5 Things To Do In Prague In Winter

I’m slowly coming to realise that the biggest perk of being self-employed is the flexibility. When an email from Jet2CityBreaks appeared in my inbox on a miserable Thursday morning in December, asking if I was available to fly to Prague the following Monday, I let out a little yelp of joy. Goodbye 9-5 office job, HELLO spontaneous trips to Europe.

I’ve actually been to Prague once before; a long, long time ago. It was a University ‘study’ trip, and I’m putting study in inverted commas because we were more interested in getting into the famous 5 story club, Karlovy Lazne than taking in the culture. While I would recommend the nightlife, there is SO MUCH more to Prague than its stag party reputation.

After a wonderful three days exploring the city with Jet2, I discovered how much the ‘stag party’ image devalues the cities real charms. While Prague may be a low-cost holiday, it is by no means lacking in culture or beauty. I might even go as far as saying winter is the best time to visit Prague, mind you I’ll have to visit again in summer just to confirm my suspicions….

So, if you’re planning a trip to this magical city or are just curious about what it has to offer (besides cheap beer), keep reading for my top 5 things to do in Prague this winter.

Pack a warm coat, and prepare to be charmed.

1. Take A Stroll From Strahov Library To Prague Castle

I had been so excited to visit Strahov Monastery and it’s famous Baroque Library since I saw it on our itinerary and it certainly did not disappoint. It’s just about as instagrammable as a library can get, complete with medieval manuscripts, globes and maps. It’s worth mentioning that to actually go inside the library you need to book on a tour a few months in advance but we managed just fine peering over the ropes. Admission is CZK 120.

From Strahov Monastery, head towards the Prague Castle complex via Hradcany. This route will take you around 15 minutes to walk, down strangely untouristed streets and cobbled lanes. Once arriving at the Castle complex, you can explore parts of the gardens, the cathedral, and grounds for free. But if you want to explore everything Prague castle has to offer, consider purchasing a ticket in advance here.

2.  Change Your Perspective at DOX

Art fans, this one’s for you. We were lucky enough to visit three very different museums/galleries during our time in Prague; the National Gallery, Vnitroblock and my personal favourite, Dox Centre for Contemporary Art. Situated in Holešovice & Letna (Prague’s hip art district), Dox is a multifunctional space showcasing socially engaged art, architecture and design.

In my favourite installation “Welcome To Hard Times”, the space was transformed into a gym, providing a space to workout whilst grappling with social issues. We all thoroughly enjoyed the Donald Trump punch bag.

3. Soak Up The Views From The Old Town Tower

Slap bang in the centre of Old Town Square sits the impressive City hall and its intricate astronomical clock. Climb (or get the lift) to the top of the Old Town Tower for panoramic views of Old Town Square. We reached the top just as the sun was beginning to set which made the view even more magical.

4. Enjoy The Local Food (And Drink!)

If you’re anything like me, food is one of the highlights of travel. Before I visit a new city you’ll find me scouring blog posts and reviews for the best places to eat. Luckily the Jet2 team had done all the hard work for us and we were treated to some of the most delicious meals during our stay. Here are two of my favourites…

Café Savoy

Our dinner at Café Savoy was the first meal we had in Prague, and it set the bar impossibly high for the rest of the trip. We tried the wine pairing menu, a modern conception using fresh seasonal ingredients.

I had the traditional Czech soup “Kyselo” to start, followed by the Savoy plate (slow-roasted duck leg, local ham, venison haunch and potato gnocchi). Dessert consisted of fruit-filled dumplings topped with grated curd and melted butter. From start to finish the meal and wine pairings were outstanding; my favourite being the sweet Apple Wine served with dessert.

Kuchyň

A contrast to our meal at Café Savoy, our experience at Kuchyň revolved around hearty, home-cooked meals. There’s no menu here, you are taken to the kitchen and select your meal from a cooking pot on the stove. I loved the whole concept and the Czech cuisine was delicious!

5. Shop The Old Town Square Christmas Market

And topping the list of typical, touristy things to do in Prague at winter is an obvious one….

The Old Town Square Christmas Market, which runs from the end of November through to the first week of January, gives the famed Christmas Markets of Germany a run for their money. Grab a mulled wine (svařák in Czech) and traditional Trdelník, whilst marvelling at the enormous twinkling Christmas tree. If this doesn’t get you in the festive spirit, nothing will!

Where To Stay In Prague

We stayed at the Occidental Praha Wilson, as part of a package with Jet2Holidays. The hotel is next to Wenceslas Square and just minutes from the nearest metro (Muzeum), so you’re perfectly placed to explore the city. It’s worth mentioning that Prague is extremely well connected and you can get almost anywhere by public transport.

How To Get To Prague

Our flights were from Manchester to Prague with Jet2, and I honestly can’t recommend them enough. They are without a doubt the best budget airline I’ve travelled with: there’s leg room and free 22kg checked luggage on all Jet2CityBreaks. I can’t believe I’ve never flown with them before now! And it’s not just Prague, Jet2Holidays fly to a whole host of destinations from their hubs throughout the UK. Book your flights to Prague with Jet2 here.

Have you experienced Prague’s Christmas markets and the city during the winter? What’s your favourite European city to visit over the Christmas period?

Jasmin x

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