Europe’s ‘least religious country’ still named one of best places to visit at Christmas

Despite being recognised as Europe’s “least religious country”, the Czech Republic continues to enchant visitors with its unique and culturally rich Christmas traditions. With only around a third of Czechs professing belief in God, marking the lowest rate in Europe, the nation’s holiday celebrations remain deeply rooted in a captivating blend of history, culture, and festive spirit.

The juxtaposition of a predominantly secular population and the persistence of religious undertones in Christmas festivities has drawn international attention to the Czech Republic during the holiday season. Tourists from around the world are increasingly discovering the charm of celebrating Christmas in a country where traditions reflect a fascinating mix of influences.

Statistics indicate that approximately one-third of Czech citizens identify as religious, making it the European country with the lowest rate of religious adherence. While the majority of Czechs may not actively participate in organised religion, the country’s festive atmosphere during Christmas reveals an enduring connection to religious customs and practices.

The unique appeal of Czech Christmas celebrations lies in the seamless blend of religious and cultural elements. Historic cities like Prague transform into winter wonderlands adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. The atmosphere is reminiscent of a fairy tale, with traditional Christmas markets filling the air with the scent of roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and holiday treats.

Despite the low religious adherence, many Czech families partake in the customary Christmas Eve dinner, known as “Štědrý den,” where a festive feast is shared, and families exchange gifts. The dinner often includes traditional dishes such as fried carp and potato salad. An integral part of the evening is the placement of a white tablecloth on the festive table, symbolising purity and the hope for prosperity in the coming year.

The Czech Republic’s historical architecture, illuminated by festive lights, adds a timeless charm to Christmas celebrations. Churches, although not as central to the Czech Christmas experience as in some other European countries, still play a role in the festive landscape. Midnight Masses are attended by those seeking a more traditional religious experience, providing a serene backdrop to the bustling holiday activities.

Tourists who visit the Czech Republic during the Christmas season often express admiration for the country’s ability to preserve and adapt traditions, creating a celebration that caters to both religious and secular sensibilities.

The Czech Republic’s historical architecture, illuminated by festive lights, adds a timeless charm to Christmas celebrations. Churches, although not as central to the Czech Christmas experience as in some other European countries, still play a role in the festive landscape. Midnight Masses are attended by those seeking a more traditional religious experience, providing a serene backdrop to the bustling holiday activities.

Tourists who visit the Czech Republic during the Christmas season often express admiration for the country’s ability to preserve and adapt traditions, creating a celebration that caters to both religious and secular sensibilities.

One TripAdvisor reviewer said of Prague Wenceslas Square Christmas Market: “It’s an excellent Christmas Market in Prague and was the biggest Christmas Market that we visited in this magical city. Located on the most famous square in the whole of Prague, this Christmas Market has many festive stalls that sell everything that relate to the festive period.

“With eateries and drink stalls located right along Wencenlas Square that look brilliant when illuminated at night and on our trip to this Christmas Market looked amazing. When we visited here we had a few cup’s of hot mulled wine (Glühwein) which was really refreshing and warmed us up on a freezing cold night.

“A brilliant Christmas Market in a very good area of Prague and well worth a visit if you are in this area of Prague and very easy to locate as Museam metro stop puts you off in this superb Christmas Market.”