Prague in October is a magical time when the city slowly transitions into autumn, offering a delightful mix of vibrant city life, beautiful parks dressed in autumn colors, and rich cultural experiences. The leaves on the trees start to turn shades of orange and brown early in the month, but the most stunning transformation comes at the end of October when the foliage is at its peak. If the morning frost stays away, these beautiful autumn colors can last well into mid-November.
During the day, the weather is pleasant, though a bit cool and crisp. Evenings, however, can be quite chilly, making nighttime walks less appealing – unless you don’t mind temperatures dropping to 41 to 50 °F (5 to 10 °C).
The beginning of October could still be considered the tail end of the shoulder season, but by the second half of the month, Prague enters its off-season, meaning fewer tourists and a more relaxed atmosphere. This makes it an ideal time to explore the city’s historical sites and attractions without the usual crowds.
Autumn Goes to Prague: Things to Do in October
Here’s my list of places I recommend enjoying and visiting in October (beyond the usual landmarks and popular attractions):
1. Enjoy Wine and Burčák at Prague’s Grape Harvest Festivals (Vinobraní)
Early October (and the end of September) marks the celebration of Czech rich wine-making heritage with lively vinobraní – grape harvest festivals. These vibrant events are held in iconic locations such as Grébovka Park, Troja Chateau, Jiřího z Poděbrad Square and some other. You can enjoy stalls with wines typically from Moravia (south of Czech Republic), delicious regional foods, and live music performances.
One drink you absolutely have to try is burčák – a young, slightly fizzy, partially fermented wine with a bit of alcohol. Strolling through the festival, sampling both burčák and more wines, is a wonderful way to soak up the festive atmosphere.
My Tip: Limit yourself to two or three glasses of burčák – its high microflora content from the fermentation process can have a laxative effect for some people!
2. Celebrate Czechoslovak Independence Day on October 28th With Free Entrance to State Buildings
On October 28th, Prague commemorates the founding of Czechoslovakia in 1918, following the end of World War I. Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk, a central figure in the creation of the new state, is still remembered with great respect and we call him “Tatíček národa” (the Father of the Nation).
To mark this historic day, the Czech government organizes special exhibitions, events, and offers reduced admission fees at state and municipal buildings throughout the city, including the Chamber of Deputies, Municipal House, New Town Hall, Office of the Mayor of Prague, Straka Academy (the Office of the Prime Minister), and the National Museum. Many Czechs take advantage of the free admissions, and it’s common to see lines forming in front of the buildings.
3. Cheer at the Horse Races in Velká Chuchle and Velká Pardubická
For steeplechase fans, heading to the horse races at Velká Chuchle (just a 10-minute train ride from Prague). Here, you can enjoy a day filled with thrilling horse races, including the prestigious President of the Republic’s Prize. It’s a chance to experience the Czech version of the iconic Aintree races in Liverpool, with opportunities to place bets on your favorite horses.
For an even grander spectacle, head to Pardubice, about an hour by train from Prague, for the famous Velká Pardubická race, the most iconic horse race in the Czech Republic.
4. Stroll Prague at Night for Signal Festival Video Mapping.
Signal Festival is a weekend of light art that turns Prague’s landmarks into stunning displays of video mapping. I love Signal Festival – it’s the perfect time to wander the city with a warm drink, catching world-class light projections on iconic spots like Prague Castle, Klementinum, and Clam-Gallas Palace. A truly magical experience, not to be missed.
My TIP: The main program of the festival is free, but you can purchase a ticket for additional venues that are part of the side program.
5. Grab a Costume and Join the Halloween Celebrations
Halloween on October 31st has become increasingly popular in Prague, especially with families and children. While Halloween is celebrated with costumes, pumpkin carving, and modest decorations, the city also hosts events like pumpkin exhibitions, Samhain rituals, and Día de los Muertos celebrations, adding more cultural variety to the season.
Although Halloween is growing in popularity, older generations still observe “Dušičky” (All Souls’ Day) on November 2nd, a more calm holiday for remembering the dead. Czech people visit cemeteries to light candles and leave flowers at graves, creating a peaceful, reflective atmosphere across Prague’s cemeteries (except those in Josefov’s Jewish Quarter).
6. Enjoy International Design at Designblok
Designblok is Prague’s premier design festival, celebrating both Czech and international design with a diverse range of exhibitions and events. Held across four iconic locations, including the historic Prague Castle, it’s a must-see for anyone passionate about creativity. Typically spanning from Wednesday to Sunday in early October, it’s a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of innovative design.
I love wandering through exhibitions, seeing what catches my eye—I’m especially drawn to hair accessories, concrete decorations, and glass ornaments.
7. Taste the Best Coffee at Prague Coffee Festival
Hosted at the Holešovice Market, this weekend-long coffee festival is a paradise for coffee lovers. While it’s slightly off the beaten path, it’s well worth the journey for anyone passionate about coffee. The event features tastings, workshops, and a variety of exceptional brews, making it a must-attend for enthusiasts. Be sure to buy tickets in advance, and I highly recommend visiting some of my favorite coffee roasteries: Cocafe, Mamacoffee, Aromaniacs, Nordbeans, Coffee Source, Pikola, and Doubleshot.
8. Admire Unique Cars at Prague Car Festival
The Prague Car Festival is a must for car enthusiasts and petrolheads, featuring more than 1,100 vehicles, from sleek sports cars and vintage classics to custom creations and cutting-edge models. Held at the Letňany Exhibition Grounds, just a quick metro ride from the city center. This event offers a thrilling lineup of displays and activities, making it a top destination for anyone with a passion for automobiles. You can easily spend a full day enjoying everything the Prague Car Festival has to offer.
9. Savor Delicious Game Meat at a Wild Game Feast.
Every autumn, many of Prague’s restaurants host a traditional Wild Game Feast, celebrating the start of hunting season. The feast season typically starts in late October or early November, when hunters bring in freshly caught game. The animals, such as deer, wild boar, and pheasant, are sourced from local hunting grounds and shot by licensed hunters who follow strict wildlife conservation guidelines.
Typical dishes on the menu include venison goulash, wild boar with dumplings and sauerkraut, and roasted pheasant. Chefs also prepare meals like game pâtés and sausages, paired with seasonal sides such as mushrooms, root vegetables, and cranberries. These feasts offer a unique culinary experience, highlighting the rich flavors of locally sourced game. I love them because they are not only a great culinary experience but also a big family and social event. Great restaurants for wild game feasts include Malostranská Beseda, Kolkovna-branded restaurants, and the elegant Obecní dům.
10. Enjoy Prague in Golden Hour
The autumn sun paints the city’s historic buildings in vibrant gold and orange glow, and as night falls, the warm glow of street lamps and shimmering river reflections bring the city to life.
For the best experience, I recommend sitting in a cozy café by the river (on the side where Prague Castle is) or heading up to Prague Castle for a perfect view of the city bathed in its golden hour magic.