Prague’s Easter Markets Return – Are the Prices Worth It?
The Easter markets have made their delightful return to Prague, transforming the city’s main squares into vibrant spaces filled with food vendors, lively music, and groups of tourists taking pictures beneath blossoming trees.
Although these markets are cherished seasonal events for the locals, many are finding it increasingly difficult to enjoy them — not due to the large crowds, but because of the rising prices. What once was an affordable way to spend an afternoon now feels more like a luxury outing, with even the simplest of snacks now costing as much as a meal at a restaurant.
At Old Town Square, you’ll find classic staples: roasted ham, trdelník, and langoš. However, the prices have noticeably changed.
A small serving of Prague ham is priced at 129 CZK for every 100 grams, and vendors typically sell no less than 300 grams. You can get a basic langoš for 180 CZK, while a standard trdelník without any filling costs 100 CZK, and those filled with ice cream or Nutella can go for as much as 160 CZK.
This year, there are also more international food options available, such as grilled octopus priced at 289 CZK per 100 grams and yuzu lemonade available for 120 CZK a glass.
The stalls at Wenceslas Square and Republic Square have similarly high prices, with burgers going for 250 CZK, hot dogs at 200 CZK, and fries at 150 CZK. Seasonal green beer can be enjoyed for 89 CZK per 400 ml.
For many Czechs, particularly those who recall the days of more modest Easter market prices, justifying the experience is becoming increasingly difficult. A handful of snacks and drinks can quickly add up to several hundred crowns, especially for families with children in tow.
Even in smaller areas that attract fewer tourists, like Náměstí Míru, the prices are still elevated. Here, a fried cheese sandwich costs 219 CZK. Traditional snacks such as potato pancakes are available for between 100 and 150 CZK. A langoš topped with pulled meat and various toppings will set you back 180 CZK — prices that have taken many regular visitors by surprise.
The organizers of the markets justify these prices by highlighting the increased costs of ingredients, labor, and logistics. Vendors face substantial fees for their locations and must navigate the challenges of rising inflation and energy expenses.
Yet, the general feeling remains that these markets are now more oriented towards tourists rather than locals.
Most of Prague’s Easter markets will remain open until April 27, except for Náměstí Míru, which will close earlier on April 21.
