Brno nativity scene framed by snow-covered Central European architecture during winter
Niederkasseler|CC BY-SA 3.0
2026 Rankings

Best Christmas Markets in Czechia

Top 15 of 31 markets ranked by popularity

Why These Markets Stand Out

Nativity Scene

Featured in 13 of our top-ranked markets

Family Friendly

Featured in 13 of our top-ranked markets

Historic Location

Featured in 13 of our top-ranked markets

Traditional

Featured in 13 of our top-ranked markets

Craft Workshops

Featured in 11 of our top-ranked markets

Ice Skating

Featured in 9 of our top-ranked markets

2026 Rankings

Markets ranked by popularity

1

Vánoční trhy - Upper Square and Lower Square

Olomouc

Upper Square and Lower Square

Historic Olomouc transforms into a fairytale Christmas village during the advent season, with markets spanning two main squares and the Marketplace area. The city is renowned for its rich selection of hot beverages, featuring dozens of original punches and mulled wine served in unique Christmas-themed mugs. The markets include traditional crafts, regional gifts, free ice skating, a Ferris wheel, and daily cultural programs.

Late November - December
Free entry
Ice SkatingLive MusicCraft WorkshopsNativity SceneFamily Friendly

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2

Ostravské Vánoce

Ostrava

Masaryk Square

Ostrava's main Christmas celebration spans five stages across the city center, featuring over 40 market stalls, a Christmas Ferris wheel, ice skating rink, and rich cultural programming. The market is known for its industrial heritage setting near the world-unique Dolní Vítkovice area and the highest city hall tower in the Czech Republic. Entertainment includes concerts, dulcimer music, theatrical performances, and special children's activities.

Late November - December
Free entry
Ice SkatingLive MusicCraft WorkshopsNativity SceneFamily Friendly

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3

Vánoční trhy - Concord Square

Český Krumlov

Concord Square

The Christmas market features food and drinks, Christmas themed products and traditional crafts. Held on Concord Square in the historic center of Český Krumlov, this market was ranked 9th among the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe by The Times. The market offers traditional punch, gastronomic specialties, and handmade Christmas decorations unique to South Bohemia.

Late November - December
Free entry
Nativity SceneFamily FriendlyLocal VendorsHistoric LocationTraditional

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4

Christmas Journey Through Prague Castle

Prague

Prague Castle

A Christmas experience at Prague Castle featuring the Bethlehem Yurt by Forman Brothers Theatre, a forest of Christmas trees with traditional Czech blown glass ornaments, and concerts by Prague elementary art school choirs. The event includes workshops, tea corner, board games, and hybrids in the yurt, with free entry to all parts of the Christmas Journey.

Late November - December
Free entry
Craft WorkshopsNativity SceneFamily FriendlyLocal VendorsHandmade Ornaments

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5

Vánoční trhy České Budějovice

České Budějovice

Přemysl Otakar II Square

The Christmas market in České Budějovice transforms Přemysl Otakar II Square into a festive village with around 100 wooden stalls offering traditional Czech products, gifts, and refreshments. A unique feature is the ice skating rink around Samson's Fountain in the center of the square, along with a viewing tower, nativity scene, and Ferris wheel. The market is known for its authentic atmosphere and was ranked 9th among Europe's most beautiful Christmas markets by The Times in 2023.

Late November - December
Free entry
Ice SkatingLive MusicCraft WorkshopsNativity SceneFamily Friendly

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6

Vánoční trhy - Brno city center

Brno

Brno city center

Brno was named European Capital of Christmas 2024, featuring markets spread across eight locations in the city center. The markets offer traditional crafts, regional foods, cultural programs, and unique attractions including ice skating, a Ferris wheel, and light installations. Brno's Christmas markets are recognized as among the best in Europe.

Late November - December
Free entry
Ice SkatingCraft WorkshopsNativity SceneFamily FriendlyLight Show

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7

Vánoční trhy - Republic Square

Pilsen

Republic Square

The main Christmas market in Pilsen transforms Republic Square into a festive wonderland with over 60 wooden stalls offering traditional crafts, regional specialties, and warm beverages. Features include a large Christmas tree, carved wooden nativity scene with life-sized figures, live animals, historic carousel, and Ferris wheel. The market is accompanied by daily cultural programs including folk traditions, craft demonstrations, and carol singing.

Late November - December
Free entry
Santa VisitsLive MusicCraft WorkshopsNativity SceneFamily Friendly

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8

Ostravské Vánoce - Masarykovo náměstí

Ostrava

Masaryk Square

The main location of Ostrava's Christmas celebrations, featuring approximately 40 sales stalls offering traditional delicacies, warm drinks, and handcrafted gifts. The square hosts the Main Stage with daily concerts, carol singing, and dulcimer music performances, along with a Christmas Ferris wheel and the city's main Christmas tree lighting ceremony.

Late November - December
Free entry
Ice SkatingLive MusicCraft WorkshopsNativity SceneFamily Friendly

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9

Vánoční trhy - Brno city center - Freedom Square

Brno

Freedom Square

Main market location with stage, cultural programs, and Winter Bar

Late November - December
Free entry
Ice SkatingCraft WorkshopsNativity SceneFamily FriendlyLight Show

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10

Christmas Market on Borská přehrada

Pilsen

Borská Dam

A unique Christmas market location at Borská Dam featuring a floating Christmas tree on the water. The tree lighting ceremony traditionally takes place on the Friday of the first Advent weekend, creating a magical atmosphere by the reservoir.

Late November - December
Free entry
Live MusicNativity SceneFamily FriendlyLight ShowHistoric Location

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11

Vánoční trhy - Upper Square and Lower Square - Upper Square

Olomouc

Upper Square

Main market location with 110 wooden stalls, Christmas tree, historic carousel, and cultural stage

Late November - December
Free entry
Ice SkatingLive MusicCraft WorkshopsNativity SceneFamily Friendly

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12

Vánoční trhy - Brno city center - Moravian Square

Brno

Moravian Square

Features ice skating rink and 33-meter Ferris wheel

Late November - December
Free entry
Ice SkatingCraft WorkshopsNativity SceneFamily FriendlyLight Show

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13

Ostravské Vánoce - Masaryk Square

Ostrava

Masaryk Square

Main stage with concerts, carol singing, dulcimer music, Ferris wheel, and traditional food stalls

Late November - December
Free entry
Ice SkatingLive MusicCraft WorkshopsNativity SceneFamily Friendly

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14

Vánoční trhy - Upper Square and Lower Square - Marketplace

Olomouc

Marketplace

Ice skating rink, Ferris wheel, and additional stalls with Christmas tent

Late November - December
Free entry
15

St. Nicholas Markets on Slovany

Pilsen

Slovany Church

A special St. Nicholas-themed market held at Slovany Church featuring stalls with Christmas decorations and treats. The market includes performances by children's choirs and well-known bands, with St. Nicholas, angels, and devils making appearances. A unique ice slide carved from a single block of ice is featured on the first day.

Late November - December
Free entry

Planning Your Czechia Christmas Market Trip

Best Time to Visit

Most markets open in late November. For fewer crowds, visit weekdays in early December. For the most festive atmosphere, plan for mid-December weekends.

Multi-Market Itineraries

Many of our top-ranked markets are in cities close to each other. Consider visiting 2-3 markets in one trip to experience the variety of Czechia's Christmas traditions.

Insider Tips

Arrive early for the best selection of handcrafted items. Try local specialties like glühwein and traditional pastries. Many markets offer special events on specific evenings.

What to Expect

Most markets feature wooden chalets selling crafts, seasonal foods, and gifts. Expect festive music, twinkling lights, and a magical atmosphere. Some charge entry fees - check individual listings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best Christmas markets in Czechia?

The best Christmas markets in Czechia include Vánoční trhy - Upper Square and Lower Square (Olomouc), Ostravské Vánoce (Ostrava), Vánoční trhy - Concord Square (Český Krumlov), and more. Rankings are based on overall popularity.

When do Christmas markets in Czechia open?

Most Christmas markets in Czechia typically open in late November and run through December or early January. Specific dates vary by market, so check individual market pages for exact schedules for 2026.

How many Christmas markets are there in Czechia?

Czechia has 31 Christmas markets in our directory, spanning 7 cities. This page showcases the top 15 rated markets based on our comprehensive evaluation criteria.

Are Christmas markets in Czechia free to enter?

Entry policies vary by market. Many Christmas markets in Czechia offer free admission, while some charge a small entry fee, especially during peak times or for special events. Check individual market listings for specific entry fee information.

What can I buy at Czechia Christmas markets?

You'll find traditional handcrafted ornaments, wooden toys, artisan gifts, seasonal decorations, local specialties, warm clothing and accessories, plus delicious food and beverages like glühwein, roasted chestnuts, and regional pastries.

Ready to Explore Czechia's Christmas Markets?

Browse all 31 markets across 7 cities