommend visiting in January, especially beyond the usual landmarks and popular attractions:
1. Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Prague
Almost every restaurant, hotel, club nad bar in Prague throws special New Year’s Eve celebrations, complete with lavish buffets, festive drinks, and live music. You should book your place in advance and choose very wisely which celebration is suitable for what you like.e
If you prefer a more lively atmosphere, head to the city center where the streets come alive with celebrations. Despite the fireworks ban, the energy in the air is electric, with crowds gathering to ring in the new year in the heart of this magical city.
It’s important to note that there is a ban on alcohol consumption in many main areas of Prague during New Year’s Eve. The alcohol ban is primarily aimed at deterring public drinking by the homeless, you should still be mindful of it in certain spots.
Pyrotechnics is banned too and it applies to everyone, and enforcement by the police can vary – sometimes they may be lenient, but it’s best not to risk it and stick to designated celebration areas to avoid any trouble.
2. Enjoy the Quiet Prague on January 1st
After the New Year’s celebrations, most Czechs and tourists are recovering at home, catching up on sleep, sobering up, and getting back to normal. Meanwhile – at least in the morning – Prague is surprisingly empty. If you can manage it after the festivities, take advantage of this rare opportunity and head out early to explore a quiet, peaceful Prague.
3. Explore the Christmas Markets until January 6th
If you’re visiting in early January, don’t miss the end of famous Christmas markets that last until January 6th. Sip on mulled wine or hot punch, and walk past the stalls filled with traditional Czech foods, drinks, delicates, local products and souvenirs. These markets are found in major squares like the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square.
4. Visit a Nativity Scene Exhibition
In early January, several museums and locations around Prague feature beautiful nativity scenes, including exhibitions at Loreta, the Charles Bridge Museum, and the Church of the Infant Jesus of Prague. Those exhibitions highlight the intricate craftsmanship of traditional woodcarvers, preserving a timeless art form passed down through generations. It is very lovely.
5. Celebrate Three Kings Day (Epiphany) with a Procession
On January 6th, take part in the lively procession from Malostranská Square to Old Town Square, celebrating the Three Kings who brought gifts to baby Jesus. The two-hour event includes the Three Kings themselves and often even a camel, adding to the festive spirit of the occasion.
You may meet small groups of children and young people (and sometimes even adults) throughout Prague, dressed in white robes with paper crowns on their heads on that day. These are Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar (Kašpar, Melichar, Baltazar) – the Three Kings. For a small donation, they may sing to you, offer a blessing, wish you a happy new year, and sometimes write “K + M + B” above your door as a symbol of the blessing. This abbreviation stands for the Latin phrase “Christus mansionem benedicat,” meaning “May Christ bless this house” for the year ahead.
6. Try a Romantic Ice Skate in the City Center
Embrace the winter magic by going ice skating right in the heart of Prague. There are several rinks set up around the city, offering a romantic way to enjoy the season. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or just looking for some fun, gliding under the city lights is a delightful experience.
7. Admire Ice Sculptures
Prague hosts various ice sculpture exhibitions in January. They typically take place at Pankrác and Riegrovy Sady. You can marvel at the skill of the sculptors and enjoy modern figures carved from ice.
8. Enjoy a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride like a King and Queen
You can experience a charming ride in a traditional horse-drawn carriage starting at Old Town Square. I especially love going at dusk, when the Pařížská Street is beautifully lit up, adding to the magical atmosphere. If it gets chilly, the coachman will provide a cozy blanket to keep you warm. You can enjoy the ride for around 1000 CZK (40 €), pet the horses and even take a photo with kids to capture the memory.
9. Stroll Through Charming Streets with Hot Punch or Mulled Wine
Pick up some of the best hot punch or mulled wine from U Prince on Old Town Square, and take a leisurely evening stroll through Prague’s enchanting streets. It’s a perfect way to unwind while savoring a warm drink and soaking in the magical atmosphere.
10. Experience Snowy Prague
If you’re lucky, you might get to explore Prague during a snowfall or just after fresh snow has blanketed the city. Prague transforms into a magical winter wonderland, and the sight is truly breathtaking.
11. Commemorate Jan Palach Day
On January 19th, you can pay tribute to Jan Palach and his brave sacrifice protesting the Soviet occupation of Czechoslovakia. You can lay flowers or light a candle at his memorial next to the fountain at the National Museum, honoring his lasting impact on Czech history.
12. Take your Partner to 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.
13. Visit a Mystery Winter Cinema
For a truly unique experience, visit the Sunset Cinema, an unconventional indoor cinema you can reach only through a secret path. Try it, I really like it.
14. Go 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. There is typically a lot of people and it is really fun event.
15. Try Traditional Craft Workshops
Get hands-on with Czech traditions by participating in one of the many workshops where you can create candles, gingerbread, puppets, ceramics, or jewelry. It’s a fun and interactive way to connect with local culture while crafting unique souvenirs to take home.
16. Stroll through Nový Svět and Malá Strana
Snow, the evening darkness, and the soft yellow glow from the street lamps combine to create a charming winter atmosphere in the narrow streets of Nový Svět (The New World) and Malá Strana (The Lesser Town). This magical setting makes these areas feel like stepping into a fairy tale.
17. Ride a Historic Tram or Train
A ride on a historic tram or train through snow-covered Prague offers a unique and picturesque experience. There are two tram lines – 41 and 42 and one train.
18. Winter Plant Exhibitions at the Botanical Garden
The annual winter exhibitions at the Botanical Garden showcase vibrant tropical plants in heated pavilions, offering a cozy and refreshing escape from the cold outside. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a burst of warmth and color during Prague’s winter months.
19. Visit the Zoo in Winter
Although some animals may be hiding or hibernating, a visit to the zoo can still be a great experience during winter. Just make sure to bundle up, and with a full day to explore, you’ll find plenty to enjoy despite the colder weather.
20. 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.
21. Admire Frozen Waterfalls in Divoká Šárka
Located a bit further from the city center, Divoká Šárka’s frozen waterfalls are a stunning sight for nature lovers during the winter. This natural wonder is a peaceful escape from the city, and the frozen cascades are truly breathtaking.