Written by local experts Adriana & Matěj
Adriana and Matěj Halouskovi are travel bloggers behind the successful blog Czech the World.
Matěj was born in Prague and has lived here his entire life and Adriana moved here more than 10 years ago.
We have traveled to more than 60 countries, but if we could tell you what place we know the most, it is our city.
Imagine stepping out of your hotel and being immediately enveloped by the magical scent of cinnamon, mulled wine, and roasting chestnuts. The sound of carolers fills the air, and a giant, twinkling Christmas tree lights up a medieval square. This isn’t a dream; it’s the experience of staying in the right place in Prague during the Christmas market season.
Choosing your accommodation is the single most important decision for a perfect Christmas market trip. It’s the difference between a quick, magical stroll and a long, cold journey. This guide is designed specifically for market lovers, focusing on the best locations and hotels to maximize your festive cheer and comfort.
Why Your Location is Everything for a Market Trip
- The Magic of Proximity: Being able to walk to the main markets in minutes is the ultimate luxury. It allows for spontaneous visits—a quick morning stop for a pastry, an afternoon browse, and a final evening stroll to see the lights without a second thought.
- The “Drop-Off” Advantage: The markets are filled with beautiful handmade gifts, ornaments, and treats. Staying nearby means you can easily drop off your shopping bags at your hotel and continue exploring unburdened.
- Warmth and Comfort: Prague in winter is cold. Having a cozy, warm base just a few steps away to thaw out, grab an extra scarf, or simply rest your feet is a game-changer.
- Experience Day and Night: The markets have a completely different atmosphere during the day (bustling and bright) compared to the night (magical and illuminated). A nearby hotel lets you experience both effortlessly.
The Best Neighborhoods for Christmas Market Lovers
The main markets are clustered in the historic center, but a few charming local markets are worth considering. Here’s the breakdown from the absolute epicenter outwards.
1. Old Town (Staré Město): The Absolute Epicenter of the Magic
This is it. The heart of everything. The Old Town Square hosts the largest, most famous, and most breathtaking Christmas market in Prague. If your primary goal is to live and breathe the festive atmosphere 24/7, this is the only place to be.
The “View of the Tree” Splurge: Four Seasons Hotel Prague
Market Proximity: A scenic 5-minute walk along the river to the Old Town Square. Its location is the perfect blend of jaw-dropping views and immediate access. After an evening at the markets, its world-class spa is the ultimate way to warm up and unwind.
The “Seconds from the Mulled Wine” Deal: Hotel Rott
Market Proximity: An elegant and perfectly located hotel just seconds from the Old Town Square. The Emblem features a stunning rooftop terrace with a jacuzzi (perfect for a brave winter dip!), a luxurious spa, and a sophisticated lounge.
The Boutique Haven:The Emblem Hotel
Market Proximity: Tucked away on a side street just a 3-minute walk from the main market. It offers a stylish, modern retreat from the bustle. Its rooftop jacuzzi is an unforgettable place to relax after a day of festive exploring.
Best Value for Money:
Ibis Praha Old Town: Located on the edge of the Old Town, right next to the Republic Square (Náměstí Republiky) market and the Palladium shopping center. You get two markets on your doorstep and are still only a 7-10 minute walk from the main square. Fantastic value for a prime location.
Hotel Clement: A consistently high-rated hotel offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s a short, pleasant walk to both the Republic Square and Old Town Square markets, providing a slightly quieter base that’s still incredibly central.
Read our Guide: Prague in Winter – 35 Things to Do (+ Tips from Locals)
2. New Town (Nové Město): For Market Hoppers and Shoppers
The New Town is home to the second-largest market on the long boulevard of Wenceslas Square. It’s also Prague’s main commercial hub, making it perfect for those who want to combine market browsing with traditional Christmas shopping. It’s directly connected to the Old Town, allowing for easy “market hopping.”
The Wellness Palace: NH Collection Carlo IV
Market Proximity: A 5-10 minute walk to the Wenceslas Square market and close to the main train station. Its biggest draw is the magnificent spa and indoor pool—the perfect place to spend a cold afternoon before heading out to the evening markets.
The Reliable Mid-Range: K+K Hotel Fenix
Market Proximity: Located just off the top of Wenceslas Square, putting that market right on your doorstep. This modern, comfortable hotel with its own small wellness area is a practical and convenient base for exploring.
Best Value for Money:
Motel One Prague-Florentinum: A short walk from the Republic Square market and with excellent transport links to all others. The “budget-design” concept offers style and comfort, and the vibrant lobby bar is a great spot for a festive drink.
Hotel CUBE Prague: A sleek, modern choice situated between Wenceslas Square and Charles Square. It’s a great, hassle-free base for visitors who want to be central to everything.
3. Lesser Town (Malá Strana): For a Romantic Walk to the Magic
Malá Strana doesn’t have a large market of its own (just a small one on Kampa Island), but its supreme advantage is its romantic atmosphere. A stay here means your daily walk to the main markets is across the iconic Charles Bridge—a truly magical commute. It’s for those who prefer a quieter, more fairytale-like base.
The Ultimate Romantic Retreat: Mandarin Oriental, Prague
Market Proximity: A stunning 15-minute walk across the Charles Bridge to the Old Town Square. This hotel is a peaceful sanctuary to escape to after the joyful chaos of the markets.
The Breathtaking View: The Golden Well Hotel
Market Proximity: A beautiful walk down from the castle, through the charming streets, and across the bridge. The reward is staying in an intimate hotel with some of the best views in Prague, making it feel like a private fairytale.
The Bridge-Side Gem: Hotel Pod Věží
Market Proximity: You are literally at the foot of the Charles Bridge. Your journey to the markets begins the second you step out the door. It’s the perfect blend of Malá Strana’s charm and easy access.
Luxurious Gems:
Alchymist Grand Hotel & Spa: Housed in a magnificent 16th-century building, this opulent hotel offers a unique historical ambiance with lavish decor and an exceptional spa.
Aria Hotel Prague: A music-themed luxury boutique hotel, considered a gem of Malá Strana, offering impeccable service, a private entrance to a UNESCO garden, and a stunning rooftop terrace.
4. Vinohrady: For a Taste of the “Local’s Christmas”
For those who want to experience a more authentic, less tourist-centric Christmas, Vinohrady is the perfect choice. This beautiful residential area hosts one of the city’s most beloved local markets at Peace Square (Náměstí Míru), which often opens even before the main ones.
Boutique Luxury: Le Palais Art Hotel Prague
Market Proximity: A short walk to the Náměstí Míru market and with easy tram access to the city center. Its wellness center is a perfect cozy addition to a winter stay.
The Connected Choice: Clarion Hotel Prague City
Market Proximity: Steps from the Náměstí Míru market and the I. P. Pavlova station, your direct line to the city center markets. It’s the ultimate in convenience for experiencing both local and central festivities.
Best Value for Money: Czech Inn: The private rooms in this stylish historic building offer fantastic value. You are in the heart of the vibrant Vinohrady neighborhood, perfect for exploring local cafes and pubs after a visit to the local market.
Read your: Ultimate Guide to Prague Christmas Markets + Map (2025)
Essential Booking Tips for Your Christmas Market Trip
- Book EXTRA Early: This is Prague’s absolute peak season. The best-located hotels sell out months in advance. Book as early as you possibly can.
- Check the View: If staying in the Old Town, it’s worth inquiring if the hotel has rooms with a view of the square or market. It can elevate your experience from great to unforgettable.
- Prioritize a Good Breakfast: A hearty, warm breakfast is the best way to fuel up before heading out into the cold. A hotel with a highly-rated breakfast is a major plus.
A trip to Prague’s Christmas markets is a truly magical experience, and the right hotel is the key to unlocking it all. Whether you choose to stay in the heart of the fairytale in the Old Town or opt for a romantic stroll from Malá Strana, booking a cozy, convenient base will ensure your festive adventure is as comfortable as it is enchanting.
Practical Tips for Prague from Locals
Maps we have created for you:
We’ve created detailed maps featuring the best sights, hidden gems, recommended places to stay, itineraries, and more — all based on our own local experience. We hope they’ll help you plan an unforgettable trip to our beautiful hometown. Check our maps on this page.
How to save money on currency exchange:
We highly recommend getting a Revolut card — it’s one of the best travel debit cards out there. We’ve been using it for over 10 years and it has already saved us thousands of euros.
Best Guided Tours in Prague (Our Picks):
- Essential for first-timers: Top Sights & Historic Center Introduction Tour
- Jewish Quarter: Jewish Quarter Walking Tour
- Hidden Gems: Hidden Gems Walking Tour with Local Guide
- Bike Tour: Complete City Bike Tour
- Food Tour: Guided Street-Food Stalls Walk (with tastings)
- Beer Tour: Prague Microbrewery Tour