Rising Costs of Czech Christmas Markets
A family of four can expect to spend around 1,000 Kč (~$41.55) on food and beverages in Prague.
Prague is truly turning into a magical fairytale, with Christmas markets popping up here and there around the capital. Some people even say that Old Town and Wenceslas Square markets are voted the world's most Instagrammable ones, close to reaching 11,000 hashtags on the platform.
We took a deeper dive into the market landscape, and here's what we discovered about this year's festive culinary scene: a unique blend of traditional Czech treats, global street food, and innovative sustainability efforts that are transforming the classic Christmas market experience.
Prices Are Rushing from the Roof
The festive season reveals a complex economic landscape, with prices climbing at an unprecedented rate. Seznam Zprávy uncovered a price increase of 10% in Brno and 5% in Prague — driven by a storm of challenges. Ingredient costs for products like apples and butter have soared, labour expenses have climbed, and vendor stall rentals have reached a new height — 450,000 Kč (~$18,700 USD), an 80% increase from the previous year.
Even though prices skyrocketed in Brno, the city still offers a slightly more wallet-friendly alternative to the capital. For example, a typical family of four (two adults and two children) can expect to spend around 1,000 Kč (~$41.55) on food and beverages in Prague— 25% more than in other Czech cities.
Let’s look at drinks and food prices across different Christmas markets. Mulled wine, for instance, vividly illustrates the price surge. In Old Town Square, a single serving is 100 Kč (~$4.15) – 20 Kč more than in Náměstí Míru. At the same time, in northern Moravia, mainly Opava, the same drink drops to 50 Kč per serving. Brno, on the other hand, crowned this year's European Capital of Christmas, is the "golden mean," with prices ranging from 60 to 70 Kč.
Other popular drinks have similarly increased in price. Punch, another market favorite, now costs 80 Kč (~$3.32) in Prague, compared to 70 Kč in Brno and Opava. Even hot chocolate hasn't escaped this inflationary trend – you have to pay at least 80 Kč for this non-alcoholic drink.
Traditional Czech dishes are not immune to these price increases either. Sausages in Prague's Old Square cost 150 Kč (~$6.23), while in Náměstí Míru, they're slightly cheaper at 130 Kč. Brno and Opava offer them for just 120 Kč.
Langoš (deep-fried flatbread) costs between 120 Kč (~$4.99) and 160 Kč (~$6.65) in Prague, significantly more than in Moravia. At Náměstí Míru, vendors offer various toppings: garlic, ketchup, Edam cheese, spicy sauce, cheddar, tatarák, and sour cream. Sweet options include chocolate or strawberry with whipped cream or cinnamon sugar, though their compatibility with the savory bread remains uncertain.
Trdlo (chimney cake) prices have also increased. At Náměstí Míru, this sweet delicacy now costs 100 Kč, marking a 20% increase from last year.
Christmas market in Brno. Credit:
Global Cuisine Takes Center Stage
When we visited Christmas markets last year, we discovered an emerging trend in international cuisine. Spanish churros, French crêpes, and British fish and chips had become prominent attractions. This year, crêpes particularly drew long queues, offering an array of fillings — from classic strawberry and raspberry jams to fig preserves and pistachio with nuts. For those preferring savory options, ratatouille with parmesan was available. The price ranges from 90 to 120 crowns.
Global Traditions, Local Flavors: Brand Localization Lessons from Christmas Markets
What is more, international offerings have expanded even further — kebabs, bún bò huế soup, and corndogs are now trending in the Náměstí Míru market. These dishes, particularly Korean dishes, draw endless queues of eager tourists, mostly from Asian countries.
Digital Payments and Sustainability Takes Priority
While Christmas markets were traditionally cash-only venues, prompting us to withdraw money beforehand (and that’s exactly what we did), most vendors now accept card payments. This makes markets even more sustainable and cashless – a trend that Manifesto Market set in Prague.
Plus, integrated rescue service further ensures visitor safety at the markets. The organizers have also established a lost and found service behind the market area, keeping items for 24 hours before transferring them to the city council.
As you can see, environmental consciousness has become increasingly important for Czech residents. This is also one of the reasons why Prague markets now exclusively use biodegradable plates, napkins, and a deposit-based cup system. To reduce waste, vendors serve drinks in returnable mugs, which I usually take home as souvenirs or memories. This year, they are charming in the Náměstí Míru market!
Nevertheless, Brno has taken sustainability further with its "Daruj kelímek" ("Gift a Cup") initiative. Visitors can now donate their mug deposits to one of 18 charities, with organizers aiming to raise 10 million crowns (~$415K) by December 31.
Prague's Christmas markets continue to evolve, balancing traditional charm with modern sensibilities. Despite rising prices and economic challenges, they remain a vibrant celebration of food, culture, and community spirit. Make sure to visit them in Prague this year!
