Packing & Weather
What to Pack for Prague Christmas Markets
Prague's Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square markets are postcard-perfect, but the Bohemian basin runs genuinely cold and, unusually for a festive city, fairly dry. That means your priority is trapping heat for long, still evenings rather than fending off rain. Here is how to pack for a cold, crisp Prague December.
| Month | Avg high | Avg low | Rain/snow |
|---|---|---|---|
| November | 7°C / 45°F | 2°C / 35°F | 30 mm |
| Decemberpeak market season | 3°C / 38°F | -1°C / 29°F | 30 mm |
| January | 2°C / 36°F | -3°C / 27°F | 26 mm |
In December, Prague averages a daytime high of 3°C (38°F) and an overnight low of -1°C (29°F). Days are cold and evenings routinely dip to freezing, so warmth after sunset is the priority. It is one of the drier festive cities, so heavy rain gear is less critical — but a compact umbrella still helps.
What to pack for Prague
Outerwear
- A heavy insulated or down winter coat (knee-length holds heat best)
- A compact umbrella that fits in a coat pocket for market strolls
Layers
- A thermal or long-sleeve base layer
- A warm jumper or fleece mid-layer
- Warm socks (wool blend beats cotton for standing on cold cobbles)
Footwear
- Insulated boots or sturdy shoes with grippy soles for uneven cobblestones
- Cushioned insoles or a second pair of socks — you will be on your feet for hours
Accessories
- A warm hat that covers your ears
- Touchscreen-friendly gloves
- A scarf or neck gaiter to seal out draughts
- Disposable or rechargeable hand warmers for the coldest evenings
Practical extras
- A crossbody or zipped bag you can keep in front of you in the crowds
- A power bank — cold drains phone batteries fast and you will be taking photos
- A little cash in local currency for smaller stalls and the Glühwein mug deposit (Pfand)
Prague Christmas markets: weather & packing FAQ
Now plan your visit to Prague
Explore all 7 Christmas markets in Prague, with dates, maps, and a live weather forecast.