Prague at Christmas is made for romance. For years now it’s been rated as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, which is not surprising. It also offers luxury Czech fashion as well as global brands.
Prague has charm! It is especially wonderful in the autumn and winter, and it has plenty to offer to anyone who is willing to fall under its romantic spell. Long evening walks through the narrow streets in the light of old lamps, small romantic cafes or hot grog at the Christmas markets on Old Town Square. Would you prefer to enjoy Prague whilst moving? Then we recommend sledging across the snowy orchards of Petřín, Letná or Stromovka, horse and carriage rides around the weathered recesses and neatly arranged avenues of the capital or taking a heated boat trip around the islands, of the River Vltava. This is winter in Prague.
A bird’s-eye-view of Old Prague
Petřín is a famous part of old Prague and on the top there is an observation tower built in the form of the Eiffel Tower. On a good day in winter it is possible to see almost the entire snow-covered city. After dark you will be dazzled by thousands of lights and the mysterious Prague Castle. For more than a hundred years visitors to this hill have been able to use the unique funicular railway.
Shopping for antiques
Thanks to its rich history, Prague is ideal for buying antiques. The most-sought after antique shops are situated in the city centre, especially in the Old Town (Staré Město) and Josefov districts. If you wander along Kaprova Street, at No. 12, you’ll find a shop bearing the name Starožitnosti (antiques). The oldest goods originate from the end of the 16th century, the majority is from the 19th century. These are mainly beautifully made jewellery, small items of furniture, porcelain, clocks, paintings, glass vases and porcelain statuettes.
Contemporary Czech fashion
In Prague’s Josefov district you will find well-known Czech fashion designers. As a general rule, their work is characterised by combinations of timeless minimalism and novel impressive details. Klára Nademlýnská designed the ‘Cosmos’ collection especially for EXPO 2010 in Shanghai. Tatiana is famous mainly for her women’s coats excelling in their feminine concept, pure lines and timelessness. Hana Havelková is primarily focused on creating models for society, large evening gowns and wedding dresses. Timoure et group offers easily combinable classics and trendy models.
The most luxurious street in Prague.
Pařížská Street, in close proximity to the Old Town Square, is the most exclusive Czech shopping avenue offering the haute couture of world brands. It is reminiscent of the wide boulevards of Paris, with which it can also be compared in the level of the services provided and the wide range of high-fashion goods. You can pick and choose from almost 50 well-established boutiques, especially French and Italian brands.
In the middle of the boulevard you will come across the first Czech Simple Concept Store (Pařížská 20, Prague 1). This is a unique project combining a boutique and a gallery at the same time. Art lovers come here for inspiration. Customers here can find a wealth of ladies’ and men’s garments, handbags, accessories and footwear from the world’s top brands and Czech designers. A random selection: Christian Louboutin, Yves Saint Laurent, Chloé, Lanvin, Balenciaga, Givenchy, Balmain, etc.
Advent markets
From the end of November the atmosphere of Christmas is invoked by the Advent markets held throughout the Czech Republic. In picturesque stands on the squares you will once again be able to taste traditional goodies, such as trdelník or mead, or buy Christmas ornaments. This year you’ll find Advent markets on Prague’s Old Town Square from 29 November, when the Christmas tree will be lit up.
