Prague
Prague is transformed into a winter wonderland from the end of November when the Christmas markets take over the city. Head there to browse the pretty stalls, drink ‘svařak’ (hot Czech wine), and bargain for handmade wooden crafts and bohemia crystal.
Ales Mach, Prague’s local resident expert for travel website MyDestinationInfo.com shares his tips on how to make the most of the Czech style festivities.
Where to go
o The main Christmas market is based in and around the old town square. A magnificent tree from the Czech mountains takes centre stage and the square is lined with traditional stalls
o Also worth a look are Mustek at the bottom of Wenceslas Square and Namesti Miru in front of the Chuch of St Ludmila.
Eat / Drink
o The market vendors will tempt you with all kinds of delicious treats such as the Moravian hot wine, svařak and snacks such as bramboraky (hot flat potato cake) vinná klobása, (long boiled sausages), corn-on-the-cob, and trdlo a local type of cake made in front of you in a special oven.
Buy
o Shop for: handmade jewellery, wooden toys, bohemia crystal, ceramics, scented candles, scarves, hats, puppets and dolls.
Czech Traditions
o Experience ‘Mikulas,’ a centuries old Czech tradition loved by children. Three strange figures move around the city, representing St. Nicholas, the angel and the devil. They ask children whether they’ve been good, if they answer yes they’re given sweets, if no they have to recite a poem or sing a song
o Look out for crowds of people gathered around enormous fish tanks on street corners. The locals will be buying fish in preparation for the traditional Christmas Eve dish of carp and cold potato salad. Most take their carp home alive and keep it in their bath tub till it’s time to cook it.
See
o A white Christmas! Prague being Prague there’s always a good chance of snow on the ground in December
o Both churches on the old town square have festive concerts everyday and beautiful nativity scenes at their alters
o Carol singers gather to perform with their conductors and schoolchildren recreate nativity scenes in many venues, indoor and out, dotted throughout the city.
Where to stay?
o The Mucha Hotel is a fantastic hotel in a great location for enjoying the Christmas Markets. It’s within walking distance of the old town square, the Na Porici shopping area and the famous Wenceslas Square, which has the city’s main boulevard with many shops, restaurants and open-air markets. Double rooms are available from £80.
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