Things to Do in Prague in November

November Weather in Prague

8°C (47°F) High Temp

4°C (39°F) Low Temp

25 mm (1.0 inches) Rainfall

85% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Christmas market season begins mid-November - experience authentic Trdelník and svařák (mulled wine) without December crowds at Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square
Hotel rates drop 35-45% compared to summer peak - luxury hotels like those near Lesser Town average €80-120 versus €180+ in June
Museums and indoor attractions have minimal queues - Prague Castle complex typically takes 45 minutes versus 2+ hours in summer
Authentic Czech pub culture peaks in cool weather - locals gather for hearty goulash and Pilsner, creating genuine social atmosphere in traditional hospody

Considerations

Daylight hours shrink to just 8.5 hours (sunrise 7:15am, sunset 4:00pm) limiting outdoor sightseeing time significantly
Persistent dampness makes temperatures feel 3-5°C (5-9°F) colder than actual readings - 4°C feels like freezing
Many beer gardens and riverside terraces close for winter by mid-November, limiting outdoor dining options along the Vltava

Best Activities in November

Prague Castle Complex and Lesser Town Walking Tours

November's cool weather is ideal for exploring the castle grounds without summer heat exhaustion. Shorter queues mean you can spend quality time in St. Vitus Cathedral and Old Royal Palace. The misty weather creates atmospheric photos of the Gothic spires. Indoor portions provide warmth breaks every 20-30 minutes.

Booking Tip: Book morning tours (9-11am) for best light with limited daylight hours. Tours typically cost €25-45 per person. Look for small group options (max 15 people) that include indoor warming breaks. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Traditional Czech Pub and Food Walking Tours

November is peak season for authentic Czech comfort food - goulash, svíčková, and roasted pork knuckle taste best in cool weather. Locals pack traditional pubs during the pre-Christmas period. Beer halls are warmly heated and create cozy atmosphere perfect for escaping damp weather. Tours typically include 4-5 venues over 3-4 hours.

Booking Tip: Evening tours (6-10pm) capture authentic local dinner culture. Expect €40-65 per person including food and 3-4 beer tastings. Book through operators who focus on traditional hospody rather than tourist pubs. Check current options in booking section below.

Christmas Market and Old Town Square Experiences

Markets typically open around November 25th, giving you access without peak December crowds. Sample traditional winter foods like trdelník, roasted chestnuts, and mulled wine in authentic atmosphere. The Gothic and Baroque architecture of Old Town creates perfect winter market backdrop. Indoor craft workshops often available during cold spells.

Booking Tip: Free to explore independently, but guided market tours cost €15-30 per person and provide historical context. Evening visits (4-7pm) offer best atmosphere with lights. Book accommodation near Old Town to easily return when weather turns harsh.

Vltava River Heated Boat Tours

November river tours use enclosed, heated boats offering unique perspectives of Prague's bridges and riverside architecture. Fewer boats operate, meaning more personalized experience. The dramatic sky and moody weather create excellent photography conditions. Hot drinks typically included to combat 4°C (39°F) outdoor temperatures.

Booking Tip: Choose 1-2 hour enclosed boat tours rather than open-deck options. Prices range €20-40 per person. Afternoon departures (2-4pm) maximize limited daylight. Verify heating and indoor seating before booking. See current heated boat options in booking section below.

Art Nouveau and Museum Quarter Indoor Tours

November's harsh weather makes this perfect time for Prague's incredible indoor cultural sites. Municipal House, National Museum, and Jewish Quarter museums have minimal crowds. Art Nouveau architecture tours combine short outdoor walks with extensive indoor exploration. Heated trams connect venues efficiently.

Booking Tip: Full-day museum passes cost €25-35 and include transport. Book combination tickets covering 3-4 venues to maximize indoor time. Morning start recommended due to 4pm sunset. Look for tours including heated transport between locations.

Day Trips to Český Krumlov or Kutná Hora

November crowds disappear at these UNESCO sites, offering intimate experiences of medieval architecture. Heated coach transport shields you from weather during 2-3 hour journeys. Indoor castle tours and bone church visits suit cool, damp conditions perfectly. Return by 4pm due to early sunset.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours cost €55-85 including transport and entry fees. Book small group tours (max 20 people) for flexibility with weather delays. Verify heating in transport vehicles. Choose tours with substantial indoor components due to weather exposure.

November Events & Festivals

Late November

Prague Christmas Markets Opening

Traditional markets open around November 25th at Old Town Square, Wenceslas Square, and Peace Square. Features authentic Czech winter foods, handcrafted gifts, and architectural backdrop of Gothic and Baroque buildings. Less crowded than December peak season.

November 11th

St. Martin's Day Wine Festivals

November 11th marks release of new wine vintage with celebrations at wine bars throughout Vinohrady and Vršovice districts. Traditional roasted goose dinners paired with Svatovavřinecké wine. Locals celebrate with special menus at traditional restaurants.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Waterproof walking boots with good tread - cobblestones become slippery in 25mm (1.0 inch) monthly rainfall

Insulated, waterproof jacket - 85% humidity makes 4°C (39°F) feel like freezing temperatures

Wool or thermal base layers - essential for 8+ hours daily in cool, damp conditions

Compact umbrella - rain occurs 10 days per month, often as persistent drizzle rather than heavy showers

Warm hat covering ears - heat loss significant in 4°C (39°F) temperatures with high humidity

Waterproof day pack - protect electronics and documents from frequent light rain

Hand warmers or heated gloves - useful for outdoor photography and market browsing

Moisture-wicking socks (2-3 pairs) - feet stay wet in damp conditions, wool-blend recommended

Scarf or neck gaiter - essential for warmth during limited 8.5-hour daylight period

Portable phone charger - cold weather drains batteries 25-30% faster than normal

Insider Knowledge

Locals eat lunch between 11:30am-1:30pm to maximize daylight hours - restaurants offer better value lunch menus during short November days

Use heated tram stops as warming stations - Line 22 connects major tourist sites and stops have enclosed, heated waiting areas every 800m (0.5 miles)

Prague Castle is free on first Monday of each month but November weather often makes this impractical - pay €12-16 for flexibility to visit on clearer days

Traditional hospody (pubs) reach capacity by 7pm in November - arrive by 6:30pm or make reservations, especially on weekends when locals seek warm, social spaces

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating how early darkness falls - many tourists miss optimal photography time by not planning activities before 3pm sunset approach

Wearing cotton clothing in 85% humidity - cotton retains moisture and provides no insulation when damp, making you feel much colder

Booking outdoor activities without weather backup plans - 10 rainy days per month means 33% chance of rain on any given day