Festive decorations and colorful lights at a European Christmas market, evoking holiday magic.

LoMit|CC BY-SA 4.0

Christmas Markets in Pilsen

3 MarketsCzechia

Christmas markets in Pilsen

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Weather

Climate averages and forecast for Pilsen

9-Day Forecast

Updated daily from MET Norway

Thu

Jan 15

44°F

30°F

0 in

Fri

Jan 16

37°F

29°F

Sat

Jan 17

38°F

33°F

Sun

Jan 18

40°F

27°F

Mon

Jan 19

36°F

22°F

Tue

Jan 20

34°F

17°F

Wed

Jan 21

31°F

13°F

Thu

Jan 22

30°F

12°F

Fri

Jan 23

29°F

11°F

Weather forecast from MET Norway (CC BY 4.0)

Plan Your Visit to Pilsen

Getting There

Pilsen is located in western Bohemia, approximately 90 kilometers southwest of Prague. Direct train services connect the city to Prague's main station in around 90 minutes. Václav Havel Airport Prague serves as the primary international gateway, with onward travel by train or bus easily arranged.

Where to Stay

The historic center around Republic Square offers convenient access to major sights, with accommodations ranging from boutique hotels to family-run guesthouses. The area near the brewery provides a quieter alternative while remaining within easy walking distance of the main attractions.

Other Attractions

The Pilsner Urquell Brewery is the city's most famous attraction, offering tours through historic cellars where the original pilsner lager was created in 1842. The Gothic Cathedral of St. Bartholomew dominates the main square with Czechia's tallest church tower. The Great Synagogue ranks among Europe's largest and reflects the city's rich Jewish heritage. Medieval underground tunnels beneath the historic center reveal layers of the city's past, while the West Bohemian Museum displays regional art and historical artifacts.

History & Culture

Pilsen was founded in 1295 by King Wenceslas II at the confluence of four rivers, strategically positioned along trade routes connecting Bohemia with Bavaria. Brewing rights granted at its founding established a tradition that would eventually revolutionize beer-making worldwide. During the Renaissance, Pilsen became a center of learning and culture, while its fortifications helped it withstand numerous sieges, including a notable defense during the Thirty Years' War. The 19th century brought industrial growth and the 1842 creation of Pilsner Urquell, the world's first golden lager, which transformed both the city's economy and global brewing practices. This brewing heritage remains central to Pilsen's identity, blending seamlessly with its well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant cultural life.

Pilsen Featured in Best Of Czechia

3 markets ranked in our expert rankings

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3 markets • Sorted by popularity

Vánoční trhy - Republic Square

Republic Square

Free Entry

Santa VisitsLive MusicCraft WorkshopsNativity SceneFamily Friendly

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.

Christmas Market on Borská přehrada

#10

Borská Dam

Free Entry

Live MusicNativity SceneFamily FriendlyLight ShowHistoric Location

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.

St. Nicholas Markets on Slovany

#15

Slovany Church

Free Entry

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.