10 Things to Do in Prague in November


 

Prague charles bridge winter – By Estec Co. Ltd. – Estec Co.Ltd, Prague Hotel Operator [CC BY 3.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0)]

Prague is absolutely gorgeous all-year-round. You have beautiful architecture, friendly people, great food, and charming pubs. But – what are really the best activities to do when the weather starts to turn cold, right before the Christmas cheer kicks in? We’ve got you covered.

Dmitry A. Mottl [CC BY-SA 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)]

Prague is home to historical buildings, an eclectic variety of shops, traditional restaurants, international cuisine, and various tourist attractions. Many people choose to visit this always-busy city in the summertime, when the sun is shining, the produce markets are open, and the weather is warm. However, this also brings an influx of tourists – the human version of a stampede.

To beat the crowds, we recommend checking out Czech’s capital city in the off-season. Seriously, trust us. You might not get the super-warm weather and the chance to visit all of the outdoor beer gardens, but you’ll also get some of the best attractions virtually to yourself. Many people come to the city during the summer, or during December, for the infamous Christmas markets. You’re hitting the city right in the in-between time. A smart traveler, some would say.

If you don’t care about missing some of the holiday festivities, you’ll be able to snag an Airbnb for about half of the price, wander the streets without running into American families with two children and matching t-shirts, and waiting in line to visit the Prague Castle. Here we have rounded up the 10 best things to do in Prague in November.

1) Visit Old Town to learn about some of the city’s history and ancient architecture

Prague View from Old Town Hall Tower – By A.Savin (Wikimedia Commons · WikiPhotoSpace) [FAL]

Old Town is home to Prague’s most famous buildings and tourist attractions, with the historical architecture dominating the skyline. Head to Old Town Square, and check out the wide-open space for people to gather, restaurants with outdoor seating, and the Church of Our Lady before Tyn flanking the one side. The restaurants here are a great spot to warm up, have a beer, and people watch the locals and tourists mingling outside.

Besides the aforementioned church, there is also St. Nicholas Church – the Gothic and Baroque-style church that was built in the 18th century, featuring a white exterior and a green roof. The Prague Orloj is a medieval astronomical clock that is positioned on the Old Town Hall. It was first installed in the early 15thcentury and is the third-oldest astronomical clock in the world. It chimes every hour, and always attracts many people to watch and take a video of the show.

While you’re in the square, look for the numerous statues and memorials. The center is home to a statue of Jan Hus, a religious reformer whose death led to the beginning of the Hussite Wars – a battle between the Hussites and the Catholic church. Nearby, there is also a memorial to the martyrs who were killed during the Old Town Square executions. If you’re a history buff, Old Town and the popular Old Town Square will provide some historical context about this famous city.

2) Check out the Prague Castle complex

Prague Castle at Dusk – By Andrew Shiva / Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=29032210

On the Lesser Town-side of the city, you’ll see the looming castle towering above the red-roofed streets below. The Prague Castle is more than just one, royal building – it is a massive complex, situated on top of a hill, giving incredible views over the sprawling city below. Built in the 9th century, it is the office of the President of the Czech Republic. It is the largest ancient castle in the world, taking up almost 70,000 square meters.

The buildings in the castle are all formed of varying architectural styles, ranging from Gothic to Romanesque. St. Vitus Cathedral is a Gothic church and is the largest church in the country. The cathedral is under the ownership of the Czech government and is widely regarded as the most important church in the Czech Republic. The Basilica of St. George is the oldest surviving church building within the castle complex, having been founded in 920. The building now contains the 19th century Bohemian Art Collection of the National Gallery in Prague, giving a great rainy-day activity.

3) Head to some of the city’s museums for a cold-day activity

Prag National Museum Brunnen – By Dietmar Rabich / Wikimedia Commons / “Prag, Nationalmuseum, Brunnen — 2019 — 6841” / CC BY-SA 4.0

We get it – it’s November. You’re cold. It’s time to expand your cultural knowledge with a trip to one of the city’s many museums. Prague has got something for everyone. The National Museum is arguably the most famous, featuring scientific and historical collections scattered throughout the massive building, positioned right at the famous Wenceslas Square.

Another museum that will interest history buffs from across the globe is the Prague Jewish Museum Save this one for a rainy or cold day when it’s okay to feel sad – because this museum will do that to ya. The facts and stories told here are haunting, important, and vital to understanding this country’s intense history. From old photographs to recollections of times past, this museum has everything you need to understand how this country clawed its way to where it is today.

Lastly, check out The Sex Machines Museum – for a true once-in-a-lifetime experience. This one is quite different from the two previous options, but we can guarantee that it will keep you entertained – and hopefully teach you something you didn’t already know. Hopefully.

4) Take a Beer Tour of the city – just remember how to find your way back

It’s a little cold, you’ve seen all of the outdoor attractions for the day, and it’s time to drink some beer. A lot of beer. We recommend either making your own pub crawl – or better yet, signing up for one that is guided for you. The host knows the best places, you’ll meet some like-minded people, and you’ll get a good buzz. What more could you ask for?

The largest pub crawl in Europe is positioned right in the Czech capital, providing you with a bar-hop of 2-3 of Prague’s best clubs. The drinks are fairly-priced, you receive a complimentary shot at the entrance of each venue, and you skip the queues. Not to mention, you have one hour of unlimited drinks at the first bar. Good luck to you – and your liver.

5) Take a River Cruise down the Vltava

Vltava River, Church of Saint Nicholas at Mala Strana, Mala Strana Bridge Tower, Basilica of the Assumption in the Strahov Monastery – Ввласенко [CC BY-SA 3.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)]

For a fun way to see the city and get off your feet for a little while, head down to the river to enjoy a sightseeing opportunity. You can choose whether you want to take a daytime trip and get a clear glimpse of all of the buildings, or a nighttime cruise, seeing the city lit up at night. The cruise boat has a glass roof, so your view of the magnificent city is unparalleled. Most of hte cruises you can choose from last an hour, and take you by all of the famous attractions.

6) Head to the ice skating rinks to become the next Nastia Lukin

Ice skating pool on Ovocny trh, Old Town, Prague, CZ – By Aktron – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=8746000

In the wintertime, Prague comes alive with winter activities. People are outside drinking mulled wine, the markets start to open up, and the ice-skating rinks seemingly pop up everywhere. Head to one of the local rinks, lace up those skates and test your luck. Try out Na Frantisku, a popular spot right next to Old Town in the Jewish Quarter. If you want to head somewhere with free entry to the ice, check out Ovocny trh – this spot is ideal for budget travelers who want to test their balance again from their childhood skating days. No matter what location you choose, ice skating is a romantic, fun, and sometimes dangerous activity – but vacation needs a little adrenaline, right?

7) Head to one of Prague’s traditional restaurants

Czech Beef Goulash. Picture sourced from WikimediaCommons

Prague is home to various traditional restaurants, serving up delicacies like beef goulash and schnitzels. Anywhere you go, you’ll see signs with traditional Czech food either in the name or in the photos posted outside of the restaurant. We recommend getting outside of the Old Town area, and head to Mala Strana for some more inexpensive choices. You’ll find quality food at a fraction of the tourist price, having a heaping plate of food for around $5. Talk about a steal.

8) Check out one of the bars in Vinohrady

Vintage Coffee Machine, Bar in Prague – By © Jorge Royan / http://www.royan.com.ar

Vinohrady is a trendy, fun, and buzzing neighborhood that houses a younger crowd. The hipsters seem to flock here, due to the number of bars, restaurants, cute cafes, and clubs popping up. Head here for a fairly-priced pint, meet some locals, and spend the night inside one of the many bars. All of the choices here are welcoming, upbeat, and casual spots, letting you choose which one – or five – of the bars you want to frequent at night.

Head to Bruxx for some Belgian beer and oysters. Check out Prosekarna if you love Prosecco – and lots of it. Buy a bottle and open it right in the shop. If you’re a craft beer fan (ahem, everyone), then head to BeerGeek Bar. With 30 beers on tap from the native country and abroad, there’s a massive variety to choose from. There are also some snacks here for you to wash down your beer with – or is it the other way around? Sorry, we’ve had a few pints.

9) Head to one of Prague’s local parks

Prague 2016 View from Petrinksa Tower – A.Savin (Wikimedia Commons · WikiPhotoSpace) [FAL]

Prague is home to over 200 green spaces and parks, leaving you infinite options to find some solitude and thrive in nature. Head to Stromovka to check out Prague’s Central Park, complete with ponds, skyscraper-sized trees, and a tranquil atmosphere. Letna Hill provides incredible views over the city. Petrin Hill has a humongous lookout tower, reminiscent of Paris’ Eiffel Tower. Climb to the top and see one of the best panoramic views of the city and the river. No matter what park you choose to explore, this could be a great choice for an afternoon outing during one of the warmer days in your vacation.

10) Walk across Charles Bridge

Charles Bridge (Karluv most) is a famous historical bridge that crosses the Vltava river in Prague – By Jorge Lascar – By Jorge Láscar from Australia – Karlův most (Charles Bridge), CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=31952024

Although you may have already ventured across this tourist attraction to head to Prague Castle, Charles Bridge is a spectacle in itself. An important pathway, this bridge was the only one during its creation that connected th Prague Castle with the Old Town, therefore joining the two sides of the city. This 14th-century creation boasts live performers, artists, and musicians all-year-round. The statutes provide great photo opportunities, the cobblestone walkway has old-time character, and the views of the Vltava, the Castle, and the Old Town are unparalleled.

Prague is a gem to explore any time of year – but why not have it all to yourself?

Sure, summer is great – everyone loves the warm weather and sunshine. But I’m pretty sure everyone can’t fit in Prague all at once now, can they? Heading to Prague in the off-season will show you a different side of the city – a more authentic one at that. You’ll have more a chance to interact with locals, to really explore and wander at your own leisure, and to see the attractions more clearly – without tourists getting in all of your photo ops.

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