Discover Sustainable Christmas Markets across Europe
From Bratislava to the Christmas Market in Prague
Set out on an exhilarating winter expedition, journeying from Bratislava to Prague to experience the Czech capital’s famous Christmas market. Countless experiences and beautiful sights await you along the way. Fasten your seatbelt for a lot of fun, culinary discoveries, historical scenery and a holiday atmosphere that will enchant you.
Shimmering lights, delicious treats and an exuberant atmosphere – the Prague Christmas market, or as Czech people call it, “Pražský vánoční” is internationally famous. Whether you are into local handicrafts, vintage furniture or original works of art – you will find what you are looking for. And you can try some of the Czech’s traditional delicacies such as “Pernik” (gingerbread) or “Smažený Sýr” (fried cheese). But not only that, the Prague Christmas market is also making efforts to promote sustainability and eco-friendliness: it is using energy-efficient lights, eco-friendly materials and setting an example in waste management. Plus, the city launches initiatives every year to make the market more sustainable.
Unlike most Christmas markets in Europe, the Prague Christmas market does not end on Christmas day but extends until the holiday of the Three Kings on 6th January. What a great opportunity for a road trip after the busy holidays! So, hop in and let’s go!
From Bratislava to Ladná: Crossing into the Czech Republic
Your journey starts in Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. It forms a border triangle with Austria and Hungary and offers a beautiful mix of nature, culture and urban lifestyle. If you have some extra time to spare, we definitely recommend spending a little time here before starting your journey to Ladná. Once you are done exploring Bratislava, you take the D2 (E65) northwards for about 80 kilometres. During your journey, you pass by the Slovakian nature reserve “Záhorie” a few minutes before crossing the border into the Czech Republic. After another 15 minutes on the road, you arrive at your first official stop: the IONITY station Ladná in the Czech Republic.
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If you have some time to explore, you should visit the “Lednicko-valtický areál” (Lednice-Valtice Cultural Landscape), a UNESCO World Heritage site with two beautiful castles, a dog-friendly park area, pavilions, sculptures and other architectural elements. It is located in the South Moravian region of the Czech Republic just a little over ten kilometres away from the IONITY station.
A Taste of the Czech Republic: From Ladná to Jihlava
Back on the road, you stay on the D2 (E65) towards Brno for a little over 40 kilometres before exiting and continuing on the D1 (E50) for another 80 kilometres until you arrive at the IONITY station Pávov, in the district of Jihlava. The road from Brünn (Brno) to Jihlava takes you through the beautiful Czech countryside, offering a mix of rural Czech villages and some scenic landscapes with rolling hills, fertile farmland, rivers and small lakes.
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If you feel like moving your legs a little, you can visit the beautiful lake “Pavovsky Rybnik” inside the forest and trail area “Nový Pávov”, which treats you to an amazing, panoramic view over the endless landscapes of Jihlava. Even though “Nový Pávov” is very close to the IONITY station, it makes most sense to visit before taking the exit to the charging station to avoid a turning maneuver and unnecessary travel time.
Arriving in Prague
And just like that, you are on the last big leg of your journey. After 110 km on the D1 (E50), you arrive at the IONITY Station Nupaky. Once you’ve topped up your battery, keep driving on highway D1 (E50) towards the northwest. While passing through the metropolitan area of Prague, you can get a first glimpse of its beautiful architecture and cosmopolitan culture.
From Nupaky, you go on D1 (E50) for another 20 minutes until you reach your final destination: Prague’s famous Christmas market. There are plenty of parking opportunities in the area. Now you can enjoy the shimmering lights, some delicious Czech foods and soak in the magical Christmas atmosphere.
Address: Staroměstské náměstí, 110 00 Josefov, Czech Republic
Opening days: 2nd December – 6th January 2024
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday: 10.00 – 22.00
Overall travelling distance: 371 km
Number of IONITY Stations along the way: 3