The Christmas Markets on Old Town Square opened last week. Here’s what you can expect to pay for your favorite holiday treats this year.

On Saturday, the lighting ceremony of the Old Town Square Christmas tree officially kicked off Prague’s most popular Advent event.  The Christmas markets, which will run until January 6, are open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM.

Rising Prices for Festive Treats

A small mulled wine (0.2 L) or a classic trdelník will cost you 100 CZK each. A Pilsner beer (0.4 L) is priced at 80 CZK. Other seasonal specialties have also seen price increases, reflecting broader inflation trends.

“We’ve raised prices by 10 to 20 crowns this year, especially for items like beer, mulled wine, and roasted corn. Inflation has made it unavoidable.” Tree ornaments cost between 80 and 150 CZK, while a bunch of mistletoe is priced at 70 CZK.

Complete Price List for Food and Drinks

• Beer: Pilsner (0.4 L) – 80 CZK
• Soft Drinks: Ralinovka, Cola, or Mattoni (0.4 L) – 70 CZK
• Hot Drinks: Espresso – 70 CZK, Cappuccino – 90 CZK, Tea – 70 CZK, Hot Chocolate – 90 CZK, Mulled Wine (0.2 L) – 100 CZK, Hot Apple or Forest Fruit Drink (0.2 L) – 70 CZK, Punch – 90 CZK, Mead (0.2 L) – 130 CZK
• Food:
• • Sausage in a Baguette – 150 CZK
  • Trdelník – 100 CZK
  • Lángos – 180 to 220 CZK
  • Pumpkin Soup – 155 CZK
  • Roasted Chestnuts – 140 CZK
  • Grilled Chicken (¼ portion) – 150 CZK
  • Burger – 299 CZK
  • Fruit Dumpling – 99 CZK
  • Gingerbread Pack – 150 CZK
  • Potato Spirals – 100 to 150 CZK
  • Baked Sausage – 150 CZK
  • Waffles – 130 to 150 CZK
  • Roasted Corn – 80 CZK

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The Prague Public Transport Company has secured a preliminary building permit for the construction of a new tram line through the Žižkov Freight Station.

The construction is expected to begin next year and finish by the end of 2027.

The new tram line will stretch from Olšanská Street to Habrová in Jarov, with six stops planned:

• Nový Žižkov
• Nákladová
• Malešická
• Nad Kapličkou
• Habrová
• Sídliště Jarov

The route, nearly two kilometers long, will run along the northern edge of the freight station. The section from Olšanská and Jana Želivského streets will be double-tracked, while the final 500 meters to Jarov will use a single track along the existing railway surface. Future phases aim to extend the line to Malešice.

“This line will provide better connectivity for the area and support the redevelopment of Žižkov,” said Pavel Dobeš, Deputy Mayor of Prague 3.

Land Acquisition in Progress

A critical step in the project is the acquisition of the historic Žižkov Freight Station building and surrounding land.

Negotiations are currently underway between the city and the Sekyra Group, which holds pre-emptive rights to the property. At the start of November, Prague announced plans to sign a cooperation agreement with Sekyra Group to secure these rights.

The station, owned by Czech Railways, will play a central role in the urban transformation. According to Petr Hlaváček, Deputy Mayor for Territorial and Strategic Development, “The Žižkov Freight Station area is pivotal for Prague’s growth. It is vital to ensure that this new urban district is both pedestrian-friendly and easily accessible by public transport.”

A Vision for Žižkov’s Future

The redevelopment of the Žižkov Freight Station area is considered one of Prague’s most significant urban transformation projects. The plans include the creation of a new city district with a central square, parks, two elementary schools, five kindergartens, and approximately ten thousand apartments.

This transformation is already underway. Developer Central Group is constructing 4,600 apartments across three projects on the former railway station site. Other developers, including Sekyra Group, Penta, and Finep, are also planning to build in the area.

 

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Vladimír Pinta, the legendary saxophonist who became an integral part of Prague’s street music scene, has died at the age of 91. The news of his passing was confirmed by his family.

Pinta passed away on Saturday, November 9, 2024. Known for his charisma and skill, his musical career spanned an impressive 70 years.

A public farewell will take place on December 4 at 1:00 PM in the Church of St. Nicholas, located on Old Town Square, where Pinta spent the last two decades of his life enchanting passersby with his saxophone.

For 30 years, Pinta worked as a teacher in an educational institution, striving to inspire young people toward better lives.

Despite his professional commitments, music remained his true passion. Over the decades, he performed with various bands and collaborated with well-known names in the Czech music scene, such as Olina Svobodová, alongside his early partnerships with Karel Gott and Karel Hála.

His talent extended beyond the Czech Republic, with performances abroad and a portfolio of jazz and swing albums that captured the hearts of listeners everywhere.

Choosing the Streets Over Fame

While many of his peers pursued fame in prestigious venues, Pinta embraced life as a street musician. He played in Prague’s most iconic locations, starting on the Castle Stairs, then moving to Charles Bridge, and finally settling in Old Town Square.

“You have to win people over on the street; it’s not like performing at a concert,” Pinta often remarked, summing up the unique challenge and joy of his work.

His performances were not limited to music; he blended jazz and swing with dance and personal charisma, captivating both locals and tourists alike.

“Until his last moment, he held the saxophone, doing what he loved most—playing and bringing joy to those around him,” shared his family. “His humor, charm, and passion for life will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege to know him.”

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Pilsner Urquell is set to make its mark at the EXPO 2025 world exhibition in Osaka, Japan. The brewery has become a partner of the Czech pavilion, which this year will focus on the themes of talent and creativity.

“At EXPO, we aim to showcase the best of our country. We are therefore delighted that Pilsner Urquell will be part of the event. This beer, which inspired the world and originated the pilsner category, is a testament to the creativity and skill of talented individuals,” stated Zdeněk Kovář, spokesperson for Plzeňský Prazdroj.

Authentic Czech Beer Experience in Osaka

Visitors to the Czech pavilion will have the opportunity to experience freshly tapped Pilsner Urquell beer, served directly from draft by specially trained bartenders.

The brewery has emphasized its commitment to maintaining authentic quality, preparing the bartenders with comprehensive training in Pilsen.

“Under the guidance of our commercial brewers, the team not only mastered proper beer-tapping techniques but also learned about the brewing process and the history of Pilsner Urquell. They even practiced tapping under high-pressure conditions in local restaurants,” explained Kovář.

At the pavilion, visitors will learn the art of tapping three distinct styles of Pilsner beer: hladinka, šnyt, and mlíko.

A Legacy of Global Brewing Excellence

Pilsner Urquell’s brewing history dates back to 1842, when it brewed its first batch of beer in Pilsen.

The pilsner category, which originated from this brewery, quickly gained popularity, becoming the most widespread beer style in the world. By 1873, Pilsner Urquell had expanded its reach to the United States, solidifying its position as a global beer icon.

The brand’s success endures to this day. In 2024, Pilsner Urquell was named the most trusted beer brand in the Czech Republic for the tenth consecutive year.

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Czech billionaire Michal Strnad, owner of the industrial group Czechoslovak Group, has purchased the prestigious Four Seasons Hotel in Prague.

The property was acquired from the American investment firm Northwood Investors for a reported 4.7 billion crowns, according to the Newstream portal.

Renáta Kellnerová, the wealthiest Czech woman and owner of the PPF Group, had also expressed interest in buying the hotel. However, negotiations with Northwood Investors did not result in an agreement.

The Four Seasons Hotel Prague first opened its doors in 2001.

At the time, it was the first branch of the renowned luxury chain in Central and Eastern Europe. The hotel has since become a favored destination for high-profile visitors, hosting celebrities like Madonna and the Rolling Stones, as well as Microsoft founder Bill Gates and former U.S. President Barack Obama.

Northwood Investors had owned the hotel since 2014, marking it as one of the most prominent assets in Prague’s luxury hospitality sector.

Frederic Le Fichoux, head of European hotel transactions at Cushman & Wakefield, revealed that the sale of the Hilton Hotel in Prague is also anticipated.

In addition, two other five-star properties—Andaz Prague by Hyatt and the Marriott Hotel Prague—are reportedly seeking new investors, according to the Seznam Zprávy portal.

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Police in Prague arrested a man who allegedly threatened to carry out a shooting at the Faculty of Arts at Charles University on Friday afternoon.

The incident sparked a major police operation in the city center, with officers securing the area and launching an urgent search for the suspect, who initially fled the scene.

According to Jan Daněk, a police spokesperson, the man entered the Faculty of Arts building on Jan Palach Square and displayed alarming behavior, making threats about shooting in the premises.

“We are actively searching for a man who exhibited abnormal behavior and spoke of shooting,” Daněk informed Novinky shortly after 3:00 p.m.

Following the threat, the suspect left the area, prompting an intensive search operation involving dozens of officers in Prague’s historic center.

Police efforts led to the suspect being detained within half an hour of the initial report. The individual was reportedly apprehended shortly before 3:30 p.m.

Further details about the man, including his identity or potential motives, have not yet been disclosed.

 

V centru Prahy aktuálně pátráme po muži, který přišel do budovy Filosofické fakulty UK na náměstí Jana Palacha, choval se nestandardně a mluvil o střelbě. Na místě jsou desítky policistů a hledají ho. #policiepha

— Policie ČR (@PolicieCZ) November 29, 2024

Last year, fourteen people were killed and 25 injured, in a shooting at Charles University’s Faculty of Arts in Prague. The gunman, who began shooting on the fourth floor of the building, later committed suicide.

 

 

 

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The German discount chain Woolworth is launching in the Czech Republic, aiming to rival established players like Pepco, KiK, and Action.

Offering a wide range of products including clothing, household items, shoes, cosmetics, stationery, toys, and home textiles, Woolworth’s prices will typically hover around 3 euros.

This move places the company in direct competition with Pepco, Action, and KiK, all of which have been gaining traction in the Czech market.

For example, KiK is set to open 11 new stores this year, bringing its total store count in the Czech Republic to 240, according to the Seznam Zprávy website.

“The stores are not closing. I think they are doing well because people still want to save. They will buy a T-shirt in a Pepco store instead of in Gant,” commented Tomáš Soukup, director of the retail division at IO Partners.

As large retailers, including hypermarkets and electronics stores, scale back their operations, many are leasing vacant spaces.

At the same time, shopping parks are actively being developed. “Store sizes are naturally shrinking due to companies investing more in online and omnichannel strategies—where customers can view goods in-store and have them delivered, or vice versa,” explained Soukup.

However, Woolworth’s success in the Czech market is not guaranteed. Discount retailer NKD, for instance, closed five unprofitable stores this year, highlighting the fierce competition.

Still, NKD remains committed to its expansion strategy. “We are focusing more on shopping centers, as it has proven successful in the capital. In some retail parks, there is almost nothing left to rent,” said Jiří Wegmann, expansion manager for NKD in the Czech Republic.

Despite this uncertainty, Woolworth has found significant success in Germany. Founded 140 years ago, the chain has become the fastest-growing department store group in the country. Its long-term goal is to open 5,000 stores across Europe.

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The Czech government has approved a donation of CZK 12.1 million to the NATO Trust Fund, aimed at providing non-military aid to Ukraine.

This decision, made during a government meeting on Wednesday, aligns with the Czech Republic’s foreign and defense policy priorities.

The NATO Trust Fund, which has been operational since 2016, serves as a vital tool for delivering non-military assistance to Ukraine.

Contributions to the fund include fuel, medical supplies, food, winter clothing, and defensive systems against unmanned aerial vehicles (drones).

While weapons and other military equipment are supplied by individual countries, the European Peace Facility also plays a role in supporting military needs.

The Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that this latest contribution is in line with commitments made at the NATO summit in Vilnius last year.

At that summit, the Trust Fund was designated as a long-term initiative, focusing on security and defense sector reforms in Ukraine, as well as helping the Ukrainian armed forces align with NATO standards for full cooperation.

Contributions to the NATO Trust Fund are voluntary, and the Czech government had previously pledged a donation of approximately 60 million crowns a year ago.

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As Advent begins, Prague transforms into a city of lights, aromas, and seasonal traditions. From sweets to warming svařák and Christmas markets, the Czech capital offers many ways to embrace the holiday spirit.

Here’s a guide to help you savor the best of Advent in Prague this year.

Where to Order Luxury Christmas Sweets in Prague

If you’re not planning to bake this year but still want something special for your holiday table, Prague’s bakeries and cafés have you covered.

Myšák

For classic holiday sweets, Myšák’s e-shop (mysakdomu.cz) has you covered. Order a 500g box of traditional Christmas sweets for 898 CZK. You can also pair it with a Christmas cake, their signature Věneček egg liqueur, or a homemade syrup for mulled wine.

Skála

Known for its craftsmanship, Skála offers a 1kg assortment of 12 different Christmas sweets for 1,490 CZK. Pre-orders are available for specific dates, with slots still open during the festive season.

Etapa in Karlín

Etapa’s 450g Christmas box (873 CZK) combines Linzer cookies, caramel shortbread, chocolate hazelnut balls, and their signature beehives. A few holiday dates are still open, or you can stop by the café for extras.

Gluten-Free Christmas Sweets

For those avoiding gluten, Mezi Srnky provides both classic (550 CZK) and gluten-free (650 CZK) options. Their 400g boxes include gingerbread, rum balls, and Išelské cookies.

Where to Find the Best Mulled Wine and Eggnog in Prague

After sorting your sweets, take a walk through Prague and visit these places for warm drinks.

Mulled Wine Stops

• Bjukitchen (City Center): Classic mulled wine alongside kid-friendly vanilla cocoa.
• Eska (Karlín): Known for its creative twist on Christmas drinks, including apple mulled wine.
• Hrnek (Letná): Enjoy their secret recipe mulled wine served in a stylish onion-shaped mug.

Eggnog

• Iveta Fabešová’s (Masaryčka building): Famous for her rich eggnog, available by the glass or bottle, making it a great gift option.
• Coffee Room (Vinohrady): try their seasonal eggnog-infused coffee, a must for coffee lovers.

Advent Markets in Prague: Intimate and Unique

Skip the crowded main squares and explore Prague’s smaller, cozier Christmas markets for a more relaxed holiday shopping experience.

The list of Prague cafés and bistros that invite you to a unique culinary experience would not be complete without the newly opened Villa 63, which can be found on Hradešínská Street.

You can now also take a look at the neighboring property, which is characteristically named Zahrada 65.

On the first Sunday of Advent from 11 am to 5 pm, a Christmas market is held here, where you can buy local brands or buy an Advent wreath at the last minute. You can find a list of vendors on Villa 63‘s Instagram.

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Coffee prices have surged to record highs in recent years, with the trend showing no signs of slowing down.

Increasing global demand, coupled with a shrinking supply, has created concerns about potential shortages, warn analysts.

In the Czech Republic, the price of coffee has risen by a staggering 46% since 2015, compared to a 34% average increase across the EU, according to XTB data derived from Eurostat statistics.

“In the first eight months of 2024, the average cost for 250 grams of roasted coffee beans reached CZK 130, ten crowns more than in the same period last year,” explained Jiří Tyleček, an analyst at XTB.

He predicts that coffee prices could climb another 10% to 30% in 2025, affecting both retail costs and café offerings.

Global Factors Driving the Surge

The rising prices are driven by multiple global factors. According to Lubomír Kadaně, director of Fairtrade Czech Republic and Slovakia, the cost of Arabica coffee has soared to over $3 per pound—its highest level since 2011. A

prolonged drought in Brazil, the world’s largest coffee producer, has sharply reduced production, creating a ripple effect in global markets. “This reduced supply has driven traders to respond with significant price hikes,” Kadaně noted.

Adding to the burden, new harvests are now 30% to 40% more expensive per kilogram, said Adéla Ladman, manager of the roastery and online store Upraženo. While her company has limited price hikes to about 10% for select coffees, Ladman warns that widespread increases after Christmas may be unavoidable.

Rising Demand in Emerging Markets

As supply tightens, global demand for coffee continues to rise, particularly in Asia.

“The growing number of coffee drinkers in China and South Korea is pushing prices higher,” said Petr Lajsek, an analyst at Purple Trading. Additionally, coffee is becoming increasingly popular in South America and among younger generations, further straining the supply-demand balance.

Consumer preferences are also shifting. Where instant coffee once dominated, many are now opting for higher-quality coffee beans, fueling demand for home coffee makers. A recent ČTK survey revealed a 10% to 20% increase in coffee maker sales year-on-year, while barista courses are also gaining traction.

Environmental Regulations Adding Pressure

New EU legislation aimed at combating deforestation is adding to the cost of coffee production. Under the amended laws, coffee importers must ensure their products come from sustainably managed farms, driving up compliance costs for producers.

“Based on current predictions, 2025 may mark the first year where coffee consumption outpaces production,” warned Ladman, suggesting that coffee could eventually become a scarce commodity.

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Prague police were called to Charles Bridge on Wednesday evening after a man tragically fell to his death. 

Police spokesperson Jan Rybanský confirmed the incident to iDNES.cz, stating that the foreign national appeared to have jumped intentionally.

“The man suffered injuries incompatible with life by falling from Charles Bridge. We are investigating it as a suicide,” said Rybanský.

Although Charles Bridge is not commonly associated with suicides, the Prague landmark has seen similar incidents in the past.

In February 2018, another foreigner, a 28-year-old man, attempted to take his own life.

The individual climbed the stone railing after several unsuccessful attempts. Before he could jump, police intervened, having been alerted by a passerby.

The man later revealed that he wanted to end his life due to feelings of loneliness while living in Prague.

 

 

 

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The sale of Royal Mail to Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky’s EP Group is close to being finalized and could be confirmed in the next two weeks, according to sources close to the deal.

The BBC on Thursday cited sources close to the deal as saying that Kretinsky has agreed to make extra concessions in order to clinch the takeover.

The deal will still have to be approved under the National Security and Investment Act although officials stepped in with a similar review when he increased his stake in the company.

Kretinsky’s EP Group declined to comment to the BBC.

The entrepreneur has already offered the following guarantees in a bid to secure the deal. He has pledged to maintain the “one price goes anywhere” universal service and not to raid the pension surplus.

He has also said he will keep the brand name and Royal Mail’s headquarters and tax residency in the UK for the next five years and respect union demands for no compulsory redundancies to take place until 2025.

Křetínský’s offer values ​​the company Royal Mail at £3.6 billion (almost 110 billion CZK). The management of the company International Distribution Services (IDS), which owns Royal Mail, accepted the offer in May and recommended that its shareholders approve it.

The BBC said it is thought additional safeguards may include extending the duration of the guarantees he has offered.

Royal Mail can trace its history back to 1516 and currently employs more than 150,000 people. Křetínský has previously stated that he has the “utmost respect” for its history and tradition.

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