At first glance, November seems to be the wrong time for a vacation... However, only those who have never seen Prague in autumn would think so. The charm and mystery of the ancient lanes, hushed under low clouds, only intensifies with the arrival of the most romantic, poetry-filled season.
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Holidays in Prague in November: pros and cons
The view of autumn Prague gives a lyrical mood and peace. Hot summer afternoons, noisy crowds of tourists, high accommodation prices, and countless sightseers jostling in the streets are behind us. The air is clear and fresh, and light night frosts remind you of the upcoming Christmas, which is just around the corner — all of this is Prague in November.
There are at least a few reasons to visit the Czech capital in November:
- absence of summer heat;
- minimum number of tourists;
- low prices for tickets, accommodation, excursions, and other services;
- a chance to attend the opening of fairs in honor of the upcoming Advent;
- the opportunity to participate in a festive demonstration in honor of the Day of Struggle for Freedom and Democracy in the Czech Republic.
The changeable fall weather can give unpleasant surprises during a trip to hospitable Prague. Reviews of family vacations in Prague in November indicate that even clear weather in this month, unlike the temperature in Prague in September — is not a reason to neglect warm clothes during long walks around the city. Sharp gusts of penetrating wind and unexpected rain can thoroughly spoil the impression of the excursion, so the best option for a cultural program at this time will be a well-thought-out itinerary of museums and participation in indoor events.
In November, you can experience the unique atmosphere of the fall season by visiting one of the restaurants where fireplaces are lit at this time. The coziness and serenity will allow you to relax and enjoy the picturesque view outside the window.
Weather in Prague in November
The November-December weather in Prague is notoriously changeable. A sunny day can become a gloomy, rainy evening followed by a night frost. Wet snow in Prague at this time is also not unusual for the citizens.
Thermometer readings can be quite deceiving in these parts: even at an air temperature of +10 C°, you can quickly freeze and catch a cold due to the high humidity.
The weather in early November is not much different from October: most days are damp and cloudy, with the occasional sunny day when the air warms up to +15 C°. The average temperature in Prague in mid-November is +8 C° to +9 C°.
You can feel the approach of cold weather only in the last decade of the month, but the weather at the end of November resembles winter to a small extent: the temperature is abouve zero during the day, but in the dark time of the day, it can reach - 2 C° — -3 C°.
Air and water temperature
The temperate continental climate characteristic of this region most often gives the city a mild, rainy autumn. The end of the fall season is often accompanied by gusts of snow and rain and, less frequently, by frost. In any case, the best choice of clothing for traveling at this time of year will be a winter jacket, protection from wet wind, and waterproof shoes. An umbrella will not be superfluous.
Air temperature in Prague in November
The average daily temperature in Prague in November is +7.2 °C, a few degrees higher than the average temperature in Karlovy Vary during this period, where the average temperature is closer to +5.8 °C respectively. Only in the last days of the month can colder temperatures occasionally reach 5 °C below zero. Still, the high humidity often gives the impression of colder weather than is the case.
The average night temperature in Prague in November is +3.5 °С.
River temperature in Prague in November
The water temperature in the Vltava River, on whose banks the glorious city sits, remains high enough to avoid freezing even in mid-winter. In November, the water temperature remains consistently above 0 °C, allowing the majestic Vltava to delight visitors with delightful riverboat rides!
Precipitation
In terms of precipitation, November in Prague can be compared to the stingy winter months — at this time, their level barely reaches the mark of 34.7 mm, while in October, this figure was close to 51 mm.
Sunny, cloudy and overcast days
November is still spoiling the residents of Prague with lovely days. The average number of sunny days in this month is 7, against which 1-2 rainy days become almost invisible. However, the rest of the time, nature keeps a gloomy neutrality, covering the sky with thick clouds.
Exciting November: sightseeing vacation in Prague
The beginning of November in Prague is often accompanied by nice warm weather, which gives an excellent opportunity to appreciate the beauty of Prague's scenery from the height of Charles Bridge or to walk around the picturesque streets of this magical city.
Most of Prague's streets are paved with cobblestones, and going on a city tour in high heels is not the best solution. For walking here, demi-seasonal waterproof shoes are more appropriate — comfortable and familiar.
In addition to the Charles Bridge, Prague has prepared many amazing places for guests to admire the fabulously beautiful panorama of the city:
- Hanavsky Pavilion (today it's a luxury restaurant with one of the most gorgeous panoramic views of the Prague bridges);
- Old Town Hall;
- Vysehrad observation decks;
- Viewing platforms at the walls of Prague Castle;
- Petrin Hill with its amazing Lookout Tower.
Given the sheer number of towers and turrets that crown almost every significant building in Prague, the list is endless.
The colder mid-November compared to the first days of the month requires careful planning of a cultural vacation in Prague, but there is plenty to see for travelers of all ages.
Numerous museums offer the most unusual exhibitions. If you are traveling with children and the weather forecast does not promise ideal conditions for walking, plan a trip to one of these places. We guarantee that everyone in the family will enjoy the visit!
CHOCO STORY Chocolate Museum (Celetná 15) and Viva Praha Confectionery (Celetná 10). Here, you can observe the process of chocolate production with the option to taste the delicious products. Not every adult can resist the aromatic temptation, and who among children can refuse such a pleasure, which can be extended in the neighboring Viva Praha confectionery store?
Thousands of sweets await customers in the cozy store — from chocolate-covered fruit prepared right in front of the amazed public to caramel with an author's drawing made to the customer's order.
The confectioners teach visitors about some of the intricacies of making sweets, which is a delight for children. A tour of Prague's caramel and chocolate sights will surely please the whole family.
National Technical Museum. This place makes the heart of every boy or girl of every age beat faster: retro cars, airplanes, photographic equipment, old steam locomotives, the first bicycles in Czech history, and even a working printing machine ready to show itself in action.
Marionette store in Prague. Who among us as a child did not listen to stories about magic shops where miracles are sold and dreams come true? There is such a place in Prague: under the Charles Bridge, there is an extraordinary puppet store. Here, you can not only enjoy the most incredible variety of handmade puppets but also make the most unusual purchase in your life — for yourself or as a gift for your loved ones.
Right in the store, there is a master's table, on which tools and blanks of future dolls are laid out — an excellent opportunity to look at the process practically from "inside."
Whether it is the working place of a puppeteer or just a beautiful advertising move remains a mystery for customers. However, it does not spoil the overall impression of visiting the magical site, and the puppet store remains a favorite place not only for adults but also for children.
During your visit to Prague, when the list of excursions around the city may be limited due to the nasty weather at the end of November, don't deny yourself and the kids the pleasure of admiring these fantastic works of art — funny marionettes of fine artistry.
Holidays, events and festivals
Holidays in Prague in November are less numerous than in the following month. During the quiet days of November, the city seems to be saving its strength for the upcoming series of noisy Christmas events.
On November 17, the Czech Republic traditionally celebrates the Day of Struggle for Freedom and Democracy (Den boje za svobodu a demokracii). This holiday can hardly be called cheerful, which does not diminish its importance for the Czech people. The Day of the Struggle for Freedom and Democracy is dedicated to two events in the country's history at the same time, 50 years apart:
- the student uprising against the Third Reich, which ended with the capture of the participants and the execution of the leaders in 1939;
- the beginning of the Velvet Revolution, the first manifestation of which was the student demonstration in 1989.
On this day, citizens pay tribute to all those who participated in the commemorative events and sacrificed themselves for the freedom of future generations. Every year on November 17, thousands of Prague residents and visitors come to the memorial plaque on National Avenue to lay flowers and light a candle.
Also in November, festivals of seasonal products continue, and you can also visit a jazz festival, a champagne festival, and science and technology weeks.
Opening of Christmas fairs
If you are lucky enough to come to Prague at the end of November, you will undoubtedly witness the opening of numerous Christmas fairs, which begin their work on November 25, 26, and sometimes even 24.
An unforgettable event is the Christmas tree lighting ceremony on Old Town Square with the richly decorated market stalls on Wenceslas Square, the scattering of handmade souvenirs, and the abundance of delicacies sold at every turn.
When buying treats on the street, you should remember that Czech cuisine is quite caloric. To avoid digestive problems, you should know how much you should eat. Pay special attention to children's nutrition during the trip. It is a good idea to add digestive aids to your travel kit.
Shopping
November in Prague does not promise shopping enthusiasts serious sales — you'll have to wait for December with its Christmas discounts. However, some tricks allow you to buy souvenirs at an affordable price.
There are several retail chains in Prague specializing in souvenirs:
- Blue Praha — Bohemian glass and porcelain products, watches, dishes, books, magnets and other charming trinkets;
- Manufaktura — unusual tea blends, handmade souvenirs, cosmetics, toys, jewelry, and beer and wine.
The Czechs would be bad businessmen if they did not try to get maximum profit from the endless flow of tourists coming to the city from all over Europe. That is why the prices in specialized stores are sometimes one and a half times higher than the cost of the goods displayed in numerous inconspicuous stores scattered around Prague.
Following the advice of experienced travelers, don't rush to shop in famous souvenir stores unless your goal is something unique that can't be found elsewhere.
Soft toys, magnets, and T-shirts are much more profitable to buy in regular shopping centers or at the Havel market, where you can also haggle at your pleasure with cheerful sellers. Here, you'll also find exceptional handmade items and fresh produce stands.
Cost of vacation
November is considered the low season. Prices for holidays in Prague in November are one of the most pleasant moments of an autumn vacation in this city. A Very noticeable price drop applies not only to accommodation and tourist services but also to travel. For example, compared to September, November airfares are reduced by an average of 34%, and the difference in accommodation prices in Prague hotels is about 32%.
Vacation in Prague with children: tips for tourists
The stunningly beautiful city never ceases to amaze visitors of all ages with its extraordinary wonders and entertaining excursions. A November trip to Prague with kids under five promises much less fun, thanks to the fickle and damp weather. Deprived of the possibility of long walks in the fresh air, the baby may get bored, and excursions to museums and exhibitions will surely tire him out quickly.
If you still decide to go to Prague in November with a baby — it is better to choose the last days of the month, when the city blooms, covered with the fun bustle of Advent — preparations for the Christmas holidays.
Children of senior preschool and school age will not have to get bored — there are too many interesting places in the city.