Adventure ToursWinter is the best time to visit Europe. The cities transform with beautiful Christmas markets, snowy streets and festive lights everywhere. You can wear warm clothes and explore old town streets while drinking hot chocolate and eating local treats. Two weeks is enough time to see several amazing European cities in winter.
After visiting during this season many times, we now can’t imagine Christmas without these magical European markets and traditions. Winter travel in Europe has many benefits. You’ll find fewer tourists and better prices than summer, but attractions stay open. You can also enjoy special winter activities like ice skating, holiday shopping, and trying seasonal foods. Europe has many countries to choose from which can make planning difficult.
To help you plan the perfect winter trip, we’ve created two different 14-day travel plans. These itineraries include the best winter destinations and activities. Both plans help you make the most of your European winter vacation. They include: – Where to go – What to see – How long to stay – How to travel between cities – Best winter activities – Local foods to try – Holiday traditions to experience This guide has all the details you need to plan an unforgettable European winter adventure. Let’s explore the magic of Europe during its most enchanting season.
Want to plan an amazing winter trip to Europe? Here are our best travel guides: Essential Winter Packing Guide – Everything you need for Europe Edinburgh Winter Guide – Best activities and attractions Copenhagen in Winter – Top things to see and do Prague Winter Guide – Perfect for December and January visits 7 Days in Norway – Complete winter travel plan Get our free 30-page digital guide with: – Detailed travel tips – Ready-to-use packing lists – Full itineraries – Winter activity suggestions All our most helpful Europe winter travel advice in one easy download. Just enter your email to receive it instantly.
Europe Winter Travel Guide: Simple Tips for Your Trip Getting Around: – Buses like FlixBus offer cheap travel between cities – Trains are more scenic but cost more – get a Eurail pass for multiple trips – Budget airlines like RyanAir can be very cheap for longer distances – Use Omio website to find the best travel deals Packing Smart: – Bring only carry-on luggage – Many buildings have lots of stairs & no elevators – Good options: Away Suitcases or a carry-on backpack Flight Tips: – Flights from US to Europe are long – Bring these items for comfort: * Travel pillow * Motion sickness pills * Phone charger * Wet wipes * Water (many budget airlines charge for it) Language and Communication: – Most Europeans speak basic English – Learn simple words like “hello” and “thank you” in local languages – People appreciate tourists who try to speak their language Safety Tips: – Watch out for pickpockets – Use a money belt or hidden pocket – Keep valuables close to your body – Get travel insurance (World Nomads is recommended) Weather: – European winters are very cold – Pack warm clothes – Bring layers you can add or remove This guide helps you enjoy winter activities like drinking hot wine at Christmas markets while staying comfortable & safe during your trip.
Winter Packing Guide for Europe Luggage: You can fit all your winter clothes in a carry-on bag! Since people only see your outer layer most of the time, you can reuse clothes underneath without anyone noticing. Essential Clothing:
1. Boots – Must be waterproof – Comfortable for long walks – Good for snow and ice – Lightweight is best
2. Socks – Choose wool socks – Avoid regular cotton socks – Wool keeps feet warm and dry
3. Special Travel Jeans – Look for stretchy material – Multiple secure pockets – Quick-drying fabric – Comfortable for long flights
4. Warm Base Layers – Wool leggings or long underwear – Wear under regular pants – Keeps you warm without bulk
5. Warm Shirts – Flannel shirts with wool blend – Breathable material – Wrinkle-resistant – Layer with wool undershirts
6. Daily Bag Needs – Small backpack or shoulder bag – Space for extra layers – Room for camera, phone, charger – Safe pockets for valuables Smart Packing Tip: Choose wool clothing when possible – it’s: – Lightweight – Warm – Naturally clean-smelling – Can be worn multiple timesHere’s the simplified clear rewrite: Essential Winter Gear for European Travel Head Protection: – Warm beanie or knit hat that covers your ears – Choose one that stays secure in strong winds – Simple designs work better than fashion hats Winter Coats: Main Coat: – Choose a wool coat for best warmth – Make sure it allows easy movement – Should be comfortable for long walks – Consider how it looks in photos Backup Jacket: – Pack a lightweight down jacket – Good for layering on very cold days – Useful when you need more mobility – Easy to pack and carry Important Accessories:
- Scarf – Pick a thick warm scarf – Multi-use scarves are best (can work as blankets) – Wool blend materials offer good warmth
- 2. Gloves – Essential for outdoor activities – Consider touchscreen-compatible gloves – Wool materials provide best warmth Travel Equipment: – Bring simple plug adapters – Most of Europe uses the same two-pin round plug – Single adapters work better than multi-country units – Choose small, lightweight adapters This gear list covers the basics for staying warm & comfortable while traveling in European winter conditions.
Northwestern Europe: Perfect 2-Week Winter Trip This travel plan covers five amazing cities in four countries perfect for a winter adventure, especially in December when Christmas markets are in full swing. The cities are close to each other, making travel quick & affordable. Your 13-Day Journey: – Copenhagen, Denmark (3 days) – Bremen Germany (2 days) – Amsterdam, Netherlands (3 days) – Bruges, Belgium (2 days) – Brussels, Belgium (3 days) Best Time to Visit: Early to mid-December is ideal because: – Christmas markets are open and bustling – Cities are decorated for the holidays – You’ll avoid post-New Year closures – Winter atmosphere is magical Travel Benefits: – Short distances between cities – Mix of big cities and charming small towns – Two UNESCO World Heritage sites included – Rich history and culture in every stop – Excellent public transport connections – Budget-friendly travel between locations The extra day in this 13-day plan gives you flexibility for: – Recovering from jet lag – Extra time in your favorite city – Dealing with unexpected weather – Last-minute shopping or sightseeing Remember: Book accommodations early during December as this is a popular time to visit these festive European destinations.
Copenhagen: A Winter Travel Guide Getting There Copenhagen is easy to reach from the USA with many cheap flights available through airlines like WOW, Ryanair, and Norwegian Airlines. You’ll likely fly to the East Coast first then catch a direct flight to Copenhagen’s beautiful airport (CPH). Why Visit in Winter? Copenhagen turns into a magical Christmas city in winter. Though days are short and weather is cold, the city feels cozy & welcoming.
The Danish call this feeling “hygge” – it means being warm & comfortable with friends or family. Top Things to Do
1. Tivoli Gardens This old theme park from 1843 sits in the city center. In winter, it’s filled with Christmas decorations and has its own Christmas market. Buy tickets online to avoid long lines.
2. Christmas Markets You’ll find these markets all over the city. The best ones are: – Nyhavn canal market – Kongens Nytorv market (includes ice skating)
3. Relaxation at CopenHot Warm up in waterfront saunas and hot tubs. They even have floating hot tubs you can sail in!
4. Castle Visits Two beautiful castles are near the city: – Frederiksborg Castle – Kronborg Castle You can reach both by train or join a guided tour.
5. Food & Drinks Must-try winter foods: – Gløgg: warm wine with nuts and raisins – Æbleskiver: round pancake balls – Smørrebrød: open sandwiches with toppings
6. Coffee Shops Copenhagen has great coffee places. Try Democratic Coffee in the city library – their almond croissants are amazing.
Where to Stay in Copenhagen – A Simple Guide Mid-Range Hotels: Hotel SP34 is a beautiful choice in central Copenhagen. You can walk to most attractions & the rooms are modern & stylish with great photo opportunities. Hotel Skt. Petri is another excellent option, offering stunning city views & sits close to the popular Torvehallerne food market. Budget-Friendly Options: Copenhagen Downtown Hostel offers both shared & private rooms.
It’s in a perfect location and includes a shared kitchen, group dinners during holidays & helpful staff. Generator Hostel Copenhagen feels more like a nice hotel than a hostel. It’s clean, comfortable, and sits near Kongens Nytorv square. Apartment Rentals: Several great apartments are available in central Copenhagen: – A modern apartment near shops and parks with a sunny outdoor space – A quiet apartment in a pretty courtyard filled with flowers – A stylish, bright apartment in Christianshavn, close to the city center Time Recommendation: Plan to spend at least 3 days in Copenhagen to see the main attractions.
The city offers many activities & sights worth exploring.
Just 3 hours from Copenhagen, you’ll find Aarhus, Denmark’s second-largest city. Known as the “City of Smiles” because of its friendly locals, Aarhus is a charming place that deserves a spot on your travel list. The city blends old Danish culture with modern art and design making it perfect for a quick side trip during your Danish adventure.
Let me rewrite this travel guide about Bremen, Germany in simple terms: Getting to Bremen for Christmas Markets Bremen is a beautiful small German city that hosts amazing Christmas markets. While not as famous as other German cities, Bremen offers a magical winter experience with its fairy-tale atmosphere & historic buildings. Location and Travel Options: – Bremen is located in northern Germany – It’s 1.5 hours from Hamburg by train or bus – You can reach Bremen from Copenhagen in two ways:
1. Quick Route: – Fly from Copenhagen to Hamburg (50 minutes) – Then take a train from Hamburg to Bremen (1.5 hours) – Airlines like SAS offer daily flights – Check Skyscanner for cheap tickets
2. Scenic Route: – Take a combined train & ferry trip – Total journey: about 4 hours and 45 minutes – Unique experience: your train actually goes onto a ferry! – Book train tickets through Omio website Travel Tips: – Bremen makes a great day trip from Hamburg – Better to stay 2-3 days to fully enjoy the city – Winter is especially beautiful with Christmas markets – The city center is easy to explore on foot – Less crowded than major German cities While Bremen might not be as well-known as other German destinations, its charming streets, historic architecture and festive markets make it worth visiting especially during winter.
The Best Things to Do in Bremen Historic City Center Bremen’s old city center is amazing and over 1200 years old. Walking on the old stone streets between historic buildings feels special. Don’t miss the City Hall (called Rathaus) – it’s so important it’s protected by UNESCO. Try the restaurant in its basement for great local food.
Christmas Time Fun Bremen has two fantastic Christmas markets. The main one (Weihnachtsmarkt) is in the old city square near the City Hall. The second one (Schlachte-Zauber) is by the river and looks like it’s from medieval times, with people dressed in old clothes and even a pirate ship! You can buy fun things like fake magic potions there. Explore the Schnoor Quarter The Schnoor is the oldest part of Bremen, with narrow streets and beautiful old houses.
You can walk around by yourself or join a tour guide who knows all the interesting stories. Food You Must Try German food is perfect for cold days. Try these local dishes: – Gruenkohl: A tasty mix of kale and sausage – Bratwurst: Famous German sausages – Reibekuchen: Crispy potato pancakes – Eierpunsch: German eggnog – Feuerzangenbowle: Special wine with burned sugar on top Where to Sleep Nice Hotel: Boutique Hotel Classico Bremen – Close to everything with great views Budget Choice: Townside Hostel – Affordable & walking distance to attractions Apartment Option: Look for a place through VRBO – They have nice options in old Bremen houses You only need 2 days to see Bremen properly. It’s a small city and you can walk everywhere easily.
Amsterdam Winter Visit Guide Weather and Timing Amsterdam has mild winters compared to other European cities. While it’s not as festive as other winter destinations, the city is beautiful year-round. A big plus is that you’ll find fewer tourists during winter months. Getting There From Bremen, you have three options: – Train: 4-hour journey – Bus: Just under 4 hours – Flight: 1-hour direct flight from Bremen (BRE) to Amsterdam (AMS) Top Things to Do
1. Visit Famous Museums – Rijksmuseum: Dutch art and history – Anne Frank House: Book early – sells out fast – Van Gogh Museum: Famous paintings – FOAM: Modern photography museum Tip: Buy tickets online to skip long lines
2. See the Light Festival During winter nights, the city shows off colorful light art displays. You can: – Walk around to see the lights – Take a boat tour through lit-up canals
3. Join a Walking Tour Learn about Amsterdam from locals while seeing: – Historic canals – City landmarks – Local food spots
4. Try Dutch Food Must-eat items: – Stroopwafel: Warm cookie with caramel filling (best at Albert Cuyp market) – Indonesian food: Amsterdam is famous for it – Apple pie: Try it at Winkel 43 with whipped cream – Local snacks: Join a food tour to try many dishes Remember: In Amsterdam, “coffeeshops” sell cannabis while “coffee shops” sell actual coffee.
Where to Stay in Amsterdam Amsterdam offers many places to stay in the city center for all budgets. Keep in mind that rooms in Amsterdam are usually smaller than in other European cities because space is limited. Here are our top picks: For Mid-Range Budgets: Hotel Mr. Jordaan – A cozy hotel in the best part of Amsterdam, close to the Anne Frank House and entertainment areas. Perfect for travelers who want comfort without spending too much.
For Budget Travelers: Generator Hostel – A modern hostel that feels like a hotel. You can choose between shared rooms with other travelers or private rooms with your own bathroom. For Apartment Stays: Try the bright & quiet apartment near Kalverstraat (Amsterdam’s main shopping street). You can relax in comfortable chairs & watch the canals from your window after exploring the city. Helpful Tip: If you need to store your bags after check-out use Stasher.
They find safe places to keep your luggage while you enjoy your last hours in the city.
Bruges: A Magical City in Belgium We loved visiting Bruges, especially during Christmas. The city feels like it’s straight out of a fairy tale, with beautiful swans swimming in canals, amazing chocolate shops & a romantic lake called the “Lake of Love.” We went there on December 24th and 25th because my partner watched a movie about Bruges and insisted we visit. It turned out to be a perfect choice! Even though most places close on Christmas Day Bruges is perfect for walking around & enjoying its beauty.
The Christmas Markets stay open until early January, which was great because we love visiting them. Getting to Bruges from Amsterdam You can take a bus or train from Amsterdam’s center. The trip takes about 3 hours to reach Bruges train station. Fun Things to Do in Bruges:
1.Ice Skating: Try skating in the main square (Markt Plaza) with beautiful old buildings all around you. The rink stays open until early January.
2. Take a Canal Boat Ride: Small boats take you through the city’s pretty waterways. You can catch these boats near the main square (Burg Plaza).
3.Visit the Lake of Love: Walk across the famous Lover’s Bridge in Minnewater Park, where you’ll see lots of beautiful swans.
4. Join a Walking Tour: Explore the city’s history and special places with a guide, or walk around by yourself. During Christmas, special tours show you holiday spots and let you taste traditional foods.
5. Try Local Food: Must-try items include: – Belgian chocolate from shops along Breidelstraat – Fresh waffles at Chez Albert or from market stalls – Belgian beer at Half Man Brewery, where you can sit by a cozy fireplace
Where to Stay in Bruges – Best Places for Every Budget Cheap and Nice: Hotel Aragon – Perfect location in city center – Big, comfortable rooms – Right next to Market Square – Walk to all main sights in minutes Save More: Snuffel Hostel – Clean, friendly hostel – Choose shared rooms or private rooms – Bar downstairs (can be noisy) – Ask for room on upper floor if you want quiet – Short walk to tourist spots Unique Stay: Historic River Studio – 500-year-old building – Large comfortable bed – Private outdoor space – Beautiful river views – Perfect for couples All these places are in safe areas and close to Bruges’ famous canals chocolate shops, & old buildings. You can easily walk to restaurants, museums, and the main square from any of these spots. Remember: Bruges is busy all year, so book your room early especially in summer or during Christmas season.
Brussels – Belgium’s Capital City Brussels is Belgium’s exciting capital city. The city is famous for three main things: amazing food, beautiful buildings and interesting museums. The City Center The most impressive spot is the Grand Place, voted Europe’s most beautiful main square. The square has stunning buildings all around it, each with different design styles. Some buildings even show funny construction mistakes from the city’s past, where different builders didn’t match their work properly!
Fun Things to Do Brussels has over 100 museums, many quite unusual. You can visit museums about puppets sewers, & even one about erotic art! The city loves being different and unique. Food and Drink Brussels is heaven for food lovers. You must try: – Belgian fries (called “frites”): They’re crispier & tastier than regular fries – Belgian waffles: Sweet and chewy street food – Belgian beer: Some of the world’s best – Belgian chocolate: Famous worldwide – Flemish stew: A tasty beef stew cooked with dark beer Getting There It’s easy to reach Brussels.
From nearby Bruges, it’s just a one-hour train or bus ride to Brussels’ central station. From there you can walk to most tourist spots. Where to Sleep – For comfort: Try Boutique Hotel Saint-Gery near the Grand Place – For budget travel: Sleephere Hostel is a quiet option – For independence: Rent an apartment near the city center Brussels is especially fun during New Year’s Eve, with big celebrations in the city center. The city mixes old-world charm with modern fun, making it perfect for any visitor.
2 Week Central Europe Travel Plan This travel guide covers beautiful places in Central Europe that are perfect to visit in winter. The trip includes stunning mountain views, old towns, and Christmas markets that stay open into early January. The Route (14 Days Total): – Vienna, Austria (3 days) – Hallstatt, Austria (2 days) – Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic (3 days) – Prague, Czech Republic (3 days) – Travel days between locations (3 days) This trip is perfect for you if you enjoy: – Mountain landscapes – Historic towns – Winter scenery – Small Alpine villages – Christmas markets and festivities Travel Tips: – Plan for 11 days of exploring – Allow 3 days for travel between cities – You can add another stop if you want – Some Christmas markets stay open through early January – This route lets you travel at a relaxed pace This plan works well for: – People who can only travel around Christmas time – Travelers who prefer to explore fewer places in more depth – Anyone who loves winter activities and scenery – Those interested in Central European culture and history The route connects major cultural sites in Austria & the Czech Republic offering a mix of big cities and smaller towns. Each stop offers unique experiences from Vienna’s grand palaces to Hallstatt’s mountain views.
Vienna: A Winter Holiday Guide Last Christmas, we explored Vienna, Austria’s stunning capital city. While the Christmas Markets were our main reason for visiting we found so many amazing things to do. Vienna is packed with history, beautiful buildings, and is famous worldwide for its classical music. The city’s Old Town charmed us with its narrow streets, and we couldn’t get enough of the traditional Viennese coffee shops. We spent three wonderful days visiting grand palaces covered in gold decorations, trying local foods, and soaking in the city’s special atmosphere.
Getting to Vienna is easy. The city has a big international airport with flights from many major cities, including New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. Once you land there’s a convenient train that takes you straight to the city center. During our winter visit, we enjoyed: – Walking through festive Christmas Markets – Exploring the historic Old Town district – Drinking coffee in traditional cafes – Visiting magnificent palaces – Tasting Austrian food specialties The city feels magical in winter, especially when snow covers the old buildings and Christmas lights twinkle everywhere.
Whether you’re interested in history music, food or architecture, Vienna has something special for everyone.
Things You Must Do in Vienna Visit Classic Coffee Houses Vienna’s coffee shops are special places with a rich history dating back to 1683. Unlike regular cafes, these elegant spots offer table service and beautiful décor. Try their famous Melange coffee – it’s similar to a cappuccino but with a unique Viennese twist. Explore Christmas Markets Vienna started the Christmas market tradition in 1294, and today the city has many different markets.
The most popular ones are at Rathausplatz and Spittelberg. Each market has its own special feel and things to see. Tour Schoenbrunn Palace This stunning palace tells the story of the Habsburg family. Take a guided tour to learn about the fascinating history and see the beautiful rooms where royalty once lived.
Walk Around the City Vienna is perfect for walking tours. You can easily see theaters, squares, and churches on foot. The city also has great public transport if you need it. Join a guided tour or explore on your own. Enjoy Classical Music Vienna is the world’s music capital, home to many famous composers.
Watch an orchestra perform in one of the city’s beautiful concert halls. Book tickets early for the best shows featuring Mozart Strauss, Bach or Vivaldi. Try Local Food Vienna’s food is perfect for cold weather. Must-try dishes include: – Wiener Schnitzel (breaded meat cutlet) – Apple Strudel – Krapfen (jam-filled donuts) – Kaiserschmarrn (sweet shredded pancakes) – Traditional dumplings & potatoes Where to Sleep – Nice Hotel: 25 Hours Hotel – fun and unique with great breakfast – Budget Choice: Hostel Ruthensteiner – historic & well-rated – Rental Homes: Many apartments available near main attractions
Hallstatt: A Beautiful Mountain Town in Austria Hallstatt is a small town in Austria that looks like it came from a storybook. Located next to a clear lake and surrounded by tall mountains, this place is even more beautiful in real life than in pictures. The town is famous for having the world’s oldest salt mines, which you can learn about in the local museum. But most visitors come here just to enjoy the peaceful setting. You can walk around the tiny streets, watch the white swans on the lake enjoy the mountain views and try local foods like warm dumplings.
Winter makes Hallstatt extra special. The town looks like a miniature Christmas village with its small houses, snowy roofs, & peaceful atmosphere. While there aren’t many tourist activities in winter, this actually helps visitors relax and enjoy the town’s natural beauty. Two days is perfect for visiting Hallstatt. This gives you enough time to see everything without rushing.
Hotels can be expensive, but the experience is worth the cost. Getting to Hallstatt from Vienna takes about 4 hours by train or bus. The journey itself is enjoyable as you travel through Austria’s pretty countryside. When you arrive, you’ll stop at a station across the lake. From there, a small ferry named Stefanie takes you to the town adding to the magical experience.
What to Do in Hallstatt Enjoy Amazing Mountain Views Hallstatt offers stunning mountain scenery that looks like a picture postcard. Take walks around the village and climb the wooden stairs for the best views. The snow-covered peaks and clear lake create perfect photo opportunities. Just watch your step in winter as stairs can be slippery.
Winter Sports Activities Visit the nearby Dachstein Krippenstein ski area for winter fun. You can ski snowboard, or go snowshoeing. Don’t miss the impressive Ice Cave with its frozen formations. Shop at Local Stores The village has many small, family-owned shops selling unique items. Find handmade wooden Christmas decorations and natural salt products from local mines.
These make perfect souvenirs to take home. Try Austrian Food & Drinks Sample traditional Austrian dishes like schnitzel (breaded meat) and dumplings. For sweet treats, try lebkuchen (spiced cookies with sugar coating). The local pine cone schnapps offers a unique taste of the mountains. Where to Stay Middle Price Range: Bräu-Gasthof hotel offers comfortable rooms with mountain views, good food & a central location.
Some rooms have traditional fireplaces. Budget Option: While Hallstatt has no hostels, stay at Jutel Hostel in nearby Obertraun, just 10 minutes away. Rental Home: Though options are limited in this small village, you can find private apartments. Some come with friendly resident pets as a bonus.
Cesky Krumlov: A Fairy-Tale Town in the Czech Republic Cesky Krumlov is a beautiful old town in the Czech Republic that looks like it came straight from a storybook. Built in the 1200s, this small town sits along a winding river with a massive castle watching over it. The United Nations recognizes it as a special historical place worth protecting. What makes this town amazing is how well-kept its old buildings are.
Unlike many European towns, Cesky Krumlov never faced destruction from wars or natural disasters. This means visitors today can see buildings that are hundreds of years old including old shops and beer-making places, all still standing and in great shape. The town is quite small & peaceful. Visitors usually stay for 2-3 days which is plenty of time to walk around, try Czech food and beer, and soak in the culture. Hotels are reasonably priced, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing stay.
The town really comes alive during celebrations. For example, on New Year’s Eve, the main square fills with happy people dancing to music, and at midnight, the sky lights up with fireworks while music plays. It’s the kind of place that creates unforgettable memories. Getting there is simple but takes some planning.
If you’re coming from nearby Hallstatt in Austria you’ll need to take a combination of trains or buses with a few changes along the way.
The Best Things to Do in Český Krumlov Main Square Highlights Visit the historic Svornosti Square, the town’s center since medieval times. Look for unique building decorations including the interesting Schwarzenberg family symbol. Don’t miss the tall Plague Column from the 1700s, built to remember those who died during disease outbreaks. Castle Visit Český Krumlov Castle is the second biggest castle in the Czech Republic. While indoor tours stop in winter, you can still: – Walk around the castle grounds – Enjoy city views – Visit the Castle Museum (open all year) Learn Local History The town has many interesting stories from its past.
You can: – Join a guided walking tour – Get an audio guide from the Tourist Office – Learn about local legends and old town tales Food and Drinks Try these popular Czech dishes: – Hot mulled wine (Svarak) – Sweet pastry rolls (Trdelnik) – Beef stew (Goulash) – Fried cheese (Smažený sýr) – Czech dumplings – Local beer Where to Sleep – Comfortable choice: Hotel Old Inn (city center location) – Budget option: Hostel 99 (in Old Town) – Private stay: Castle view apartments near the square The town offers beautiful views with its colorful buildings and rich history, making it perfect for exploring any time of year.
Prague: A Beautiful European City Guide Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic is a beautiful city that won’t break your bank. Unlike many European cities, its Christmas Markets stay open even after New Year’s Day. The city earned its nickname “City of a Thousand Spires” from its many church towers that rise above the city’s charming rooftops. Time Needed: 3 days Best Features: Historic buildings, affordable prices, riverside walks, castle views Top Things to Do:
1. Christmas Markets – Main market in Old Town Square runs into January – Try Prague Ham (Pražská šunka) a local specialty – Visit both Old Town and Wenceslas Square markets
2. Famous Landmarks – Charles Bridge: Go early to avoid crowds – Prague Castle: Worth the uphill walk – Astronomical Clock: Get skip-the-line tickets for tower access
3. Walking Tours Options: – History walks through Old Town – Communist history tours – Underground bunker visits – Ghost & legend tours
4. Food and Drink – Czech beer (very affordable!) – Local pastries – Food tours available – Many cozy cafes Getting There: From Český Krumlov: 3-hour trip by bus or train Travel Tips: – Avoid crowds by exploring hill areas – Morning visits to popular spots are best – Wear comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets – Book popular attractions in advance – Try local food at markets instead of tourist restaurants The city combines beautiful architecture, rich history, and great food at reasonable prices.
Winter visitors get the bonus of festive markets and snow-covered views, though expect more tourists around New Year’s.
Where to Stay in Prague – A Simple Guide Best Mid-Range Hotel Miss Sophie’s Prague stands in the city center and offers beautiful rooms at reasonable prices. You can walk to most famous Prague sights from here. The hotel looks great in photos & provides modern comfort without being too expensive. Budget-Friendly Option Czech Inn offers both shared dorms & private rooms at very low prices. The private rooms are surprisingly nice, with modern bathrooms and rain showers.
Keep in mind it’s not in the city center – you’ll need to use public transport to see the main attractions. Apartment Option For those who want more space, there’s a stylish apartment in central Prague. It’s newly updated with modern furniture & features a large outdoor terrace. The owner’s artwork decorates the walls giving it a unique touch.
Travel Tips: – Book early, especially during busy seasons – Check the exact location before booking – Compare prices across different booking sites – Read recent guest reviews – Consider the distance to public transport Remember: Prague’s public transport system is excellent, so staying a bit outside the center can save you money without causing too much inconvenience. Want to explore Prague in winter? Check our complete Prague winter guide for more tips about the city including what to see, where to eat, and how to get around.
Best Travel Tips for Smart Travelers
Save money and make your trip easier with these proven tips: Flights – Find cheap flights on Google Flights or Kayak – Book mid-week flights to save money – Travel with carry-on bags only – Choose early morning or late night flights for better deals Where to Stay – Save money at hostels, small hotels or vacation homes – Use Booking.com for hotels (easy to cancel) – Book hostels through Hostelworld – Find vacation homes on VRBO – Try house-sitting with TrustedHousesitters Protect Your Trip – Always buy travel insurance for international trips – World Nomads and SafetyWing offer good coverage – SafetyWing covers COVID-19 – Use a travel credit card for extra protection and rewards Stay Healthy – Check CDC website for needed vaccines – Get vaccines at your doctor or pharmacy – Get medicines you might need before traveling Getting Around – Use Rome2Rio to plan routes – Book local transport on Bookaway – Rent cars through DiscoverCars – Store bags safely with LuggageHero Stay Safe Online – Use NordVPN to protect your information – Access streaming services abroad – Keep banking details secure Extra Tips – Join guided tours to learn about places – Book through Viator or GetYourGuide – Pack smart using basic travel essentials – Check weather-specific packing lists
