Krakow, Poland nestled in the heart of eastern Europe, transforms into a winter wonderland with its Christmas markets and festive traditions. The city is known for its well-preserved medieval old town and lively Jewish quarter.
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How to get to Krakow
The best way to reach Krakow from London is by plane. There are several airlines that operate multiple direct flights from London’s major airports to Krakow’s John Paul II International Airport. The flight duration is approximately two to three hours, making it the perfect destination for a short weekend getaway.
From the airport to the city centre is around 15kms. There is the option to order an Uber or Taxi from the airport where price will start at around 55 zł and will take around 25 minutes depending on traffic. If you prefer to have someone waiting for you on arrival you can book a Krakow Airport Arrivals Transfer.
If you prefer to get the bus there is a stop located outside the arrivals hall. This journey will take you around 50 minutes and costs about 4.60 zł. By train you can to go from Krakow Airport to the City Center in around 20 minutes. The train station is located near the passenger terminal and tickets can be purchased in the arrivals hall for around 12 zł.
Want to explore more of Europe at Christmas time? Explore our guide to Riga, Latvia at Christmas
What to do in Krakow
Rynek Underground Museum
The Rynek museum transports you into Krakow’s medieval past. In the museum you will go underneath the main square to show the archaeological excavations beneath the square are a testament to the dedication of preserving Krakow’s heritage.
To buy tickets you can pre book them online or from the ticket office at the entrance of the museum, Adult tickets are 32 zł. On Tuesdays the museum is free you must pick up tickers from the box office on the day you can purchase a total of 5 tickets at one time.
Aushwitz-Birkenau
Auschwitz-Birkenau stands as an indelible symbol of human suffering and resilience. It is a reflection on one of the the darkest chapters in human history—the Holocaust.
To get to Aushwitz-Birkenau which is located on the outskirts of the city it is recommended to go as part of a day tour. We went on the Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine tour through Viator as we wanted to be able to visit both attractions and have someone take us rather than trying to do it on our own.
Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau, the site evokes an overwhelming sense of solemnity as visitors walk through the eerily preserved barracks, gas chambers, and crematoria. When visiting over the winter you are truely able to imagine the harsh conditions that those in the concentration camps had to face. The images and personal belonging of those no longer with us is a haunting reminder of the unimaginable horrors that those in Auschwitz faced.
Please remember: before heading to Auschwitz-Birkenau that this is not only a historical landmark but a memorial for millions of people who have suffered during the Holocaust. When visiting please show your utmost respect and sensitivity for those around you.
Wieliczka Salt Mine
The Wieliczka Salt Mine, a subterranean wonder located just outside Krakow which can be combined with the Auschwitz-Birkenau tour. This UNESCO World Heritage Site gives visitors the opportunity to discover the underground world crafted by skilled miners.
If your looking for a place to eat nearby to the Salt Mine make sure to check out ‘Dzień Dobry’ Pierogarnia. A small family run restaurant that was our favourite place to eat during our time in Krakow.
Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine guided ONE DAY TOUR
Wawel Castle
This Gothic masterpiece is located on Wawel Hill about a 10-minute walk away from the Main Market Square. During your visit on Wawel Castle you can explore the staterooms, the armoury, and more. Tickets for entrance around around 36 zł and for the extra audio guide it is 14,00 zł. If you would like more of a guided tour of the area you can try the Wawel Castle & Cathedral Guided Tour.
If you don’t want to explore the castle itself it is still a beautiful place to wander around to view its snow covered buildings as well as enjoying the panoramic views of the Vistula River. Don’t miss the main attraction at the castle is the Wawel Castle Dragon Statue which breaths real fire every 5 minutes.
What’s on for Christmas in Krakow
Poland is an ideal destination for the festive season, boasting its unique set of Christmas traditions. It also offers the possibility of experiencing a snowy Christmas, allowing you to enjoy a magical winter wonderland.
Christmas Traditions in Poland
Polish Christmas festivities begin on Christmas Eve. It is begun with a festive dinner where families gather to share a 12-course meal. This dinner includes “Barszcz” beetroot soup and “Pierogi” dumplings, followed by fish. After dinner families will attend Midnight Mass before welcoming in Christmas where gifts are exchanged before enjoying a delicious Christmas Day feast.
Christmas Markets in Krakow
Krakow’s Christmas markets are located in Rynek Glowny and run from the end of November to January, with some stalls closing during Christmas. Visitors can indulge in Polish delights such as pierogi, traditional Polish soup, and warm mulled wine. These markets offer an enchanting shopping experience where you can purchase delightful items like gingerbread, handcrafted wooden toys, and much more.
Looking for things to do at Christmas time in London? Read our guide on 12 Festive Things to do at Christmas in London
Where to eat in Krakow
Charlotte Cafe
This French bakery and wine bar is a great place to head for a good breakfast. They serve a French breakfast with your choice of pastries and hot beverages, this place does get very busy so you may have to wait for a table to become available.
Somnium Cafe
This tiny but super cozy cafe is the perfect place in Kazimierz to hide away from the cold weather. They have a variety of coffee as well as some pastries and cakes however they mostly specialise in coffee.
Restauracja Baster
Located in Kazimierz is Restaurajca Baster. Unfortunately we didn’t get here as we didn’t make a booking while staying over the weekend. It has great reviews but you need to make sure to book in advance. They serve traditional Polish food with a fine dinning flare but still at reasonable prices.
Czarna Owca Wino Bar
Czarna Owca is a cozy wine bar located in the Kazimierz area. They have very knowledgeable staff to assist you with choosing the perfect wine accompanied by a cheese board and tapas.
Kawa – Zwierzyniecka
Kawa is special coffee located on you walk towards the river and Krakow Castle. They serve a large selection of hot drinks including coffee from around the world. There is also a very small selection of pastries to take away with you.
Sababa – Cocktail Bar
Sababa is a dark and sultry cocktail bar located above another restaurant. We stumbled upon this place and it has been our go to recommendation for anyone heading to Krakow. The cocktails are more pricey for that some places in the area however the service and the knowledge of the bar staff was outstanding.
Słowiańska Uczta – Pierogarnia
If you want traditional polish food while in Krakow this is a must visit place. This place is full of locals coming to have lunch or picking up food for take away. Its excellent traditional polish food such as Borscht and pierogi are a must try from here.
Where to stay in Krakow
Hotel Stary
PURO Kraków Kazimierz
1 Comment
I have always wanted to visit Poland. Added to my bucket list!