Christmas markets in Krakow
Kraków’s iconic Market Square, Rynek Glowny, comes alive at Christmas time. With snow and stalls galore, it’s the perfect backdrop for immersing yourself in festive celebrations. The Cloth Hall and a towering Christmas tree are the focal point making the Kraków Christmas Market a fantastical experience.
With a hot drink in hand, browsing the 70 or more wooden stalls in the oldest Medieval square in Europe is the best way to get in the Christmas spirit!
Kraków is home to Poland’s largest Christmas Market
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Top Experiences at Kraków’s Christmas Markets
Kraków’s Christmas Markets run from the 29th of November to the 1st of January. Although there is just one large Christmas Market in Kraków, there are plenty of traditions, treats and things to see...
- Christmas Crib Contest: Dating back to the Middle Ages and held as an official competition since 1937, Kraków’s annual Christmas Crib Contest takes place at the beginning of December, during the Christmas Market season (expected to run from 28 November 2025 to early January 2026). Locals gather at the Adam Mickiewicz Monument to parade their dazzling handmade cribs—often resembling miniature cathedrals and castles—before they are judged. It’s a colorful, one-of-a-kind tradition that adds a distinctly Kraków flavor to the festive season.
- The Food: Kraków’s Christmas Market is famous for its mouthwatering food. Alongside seasonal staples like candied nuts, chocolate, and steaming mugs of mulled wine, you’ll find traditional Polish specialties. Try Oscypek (smoked sheep’s cheese), Kiełbaski Myśliwska (smoked pork sausage with juniper berries), Kiełbasa Czosnkowa (garlic sausage), Krówka (Polish fudge), or a hearty zapiekanka (an open-faced grilled sandwich). These festive flavors make the market a true culinary highlight.
- Handcrafted Goods: One of the best souvenirs from Kraków’s Christmas Market is a handcrafted decoration to take home for your tree. Stalls are filled with intricately carved wooden ornaments, pottery, jewelry, and kitchenware, as well as plenty of cozy woolen goods—from slippers to scarves. Each purchase supports local artisans and gives you a piece of Kraków’s festive spirit to treasure.