Krakow is one of the most beautiful cities in Poland. The Christmas market on the Main Square has been recognized as one of the most beautiful in Europe—and for good reason! Here you immediately feel the aromas of mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and sausages, as well as carols and plenty of stalls with lovely Christmas decorations, candles, and other goods. These are the Christmas markets in Krakow.
Set off on a journey to experience the unique Christmas atmosphere and stroll through the historic city center, which is included in the UNESCO World Heritage list.
When are Christmas markets in Krakow?
Christmas markets in Krakow: from November 29, 2026 to January 1, 2027.
Where are the Christmas markets in Krakow located?
The Christmas markets in Krakow are held right in the city center, namely on the square called Rynek Głowny—the Main Square of the city. It is one of the largest squares in Europe, so the market here is truly impressive.
Every year, you can find about 80-100 stalls here, selling traditional handmade products, Christmas decorations, toys, candles, ceramics, clothing, and of course, snacks. And in addition, the historic Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) is also located on the square, where you can find all kinds of souvenirs, such as amber jewelry.
One of the highlights of the Christmas market in Krakow is the traditional caroling that takes place throughout December. The sound of joyful singing fills the air as locals and visitors gather to celebrate this special time of year.
The Krakow Christmas Crib Contest (Nativity scenes) is a masterfully designed, created, and decorated house (roughly the size of a traditional dollhouse), intended for a traditional puppet show in honor of the Nativity. Krakow holds the contest on the first Thursday of December near the Adam Mickiewicz Monument on the Main Square. And the winning cribs are exhibited at the City’s Historical Museum throughout the winter.
What to try at Krakow’s market
Of course, the experience of the Christmas market is incomplete without enjoying traditional Polish dishes. Here you can try many delicious dishes—from pierogi to sausages and wieners.
There is a huge selection of local food at the Christmas markets in Krakow. Be sure to try traditional Polish pierogi, especially those stuffed with cheese and potato or wild mushrooms. I also recommend Oscypek—smoked sheep cheese served with cranberry sauce. You should also try Polish thin waffles—they are delicious and could be the perfect finish to your Christmas dinner in Krakow.
How to get to Krakow
By car
Traveling by car is especially convenient for those living near the border with Poland or with good driving experience.
How much does the motorway vignette cost?
Poland does not have classic motorway vignettes. Toll is charged on certain sections of the highway. The fee will be charged on the A4 motorway between Katowice and Krakow on the way to Krakow. A single car trip costs 18 zloty (4 Euro). You can pay the fee at the toll booth by card or cash.
By train and bus
It is also relatively easy to get to Krakow by train. For example from Prague – trains Regio Jet.
An alternative is to travel by bus, as there are many buses from Ukraine to Krakow. But when planning such a trip, keep in mind that the bus may spend several hours to more than a day at the Polish border (depending on the day of the trip—if it falls on a holiday). Buses are conveniently found on the well-known portal Omio.com.
By plane
Of course, if you do not live in Ukraine, you can fly to Krakow by plane. Krakow Airport receives flights from many airlines, as well as low-cost carriers Ryanair, Wizzair.
What to see in Krakow
Since the Christmas markets are right in the center of Krakow, you have a great opportunity to explore the rest of the city. And there is so much to admire here! We highly recommend Wawel Castle , which is one of the most visited castles in Poland. It is also included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
If you have enough time,combine your visit to Krakow with a visit to the nearby salt mine in Wieliczka, which, like Wawel Castle, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will see beautiful salt chambers, amazing underground lakes, and unique salt sculptures. This is truly a fascinating place.
What you must visit in Krakow during the holidays:
- Immerse yourself in Poland’s history at the National Museum.
- Explore the Main Square, the main symbol of Krakow. Here you’ll find several other important landmarks, such as St. Mary’s Basilica, St. Adalbert’s Church, the Town Hall Tower, and the famous Sukiennice – the historic market hall of Krakow.
- Underground Museum – You’ll like it! The underground museum is located under the eastern part of the Main Square and covers over 6,000 m².
- Treat yourself to incredible traditional Polish cuisine at U Babci Maliny.
- Choose from a wide selection of bottled and draft beer at House of Beer.
- Go for a stroll in the picturesque Planty Park.
- Take a look at the 14th-century Florian Gate.
- Visit the historic and stunning royal Wawel Castle and its mysterious caves.
- In addition to the royal castle, there is also a magnificent cathedral on Wawel Hill.
Where to stay in Krakow during Christmas:
- Home Aparthotel≫ – Cozy hotel, very convenient location, close to all tourist attractions, tasty breakfast, polite staff at the reception who are happy to help.
- Otium Old Town Boutique≫ – The hotel has a very good location in the city center. Clean, very interesting rooms, with a wonderful window view, a spot on the windowsill to watch sunrises and sunsets.
- Loft Apartment Old Town – G47≫ – these apartments are very clean, spacious, and comfortable. The location is ideal—close to the most important attractions.
Useful articles and links:
Route schedules and bus tickets—on Omio.com
Green card and Travel medical insurance for traveling abroad—online on the portal HotlineFinance
Hotel and apartment bookings— Booking.com
Car rental – I look for inexpensive options at DiscoverCars
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