Prepare for the cold if you plan your visit to Prague for November. But if you don’t mind bundling up, you’ll find that the whole city is quiet and not very crowded. Unlike summer, fall is an ideal time to see many of Prague’s most famous sights, such as Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and the old astronomical clock.
Also, hotel prices plummet during the winter compared to the peak season in the summer. If you arrive in Prague at the end of November, you can see some Christmas preparations in the Old Town Square. However, no matter what time you visit in November, the City of a Hundred Towers is full of surprises.
Prague weather in November
Prague in November is not for those who cannot tolerate the cold of autumn. Although the capital of the Czech Republic is a beautiful city steeped in history and culture, its climate in the late autumn months is fast and cold, making it difficult to spend long periods of time outdoors.
- Average High: 43 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average Low: 34 degrees Fahrenheit
There is typically 1.30 inches of precipitation during the month. Snow is not common in November, but it is not unheard of either. Understandably, most tourists make the trip to Prague in the spring or summer, when festival seasons are at their peak and the weather is warmer, or in December when the city lights up for the Christmas holidays.
What to pack
To make the most of your visit in November, bring cold weather gear like a heavy coat, gloves, a hat and scarf, and warm boots and socks. You will also want to bring comfortable walking shoes (ideally waterproof) as most of the city is best explored on foot. If rain or snow is forecast, pack an umbrella and a warm windbreaker or jacket.
November events in Prague
November is a busy time in Prague with holidays and seasonal activities enlivening the city.
- The Day of the Fight for Freedom and Democracy is celebrated annually on November 17. It is the most important Czech holiday and marks the end of what was then the country of Czechoslovakia after the Cold War. Celebrations include a candle-lighting ceremony in Wenceslas Square, where wreaths and flowers are placed on the victory plate, and a parade. It is a good day to visit history museums, such as the Prague City Museum, and in particular the Museum of Communism, which exhibits original films, photographs, works of art and historical documents that vividly explain this chapter in the history of the Czech Republic.
- The Nouvelle Prague Festival was founded in 2012 as the first showcase music festival held in the Czech Republic. Now, the annual festival hosts bands from around the world. The event takes place at the Staropramen Brewery in the city center.
- The popular Mezipatra Queer Film Festival takes place every year in mid-November. The event, which is also held in Brno, screens more than 70 films with gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender themes, and includes corresponding panel discussions.
- Christmas markets are a big seasonal event in Prague and start at the end of the month. Have a glass of mulled wine and browse the festive stalls selling gifts and treats. Although the large markets in Old Town Square, Wenceslas Square, and Republic Square don’t open until December, the smaller ones in Peace Square and Tyl’s Square are available in November.
November Travel Tips
- You can save a lot of money by traveling to Prague in November when it’s out of season, so keep an eye out for affordable deals on flight and hotel fares.
- Many of Prague’s must-see sights, such as the medieval Prague Castle and the 13th-century Old Town Square, offer a little escape from the cold, making it necessary to sneak into a shop or cafe to unwind.
- If the weather is nice during your visit, consider a day trip out of town. Autumn is a great time for hiking in the Czech Republic, and a visit to nearby small towns can be especially delightful, as many celebrate harvest festivals – a unique insight into local life.
