Krakow Christmas Market 2025 and everything you need to know about it
The famous Krakow Christmas Market is a yearly event that most tourists are excited about. It’s a place where you can buy souvenirs. You should also try local sausages and admire folklore shows. The whole square becomes busy and colourful, with music, food smells and people walking around with cups of hot drinks. Even on colder days it feels lively. There is always something happening: a performance, a small concert, or vendors demonstrating how their handmade items are created.
Important dates
Krakow Christmas Market usually takes place between the last week of November or the first week of December and the 1st of January. We will update these dates when they are officially announced.
Right now, wooden stalls are already being set up, so the preparations are clearly in progress. For locals, that’s the usual sign that the holiday season is almost here, long before the lights are turned on.
Where does it take place?
You probably already know the answer to that question but I won’t judge if you don’t. I’m here to inform you.
Krakow Christmas Market 2025 will take place, as always, in the Main Square, in front of Sukiennice. It’s in the city centre and our driver can take you there safely. The market is open every day from 10am to 8pm.
The afternoon hours are the most impressive, because it gets dark in Poland around 4pm now. When the sky turns darker, all the decorations become more visible and the whole place looks much more atmospheric. The lights, music and the smell of food make the square feel very cosy despite the cold.
What you can eat/buy there
- Oscypek with cranberry sauce – grilled smoked cheese from the mountains, warm and salty. Very popular and easy to spot.
- Grzaniec (mulled wine) – hot, sweet drink with spices. Good for warming up your hands and face.
- Kielbasa – Polish sausage grilled on the spot. Usually served with bread and mustard.
- Pierogi – dumplings with different fillings such as cheese and potatoes, meat or cabbage and mushrooms.
- Gingerbread and local sweets – decorated cookies, honey cakes and traditional pastries sold by small bakeries.
- Handmade ornaments – glass baubles, wooden decorations and embroidered items. Good for souvenirs.
- Wool products – gloves, hats, slippers and blankets made by highlander vendors.
- Local crafts – candles, jewellery, small ceramics, wooden figurines and other items made by Polish artisans.
- Classic souvenirs – magnets, postcards and simple gifts for friends or family.
Weather and what to wear
Krakow in December is usually cold and snowy. Temperatures reach less than 5 degrees Celsius. Therefore, I recommend you wearing a warm cozy fur and winter boots. Don’t forget your scarf, gloves and a winter hat. Most people stay outside for a long time. It’s not a problem if you dress properly. I understand all of you divas who want to shine in their dresses… There’s also a solution for you. You might wear layers. Say yes to 3 socks, heated leggings and a pair of tights! Hot drinks also help a lot when the wind gets stronger.
Practical tips for tourists
It helps to carry some cash because not every stall accepts cards. Besides, it’s good to support local entrepreneurs:). Cash over digital currencies. Crowds build fast, so keep your phone and wallet in one safe place. Poland is generally safe but it’s good to be cautious. Do not rush with purchases because prices differ between stalls. Give yourself at least two hours to eat, walk and shop without stress. Check the prices and try to remember which stalls offer best deals. Good photos are easier early in the day before large groups arrive. Last but not least, a simple plan for the visit makes everything easier.
Transport and getting there
Most hotels are close enough for a short walk to the Main Square. Public transport is easy and stops are near the old town. Taxis work well, but traffic can slow down during busy evenings. A MrShuttle driver is the most comfortable option because you are dropped near the entrance streets. You do not waste time searching for the right way. You can also set your pick up time for the return. This helps a lot when you want to rest after a long evening. If you plan more places in one night, tell the driver so the route fits your plan.
Book your transfer now! Plan ahead.
