May in Prague is truly a time for love. Nature is blooming everywhere you look, and you can feel the positive energy and love throughout the city. While May is still considered part of the shoulder season, the weather is already pleasantly warm and sunny, making weekends as lively as in the peak season. Temperatures range from about 16 to 22°C, with the second half of May typically being warmer. This is when larger outdoor events, cultural festivals, and food and beer festivals start to take place, bringing even more charm to the city.
Personally, I love spending May strolling through the magical Petřín Hill, taking photos in the stunning gardens, enjoying picnics in the parks, walking across the iconic Charles Bridge, and taking leisurely rides in the little yellow boats on the Vltava River. And of course, there’s always time to relax in one of the many cozy cafés. Here are all my top recommendations for what to do in May (aside from the usual landmarks and year-round attractions).
It’s Love Time in Prague: Things to Do in May
Here’s a guide to places I recommend visiting in May, especially beyond the usual landmarks and popular attractions:
1. Kiss Under the Cherry Tree at Petřín on 1st May Day
The 1st of May is known as the Time of Love in Prague, and we celebrate it by kissing under blooming cherry trees adorned with lovely white blossoms. According to an old legend, if a couple kisses beneath a cherry tree in bloom, the woman will remain beautiful and fertile for the entire year. This deeply rooted tradition celebrates love, youth, and nature. The day is also traditionally associated with the memory of the romantic poet Karel Hynek Mácha, who wrote the famous lyrical epic Máj, considered the pinnacle of Czech literary romanticism.
We the locals often head to Petřín Hill, where cherry trees are in full bloom, and where Mácha’s statue stands. Some adventurous couples take their romantic walk to the next level, embracing the “love time” directly in nature on Petřín or in the surrounding countryside. But don’t worry – you only need a kiss under a blossoming cherry tree to honor the tradition! If you’re craving even more romance, you can indulge in a beer spa, sauna rituals, a private whirlpool, or enjoy a special May Day tasting menu at one of Prague’s charming restaurants.
The most famous passage from Máj:
Byl pozdní večer – první máj –
Večerní máj – byl lásky čas.
Hrdliččin zval ku lásce hlas,
Kde borový zaváněl háj.Translated:
It was late evening – the first of May –
The evening May – a time for love.
The dove’s song called for romance,
Where the scent of pine trees filled the grove.
2. Remember the End of World War II. at Victory Day
Victory Day on May 8th is commemorated with a variety of events throughout Prague, including special exhibitions showcasing military vehicles, weapons, machinery, and uniforms. Museums like the National Museum and the Army Museum in Žižkov often host unique programs. There are also activities organized by military institutions, volunteer organizations, and associations of war veterans and legionnaires.
The most significant event takes place at Vítkov Hill, sometimes featuring an impressive flyover of fighter jets and helicopters directly above Vítkov and the center of Prague. Other notable activities include a ride on the historic Legionnaire train and exhibitions honoring RAF pilots, among others. While most locals don’t celebrate the day in a major way, it serves as an important occasion for politicians to lay wreaths and flowers, particularly at Vítkov Hill.
3. Ride a Pedal Boat on the Vltava River
You can rent yellow pedal boats in the city center and enjoy a relaxing ride on the Vltava River, perfect for couples or small groups. I suggest renting boats from Slovanský Island, where there’s less boat traffic, and you can avoid the bigger tour boats near Charles Bridge, but it is a bit prettier place.
Bring a drink or snack, and be prepared for midday heat with water, sunglasses, and a restroom stop beforehand. If you’re comfortable walking 5,000 steps a day, this activity is easy and enjoyable.
4. Enjoy Classical Music at Prague Spring Music Festival
The Prague Spring Music Festival (Pražské jaro in czech) is the Prague’s largest classical music festival, starts on May 12th in honor of composer Bedřich Smetana. Concerts take place at top venues like the Municipal House and Rudolfinum, featuring the Czech Philharmonic, Prague Philharmonic Choir, and famous soloists.
The main highlight is the opening concert of the Prague Spring, featuring Bedřich Smetana’s Má Vlast. Since it’s almost impossible to get tickets for the performance in Smetana Hall at the Municipal House (they are pretty expensive too), the concert is broadcast on a large screen in Kampa Park.
5. Head to a Concert on Prague’s Islands During the United Islands Festival.
At the beginning of May, Prague’s islands (Slovanský, Střelecký, and Dětský islands) and the nearby banks of the Vltava River transform into music stages for a four-day festival packed with music and culture. With 70 performers and bands, all with free entry, it’s a great way to experience the lively atmosphere of Czech music festivals if you’re in Prague.
6. Challenge Yourself and Aim for a Personal Record at the Prague Marathon
I know, if you’re visiting as a tourist, running a marathon might not be at the top of your list. Instead, you’ll probably be more concerned about the disruptions it causes, as the race runs through central Prague along scenic routes like Charles Bridge, past Prague Castle, around the National Theatre, through Pařížská Street, and across Old Town Square. Much of the city center will be cordoned off, with race infrastructure in place, and certain public transport routes and roads may be closed, even for taxis, shared e-scooters, and bikes.
If you’re planning a visit for the second Sunday in May, consider revising your plans – or better yet, pack your running gear! It might also be a good idea to plan a day trip outside of Prague.
7. Discover Beautiful Buildings From the Inside During Open House Prague.
For the past 10 years, Open House Prague has let visitors explore some of the city’s most impressive buildings. Last year, over 100 usually closed sites, like Strahov Stadium, Invalidovna, and Karel Čapek’s Villa, were opened to nearly 100,000 visitors. Held over a weekend in mid-May, it’s a great chance for architecture lovers and urban exploration enthusiasts to see both historic and modern landmarks, though expect lines at popular spots. I love it, but the queues at some of the busiest buildings can be a bit of a downside.
8. Explore Romano Music and Culture at Khamoro
Khamoro is the world’s largest festival of Romani culture, held at the end of May in Prague. It’s a lively celebration of Romani traditions, featuring music, dance, and art. The festival brings together Romani performers from around the world, offering a unique chance to experience their rich cultural heritage. Haven’t been yet, but many of my friends keep recommending it!
9. Gardens are opened – Wander Around and Watch the Gardens Bloom
In May, all of Prague’s gardens are in full bloom, with trees and flowers bursting into vibrant colors. They’re not only beautiful and calming but also a perfect spot to wander, sit on a bench, and watch the gardens come alive. Visitors are often enchanted, pointing out the intricate details that make these spaces so special. My personal favorites include the Wallenstein Garden, the gardens beneath Prague Castle (Paradise Garden, Garden on the Ramparts, and Hartig Garden), Vojan Gardens, and the Franciscan Garden near Wenceslas Square.
These gardens are among the most famous and picturesque in Prague. Some feature serene ponds with carp, fountains, statues, and even peacocks and owls. The plants are equally impressive, with magnolias, ornamental trees, and rose bushes in full bloom. Many of these gardens have centuries of history, some dating back to the 16th century, while others were designed by renowned architects like Josip Plečnik. Visiting them in May is a must, offering the perfect mix of natural beauty and rich historical significance.
10. Enjoy Fresh Eats at the Farmer’s Market on Náplavka by the Vltava River
The best farmer’s market in Prague is at Náplavka in Výtoň, open Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. It’s always busy, but we love enjoying great food and drinks by the river. You can find a wide range of fresh, locally-sourced products, from seasonal fruits and vegetables to homemade bread, pastries, cheese, freshly pressed juices, craft beers, local wines, prosecco, and specialty coffee. You can also sample ready-to-eat dishes from different stalls. It is a social event, where you can try delicious dishes, relax by the water, and enjoy views of the Vyšehrad railway bridge and Prague Castle. I go all the time – you should check it out.
