Prague is one of those cities that transforms completely with each season, like a chameleon changing its colours. I've been fortunate enough to experience the city in all four seasons multiple times, and each visit has revealed different facets of this magical place. From snow-dusted Gothic spires to sun-drenched beer gardens, Prague never fails to surprise me with its seasonal personalities.
Quick Answer: When Should You Go?
- Best Overall: May-June & September-October (mild weather, fewer crowds)
- Cheapest: January-March (cold but atmospheric)
- Most Crowded: July-August & December (peak summer & Christmas markets)
- Most Romantic: December-February (winter magic)
- Best Weather: May-September (warm and pleasant)
Spring (March - May): The City Awakens
Temperature: 8°C - 20°C (46°F - 68°F)
What to Expect
Spring in Prague is like watching the city slowly come alive after its winter slumber. March can still be quite chilly with occasional snow, but by May, the weather is absolutely delightful. The famous Prague Castle gardens reopen, and locals emerge from their winter hibernation to fill the outdoor cafés and beer gardens.
I particularly love visiting in late April when the cherry blossoms bloom on Petřín Hill, creating a pink canopy over the city. The crowds haven't yet reached summer levels, making it perfect for exploring the Old Town Square and Charles Bridge without feeling overwhelmed. Hotel prices are reasonable, and you'll get that authentic local experience as the city shakes off its winter coat.
Pros
- Mild, pleasant weather
- Fewer tourists than summer
- Gardens and parks in bloom
- Outdoor dining returns
- Reasonable accommodation prices
Cons
- Weather can be unpredictable
- Some outdoor attractions may still be closed
- Pack layers for temperature changes
- Occasional spring showers
Summer (June - August): Festival Season
Temperature: 14°C - 26°C (57°F - 79°F)
What to Expect
Summer is Prague's peak season, and for good reason. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for long days exploring the city's countless attractions. The Vltava River becomes a playground with boat trips and riverside dining, while the city's many gardens and parks are at their most beautiful.
This is festival season in Prague - from the Prague Spring International Music Festival in late May/early June to countless outdoor concerts and cultural events throughout the summer. I've attended several classical concerts in the stunning St. Vitus Cathedral during summer, and the acoustics combined with the Gothic atmosphere create an unforgettable experience.
However, summer also means crowds. The Old Town Square can feel like a human traffic jam, and popular attractions like Prague Castle require advance booking and early morning visits to beat the masses. Accommodation prices peak, and booking well in advance is essential.
Pros
- Perfect weather for sightseeing
- Long daylight hours
- Outdoor concerts and festivals
- River activities and boat trips
- Beer gardens in full swing
Cons
- Peak tourist crowds
- Highest accommodation prices
- Need advance bookings
- Very busy attractions
- Hot afternoons can be overwhelming
Autumn (September - November): Golden Prague
Temperature: 7°C - 18°C (45°F - 64°F)
What to Expect
Autumn is my personal favourite time to visit Prague. The city takes on a golden glow that perfectly matches its nickname, "Golden Prague." The leaves in Petřín Park and Wenceslas Square create a stunning backdrop, and the crisp air makes walking the cobblestone streets a pleasure rather than a challenge.
September is particularly wonderful - still warm enough for outdoor activities but without the summer crowds. The city feels more relaxed, and locals seem to have more time to chat in the traditional pubs and wine bars. October brings beautiful autumn colours, and November, while cooler, has an atmospheric quality that makes the Gothic architecture even more dramatic.
This is also harvest season, making it perfect for exploring Prague's wine culture. The surrounding Bohemian region produces some excellent wines, and autumn is when you'll find the freshest selections in the city's wine bars.
Pros
- Beautiful autumn colours
- Comfortable walking temperatures
- Fewer crowds than summer
- Wine harvest season
- Great photography opportunities
Cons
- Weather becomes unpredictable in November
- Shorter daylight hours
- Some outdoor activities wind down
- Can be rainy, especially late autumn
Winter (December - February): Fairytale Prague
Temperature: -2°C - 4°C (28°F - 39°F)
What to Expect
Winter transforms Prague into a fairytale city, especially when snow dusts the castle towers and Gothic spires. It's cold - sometimes brutally so - but the city's winter magic more than compensates. The famous Christmas markets begin in late November and continue through New Year, filling the air with the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts.
I've spent several Christmas seasons in Prague, and it never loses its charm. The Old Town Square Christmas Market feels like stepping into a medieval celebration, complete with traditional crafts, hearty food, and enough trdelník (sweet spiral pastry) to satisfy any sweet tooth. The crowds thin out after New Year, making January and February excellent for budget-conscious travellers who don't mind the cold.
Winter is also prime time for Prague's renowned classical music scene. The city's concert halls and churches host world-class performances, and there's something magical about listening to Mozart in a Baroque church while snow falls outside.
Pros
- Magical Christmas markets
- Snow-covered Gothic architecture
- Lowest accommodation prices
- Cosy pubs and thermal baths
- Excellent classical music season
Cons
- Very cold temperatures
- Short daylight hours
- Some attractions have reduced hours
- Icy cobblestones can be treacherous
- Limited outdoor activities
Special Considerations for Different Travellers
Budget Travellers
Visit in January-March or November for the lowest prices. Many hotels offer significant discounts, and you'll save money on food by eating in traditional pubs rather than tourist restaurants. Winter also has fewer crowds, so you won't feel pressured to book expensive guided tours.
Families with Children
Late spring through early autumn (May-September) is ideal for families. The weather is predictable, attractions have full opening hours, and there are plenty of outdoor activities. The Prague Zoo and various parks provide excellent breaks from historical sightseeing.
Photography Enthusiasts
Each season offers unique photographic opportunities. Spring for cherry blossoms, summer for vibrant colours and long golden hours, autumn for dramatic colours and moody skies, and winter for atmospheric snow scenes and Christmas market magic.
Music and Culture Lovers
The classical music season runs from September to June, with the most prestigious concerts in winter months. The Prague Spring Music Festival (May-June) is world-renowned, while summer offers outdoor concerts and folk festivals.
My Personal Recommendation
If I had to choose just one time to visit Prague, it would be September. The weather is still warm enough for comfortable sightseeing, the autumn light creates magical photography opportunities, and the summer crowds have thinned out. You get the best of both worlds - pleasant weather and a more authentic local experience.
That said, Prague is beautiful year-round, and each season offers something special. Winter's Christmas markets are genuinely magical, spring's emerging energy is infectious, and summer's festivals and long days are hard to beat. Choose based on what matters most to you - weather, crowds, prices, or specific seasonal experiences.
Ready to Plan Your Prague Adventure?
For detailed neighbourhood guides, accommodation recommendations, and comprehensive sightseeing advice, explore my complete Prague destination guide.