Prague in April – Everything to See & Do

 

As Europe awakens for spring, many travellers opt to go on a trip to shake off the winter blues. While there are so many wonderful places to explore during the spring awakening, we think Prague offers the greatest experience.

The vibrant capital of the Czech Republic, often called the ‘City of a Hundred Spires,’ offers a unique blend of history and culture and April is a great time to explore its treasures. The month brings some splendid events to the city as well as warmer temperatures, so it’s a great time to explore everything Prague has to offer. 

In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about visiting Prague in April. We detail the weather, explore the magical events of the month, highlight the best places to visit and give recommendations of things to do on your trip.

So if you’re eager to experience the wonders of springtime in Prague, this is the guide for you. 

The climate in Prague in April is mild and quite chilly. Spring brings more sunshine than previous months, but expect some April showers. Overall, the weather is pleasant and rainy days will give you a chance to explore indoor activities like St. Vitus Cathedral. 

Average temperatures in Prague in April hover around 10°C. There will be highs of 14°C and lows of 4°C, so be sure to pack warm clothes and a jacket for any evening activities. As the weather is yet to fully warm up, you will notice fewer tourists which can make a visit to Prague in April much more intimate.

Festivals and Events in Prague in April

There is a lot happening in Prague in April. The city comes alive with the promise of Spring and there are some great celebrations to get involved in. 

The most notable of these events is Easter, which can fall at the end of March or early April. There are many events that coincide with the Easter festivities and we expand on some of the best ones below. 

Prague Easter Markets

If you happen to find yourself in Prague around the Easter Holiday, you will be blessed with the opportunity to explore the many vibrant Easter markets that pop up throughout the city. Starting from the middle of March and continuing into early April, the markets are a wonderful place to pick up handmade goods and festive treats on your trip to Prague. 

There are many markets for visitors to peruse but the best ones are held in Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square. You can easily explore both as they are just a short walk from one another, meaning you could spend a whole afternoon exploring the stalls and interacting with the local vendors. 

Prague Majáles

If you’re planning to visit Prague towards the end of April, you can get involved in one of the biggest events of the year, Prague Majáles. This is a May Day celebration that usually takes place on the 1st of  May, but often falls on the last few days of April. The event is held throughout the Czech Republic, but the festivities are best experienced in the capital.

​​Prague Majáles is very popular with students, who attend to enjoy the raucous concert and soak up the electric energy of the event. It is still very popular with tourists as well, especially those looking for some festival fun and good vibes. 

Alongside the concert, there is a fabulous parade through the city and an election for the King and Queen of Majáles, which is a hotly anticipated aspect of the festival. 

Witches’ Night Festival

Held on the 30th of April every year, Witches Night is very similar to Guy Fawkes Night in the UK. The event is celebrated all over the country, with different towns and villages having their own spin on the tradition. The event involves burning an effigy of the witch, who represents the cold winter and by burning her welcomes the coming of spring. 

To experience the festival in Prague, head to St Nicholas Church and watch the procession of the witch as it heads towards Kampa Park. As the evening progresses, the pyre will be lit aflame and attendees can gather around the warm fire while enjoying drinks and snacks.

St. Matthew’s Fair

St. Matthew’s Fair, known as ‘Matějská pouť’ in Czech, is one of Prague’s most beloved and enduring traditions. This annual event, which typically takes place from late February to mid-April, marks the arrival of spring and is a celebration filled with fun, games, rides and entertainment. It takes place at the Prague Exhibition Grounds and is free to enter, but rides are priced individually.

The fair features a Ferris wheel, roller coasters, bumper cars, carousels and other classic carnival rides that delight visitors of all ages. You’ll also find numerous food vendors offering traditional Czech fare, including sausages, roasted ham and pastries, as well as sweet treats like cotton candy and candy apples.

Entertainment at the fair includes live music performances, stage shows and various artists and street performers, who add to the festive atmosphere.

The Best Places to Visit in Prague in April

The ‘City of a Hundred Spires’ has countless cultural and architectural treasures that are perfect for sightseeing. As the weather in Prague in April can be somewhat wet, this is a great time to visit top attractions that will keep you indoors and out of the rain. We’ve also included some of the best places to visit on sunny days that will ensure you see the major sights in Prague.

Prague Castle

Prague Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and is often recognized as the largest ancient castle complex in the world. It has been the seat of Czech kings, emperors and presidents for over a thousand years. You can visit the castle on a guided tour which will give you more context into its historical significance.

The castle grounds feature a variety of attractions which makes it a great place to visit in Prague as there is so much to get stuck into. You can explore the stunning St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace, Golden Lane and the beautiful gardens within the castle grounds. Be sure not to miss the changing of the guard ceremony for a unique cultural experience.

Old Town

The historic Old Town of Prague is a picturesque area filled with narrow winding streets, colourful buildings and beautiful squares. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and the heart of the spirited city.

Old Town has so many incredible sites that are worth exploring. It’s one of the best places to visit in Prague at any time, but April breathes new life into the district, making it an unmissable attraction for your trip.

On your visit, you can see landmarks like the Astronomical Clock, the Old Town Square, Týn Church and the Church of St. Nicholas. You can choose to wander around on your own but for a more educational visit, consider booking a guided tour of Old Town that will see you exploring the eerie underground chambers and dungeons. 

As well as the historical marvels, Old Town offers a wealth of restaurants, cafes, and boutiques where you can savour traditional Czech cuisine and shop for souvenirs. You could easily spend half a day wandering down the lanes and cobbled streets soaking up the vibrant ambience of Old Town. 

Petrin Hill

Petrin Hill is a peaceful green oasis in the heart of Prague. It offers a break from the bustling city and provides stunning views of the exquisite skyline. You can choose to walk to the top of the hill or opt for a novelty ride on the Funicular railway which will take you up the hill. 

April is the perfect time to visit Petrin Hill as the green foliage begins to bloom into bursts of colour as spring settles over the city. It’s perfect for a visit on a sunny April day and is a great way to break up any tours or experiences you have planned. 

We strongly suggest you climb the Petrin Lookout Tower on your visit to the hill. Often called Prague’s ‘mini Eiffel Tower,’ it offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city and is a great place to take photos. Once you’ve been up the tower, spend some time exploring the beautiful gardens and parks, and visit the Mirror Maze for some lighthearted fun.

Charles Bridge

One of the most unmissable sights in Prague is Charles Bridge. This iconic stone bridge crosses the Vltava River and dates all the way back to the 14th Century. The Gothic architecture is complemented with statues and has a charming atmosphere that is perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

Walk across the bridge and take in the stunning views of Prague Castle, the Vltava River and the Old Town. Pay special attention to the statues lining the bridge, as each one has its own story. The statue of St. John of Nepomuk is said to bring good luck and ensure your return to Prague if you touch it.

Alongside the architectural wonders, there are an array of painters, caricature artists, and musicians who come to the bridge to showcase their talents. It’s a delight for any creatives who come to visit and adds so much charm to the lively ambience of the bridge.

The Best Things to Do in Prague in April

April offers a variety of things to do in Prague that will add a great deal of value to your trip. The cooler weather makes it an ideal time to see the city and with fewer crowds, you’ll have a much more private experience. 

From river cruises to day trips, this section includes recommendations for the best things to do in Prague for your April escape. 

Relax on a Vltava River Cruise

The Vltava River is the longest river in the Czech Republic and one of the most iconic features of Prague. It flows through the heart of the city and provides a serene backdrop to many of Prague’s major attractions. 

The best way to experience the river is on a scenic cruise, offering a different perspective of Prague’s architecture and landmarks. You can take a cruise during the day if the weather permits or you might want to consider taking an evening cruise with dinner. This will let you see Prague illuminated by lights in the evening and is an especially romantic activity for couples visiting the city.

Enjoy a Delicious Food Tour

Prague is known as a paradise for foodies and a great way to explore is by taking a sensational food tour. This will see you traverse the city, trying traditional Czech dishes as well as stopping in at some of the finest restaurants and eateries that Prague has to offer. 

With your knowledgeable guide, you will get to dine at the most authentic spots in the city. Alongside the delicious food, you will get to take in the sounds and sights of the city, resulting in a sensory experience like no other.

As you hop from place to place, you will get to try dishes like goulash, trdelník, and hearty soups. Don’t forget to pair your meal with Czech beer for the ultimate gastronomic experience.

Take a Day Trip to Kutná Hora

If you want to explore outside the city, consider a day trip to Kutná Hora. This UNESCO-listed town is located approximately 70 kilometres east of Prague and is easily accessible by train, bus, or car, making it a convenient day trip destination. It takes just over an hour to reach, leaving you plenty of time to explore the town’s fascinating attractions. 

On your day trip, you can explore a range of sites which will make your visit truly spectacular. The Sedlec Ossuary is famous for its interior decorated with human bones. It’s a macabre yet fascinating site that includes bone chandeliers and pyramids which promise to amaze. 

You can also visit St. Barbara’s Church, a Gothic cathedral known for its architectural beauty. Its interior is equally impressive with intricate vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows. We also suggest a stop at the Czech Museum of Silver, housed in a mediaeval building that was once the Royal Mint.

Summary

As you explore Prague in April, you’ll discover a city that’s shedding its winter coat and embracing the promise of spring. It offers a very different experience from the peak summer months, with a range of events and attractions that showcase the unique traditions and heritage of the Czech capital. 

Whether you choose to cruise the Vltava River or take in the views from Petrin Hill, we are certain that you will have an incredible journey when you visit Prague in April. 

If you’ve found this article useful, be sure to check out some of our other guides for Europe, like What to Do in Vienna for 3 Days and The 9 Best Things to Do in The Hague.

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About the Author

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Tom Adams

I am an experienced writer with a diverse background, having lived in 7 countries by age 16. I have specialised in various topics throughout my career, such as archaeology, sports and travel writing. Having grown up abroad I feel a special connection with the countries I once called home, in particular China, Singapore and Thailand. With my archaeological background, I also have a plethora of historical knowledge about Italy, Greece and Egypt. My favourite thing to do while travelling is visiting museums and historic landmarks and learning more about the local culture. As a foodie, I also make a point of sampling as much local cuisine as possible whenever I visit a new country. My favourite place I’ve visited so far has to be New Zealand, but I also loved Hong Kong and Copenhagen.