Joyeux Noel, Frohe Weihnachten, Buon Natale—there’s something about a European Christmas that rings of tradition, heralding a festive overindulgence of mulled wine, sweet treats and savoury game, all basked in the warm glow of a simpler time. Not surprising, then, that a trip to Prague at holiday time is at the top of many a traveller’s wish list.
market merriment: Follow the star atop the Christmas tree in the Old Town to the Prague Christmas Markets, where locals and visitors gather to enjoy the hog roast and smoked sausages, with a Koblihy do trouby (Czech donut) for dessert. Market stalls offer wooden crafts, handmade ornaments and lace handiwork, with nightly choir singing and twinkle lights adding to the intoxication in the air—or maybe it’s the warm honey mead?! www.myczechrepublic.com
frivolous finds: Tired of Christmas trinkets? For something with a little more substance, feast your eyes on the deep crimson sparkle of the garnet—the regional gem. From rings, broaches and bracelets to garnet-encrusted stemware, one starts to wonder if diamonds really are a girl’s best friend. If the -15 C temps give you the shivers, Prague also boasts a fashionable leather and fur industry, with a plethora of hidden alleyway shops offering both vrai and faux versions.
tour de prague: If history is what you’re after, the Czechs have it in spades. Venture solo with a guidebook or join one of the free (tip-only) walking tours that take you past Charles Bridge, Powder Tower and Church of our Lady Victorious. Navigate the maze of tourists for a selfie at the Old Town Hall Astronomical Clock or opt for a moment of quiet contemplation as you pass through Josefov (Jewish Quarter). www.newpraguetours.com
dancing in the street: While the Smetana Concert Hall provides a grand orchestra basked in the finest Art Nouveau styling and the Rudolfinum a Neo-Renaissance home to the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra, there are plenty of churches, cathedrals and synagogues offering seasonal performances. If your ears are still ringing post-show, it may be the numerous public pianos dotting the city. The inspiration of Ondrej Kobza, these 12 instruments aim to inspire people to experience the joy that music brings. www.piananaulici.cz
winter feasts: Vegetarians beware! The Czechs don’t do meat-free but, if you’re ready for the heartiest roasts, broths and carbs, you’re in the right place. Beer halls across the city offer oversized steins and salted pretzels—or get your bohemian on at the Medieval Tavern in the heart of the Old Town. Below ground and swathed in velvet, ropes and dripping candelabras, you’ll find Ottoman-inspired swordsmen, fire-breathers and belly dancers heralding the Middle Ages. While the food leaves a little to be desired, the entertainment will keep you distracted. www.krcmabrabant.cz
Who could resist a Czech Christmas? Food, presents, midnight mass—you’ll never feel so much at home so far away. Veselé Vánoce! —Kristie Perrotte
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