Very few places in the world resonates a charm as charismatic, as authentic,as bohemian and as unique as Prague. Deeply rooted in its history, the city is strewn with colourful baroque buildings, prominent Gothic churches and other such relics. A part of city’s unique culture is the art of brewing world-class beers and winemaking. Perfectly suited for a reposeful, rejuvenating and a relaxing holiday in every season, spring adds a special beat to Prague. Lined with multiple festivals for food, beer, rum, wine and music there is no place like Prague in May.
Why is Prague in May a must-visit?
- The Praha Spring - Often referred as Praha by the locals, Prague bursts with white, purple, pink and yellow blooms during May. While the flowers perfectly compliment the city, the pleasantly warm weather chaperones the visitors as well as locals for a great time.
- Less crowded - Prague in May is like that small window of calm before the flocks of summer tourists starts arriving. You will be able to explore and enjoy the city without the crowds, while availing great deals on accomodation and travel.
- Festivals - The calendars for May in Prague are chalked up to festivals, whether you are looking forward for a gastronomic experience or to sample some vintage wines or some frothy beers, you will get what you want and more. Intertwined with great music ranging from jazz to contemporary, each of these festivals summons the locals and enthusiasts from all around the world.
Prague weather in May
Prague in May experiences warm weather with temperatures ranging between 15-25°C. However, three days in the middle of May are referred to as the "Frozen Saints" days, when the temperature drops to near freezing in the morning. Safe to say, Prague in May is sunny, chilly and rainy!
Prague in May: Things to do
1
Prague Castle
One of the most important monument in the Czech Republic, the Prague Castle is the largest castle in the world. Spread across 7 hectares, the castle has 3 courtyards and some stunning historic buildings. The pleasant weather of May, allows you to explore the castle ground with much comfort .
May Timings
Open daily: 6am to 10pm
119 08 Prague 1,
Czechia
Getting There ›
2
Powder Tower
One of Prague’s original city gates, the Powder Tower is a marvelous example of the Late Gothic architecture. Still part of the royal route, the gate is a vision to look at. During the 17th century, the powder tower was used as a gunpower store, earning its peculiar name.
May Timings
Open daily: 10am to 7pm
nám. Republiky 5, 110 00 Staré Město,
Czechia
Getting There ›
3
St. Vitus Cathedral
Situated within the Prague Castle complex, the Renaissance and Baroque inspired architecture of the cathedral is breathtakingly beautiful. Being the sight for coronations of Czech kings and queens and the burial grounds for many notable personalities, the St. Vitus Cathedral carries a lot of historical, religious and cultural significance.
May Timings
Monday – Saturday: 9am to 5pm
Sunday: 12pm to 5pm
4
Dancing House
Though known for its Baroque, Gothic and Art Nouveau buildings, Prague also proudly boasts an exemplary example of modern architecture - the Dancing House. The uniquely fluid architecture design of the building resembles a pair of dancers. One can only imagine how that May’s soft light would enhance the glassy exterior, or they could just visit in May.
May Timings
Open daily: 10am – 10pm
Jiráskovo nám. 1981/6, 120 00 Nové Město,
Czechia
Getting There ›
5
Národní divadlo
Whether you are a theatre enthusiasts or not, the National Theatre in Prague is a visual treat. Form the awe-inspiring exterior to the luxurious embellished interior, everything is just ornately beautiful. Furthermore you can choose between a drama, opera or a ballet performances or see all three of them.
May Timings
Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 Pm
Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Národní 2, 110 00 Nové Město,
Czechia
Getting There ›
6
Prague Astronomical Clock
Believe it or not, the 600 year Prague Astronomical Clock still works and displays the time, date, astronomical cycles and Christian holidays. To the delight of its spectators the clock rings its signature bell every hour as the 12 apostles peaks out from its windows. Make sure to time your visit accordingly.
May Timings
Tuesday to Sunday: 10am to 7pm
Monday: 11am to 7pm
Staroměstské nám. 1, 110 00 Staré Město,
Czechia
Getting There ›
7
Vltava River Cruise
Sail across the lifeline of the Czech Republic and experience Prague’s historical landmarks from a new perspective. With the May sun perfectly backlighting them and the spring air working its magic a Vltava River Cruise will present you a engrossing, rejuvenating and enriching experience, that you can’t afford to miss.
May Timings
Timings may vary
Prague,
Czechia
Getting There ›
8
Old Town and Jewish Quarter
Stamped with their own brand of oId word charm, visiting Prague’s most popular neighborhoods is a trip that you must take. Take advantage of the moderate May weather and for a walking tour, that will allow you to closely explore the magnificent history of these places along with a professional guide.
May Timings
Timings may vary
Staroměstské nám, 110 00 Staré Město
Czechia
Getting There ›
9
A day trip to Terezin Concentration Camp
Prague is aware of its dark past and you can acquaint yourself with it at the Terezin Concentration Camp. It is believed to be one of the most terrifying oppression centers operated by Adolf Hitler. Take a guided tour of this spot in accompaniment of an expert guide and know about Czechoslovakia’s side of the World War misery. A tour of Terezin Concentration Camp in April might move you away from a majority of tourists.
May Timings
Timings may vary
G578+G3 Terezín,
Czechia
Getting There ›
Prague in May: Events to look out for
May Rituals / Love day
May 1, 2024
Prague isn’t one of the most romantic place in the country for nothing. Following the Karel Hynek Macha epic poem ‘May’, lovers follow some traditions. Such as sharing a kiss in front of the poet’s statue at Petrin hill, or sharing a kiss under a cherry blossom or any blooming tree.
Liberation Day
May 8, 2024
This year mark the 75th anniversary of Liberation Day in Prague and the Czech Republic. Indeed a very notable event, expect various events being organised all over the city. Since it’s a public holiday, major shops and business are either closed or open for limited time.
Akon
May 16, 2024
Akon's coming to Prague! With chart-topping hits like Lonely, Smack that and Beautiful - if you're heading to Prague in May, don't miss his concert!You'll get to groove and dance the night away!
Pink May Festival
May 1, 2024
The Degustational Festival of Rosé wines and Claret hosts over 25 wineries from Moravia and Bohemia. Don’t just sample the wine, have a gala; there’s plenty of food including grilled fish, seafood, foié de grass, baguettes, cheeses and prosciuttos and there’s plenty of live jazz and swing music.
Prague in May: 3-day itinerary
Prague essentials in May
LanguageCzech
Time zoneGMT+2
Country Code+420
Socket Type E
CurrencyCzech Koruna(Kč)
Prague Weather in May
Over the month of May, the temperature steadily observes a rise, the 16°C high during daytime goes up to 20°C by the end of the month. Expect plenty of sunshine with the hours of daylight also steadily increasing. Around 69mm of rain is received between 17 days throughout the month.
Where to Stay in Prague in May
Prague offers multitude of accommodation options ranging from hotels to youth hostels, from apartment to campsites. With plenty of options available, you can choose the best suitable place depending upon your itinerary and travel budget.
- Luxury Hotels: Golden Well, Alchymist Prague Castle Suites, Alchymist Grand Hotel and Spa
- Mid - Range: Rezidence Vysehrad, Appia Residence, Hotel Alwnyn
- Budget Hotels: Exe City Park Hotel, Pension Dientzenhofer prague, Hotel Salvator
- Camping sites - Camping Drusus, River Camping Prague, AutoCamp Trojská
What to Pack for Prague in May
As mentioned above Prague is mostly warm during May, but cold winds and rains are known to be part of the season as well. The trick to dressing for Prague in May is layering, pack clothes that can be layered up and layered down as per the temperature outside. The packing list includes: Rain jacket, umbrella, scarf/hat, sunscreen, Sunglasses, lightweight jacket jeans, cotton shirts/blouses, shorts, cotton pants and most importantly comfortable shoes for your long walks.
Getting Around in Prague in May
Entrust your travels in and around Prague on the city’s public transport system that is easy, reliable, and very affordable. The capital city of Czech Republic has one of the best public transportation systems in Europe with a well connected network of metro, trams and busses.
The speedy metro takes will take you closer to your destination, catch a bus or tram for the remaining distance or just walk. The integrated ticket system in Prague allows you to travel across the city on one ticket. Depending upon your itinerary, you could opt for a tourist transport pass or the Prague City Card.
Prague in May: Must-try delicacies
Czech cuisine is famous for being exotic but healthy, and there’s no dearth of restaurants to sample this fare. Presenting some of the top dishes for you to try when visiting Prague:
A crowd pleaser that can be easily found in cafes or food carts around the city. Palačinky is Czech’s version of thin crepe-like pancake. These rolled up delicacies are available with both sweet fillings such as jam, fruit, cream or nuts and savory fillings such as meat, spinach or cheese. Where to eat: Creperie Mirakulum, Café Faux Pas, Bistro Tady
The unpronounceable sweet delicacy that is sold by street vendors across Prague. Wrapped around a stick to make it cylindrical, it is grilled or fried and coated in sugar or chocolate. The crunchy outer shell gives into a soft croissant-like inner layer. Where to eat: MLS Waffle point U Kajetana, Good Food Coffee & Bakery
A staple food item in Czech cuisine, that has earned its place in almost all food menu in Prague. Typically prepared with beef, Goulash is served with sliced bread dumplings or bramboracky (potato dumplings) or Karlovarsky (Herb dumplings). Where to eat: Mlejnice, Meduzzy, Malostranská beseda
English for garnished breads, Chlebíčky is an open-faced sandwich that is loved by the locals and tourists alike. Whether for lunch or breakfast, for a social gathering or a high-profile parties these sandwiches fits itself in every occasion.Where to eat: Chlebíčky Letná, Lahůdky Zlatý kříž, Sisters, chlebíčky Praha
Perfect for on the go meaty delight, Klobásy is readily available from street vendors and bars across the city. Well cooked grilled sausages are served with caramelised onion, mustard, bread and probably beer. You will find many versions of Klobásy at almost every festival you visit. Where to eat: Václavská klobása, Lokál
Tips for visiting Prague in May
- Festival etiquette - Prague in May observes many Music, food and drinking festivals. While the bottom line for such events is fun, it is important to note that your fun shouldn’t create troubles for others. The festival authorities are very strict about maintaining the decorum of their event.
- Beware of Pickpockets - Wherever there’s crowd scammers/pickpockets becomes quite active, especially at festivals. Mind your personal belongings at crowded places. Also, prefer buying event tickets online from a reputable source or at the event counters itself to avoid getting scammed by a middle man.
- Take walking tours - The best part of visiting the city in May is the weather, you can comfortably take long walks around the city. The best way to do so, is to join a walking tour of your choice and have a professional guide take you through the hidden gems of the city. Additionally, guides can often refer you great tips and tricks to enjoy the city better.
- Taste the Brew - Even if you are not much of a beer drinker, when in Prague surely taste their brews. With multiple festivals organised around the town during May, finding a good brew or two is not that big a task. Moreover, whether at bars or festivals, you get to eat great food and meet new people, locals and tourists alike.
- Meal with a view - As Prague steps into May, the restaurant owners start opening their outdoor and rooftop seatings again. With amazing view everywhere you look, make sure to enjoy a meal or two at such quaint places.
- Street Food - Czech cuisine is quite unique, especially the street food. Taking advantage of the weather and the upcoming tourist season, street vendors are commonly spotted across Prague during May. Make sure you try some of Prague’s most famous street food and don’t forget to thank us in the comment section below for the suggestion.
Explore Prague through the year
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Ready to visit Prague in May?
Here are some detailed blogs that will help you plan your Prague vacation better.
