September in Prague: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

By the time September comes to Prague, the summer tourist season has passed, and with it, the glut of tourists that choke Prague's attractions and fill the city's restaurants. The hottest months in the year have gone away and the weather begins to cool down as summer merges into autumn.

During the last bit of warmth of the season, you can enjoy everything from classical music and wine festivals to one of Prague's historic cafes to a walking tour of the historic sites in Old Town, many of which are only accessible by foot. Prague offers numerous opportunities to get a view from above, from the tower on Charles Bridge to the lookout in Old Town Hall. With fewer fellow travelers, you'll have a better chance to enjoy these panoramic views and other activities than you would in the summer.

Prague Weather in September

The approach of autumn in September brings falling temperatures, but it's also sunnier. The days are getting shorter, but even by the end of the month, Prague still offers almost 12 hours of daylight.

• Average high: 65 degrees Fahrenheit (19 degrees Celsius)
• Average low: 47 degrees Fahrenheit (8 degrees Celsius)
• Average number of rainy days: 15
• Average hours of sunshine: 6 hours each day

If you are hoping for the most comfortable temperatures, plan your visit between mid-September and mid-October—during this time there is less rain as well. The nice climate makes September a favorite time of year to visit Prague for many travelers, especially those who try to avoid the busiest travel seasons.

What to Pack 

When you travel to Prague in September, think layers. You'll start off in the morning needing a jacket or warm sweater and by the afternoon you'll be peeling it off. A scarf tied European style is a chic look and adds warmth. A poncho dresses up jeans for the evening and can be layered over a sweater and a blouse underneath for a triple-layer effect. Take jeans or slacks, long-sleeved tops, and lightweight sweaters. Always bring comfortable, flat shoes for walking with good support. 

September Events in Prague

Prague in September has a plethora of cultural and artistic festivities, ranging from classical and sacred music festivals to wine harvest events and an evening 10K race.

• St. Wenceslas Fair: September 28 is St. Wenceslas Day, and this event commemorates the patron saint of the Czech Republic with sacred music—like chants, choral music, and gospel—around Prague throughout the month. Various other events around the country celebrate this patron saint as well.
• St. Wenceslas Market: Honor the patron saint at a market filled with huts selling everything from puppets, jewelry, candles, and other crafts to tastes of grilled sausages and Czech beer. The market takes over Wenceslas Square for the second half of the month.
• Prague Autumn International Music Festival: The autumn version of Prague Spring that takes place every September, it's a popular event for travelers to experience quality international orchestras playing classic compositions.
• Vejvoda´s Zbraslav International Festival: For a few days at the end of this month, brass band music takes center stage with wind bands, big bands, and jazz ensembles. Watch for the competition of small wind bands with up to 25 players.
• Dvorak Prague International Music Festival: This special event for classical music fans goes on for a few weeks every September. Renowned soloists and conductors and internationally-acclaimed orchestras and chamber ensembles unite in various venues.
• Troja Wine Festival: Wine harvesting is a big deal in the Czech Republic in September, so enjoy this festival in the 17th century Troja Chateau courtyard and on St. Claire Vineyard in the Prague Botanic Garden, with lovely city views. Look for winery tours and tastings, regional foods, folk music, and dance shows all weekend, as well as at other wine-related events in nearby towns and villages.
• Birell Prague Grand Prix: People of all levels run through Prague's lit-up historic streets at twilight in this 10K event in early September. Visitors and locals can experience the beautiful Czech evening through a new lens.

September Travel Tips

• September 28 is a public holiday for Day of the Czech Statehood in honor of St. Wenceslas. Sightseeing and entertainment locales should have normal hours, but shops won't be open as many hours as usual.
• This month is ideal for sightseeing without having to deal with too many crowds. Airfares and hotel rates may be cheaper too, but it's always helpful to book in advance.
• Lingering bursts of warm days mean that it is still comfortable to eat outside during September, especially at lunchtime. Take any opportunity you get to eat on historic squares or tidy courtyards. On rainy or grey days, enjoy one of the local museums.