Why Easter is a great time to Visit Prague
We spent 3 months in Prague last summer, leaving for Asia as it was starting to get cold in late September. Coming back a week ago we didn’t know what to expect. We’ve never been in Europe this time of year. Our 6 days in Prague were what Spanky calls a ‘Kinder Surprise’ (after the Italian egg-shaped chocolate). The first reason is pretty obvious: we were arriving as Prague was preparing for Easter. The second reason is less obvious: we had no idea what we were going to get in terms of weather. And just like a Kinder Surprise we got a little bit of everything; spring-like sunshine, brooding grey skies interrupted by clear patches of blue, sporadic showers that would suddenly give way to warm rays. We even got a stuck in a ten minute snowstorm.
The result of the varied weather were some incredible lighting conditions. It made for interesting photography. I think we actually snapped more interesting photos over 6 days then we did over 3 months last summer. Have a look at some of the photos below.
Accommodation: I cover it in detail in this post: Where to stay in Prague
Squares and streets in Old Town Prague.
What we missed most while in Southeast Asia was walking (horrible sidewalks, intense heat, street dogs). We made up for it in Prague, walking hours every day. We even did what I call Prague’s most scenic walk, crossing one of the bridges to Letna Park and following the paths to Prague castle.
Visiting in the summer is great but you don’t get the same variability in weather. I think early April actually makes for some of the best photography just because of the lighting. Bring a lot of layers and a raincoat because you never know what you are going to get. Some more photos taken over our 6 days:
As we left on Friday April 3rd we caught last glimpses of the preparation for Easter. Crowds packed the Old Town Square and even cold temperatures (it was 5C when we left) didn’t stop people from drinking beer while eating sausages. Just as last year, we left Prague slightly sad. It definitely won’t be the last time we visit the city.
Practical Information
– Accommodation. We love the Vinohrady neighborhood and stayed here. But have a look at my post on Where to Stay in Prague for many more options.
– Walking Tour. I recommend this 3 hour Walking Tour of the Old Town and Prague Castle. It’s what we did to get orientated our 1st time in Prague. And it’s inexpensive.
– Most importantly, don’t be afraid to visit Prague this time of year. The weather is bearable (mind what I said about wearing different layers) and you won’t be faced with the tourist hordes that you’ll see at other times of the year. We really enjoyed it.
Related: 3 Days in Prague
Related: 50 Things to do in Prague
Related: Prague’s most scenic walk
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You may remember we were in Prague in early March and while it was cold on some days, the weather held for us and we loved it. We took the exact same walk, cross the bridge and walk to Letna Park, take in the spectacular views and then walk to the castle. Loved it! Looking at your photos of the square decked out for Easter made me think Christmas decor must be really special, just like Prague, really special!
You are right, it must be wonderful at Christmas. We’ve never been in Europe during the winter and I imagine many of those old towns must look spectacular with a bit of snow. Maybe one day…
Thanks for the comment Patti.