How was the new year in Prague. Prague for New Year and Christmas: a magical winter fairy tale

Anyone who once walked the streets of ancient Prague will forever remember the outlines of its buildings, mysterious fairy houses filled with mysticism and literally saturated with the history of this place.

The Czech Republic is known to everyone as a country with preserved historical appearance their cities and developed infrastructure. The capital of this state combined the notes of modernity with the deepest secrets of centuries. To plunge into the Middle Ages, anyone can come here at least in spring, even in autumn. But especially nice here in winter- for the New Year.

Here it is - magical Prague on a January morning:

Video is great!

Should I go to Prague for New Year and Christmas?

In winter, on New Year's Eve and Christmas, Prague becomes the cradle of a real fairy tale and biblical stories. The city center is decorated, and the main decoration, of course, is a large snowy Christmas tree on the Old Town Square right up to the sky. An angel sits at the top of the tree. By tradition, it is he who every year looks at everyone from there.

Most of the population here are Catholics. Biblical heroes and characters appear in their homes on holidays. This is the Virgin Mary with the baby Jesus and the Magi, or rather their figurines, which reflect the essence of the events that took place 20 centuries ago. On the windows you can see the silhouettes of little angels, lined with a thin luminous ribbon. But the real fairy tale is created by the people themselves, who give gifts to each other and spend these holidays with their families.

It has been decided - we will celebrate these holidays in the Czech Republic!

In Prague, you should definitely spend the New Year and Christmas at least once, because you are unlikely to find such a fairy tale and biblical atmosphere anywhere else. Experienced pilgrims these days advise visit St. Vitus Cathedral, where solemn calm reigns, and the silhouette of the Virgin Mary and the baby allows many people to let go of their mental anguish, adversity and think about the eternal.

Take time out of your trip to visit places of interest.

The capital will offer you numerous entertainments, including skating rinks, game centers, fairs and unique attractions.

Will the winter weather please?

The weather in Prague on New Year's Eve is really comfortable for winter. In December, the average air temperature here during the day is +1˚С, and at night -2˚С, which is not only acceptable, but optimal for any European person.

New Year's Prague weather always encourages photographing mountain ash against the backdrop of city trams.

January cannot be called a month of other weather, since the temperature, as well as precipitation, roughly repeats the weather pattern of the previous month. In the period leading up to Christmas, as well as throughout January, snow lying on the roofs of houses complements the fabulous atmosphere, and at night Prague again plunges into the Christmas mystery.

This is what weather forecasters promise us - the weather forecast in Prague for the first days of the new 2019.

Excursions

But the main impressions - of course, from excursions. Tourists are increasingly ordering them online. This is more convenient for several reasons. Can:

• take your time to read the description and reviews and choose what you like;
• not to fuss and not waste precious time in Prague searching and buying excursions;
• buy in advance from home, and pay by card;
• there is more choice online than in any agency or tour kiosk, and prices are 15-20% lower, because. no agency fee.

There are many options - from the simplest one for €14 (it is ideal for a first acquaintance with the city) to the most fashionable now excursions in the quest genre:

• - €60 for a group of 1-9 people;
• - €20 per person.

The choice is wide - from a trip to the sources (€30) to a trip to neighboring Germany: (€55), (€35) or even (for 2 days and with a stop at Neuschwanstein Castle - €125).

And how do you like the opportunity to see the sights of the Czech Republic from above? costs €199 - you choose the direction and program yourself.

And since you are lucky enough to visit the Czech Republic in winter, we cannot help but recommend an excursion (€88 for 1-4 people) - this is to immediately soak up the spirit of Christmas.

Most popular excursions in 2018:

• - see and learn;
• - delicious food and drink beer;
• - to be surprised;
• - to see not only Prague;
• - to have something to remember.

If you are going to the Czech Republic for a week or more, if you have a license (Russian ones will do), set aside at least one day for a road trip. Czech drivers are polite, traffic rules do not differ from ours, the roads are good and practically free.

Most popular routes:

• very close - Kutná Hora with Ossuary, Karlštejn castle;
• a little further - Gluboka-nad-Vltava, the city of Pisek, Cesky Krumlov;
• even further - Český Krumlov, Karolovy Vary, Adršpach rocks, treetop trail near Lake Lipno;
• and even if you go to Dresden (the border with Germany is open), you will have time to return by the evening.

Car rental prices in the Czech Republic are below the European average:

• if you are traveling together, a compact car is enough (from 27 euros per day);
• if with children - choose middle class(from 30 euros);
• if you want more expensive - also find.

On a note: You can look at the beauty not only in the capital. Seeing a couple of Czech provinces will not be a sin at all. If you don't succeed the first time, then definitely the second - after all, people usually return to this country. Rent a car, drive to Telč or Pilsen, you will not be disappointed and, by the way, buy it for your mother. And in the Czech Republic there is a city with a funny name - Pisek.

Where is the best place to celebrate holidays?

For every son of God, this city will offer a great variety of possible options for the main celebration of their favorite holiday. We will name a few of them for you:

Theater "Divadlo na Vinohradech"

Royal New Year's Eve. Such a project is offered to visitors by the theater-palace "Divadlo na Vinohradech", which creates a truly real fairy tale from 20:00 on December 31 to 05:00 on January 1. A large number of entertainment competitions and a grandiose final program that you will remember for the whole year. Prices in this establishment on New Year's Eve are in the range of 170-300 euros, depending on the table and the amount of alcohol.

Divadlo na Vinohradech - do not forget to bring a tailcoat.

Michal Restaurant

It is located in one of the oldest districts of Prague. Here you can listen to music, dance, eat grilled stuffed wild boars in a pleasant atmosphere. A folklore-style party and traditional dishes will make it possible to celebrate the holiday with a bang. The price here is stable and has not changed for a long time: 110 euros per person.

Restaurant "Michal" - party for everybody…

A restaurant called "Klášterní pivovar"

A feature of this institution is its location on the territory of the Strahov Monastery, where, since the 17th century, the monks have been brewing delicious beer, named after St. Norbert. Here the holiday can be celebrated under the vaults of an ancient monastery, which undoubtedly adds its own touch of mystery and biblical atmosphere. The price here is slightly higher than the previous version, namely: 120 euros.

Klášterní pivovar - drunk on New Year's Eve beer in a monastic style - a good option.

Opera house "Státní opera Praha"

For every opera lover, such a meeting of the holiday will be simply unforgettable. The performance program will include the classical opera "Die Fledermaus", during which a festive table will be served. And at midnight you can raise a glass of champagne and celebrate the New Year. After that, a real New Year's ball will begin on the stage of the theater. Prices range from 270 to 460 euros.

Státní opera Praha - total dress code and face control - but it's worth it, Bor! Shave your muzzle and put on new shoes.

Restaurant "U Fleků"

Known for its excellent tasty dishes, as well as the atmosphere of the oldest brewer. In fact, this is a place for true connoisseurs of Czech beer and good goulash, which are served here with a smile. Perhaps, it is in this place that you can dissolve into the history of the city, because this institution has existed for 5 centuries. Here the holiday will cost you 170 euros.

Restaurant "Folklore Garden"

Here you can also try the famous Czech beer, as well as become a gourmet exactly on December 31st. On New Year's Eve there will be a performance with a performance by folk groups. And with the twelfth stroke of the clock, a large number of bright and colorful fireworks will be launched into the sky. The price for the performance is 125 euros.

Palffy Palace Restaurant

It is here that you can feel like a real king, who make up the history of Prague. This institution is distinguished by fresh flowers on the tables in the halls, quiet sounds classical music and a wonderful collection of wines that will not leave indifferent any lover of this drink. A view of the gardens of the Paris Castle will always complement the cozy and cultural atmosphere of Palfi Palace. The corresponding price is 170 euros.

Palffy Palace is another pretentious place with red walls and subdued lights.

Flambee Restaurant

Here you can feel the real spirit of bohemian life. Most of the great people, visiting Prague, came here to spend their holidays. This institution in 1994 was awarded an international award, which emphasizes the constant quality. Not everyone can afford to spend the New Year in an odious atmosphere. The price is 270 euros.

French restaurant "Flambee" for lovers of frog legs and incomprehensible micro-substances on large white plates. There are also excellent cocktails and a rich wine cellar.

Old Town Square

Perhaps the most important and the best place to celebrate the New Year 2019 in Prague -. On the square itself and near the town hall adjacent to it, on the night of January 1, it is full of people - here are Praguers with their families and tourists. Here they put the main Christmas tree of the city and arrange the famous fair. The main feature and highlight of the program - fight vintage astronomical clock"Orloy". It is worth coming here in advance, because closer to midnight you are unlikely to get here - it's crowded.

Majority Russian tourists In the Czech Republic, they celebrate the New Year on the Old Town Square.

shopping

Christmas holidays in Prague - real. It is at this time that the season of crazy discounts and sales begins here.

Gifts from Santa Claus. Inexpensive.

One of the favorite places for shopping among tourists is the Pietro Filipi store, since the clothes in its assortment are only exclusive, and the discount percentage can reach 75%. Although even with such a discount, things will not cost you too cheap. The Blažek men's clothing boutique is also popular. And for those who want to buy clothes, souvenirs and more in one place, you can advise.

If you absolutely do not want to celebrate the New Year in your native walls and even in your own country, if you want to know how it is met in European countries, then it is best to go to the Czech Republic and, first of all, to its capital. In Prague, the spirit of the holiday begins to soar from the first days of December, namely from the 5th, when, according to popular belief, St. Nicholas comes to the city, accompanied by a retinue of angels and demons. They knock at the houses where children live and ask them how they behaved in the past year. The diligent and obedient are rewarded with gifts, and the naughty ones and bullies are rewarded with tough potatoes.

Photo: "Christmas decorations on the square."

For almost a month, festive excitement reigns on the streets and everyone can plunge into it at any moment. One of the most beautiful cities Europe, with its medieval ancient castles, spacious squares, traditional festivities at Christmas and New Year's fairs, will welcome everyone who wants to plunge into a fairy tale. Prague is a unique symbiosis of modernity and history. Here, every house, every street keeps its legends and secrets. The lack of greenery in winter and the gray sky - this look of the city also suits. The special beauty gives the capital of the Czech Republic a more authentic gothic atmosphere.

Photo: Old Town Square on New Year's Eve.

But New Year's Prague is especially good. At this time, the city looks like one big decoration. Even the smallest street is not deprived of elegant decoration. Multi-colored garlands are everywhere, trees in lights and tinsel, festive illuminations on buildings and even on lawns. The population here professes the Catholic faith, therefore, on the days of the holiday, biblical characters are an integral decoration of any street and any house, among which the Magi and the Virgin Mary are the most popular. Small angels are painted on the windows of the houses with luminous colors. The fabulous picture is completed by the residents themselves, giving each other gifts and being in a great mood.

The most important New Year's fair.

The approach of the New Year is felt even in the most far corners cities. But the holiday is celebrated on a special scale in the most important place of the capital - on the Old Town Square. In December, it is filled with smart little multi-colored houses, on the shelves of which there is a lot of festive assortment. It's time for the Christmas markets, which open simultaneously on all squares. But the main New Year's fair, the most noisy and amazing an abundance of everything, as it should be - on the main square.

Photo: Fairy Life.

There's something you can't see here! Fair life is in full swing - festive concerts with the participation of popular performers and DJs, performances by local celebrities. According to tradition, nativity scenes (betlems) are placed on the square - decorative copies of biblical stories about the birth of Christ, about the Magi, about the Star of Bethlehem. On the square there are elegant carriages - horse-drawn carriages, on which you can ride around the Old City. And then the furs of the real forge swell. Blacksmiths working in it, right before the eyes of curious spectators, make horseshoes and roses of bizarre shapes from metal. These unique products can be bought as a keepsake right away, as they say - "hot, hot".

In the Czech Republic, there is a tradition - before Christmas, bring a sprig of mistletoe into the house, which is a symbol of well-being and happiness. But in order to buy it, you do not need to arrive in advance at other times of the year, for example, organize a trip to Prague in the fall. Mistletoe is an evergreen shrub and its sprigs are always sold at Christmas markets.

Photo: "Christmas Fair on the Old Town Square".

National Czech dishes are one of the most famous cuisines Europe. And during the days of the New Year and Christmas fairs, all the most delicious are sold on the squares. The air is filled with various appetizing smells - fried sausages, baked goose and fresh pastries. And it is simply unforgivable to visit the Czech capital and not taste the baked boar knuckle - the famous "boar's knee". Several very hungry people can get enough of it at once, because it can weigh up to several kilograms. And as a side dish, potato brambura is perfect for it.

Photo: Potato brambura.

Those who cannot do without the first course should get acquainted with Czech soups. Their peculiarity lies in the density and specific taste. Many of them are served in an unusual plate - a piece of baked bread. For dessert, hot pancakes are suitable and, of course, trdelnik is a Czech signature delicacy made from yeast dough. It is wound in a spiral on a cylinder and sprinkled with spices and sugar. You need to eat it hot, because cooling down the trdlo changes the taste. Local waffles, platters and Christmas cookies are perfect for a snack, but at the same time for getting to know Czech sweets.

Photo: "Czech waffles - payments."

Mulled wine, mead and Czech beer.

The abundance of drinks at the fair is no less than food. And also for every taste. Different types tea and coffee, of course. But the Czechs cannot imagine Christmas and New Year without fragrant hot mulled wine and mead, which are just perfect for the cold season, and even more so for such favorite holidays, because they not only warm, but also give strength, keep the most courageous, spending good mood. most festivities on the street. Traditional Slovak honey wine Vcelovina is made only from honey, water and special yeast. Honey is used in different varieties, resulting in different tastes. It is served warm. Very sweet but very warm.

Photo: Czech mead at the New Year's fair.

Photo: "Mead and mulled wine at the fair."

"Famous Czech beer" is no longer just a phrase. It has become the corporate slogan of the Czech Republic. Naturally, this drink is presented in a huge assortment at Christmas markets. You can taste different varieties both in numerous street stalls and in cozy pubs, cafes, and restaurants. In general, the feeling of hunger will definitely not make itself felt. Rather, on the contrary, you will constantly be in a blissful state of oversaturation. And such pleasure will not require sky-high spending from you.

Photo: Czech beer.

And, of course, when you return to your native land, you will definitely want to bring the memory of New Year's Prague with you. If you celebrate the New Year on the Old Town Square, you won't have to leave it to buy souvenirs. In elegant multi-colored stalls, you can buy anything - national New Year decorations, handmade toys, cute home and interior accessories, author's handicrafts, scented candles, dishes.

Photo: “Sale of souvenirs”.

What to buy for New Year in Prague?

The malls are literally bursting with souvenirs for every taste and wealth. If finances allow, here you can buy Bohemian crystal products and jewelry made of silver and gold. You can take with you a piece of festive Czech flavor in the form of a doll in national costume, a Christmas gingerbread in the shape of a heart or a chocolate bar, the wrapper of which resembles a colorful postcard with a national theme. Here you can buy gifts for every taste and bring them with you, so that later you can make a pleasant surprise for your relatives or friends.

Photo: "Christmas decorations and New Year's souvenirs."

The Christmas market on the Old Town Square is buzzing like a beehive at any time of its work. But in the evening, the crowd becomes even more. Both locals and tourists gather to watch the lights on the main Christmas tree come on. Of course, she is beautiful in the daytime too. She comes from the Kralove Hradec region, the city of Peck. A slender spruce with fluffy forms, 31 meters tall and 70 years old. Main decoration central square topped by an angel. Every hour, from 17:30 to 20:30, a garland is lit on the beautiful Christmas tree, which entangled it from the lower tier to the very top. It consists of more than two thousand light bulbs, and the length is almost 5 kilometers.

Photo: "Walking around the New Year's night city."

The light animation is accompanied by a piece of music by Rossini. Separate islands of lights flash on the Christmas tree here and there. They either fly up, then fall down, then sway like pendulums along their entire length. And to the final chords of beautiful music, the whole Christmas tree flares up and freezes in indescribable beauty for several minutes, causing a storm of applause from the audience. And at its foot, like any Christmas tree in Prague, there is a nativity scene with mangers, which are inhabited by living animals from biblical stories. Donkey, sheep and goats can be stroked and even fed if you don't regret giving 20 crowns for food.

Photo: “Goat on the square”.

Many are interested in the question - How to celebrate the New Year in Prague? The best answer would be a personal visit this amazing city. In just one trip, you can fully satisfy your curiosity, see everything with your own eyes, get acquainted with Czech cuisine and even make a wish under the chimes of the famous Orloj astronomical clock on New Year's Eve.

These days the population of the capital becomes especially multinational. But most of all it is our compatriots. So a comfortable stay "like at home" is guaranteed to you.

Photo: Astronomical Clock.

If you are planning a trip to the Czech Republic on your own and do not want to overpay for housing, then here useful link for a budget hotel 3 stars in the center. This is where we stayed during our New Year's Eve trip.

Budget hotels in the historical center of Prague.

We always try to stay in inexpensive hotels and as close as possible to the city center, so that after walking you do not have to spend 1-2 hours returning to your room. Popular services offer hundreds of options and you can choose a week. For you, we have selected HOTELS IN THE CENTER - 3, 4 STARS WITH BREAKFASTS AND WITHOUT. It is these booking options that are most popular with Russian tourists. You can also immediately buy tickets to Prague at favorable price. We wish you more interesting trips.

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We have prepared a detailed article about holidays for the New Year in Prague - 2019. We will tell you where to celebrate the New Year and Christmas in Prague, what weather to expect, where to go, how much tours and accommodation cost during the New Year holidays.

When preparing the article, we took into account the reviews of tourists who were in Prague for the New Year or Christmas.

Prices are current at the time of writing and may change in the future.

Keep in mind that the closer the New Year holidays, the higher the prices for tours and hotels. If you find a good option, it is better to book it in advance while the cost has increased.

Weather in Prague for the New Year

Winter in Prague is quite mild and comfortable. December pleases travelers with temperatures ranging from -1˚C to +2˚C and little rainfall. If they do fall, it is mostly in the form of rain. True, December days in the Czech Republic are mostly overcast or cloudy.

Closer to the New Year and Christmas holidays, the temperature in Prague remains about the same. Snow on New Year's Eve in Prague is not always - as lucky. The temperature in the city is often positive during the day, but at night it drops to -3…-5˚С.

January, considered the coldest month of the Czech winter, will delight tourists average temperature about -3˚С. At that time more snow falls and the sun comes out.

Thanks to the combination of comfortable sub-zero temperatures and white snow shimmering in the sun, Prague reigns fabulous atmosphere. Bright illumination in the evening only adds to the festive mood.

In January, the weather is good for and walks on fresh air By historical center Prague or narrow cozy streets its outskirts.

Photo: snow in Prague doesn't always fall on New Year's Eve © elPadawan / flickr.com

Where to celebrate the New Year in Prague - 2019

On the street

If you want to celebrate the New Year - 2019 in Prague noisy, fun, in the company a large number people (both local and tourists), it is best to go to Old Town Square. During the holidays, a large Christmas tree is set up and decorated there.

A lot of celebrants traditionally gather near the chimes on the tower, who sing, dance, drink champagne and set off fireworks. You won’t be able to walk around the square at this moment - there are too many people there.

By the way, be prepared for the fact that you will not see a big fireworks display on New Year's Eve in Prague - it is traditionally launched on the evening of January 1st.

Note! If you are traveling to the Czech Republic with children, celebrating the New Year on Stramestskaya Square is not the best option. It's too noisy, drunk, and a lot of randomly used pyrotechnics.

Where to celebrate the New Year in Prague besides the Old Town Square? Can you go to Wenceslas Square- usually not there fewer people but the same festive atmosphere.

Another good option is to go to The Charles Bridge or on the waterfront. In addition, fireworks are clearly visible from there.

If you want to celebrate the New Year in the fresh air, but away from crowds, a boat trip along the Vltava would be an excellent option. From the ship you can admire the festive lights of Prague and from the side you can see a lot of fireworks in different parts of the city. By the way, it's not very expensive:

• A boat trip around Prague on New Year's Eve costs from 140 euros (dinner included).
• A two-hour boat trip on January 1 (to watch the fireworks) - from 40-50 euros.

New Year in Prague restaurants

For those who want to celebrate the holiday in the warmth, there are many cafes and restaurants in Prague on New Year's Eve. Prices for food will be different, but a warm welcome, a delicious meal and unique beer will await in each of them.

Prices for New Year's dinner in Prague vary from 120 to 500 euros. IN the best restaurants city, the cost of the evening will be around 250-500 euros per person, in less popular places a New Year's dinner will cost 120-200 euros.

Another option to celebrate the New Year in the Czech Republic well is to visit Oblaca Restaurant. This establishment stands out among others for its location - the restaurant is located 66 meters above the ground, in the television Zizkovskaya tower. In addition to the stunning view of Prague at night, the moderate pricing policy can be called an advantage of the restaurant.

A more budgetary, but original option for celebrating the New Year 2019 in Prague is U Ceskych Panu. The restaurant is located just a few minutes walk from Wenceslas Square, there is a menu in Russian. The interior is made in the style medieval castle with the corresponding attributes - armor and weapons on the walls.

On a note! It is necessary to decide on the venue for the New Year's Eve in Prague in advance. It is advisable to book places in a restaurant 2 weeks in advance or earlier, especially if you choose an institution in the city center.

Where to go in Prague on New Year's holidays

The mild climate of the Czech Republic in winter favors outdoor walks along the old streets of Prague. Be sure to take a walk along the Charles Bridge - it looks especially impressive in the evening, powdered with snow and illuminated by the lights of lanterns.

Do not forget to visit the Old Town Square, where the city hall and the ancient Orloj chimes are located. During the New Year holidays on the Old Town Square in Prague unfolds Christmas Fair where you can drink hot mulled wine, enjoy fresh pastries, try roasted chestnuts and buy Christmas souvenirs.

Wenceslas Square is less crowded. But even there there are enough tourists who want to see the monument to St. Wenceslas, ancient buildings and sculptures. And you can warm up in an unusual and cozy restaurant Vytopna Railway Restaurant. The kitchen and the hall with visitors are connected by a network of railways, along which small trains run - they deliver beer to visitors. In the restaurant you can taste traditional Czech cuisine at affordable prices. If you are traveling to New Year's Prague with children, they will be delighted (besides, there is a children's menu and a playground).

Majority attractions in Prague All New Year's holidays except January 1st are open as usual. Restaurants, bars and pubs on the first day of the New Year receive visitors only after lunch.

Individual excursions in Prague for the New Year

Closer to the holidays in Prague become available individual excursions in Russian, related directly to the New Year and Christmas. The advantages of such excursions are that the guide will conduct them only for your company.

Prices are quite democratic - 60-90 euros (regardless of the number of participants) - you can go with the whole family with children.

At the time of writing, for the winter in 2019, 2 types of excursions were available:

• – 88 euros (1-7 people)
• – 80 euros (1-6 people)
• – 60 euros (1-6 people)

New Year in Prague - 2019: prices for tours

The cost of New Year's tours to Prague in 2019 depends on the date of departure - the closer to the New Year, the more expensive.

Please note: the prices below are current at the time of writing (September 2017) and may change in the future. It is better to buy tickets in advance, as prices increase in November and December.

The cost of tours to Prague for the New Year 2019 is indicated for 2 people with a departure from Moscow.

How to find cheap tours to the Czech Republic? This is easy to do with the help of search engines and - they compare prices for tours from all tour operators, allowing you to find the most profitable options.

7 nights

• On New Year's Eve, it is cheapest to fly to Prague on December 28 - ticket prices start at 50,000-60,000 rubles for two. For example, a tour to a hotel with breakfast costs 58,800 rubles. Prices for trips to the Czech Republic with a child - from 70,000 rubles.
• The cost of tours with a departure on December 29-30 is much higher - from 70,000-75,000 rubles.
• New Year's tours to Prague from Moscow with a departure on December 31 and accommodation in the city center cost from 80,000 rubles for two people. Good reviews are received by hotels near the Old Town Square (from 84,000 rubles with breakfast) and (from 88,000 rubles).

Prices for trips to Prague to 5-star hotels for the New Year start at 103,000 rubles. One of the best options is not far from Wenceslas Square (129,000 rubles with a departure on December 28).

3-4 nights

Holidays in Prague for 3-4 nights on New Year's dates cost from 45,000-50,000 rubles. For example, a tour to a hotel with a departure on December 31 costs 51,600 rubles for 3 nights and 58,600 rubles for 4 nights.

5-star hotels are more expensive - from 67,000 rubles for 3 nights. One of the best reviews is received by the hotel (rating - 9.8/10); a ticket to it for 3 nights with a departure on December 31 costs 77,500 rubles.

Another option popular with tourists is in the very center of Prague (72,400 rubles for 3 nights, 82,400 for 4 nights).

Advice: if you want to spend the New Year holidays in Prague, but it is not necessary to celebrate the New Year there - good option The trip will be in early January. The festive atmosphere will remain, but prices for tours and accommodation in Prague will be lower.

Housing prices in Prague

In many hotels in Prague, the cost of living during the New Year holidays increases significantly. As a rule, breakfast is already included in the room rate. in the city center (from 15,000 rubles per night).

When planning a trip to Prague for the New Year and Christmas holidays in 2019, it will be useful to read the reviews and advice of travelers who have already been there this time:

• Be prepared for the fact that there are a lot of tourists in Prague during the Christmas and New Year period;
• When choosing travel dates, keep in mind that in the Czech Republic the main holiday is Catholic Christmas (December 25). Therefore, the meeting of the traditional New Year for us is already the end of the holidays. Soon after New Year's Eve, the Czechs begin to remove the Christmas trees and all street illumination;
• Most stores will be closed after December 24-25. This is important if you are planning to go shopping in the Czech Republic;
• According to many tourists, food and clothing prices in Prague are slightly lower than in other European capitals;
• You can't buy tram tickets on public transport. To do this, there are vending machines near the metro and at major stops;
• Most shops and exchange offices are closed on January 1 - stock up on everything you need in advance;
• If you plan to celebrate the New Year in the center of Prague, choose a hotel within walking distance. On New Year's Eve, the only way to get somewhere is by taxi. And this pleasure is not cheap;
• Some tourists are advised to check the bill in restaurants, as in the New Year's bustle it happens that an extra dish is included in the check;

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New Year's Eve Prague is a stunning and unique spectacle, delighting the tastes of sophisticated and inexperienced tourists, as well as being a source of pride for the inhabitants of the capital. Christmas trees and congratulatory posters on the streets and in buildings are literally everywhere, multi-colored chains and lanterns are hung between the buildings, and the silhouettes of ancient castles and houses are decorated with shimmering and iridescent garlands.

The decoration of streets and buildings is carried out by city services, as well as entrepreneurs, businessmen and enthusiasts from local residents. It is believed that bright illumination and flashing decorations scare away evil forces and attract goodness and good luck to the house, so residents do not skimp on decorating their own houses, annually surprising guests of the capital with new skillful scenes against the backdrop of the architecture of buildings. Medieval architecture serves as a very advantageous backdrop for the fine knitting of garland decorations, and at dusk Prague seems like a fabulous city, with luminous castles, which, of course, are inhabited by beautiful fairies and wise wizards.

Charles Bridge becomes the main decoration New Year's Prague. Garlands and lanterns are also hung on it, and not far from this famous building Souvenir shops lined up, in which they sell Christmas gifts and pleasant trifles.

The city's main Christmas tree is set up on Old Town Square. There are souvenir shops, Christmas markets unfold.

Where is the best place to stay in Prague for the New Year?

When planning a New Year's holiday in Prague, you should take into account that the most interesting and lively life in the capital takes place before the New Year. Experienced tourists are advised to come to Prague before or after catholic christmas(December 25) to enjoy the festive hype, to catch the Christmas and New Year's fairs, festive events, sales in stores.

Since Prague is one of the most popular capitals in Europe to celebrate the New Year, tours for this time must be planned and bought in advance. Accordingly, it is necessary to decide on the choice of a place of residence earlier, taking into account your wishes and needs.

Many tourists try to book hotels near the Old Town and Wenceslas Squares so that they can easily get to their apartments on New Year's Eve. Choosing a hotel on the outskirts of the city, you will certainly save on a ticket, but already in Prague you can spend a lot on public transport on ordinary days, and on a taxi at night. Choosing a hotel

You must carefully study each offer, preferably with detailed description the urban area in which it is located. It may happen that cheap hotel will stand in a remote "sleeping" area of ​​​​Prague, and near it you will not be able to find a single store or restaurant.

Every traveler who comes to Prague can find for himself any accommodation option that will satisfy his taste - from luxury hotels to boarding houses, hostels, private apartments.

• Separate apartments for two people in a residential apartment building in the center of Prague will cost from 47 to 66 € per day.
• Rooms for two people five star hotels in the center of Prague will cost tourists from 82 to 131 € per day.
• Room for two people hotel 4* in the center and historical districts of Prague will cost from 29 to 144 € per day.
• Room for two people 3* hotel; 2* within transport accessibility to the city center cost from 34 to 74 € per day.
• Rooms for two people hostels, located in different parts of Prague, will cost from 39 to 54 € per day.
• Double room in boarding house, located in the center or in other, remote areas of Prague, will cost you from 29 to 72 € per day.

Where is the best place to celebrate the New Year in Prague?

Every year the excitement of tourists around New Year's tours to Prague is growing. The capital of the Czech Republic is glad to all guests, it is ready to offer any organization of the New Year celebration, made for all tastes and the most demanding requests.

Every year Prague becomes more elegant, and its restaurants are preparing more and more bright shows, festive menus, New Year's programs to surprise their guests again and again.

It is very difficult for an inexperienced tourist to navigate in this mass of all kinds of offers, and therefore a person planning a trip to this amazing country, you must first decide on your own preferences, and then study all the offers, choosing your own.

• Acquaintance with the Czech Republic, its color, inhabitants, culture, and, of course, national cuisine, is the main goal of most tourists. New Year's Eve can be organized in Czech restaurant, satisfying both your gastronomic curiosity and your thirst for new discoveries. The most sought-after and famous Czech restaurants, which are located near the Charles Bridge and the Old Town Square, are Folklore Garden and Michal. For the holiday, these establishments will definitely prepare a folklore show, as well as excellent dishes of various Czech cuisine. Read also:
• If you want to visit the most famous restaurant with international cuisine of the highest class, then your choice will probably stop at the restaurant of the five-star Hilton Hotel. This magnificent establishment annually prepares various surprises for guests, specially develops a menu with a wide range of dishes for all tastes, crowning the height of the New Year's celebration with a professionally prepared chic show.
• Tourists who want to celebrate the New Year in their native atmosphere are offered their festive programs by the restaurants "Vikarka", "Hibernia". New Year's Eve in these establishments will be held in Russian, and the menu will definitely include traditional Russian dishes.
• If you want to be in close proximity to the place of the most important New Year's celebration - Old Town Square, then you can choose the wine restaurant "Monarch", the restaurant "Old Town Square", the restaurants "Potrafena Husa", "At the Prince", "At Veyvoda". A wide range of offers will put you in front of the need to make a choice - you can choose the desired entourage for yourself new year holiday, as well as the cost. For those who want to save a little, but be in the thick of festive events, there are great offers - New Year's Eve on a boat, which will float along the Vltava River and allow you to admire the general fun of the city and festive fireworks.
• Many restaurants in Prague are located far from the center, but have good viewing platforms, which will allow you to admire the views of festive Prague. These are, in particular, the restaurants "Klashterny Pivovar", "Monastyrsky Pivovar", which are in great demand among tourists.
• Romantic New Year's Eve Dinner it is best to plan in an atmosphere of tenderness, pleasant music and fine cuisine. For such an evening, the restaurants "At the Three Violins", "Heaven", "At the Golden Well", "Mlynets", "Bellevue" are well suited.
• For those wishing on New Year's Eve to plunge into the atmosphere and medieval romance, unique costume shows and menus of dishes prepared according to old recipes are offered by the restaurants of the castles of Zbiroh, Detenice.
• Chateau Mcely Castle is actually a 5* hotel that carefully prepares for guests New Year's program, can impress with very high quality service and a great menu. This castle is located in the forests, and most of its visitors are usually regular guests who prefer this hotel to any other in the Czech Republic.
• For connoisseurs of art and classical music Prague Opera theatre offers New Year's Eve with the performance of the operetta Bat. A gala dinner will take place in the foyer of the theater, and after the performance, a magnificent ball will open on the stage. For this evening, of course, it is necessary to wear evening dresses and tuxedos.

How to entertain children in Prague during the New Year holidays?

On New Year's Eve, most often, whole families come to the capital of the Czech Republic, Prague, to celebrate the holidays together, to acquaint children with the great and mysterious Czech Republic. When thinking about the holiday program, do not forget to include special events for children so that they do not get bored among adults, so that the New Year's holiday looks like a fairy tale for them.

1. Every year from the beginning of December until the middle of January, the Prague National Theater traditionally holds Musical "The Nutcracker". This performance is included in the theater's repertoire only once a year, during Christmas and New Year, impressing the audience with a magnificent performance. This musical will appeal to children of all ages. In addition, the wonderful atmosphere and decoration of the theater itself will give a real holiday to both adults and children.
2. With young travelers in Prague, it is necessary to visit the traditional advent markets, which begin their work in early December, and close after January 3. This is a whole world of magic, which your child will look at with wide eyes, absorbing the atmosphere of the holiday. The most important market, of course, is always located in the center of Prague, on the Old Town Square, where all kinds of shops and tents line up in a row, chestnuts and Czech sausages are roasted right on the street, they are treated to tea - children, punch and mulled wine - adults. You can walk endlessly through such markets, try the offered sweets and dishes, buy souvenirs and gifts, just admire the magnificent sight of pre-holiday Prague. In the capital of the Czech Republic, you can also take your baby on a special tour of Prague's advent markets, visiting all the most famous of them, visiting the Old Town.
3. Your child will be very interested in the excursion to Prague Castle and Loreta(10 €), to the acting men's Strahovskoye monastery. Here is the most famous among tourists "Bethlehem", which includes 43 wooden sculptures.
4. Little sweet tooth will love it excursion "Sweet Prague", which is held along the streets of the Old Town with a visit to numerous small cafes, tasting of traditional Czech sweets and a visit to the Chocolate Museum.
5. Your child will be delighted with the experience when visiting "Black Theater" which is only available in this country. An unforgettable show with unexpected transformations, light shows, incendiary dances, expressive pantomime and bright images against a dark background will make an indelible impression on children of any age.
6. For little nature lovers, it cordially opens its gates Prague Zoo, which was included in the top ten famous zoos the world. Children will be able to watch different animals that are not in cages, but in spacious enclosures with skillfully created "natural" landscape.
7. Toy Museum will provide young guests and their parents with several expositions - from the toys of the times Ancient Greece, to the toys and games of our times. This museum contains 5 thousand exhibits that will delight everyone who visits here.
8. With children, you can take a tour of City of Kings - Vysehrad, walk along the stone corridors, admire the strict and mysterious architecture and even go down into the gloomy dungeons.
9. Children will be delighted with the New Year's dinner in Restaurant "Vytopna" in which from bar counters to each table there is almost a real railway small steam locomotives go by.
10. With kids on New Year's holidays, you should definitely visit the Medieval show in the tavern of the village "Baby". The institution has a medieval ambience: on the floor you will see hay, on the walls - traces of soot, and on the table - simple and tasty dishes, which, however, should only be eaten with your hands, without cutlery. During dinner, you will be shown a medieval show with pirates, a real python, gypsies and fakirs, as well as a fire show.

Who spent New Year's holidays in Prague? Reviews of tourists

Alexander:

We, four friends, decided to celebrate the New Year in Prague, a city unknown to me so far. I must say that I did not feel much enthusiasm, I heard little about the Czech Republic and had never been there, but I joined my friends for the company. We lived in apartments near Andel metro station, their cost is 150 EURO per day. We were in Prague on December 29th. The first days we went to walking tours in Prague, went to Karlstejn. But the meeting of the New Year made the biggest impression on the four of us! We whiled away the evening with beer in a restaurant on Bethlehem Square, traditionally celebrating the Russian New Year in Moscow. Then we went to another restaurant, on Prague Square, where a chic dinner was waiting for us with traditional Czech dishes, beer, mulled wine. On the first of January in the evening we came to the center to watch the fireworks, and the jubilation of the crowd was exactly the same as on New Year's Eve. On January 2, the Christmas tree and all the garlands were removed from the Old Town Square, the holidays in the Czech Republic ended, and we went to explore the Czech Republic - on excursions to magnificent Karlovy Vary, Tabor, medieval castles.

Marina:

My husband and I went to Prague to celebrate the New Year, the ticket was from December 29th. We flew in, checked into the Gallery Hotel, and on the same day went to the observation walking tour in Prague. We did not like the organization of the tour, and we went to explore the city on our own. Near our hotel, we found a quite decent restaurant "At Sklenika", where, basically, on the following days we had lunch and dinner. Our hotel was not in central area city, but we really liked its location - not far from the metro station, in quiet place, surrounded by residential buildings. At least on New Year's Eve and New Year's Eve, we could sleep peacefully, we were not awakened by the noise outside the window, as happens in hotels in the center. Having bought a map of Prague, we did not get lost on its streets at all - city transport runs on schedule, there are plans and clear signs everywhere, tickets are sold in kiosks. Tourists in Prague should be wary of pickpockets. In restaurants, they can deceive visitors by attributing to the menu what they did not order - you should carefully read the price tags and the checks you bring. In stores, you can pay for goods in euros, but asking for change in kroons is the best exchange rate. On the afternoon of December 31, we went on an excursion to Rudolf's Palace, the government residence and St. Vitus Cathedral. We dined at an Italian restaurant, and celebrated the New Year on Wenceslas Square, in a crowd of people, admiring the fireworks and listening to music. Fried sausages, beer and mulled wine were sold on the square near the stage. In the remaining week we visited Karlovy Vary, Vienna, went to a beer factory, explored Prague on our own, walking around the entire Old Town.

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We embarked on this journey very spontaneously. The husband was finally given the long-awaited second half of the vacation. And we decided to go to Prague for a week. Up to this point, we have never traveled anywhere in the winter, and by plane with the whole family. On our part, it was a purely experimental trip.

We made an anti-pedagogical decision to take the children with us, may the teachers of our children forgive us. You can see the composition of our team at

Bought plane tickets 2 days before departure, booked inexpensive hotel. The hotel is very well located, there is a bus station opposite it and you can walk to the Powder Gate in 20 minutes. From the metro station of the same name 3 minutes to the hotel. Nearby there is grocery stores. Rooms for 4 people are not found in every hotel, for which we chose it. They don’t vacuum the carpet every day, but it’s normal to see it in Prague, the houses on Zlata Street also have dust, and a much thicker layer than in a hotel.

December 1st to 7th is considered low season, although the Christmas markets start on November 26th. In the low season, prices are more than moderate, the hotel cost us only 300 euros, room for four people for 6 nights with breakfast. It is curious that one night in this hotel during the New Year holidays would have cost us 200 euros. Sales in stores have not yet begun.

Prices for plane tickets are jumping right before our eyes, we looked after tickets for three days, and each time there was a different price for the same flight, the spread was in the range of 1,500 rubles for 1 ticket. As a result, we took tickets for a Lufthansa flight with a transfer in Munich. Direct flights St. Petersburg - Prague are carried out, only by airlines Russia and Czech Airlines. Direct flights are more expensive. A night flight with a transfer, of course, is hard, the youngest was sick on the plane, during the day he slept in the hotel for three hours while we were walking.

Munich airport is very good - lots of shops, free coffee or tea (now no longer free), comfortable chairs, almost folding beds, 2 hours flew by like one minute.

The plane on the Munich-Prague flight was only a quarter full. The flight lasts only 55 minutes. Takeoff, tea, coffee, cookies and the plane is already landing.

General impressions of Prague, our review of the trip to Prague

Prague greeted us with the sun and spoke to us in Russian in the face of a strange, homeless-looking man. While we were standing at the map of Prague, trying to get our bearings, the aforementioned man approached us and offered to take us to the hotel and exchange money, we accepted his first offer. At the reception we were served by a Russian girl.

Many residents of Prague speak and understand Russian, this is due to the fact that before the Velvet Revolution of 1989, Czechs studied Russian at school. The restaurants in the city center have a menu in Russian, in public places there are inscriptions in Russian. There are many Russian tourists and residents in the city, native speech is heard all around. So if you don't know English, Prague is your choice.

Below are unkind posters, most likely caused by the entry of troops of the countries participating in the Warsaw Pact in 1968. The troops were brought in to save Czechoslovakia from the counter-revolution, you can read more about this on Wikipedia, the event was called Operation Danube.

Prague boards with posters are glued with such curious posters

Unlike the cities of Germany and France, many shops are open in Prague on Sunday, we can say that rare shops are closed. On the streets they offer to change money and offer tours of the surroundings in Russian. The price for an excursion to the nearest suburb starts from 35 euros, everyone definitely recommends Cesky Krumlov as the most beautiful place.

In Prague, light drugs are allowed, as in, even more widely. In Amsterdam, it is allowed to buy and consume them only in coffee houses, and in Prague, in the very first small shop on the shelves, they saw a large assortment of cannabis tinctures and sweets, and muffins, they were simply seriously surprised by this approach.

Entrance to most churches is paid for tourists, a legacy of the Soviet past, usually you can enter the existing churches absolutely free of charge.

Prague old City, founded in the 10th century, was for a long time four different cities, sometimes at war with each other. Prague Castle, Stare Mesto, Nove Mesto and Vysehrad existed as independent units. Therefore, it is quite easy to decide how to inspect this city, allocating a day for each former city.

I suggest you take a look at our plan.

Prague sightseeing plan for 6 days.

First day we examined Republic Square and Wenceslas Square, as we were not sleeping enough from the road. This is a part of the city called

Fourth day. We went for a walk around, after examining it, we went to to please the child.

Fifth day. We have committed great walk along the islands of the Vltava, finished their walk in.

Sixth day. We went to the fortress above the Vltava.

In addition, every evening we spent on, ate all sorts of tasty treats and watched performances by artists. Several times during this time we walked along the famous Charles Bridge.

Our rating of attractions in New Year's Prague

The following is a list of attractions in order from “most liked” to “least liked”, although this is also not entirely true, since we also liked the last Vysehrad, just if we had less time, we would exclude it.

Naturally, the first thing we visited was the largest castle in Europe and the architectural dominant of the city. St. Vitus Cathedral is visible from almost all the places we visited in the city. The cathedral was built for almost 600 years, construction was completed only in 1928. In addition to the cathedral in Prague Castle, there are many more museums, which we all examined by taking a “big circle” ticket.

There is a cheerful festive atmosphere at the fair. Artists perform, main tree of the city, under it is a magnificent Christmas composition and a manger with live Christmas animals - sheep, goats, a donkey and even a pony. Children crowd around the nursery and stroke the animals.

Everything is sold at the fair so that you can have a good time and not freeze - mulled wine, hot mead, hot cider, hot apple juice for children. And of course you can eat - Old Prague pork, trdlo, gingerbread, potato chips, made right before your eyes.

The Charles Bridge- Another masterpiece of medieval architecture in Prague. Now the bridge is pedestrian, and there is a thriving trade in souvenirs. Numerous tourists polished the brass parts of the sculptures to a shine for good luck.

It strikes the imagination with the magnificence of the interior decoration, made in the Baroque style.

In Prague, as in Greece, there is everything, even its own Eiffel Tower, it stands on Peterzhin Hill and is a small copy. The hill can be reached by funicular, public transport tickets are valid for it.

Very good, it is located on a huge hill. The aviary "Indonesian tropics" aroused our genuine admiration. The atmosphere of the tropical forest is very truthfully recreated there, even bats fly over the heads of visitors without any fences at all.

The life of mountain goats is shown very well, they are assigned a rocky section of the hill, it turns out that visitors can observe the goats in natural conditions.

We visited, this spectacle will certainly interest schoolchildren, where you can press the buttons and the eyes of ghosts will mysteriously flicker, skeletons will move, magic liquids will gurgle in jars.

Pleased us magnificent views opening from its walls to the Vltava and the whole city. The interior decoration of the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, located in the fortress, is made in the Art Nouveau style. All the walls are covered with paintings on biblical themes.

In the fortress of Vyshegrad there is a magnificent playground in the ancient Slavic style, we lingered on it for an hour, despite strong wind, faint echoes of Storm Xavier that swept over Europe on December 6.

Czech cuisine

The excellent Czech cuisine deserves special mention. We enjoyed these traditional dishes like a boar's knee, duck with red cabbage, goulash in bread, old Prague pork, trdlo, gingerbread. Portions are very large, just huge.

And of course the famous Prague pubs. The oldest one was founded in 1499, they serve only one kind of beer and they brew it themselves, in other places this beer is not sold.

And the most ordinary beer house in Prague, friends, locals took us to it, Kozel beer is served there, there is no menu in any languages ​​other than Czech, but you can feel local resident, portions of food are even larger than in restaurants on the Old Town Square.