Advent walk through Prague's old town
Author: Magdalena Kořínková
Prague has long been considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and in the special category of "most beautiful Advent city," this holds doubly true. A stroll through Prague during Advent is an experience that draws visitors from around the globe.
Do you have your favourite hot drink in (preferably antique) mug ready? A snack to go with it? Wonderful, sit back, enjoy the read, and gather some inspiration.
The Advent markets in Prague are among the most beautiful and most visited in Europe. The largest in the Czech Republic is at Old Town Square, but under normal circumstances, popular markets are also held at Náměstí Míru, Wenceslas Square, and Republic Square. You could visit them all in a single day. Along your “Advent markets tour,” you can also skate at the Ovocný trh rink, explore the Havel Market, and admire the Christmas-themed window displays.
This year, as with last, we'll have to go without stalls offering treats and handmade crafts. Still, you can enjoy the city’s festive sparkle.
Who will you explore with?
Whether you enjoy wandering the city’s streets solo, with friends, family, or as a couple, each has its charm. Alone, you can better appreciate the beauty of the city, its architecture, and the details you might miss in conversation. With a friend, you may browse different shops than with a partner. But whether it’s a cafe or a restaurant, the antique shop is a place where you can go with anyone. A small gift, bought as a memory of your Advent stroll, is always a joy. It’s also a perfect spot to leave a “secret” hint for Santa.
What to wear?
For a walk through festive Prague, we recommend wearing something comfortable yet chic and elegant. An elegant lady or gentleman always looks better in a coat than in a quilted jacket. If you'd like to make the coat stand out, a brooch or pin will add the perfect touch.
In the chilly December weather, a hat or stylish cap is a wise choice. You can adorn your headwear with a pin, clip, or brooch. Don’t have one? No worries; you can pick one up along the way – our collection of brooches and pins is truly extensive.
And last but not least, when sitting down for a coffee and cake, it’s always lovely to sparkle with a piece of jewellery or an accessory.
What to bring with you?
Aside from the basic “holy trinity” – keys, mobile, and wallet (the familiar “K+M+B” acronym is also used, standing for Keys, Mobile, and Glasses) – you don’t need much. However, having a rain poncho or a reusable shopping bag is handy in case you pick up a treasure or two for under the Christmas tree. They’re compact, fit into any handbag, hold a lot, and are eco-friendly.
You'll also be helping the environment by bringing your own keep cup or thermos filled with tea, mulled wine, or coffee. Once you’ve finished, a cafe will be happy to refill your keep cup or thermos so you can enjoy your hot drink anywhere along the way.
Where will your steps take you?
They say, “Prague – mother of cities”, “Golden, hundred-spired Prague.” These are all terms for our capital, renowned for its rich history and undeniable beauty. Entire volumes have been, and likely will be, written about Prague. We’ll focus on one particular street – Maiselova Street in the Old Town, connecting the Old Town with the Jewish Quarter. It runs parallel to Pařížská Street, home to the most luxurious boutiques, whose displays are a must-see, especially during Advent.
Historic Maiselova
The street is named after the wealthy Jewish merchant and banker Mordechai Maisel (1528–1601), who built the beautiful Maisel Synagogue here in 1592. It’s frequently the backdrop for photos of the stunning antiques you can view on our Facebook or Instagram.
In the past, each part of the street had its own name: the southern part was called “Zlatá” (Golden), the middle “Little Butcher Street” after the butchers located there, the part near the synagogue “Rabbi’s Street,” and the northern part near Old Town Square, “Great Court Street.”
The street has been known as Maiselova since 1901. Interestingly, it was temporarily renamed “Filip de Monte Street” between 1940 and 1945, after a Flemish composer who worked at Emperor Rudolf II’s court. After the war, it returned to its original name.
Over a quarter century at the same address
Directly across from Maisel Synagogue, at No. 9, is one of the Czech Republic’s most renowned antique shops, Antiques Cinolter, established in 1991. Here, in the stunning setting of Prague’s historical architecture, the spirit of history breathes through exquisite antique jewellery, art, glass, porcelain, clocks, and unique items.
We warmly invite you to visit the shop and browse our collection in person. And if you have a friend or family member passionate about history and beauty, feel free to contact us – we’ll gladly help you choose the perfect gift for them.
