2026 Český Krumlov Christmas Market Dates and Opening Hours

The festive season in Český Krumlov typically begins with the first weekend of Advent. For 2026, the markets are expected to open on November 27. They usually run daily until January 6, 2027. This long duration allows you to experience the Three Kings tradition. You can find more travel ideas in our list of best things to do in Český Krumlov.

Daily opening hours are very consistent for visitors. Most stalls open at 11:00 AM on weekdays. On Fridays and Saturdays, they often stay open until 8:00 PM. Sundays usually see an earlier closing time around 7:00 PM. Always check the official tourism board for last-minute changes.

Special events happen on specific dates throughout December. The official tree lighting occurs on the first Sunday of Advent. On December 24, the markets have shorter hours, usually closing by early afternoon. This allows locals to enjoy their traditional Christmas Eve dinner. Plan your arrival early in the day to see everything.

10 Best Things to Do at the Christmas Markets

Experience the magic of the season with these top-rated spots. The town is compact, making it easy to walk between locations. Here are our top picks for your holiday itinerary:

• Best overall: Svornosti Square Market
• Best for families: Bear Moat Christmas
• Best rainy-day: Monastery Complex
• Best free activity: Seminární Zahrada Viewpoint

1. Name: Svornosti Square Market Type: sight Why go: This is the heart of the festive action. Best for: Traditional food and handmade gifts. Where: Main Old Town Square. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free entry. Getting there: Walk from any central hotel. Tip: Try the local "Trdelník" pastry here.
2. Name: Český Krumlov Castle Tower Type: viewpoint Why go: It offers the best bird's-eye view of the snowy town. Best for: Photography lovers. Where: Castle District. Time: 45 minutes. Cost: Small entry fee. Getting there: A short uphill walk from the Latrán area. Tip: Visit at sunset for the best light. Read more about visiting Český Krumlov Castle.
3. Name: The Monastery Complex Type: experience Why go: It hosts craft workshops and quiet concerts. Best for: Escaping the cold. Where: Near the northern edge of the center. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Varies by activity. Getting there: 5-minute walk from the main square. Tip: Check their schedule for gingerbread decorating classes.
4. Name: Seminární Zahrada Type: viewpoint Why go: It provides a classic view of the castle across the river. Best for: Iconic skyline photos. Where: Next to the Regional Museum. Time: 15 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Located on Horní street. Tip: This spot is perfect for a quick selfie.
5. Name: Bear Moat Christmas Type: unique local experience Why go: Locals bring gifts to the castle bears on Christmas Eve. Best for: Animal lovers and kids. Where: State Castle entrance. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Main castle bridge. Tip: Arrive early on Dec 24 to see the festivities.
6. Name: Vltava Riverbank Type: nature Why go: The river reflects the holiday lights beautifully. Best for: Romantic evening walks. Where: Along the river loop. Time: 30 minutes. Cost: Free. Getting there: Follow the paths behind the shops. Tip: Wear shoes with good grip as paths can be icy.
7. Name: Museum of Marionettes Type: indoor Why go: It showcases the deep history of Czech puppetry. Best for: Families with children. Where: Latrán district. Time: 1 hour. Cost: Moderate fee. Getting there: Walk across the Barber's Bridge. Tip: The historic building itself is a work of art.
8. Name: Egon Schiele Art Centrum Type: museum Why go: It features world-class modern art in a historic brewery. Best for: Art enthusiasts. Where: Široká street. Time: 2 hours. Cost: Standard museum price. Getting there: Located in the center of the Old Town. Tip: The museum shop has unique artistic gifts.
9. Name: Latrán District Type: neighborhood Why go: This historic area is filled with charming boutiques. Best for: Finding unique souvenirs. Where: Below the castle. Time: 1-2 hours. Cost: Free to wander. Getting there: North of the river. Tip: Look for the painted house facades.
10. Name: Hluboká Castle Type: day trip Why go: It is one of the most beautiful white castles in Europe. Best for: A change of scenery. Where: 30km north of the city. Time: Half-day. Cost: Bus fare + tour fee. Getting there: Direct bus from the main station. Tip: The castle is a UNESCO wonder and looks stunning in snow.