There’s no doubt you’ll fall in love with Prague at any time of the year. In each season though, it’ll be for a different reason! Be it the pleasant summer nights spent at the banks of the Vltava River, or the wintery charm of streets covered by snow, there’s always something to admire about our majestic capital. That being said, every time is a great time to visit Prague! But what is the best?

The best time to visit Prague depends on several factors such as the weather, crowds, festivals, and personal preferences. We’re going to go over each of these here so that you can decide for yourself.

Weather

The weather in Prague is generally on the mild side with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and sunny, while winters can be cold and snowy. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with pleasant weather, making them ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Summer

The summer months (June to August) are the most popular time to visit Prague due to the warm weather and long days. The average temperature during this time is around 23°C (73°F), with occasional heatwaves pushing temperatures up to 30°C (86°F) or higher. However, the warm weather also attracts a large number of tourists, and the city can be crowded, especially around popular attractions like the Charles Bridge and Old Town Square.

Spring & Autumn

If you prefer cooler temperatures and smaller crowds, the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) are excellent times to visit Prague. During these months, the average temperature ranges from 10°C to 19°C (50°F to 66°F). These seasons offer comfortable weather for walking tours, exploring the city’s parks and gardens, and visiting the castles and museums. Additionally, the spring and autumn colors create a beautiful backdrop for photos and sightseeing.

Winter

Winter (December to February) in Prague can be very cold, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F). However, the city’s Christmas markets, festivals, and celebrations during the holiday season make up for the potential discomfort of being outside. The Christmas markets in Prague are famous for their beautiful decorations, traditional Czech food and drink, and handmade gifts. The main Christmas market is held in Old Town Square, opening in late November and lasting until early January.

Crowds

Prague is a bustling city with millions of tourists visiting every year. Crowds can be overwhelming during peak travel seasons, especially in the summer months when large tour groups and families come to enjoy the city’s attractions. Crowds can also be high during the Christmas season when visitors come to experience the city’s holiday festivities.

If you prefer to avoid crowds and long queues, consider visiting Prague during the transitional seasons of spring and autumn. During these months, the city is less crowded, and you can easily explore the city’s attractions without the stress of large crowds. Accommodation and flight prices are also more affordable during these times, allowing you to enjoy Prague’s charms without breaking the bank.

Festivals

Prague hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, making it a vibrant and exciting city to visit. From music festivals to beer festivals, there is something for everyone in Prague.

Prague Spring Festival

The Prague Spring Music Festival, held in May, is one of the city’s most famous events. The festival attracts classical music lovers from all over the world and features performances by renowned musicians and orchestras. The festival takes place at various venues throughout the city, including the National Theatre, the Municipal House, and the Rudolfinum.

Czech Beer Festival

If you’re a beer lover, the Czech Beer Festival in May and June is a must-visit event. The festival features over 120 types of Czech beer and takes place in Letná Park. Visitors can sample the beers while enjoying live music, traditional Czech food, and other attractions.

In December, the Prague Christmas Markets take over the city. In addition to the markets themselves, there are also many other events and activities, such as Christmas concerts and traditional Czech Christmas dinners.

It’s Up to You!

Overall, the best time to visit Prague depends on what you want to do and see during your trip. Keep in mind though, that even if you don’t have the luxury to choose, there’ll be plenty of things to do in Prague and even more reasons to come back again!

March 6, 2023