What will the Advent markets be like in Krakow this year? Program and important information in one place

Krakow is known not only as the historical residence of Polish kings but also as Poland’s most beautiful Christmas city.

What is the significance of the Christmas markets in Krakow and why are they so popular?

Learn more about them.

Maybe they will convince you so much that you must visit them.

History of the Markets

The tradition of Christmas markets in Poland dates back centuries, and Krakow’s market is one of the oldest and most cherished.

Originally, these markets served as a place for local artisans and farmers to sell their wares in preparation for the Christmas season. Today, they remain a vital part of Polish culture, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage and festive traditions.

Krakow Advent Markets

When the first snowflakes begin to fall on Krakow’s cobblestone streets, the city undergoes a magical transformation. The air fills with the scent of gingerbread and mulled wine, and the historic Main Square becomes a twinkling wonderland of Christmas lights and festive cheer. It’s time for the Advent Markets, a beloved tradition that captures the heart of the holiday season in Poland.

Krakow is worth a visit at any time of the year, but as a Christmas destination, the city ranks among the best European cities. The old town with its castle panorama and beautiful cobbled streets becomes a living Christmas card, especially when it snows.

Short days and cold nights are the perfect excuse to warm up with mulled wine and enjoy Polish specialties, which you can find in abundance at the cozy Christmas market called Krakowskie Targi Bożonarodzeniowe.

Christmas markets on the Main Square

When and where will it all take place?

Program of the Krakow Christmas Market

Christmas markets in Krakow are connected with more than a century of tradition, in 2016 they were awarded as the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe. You can enjoy the ubiquitous sounds of Christmas carols, the smell of the Christmas tree, and lots of lights and attractions.

Krakow’s Christmas markets cover a large part of the Rynek, a huge square around the famous Sukiennice Market. Here you will find a Christmas village of about 80 wooden cabins, where all kinds of gifts and trinkets are sold.

This year, we will also find about eighty stalls on the Main Market Square, including many exhibitors from Poland and abroad. We will have the opportunity to taste German, Lithuanian, Dutch, Ukrainian, and Slovak cuisine. Among the specialties, we will find old Polish pierogi and oscypek.

Lovers of sweets will also find something for themselves – roasted nuts in caramel, waffles, gingerbread, and homemade cakes.

There will also be no shortage of craftsmen and creators of the broadly understood “DIY” among the exhibitors. Wooden nativity scenes, painted baubles, Christmas decorations and ornaments, ceramic products, or wooden toys – these are just some of the products that can be found on the Krakow market.

Poland is famous for its amber jewelry, but here you can buy handicrafts from all kinds of materials, including beautiful hand-painted glass Christmas ornaments and carved wooden toys or nativity scenes.

The fair itself will be accompanied by other popular events, such as the Dziady show, the Carol Parade, a visit from Santa Claus, and the Presidential Christmas Wafer.

Children will also have the opportunity to write their own letter to Santa Claus, in which they will ask for their most secret Christmas dreams to come true.

Children can look forward to a visit from Santa Claus or the opportunity to write a letter to Santa Claus in which they can express their most secret wishes. Right next to the market on the Rynek Główny Square, there is a stage with live performances throughout the season. You can take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the square to enjoy the real atmosphere.

What does it look like at the Christmas market in Krakow? Take a look:

Jarmark Bożonarodzeniowy w Krakowie 2023

And what else to do?

• Handcrafted Treasures: Discover unique gifts, from intricately painted ornaments to hand-carved wooden toys, perfect for adding a touch of Polish charm to your holiday décor.  
• Culinary Delights: Indulge in traditional Polish fare like pierogi, kielbasa, and oscypek, or warm up with a cup of grzaniec (mulled wine) and roasted chestnuts.  
• Festive Atmosphere: Immerse yourself in the sounds of carols, laughter, and the gentle clinking of glasses, creating a truly magical ambiance.
• Cultural Experiences: Witness traditional Polish folk dances, listen to live music, and learn about the customs that make Christmas in Poland so special.  

Don’t Miss

• St. Mary’s Basilica: Admire the stunning architecture of this iconic church, and witness the hourly trumpet call from its tower.  
• Cloth Hall: Explore this historic marketplace, once a bustling center of trade, and now home to souvenir shops and cafes.  
• Christmas Tree: Gather around the towering Christmas tree in the center of the square, a symbol of hope and joy during the festive season.

How to plan a visit to the Krakow Christmas market

Consider these Christmas.co.uk tips as you plan your festive trip:

Planning: We think that visiting on weekdays will help avoid weekend crowds, especially during peak season. That also means booking your accommodation early.

Clothing: Krakow winters can be quite chilly, with temperatures often dipping below freezing. Pack warm layers – thermals, a winter coat, hat, gloves, and sturdy boots are essential. Be prepared for snow too.

Currency: Poland uses the Polish Złoty or Euro, so it’s a good idea to exchange some currency beforehand or use a travel card. Many stalls accept debit and credit cards, but some will only deal in cash.

Souvenirs: The unique Polish keepsakes we mentioned earlier include intricately crafted amber necklaces and hand-painted wooden boxes depicting Polish folk scenes. You could even buy a warm and stylish sheepskin hat or scarf to keep you cosy during your visit. For friends and family, take a pack of beautifully decorated pierniki cookies home to share.

Basic Polish phrases: While we found that many Poles speak a good level of English, learning a few basic Polish phrases will be appreciated, such as ‘Dzień dobry’ (Hello), ‘Dziękuję’ (Thank you), ‘Proszę’ (Please), ‘Przepraszam’ (Excuse me), ‘Wesolych Świąt Bożego Narodzenia’ (Merry Christmas).

Whether you’re seeking unique gifts, indulging in delicious food, or simply soaking up the festive atmosphere, the Krakow Christmas Markets on the Main Square offer an unforgettable experience. Join the locals and visitors alike as they celebrate the magic of Christmas in this historic city.