Find everything you need to know about Krakow in December, from the winter weather and holiday traditions to the best places to stay, what to see, and how to plan your days during the city’s coldest and most festive month.
Krakow in December transforms into a winter city where cold air settles over cobblestone streets, and Christmas lights brighten the Old Town after sunset. The month brings snow, shorter days, and temperatures that regularly drop below freezing. Still, it also delivers one of Europe's most atmospheric Christmas markets and a quieter rhythm that lets you explore without summer crowds.
If you're planning a trip, browsing through the largest selection of travel packages to Krakow helps you sort transport, accommodation, and guided visits in one place, especially when winter weather makes logistics more important than usual.
The city's main sights stay open through December, and indoor attractions like museums, galleries, and heated cafés give you plenty of places to warm up between outdoor walks. Booking tours and tickets in Krakow ahead of time keeps your itinerary smooth, particularly for popular sites like Wawel Castle, Schindler's Factory, and day trips to Auschwitz-Birkenau or Wieliczka Salt Mine.
Where you stay matters more in winter. Hotels in Krakow range from Old Town properties steps from the Christmas market to quieter options in Kazimierz, where you get a more local feel without sacrificing walkability. The right location minimizes time outside in the cold and puts you close to the experiences that make December worth the trip.
Krakow in December: Key Takeaways
Krakow in December feels genuinely wintry, with cold air settling over the Old Town, early sunsets, and a steady mix of snow, frost, and short bursts of sunshine. The Christmas Market defines much of the month, and the city remains easy to explore as long as you’re ready for freezing temperatures.
Most attractions operate normally throughout December, but the Christmas period brings a few important changes you should plan around.
- Expect real winter weather. Temperatures hover around freezing during the day and drop below it at night. Snow, sleet, slush, and icy sidewalks are all common, so warm layers and proper footwear matter.
- The Christmas Market runs all month. The Main Market Square becomes the busiest and most festive part of the city, with food stalls, lights, and daily performances that create a lively atmosphere even on cold evenings.
- Most attractions stay open, including Wawel Castle, Schindler’s Factory, MOCAK, Rynek Underground, and the Wieliczka Salt Mine. Operations are normal for most of December.
- Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are the exceptions. Museums, galleries, and major indoor attractions close on December 25, and many also close early or entirely on December 24. Restaurants, cafés, and the Christmas Market remain your most reliable options on these two days.
- Short daylight hours shape your rhythm. The sun sets around 15:30, so plan outdoor sightseeing earlier in the day and save museums, cafés, and indoor attractions for later.
- Choosing the right area to stay makes winter easier. Old Town is the most convenient for short walks and the Christmas Market, while Kazimierz offers a quieter, local feel. Staying central minimizes time outdoors in the cold.
Krakow Weather in December and What To Expect
The average temperatures in Krakow in December reflect full winter conditions, with daytime readings around 34 to 37 F (1 to 3 C) and nighttime temperatures dropping to 24 to 26 F (minus 3 to minus 4 C). Snow is common throughout the month, and you also see sleet, frost, and occasional rain. In total, Krakow records 12 to 15 days of precipitation. Daylight is limited, and with the sun setting at about 15:30, the afternoons go by quickly.
You can still explore the Old Town, walk through Planty Park, and visit Wawel Castle without any issues, but you should expect slower movement on some days. Sidewalks can turn slushy or icy after snowfall, and that affects your pace. Most days are cloudy, although you do get occasional clear skies.
The good news is that Krakow functions normally in winter. Museums, galleries, cafés, and other indoor attractions stay open, so you always have warm places to step into between outdoor walks. If you dress warmly, you can enjoy Krakow in December without any problems.
What To Pack for Krakow in December
Packing for Krakow in December means preparing for freezing temperatures, snow, and icy streets. Warm layers make the biggest difference, so start with thermal tops and leggings that sit comfortably under your regular clothes. These keep you warm during long walks around the Christmas Market or the outdoor sections of Wawel Castle.
A proper winter coat is essential. Choose something insulated, preferably with a hood, since December often brings both snow and rain. Add a fleece or wool sweater underneath so you can adjust as you move between cold streets and heated cafés or museums. A waterproof outer layer helps on wet days.
Footwear matters just as much as your coat. Waterproof winter boots with good traction are important for navigating cobblestones that become slick after snowfall. Thick wool socks add warmth, and ice grips are useful if conditions turn especially icy or if you plan trips to places like Zakopane.
Accessories round out your winter kit. Pack a warm hat, scarf, and insulated gloves, plus lighter gloves for using your phone. Hand warmers come in handy during long outdoor stretches. A compact umbrella helps with snow or rain, and a small waterproof backpack lets you carry layers, snacks, and market purchases comfortably.
13 Best Things To Do in Krakow in December
Krakow in December feels different from any other month. The cold sets the pace, and the light changes the way you see the Old Town. You spend more time indoors, but the break between sights never feels long because everything sits close together. If you’re putting together your itinerary, these are the best things to do in Krakow in December that work well with the weather and the way the city runs this time of year.
1. Experience the Krakow Christmas Market at Rynek Glowny
If you’re on a city break in Krakow in December, the Christmas Market at Rynek Glowny (Main Market Square) is one of the first places you should see. It runs from the last week of November until January 1, 2026, and fills a section of the square with wooden stalls, hot food, and handmade Christmas ornaments.
The decorations and lighting make the square feel more lively in winter, and because it’s right in the center, you can visit it naturally as you move around the Old Town.
You’ll find grilled oscypek, pierogi, sausages, mulled wine, sweets, and small gifts that fit easily in your bag. The stage in the square also hosts carol performances, which often run in the afternoons and early evenings. If you prefer to explore with a guide, you can join a Christmas Market walking tour that focuses on winter traditions and the square’s history.
For 2025, the city is adding a few new touches. A second Christmas Fair will operate at Maly Rynek, and a Venetian carousel will be set up near the Town Hall Tower. Krakow Card holders will receive a 25% discount at food stalls across both markets. Security measures will also be updated with barriers around the square and additional police patrols during peak times.
Seasonal events scheduled for December include:
- December 4, 10:00–12:00 – A nativity display and accompanying parade in the Main Market Square
- December 6, 17:00 – The Main Market Square Christmas tree lighting ceremony, followed by a concert
- December 7, 11:00 – The “Santas on SUPs” gathering at Zakrzowek Park
- December 7, 11:00 – A Santa-themed motorbike ride starting from EXPO Krakow
- December 21, 17:00 – Community Christmas carol singing in the Main Market Square
- December 24–26, 22:30 – Late-evening live nativity scenes and concerts at the Franciscan Church
- December 28, 16:30 – A traditional carol procession through Podgorze
2. Tour Wawel Castle and Wawel Cathedral
Wawel Castle is one of the most important places to visit in Krakow in December, and winter suits it well. The courtyards stay open year-round, so you can walk through the complex, see the mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, and get clear views over the Vistula River.
The interiors stay heated, which makes the Royal Chambers, State Rooms, Treasury, and “Lost Wawel” exhibitions easy to explore even on the coldest days. The cathedral sits just next to the main courtyard, and stepping inside gives you a look at centuries of Polish history, including the burial sites of kings and national figures.
If you want a structured visit without worrying about entry times or navigation, you can book a guided Wawel Castle and Cathedral tour, which walks you through the main areas and explains the history behind the hill and its buildings.
3. Listen to the Trumpet Call from St. Mary’s Basilica
The trumpet call, known as the "Hejnal," plays every hour from the taller tower of St. Mary’s Basilica. It stops mid-note on purpose, marking an old city tradition that Krakow keeps alive every single day. You hear it clearly across the Main Market Square, and in December, the sound carries well because the square is quieter and the air is crisp.
To understand the story behind the call and the basilica’s role in Krakow’s history, you can join a short guided walk that includes St. Mary’s Basilica, which gives you a bit of context while you move through the Old Town streets.
For the best experience, stand in the square a few minutes before the hour and look up at the higher tower above the main entrance. That’s where the trumpeter appears briefly, about 54 meters above the square.
4. Stroll Through Planty Park
Planty Park forms a continuous loop around Krakow's Old Town and becomes especially charming in December, when light frost or snow dusts the pathways. The flat, easy walking paths take you alongside the old city walls and historic buildings that border the center, perfect for a peaceful winter walk.
The park connects directly to the Main Market Square, the university district, and various Old Town streets, so you can easily weave it into your sightseeing. The Old Town highlights walking tour includes sections of Planty Park since several major landmarks sit right beside the park.
During a weekend getaway in Krakow in December, you'll likely find yourself passing through Planty multiple times as you explore the city's attractions, making it one of the most pleasant ways to experience the Old Town's winter atmosphere.
5. Explore Oskar Schindler’s Factory Museum
Oskar Schindler’s Factory Museum walks you through Krakow’s wartime history in a clear and structured way. The permanent exhibition shows how the city changed under Nazi occupation between 1939 and 1945, with rooms designed to recreate streets, offices, and daily life during that period. You also learn about Oskar Schindler himself and the people he employed and protected during the war.
The museum sits at Lipowa 4 in the former enamel factory building. Opening hours in winter run from 10:00 to 18:00, and it often reaches capacity, so getting your ticket ahead of time helps avoid long waits. Free entry is offered on the first Monday of each month, but tickets are limited.
A guided visit to Schindler’s Factory Museum can give you more context as you move through the exhibitions, especially since the layout is dense and covers many parts of Krakow’s story.
6. View MOCAK (Museum of Contemporary Art)
MOCAK sits next to Schindler's Factory at Lipowa 4, and it's one of the easiest places to step into when you want a quiet break indoors. The galleries focus on modern and contemporary art, with large open rooms and rotating temporary exhibitions that change throughout the year. You move at your own pace, and the space feels calm compared to the busy Old Town.
The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11:00 to 19:00 (closed Mondays), which fits well with short December daylight hours. You can spend as little or as long as you want here, especially when the weather pushes you inside.
If you plan to visit several museums during your stay, the Krakow City Pass includes access to MOCAK along with many other sites around the city.
7. Reflect at Auschwitz-Birkenau
Auschwitz-Birkenau is one of the most important places you can visit during a trip to Krakow in December. It’s a memorial site that explains the history of the Nazi camps, the people imprisoned there, and the scale of the atrocities committed during World War II.
Because the site covers a large area and includes several exhibitions, a guided Auschwitz-Birkenau tour helps you move through both camps more efficiently. You also hear explanations that you won’t get by walking alone.
8. Descend into the Wieliczka Salt Mine
Exploring the Wieliczka Salt Mine is one of the standout things to do in Krakow in December, and the visit feels very different from anything above ground. You follow a set route through long tunnels, carved chambers, small underground lakes, and detailed salt sculptures.
The Chapel of St. Kinga is the main highlight, with salt reliefs, figures, and chandeliers that show how much work went into shaping the mine over the centuries.
The tour takes a few hours and includes several stairs, so comfortable shoes help. It’s about a 30-minute trip from Krakow, and entry runs on fixed time slots. For a smoother experience, a guided Wieliczka Salt Mine tour from Krakow handles the timing and transport for you.
9. Roam Kazimierz (Jewish Quarter)
Step into Kazimierz and you’ll find synagogues, old cemeteries, gallery-filled courtyards, and cafés tucked into narrow lanes. This neighborhood tells stories going back centuries and adds a different layer to Krakow in December.
There’s plenty to do at your own pace. You can visit the Old Synagogue or the Remuh Synagogue and Cemetery, browse small design shops, or settle into a café while watching daily life unfold. Plac Nowy is a natural stop, especially for street food, and the surrounding streets show how the district blends historic buildings with newer art spaces and restaurants.
If you want a clearer sense of the area’s history, the Jewish Quarter and former ghetto tour walks you through the main sites and explains how the district changed over time.
10. Track Krakow’s Street Art
Photo by Jakub Hałun; Graffiti - BOTAK — Own work, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Source: Wikimedia Commons. No edits made.
Krakow’s street art adds something different to a December visit, especially when you’re breaking up your day with short walks. Kazimierz and Podgorze have the most recognizable street art, from full-building murals to small stencils tucked into side streets.
The Rainbow Stairs on Tatrzanska Street are one of the easiest to find, and the murals around Jozefa Street and Mostowa give you plenty to look at as you move between cafés, shops, and galleries.
If you want to go a bit deeper into the scene, you can pair your walk with a visit to the Muzeum Banksy, which sits right in Kazimierz.
11. Discover the Rynek Underground Museum
The Rynek Underground Museum sits directly under the Main Market Square, and exploring it is one of the best ways to see how old Krakow was built. You walk past medieval foundations, market stalls, walkways, and exhibits that show what stood here long before today’s square.
The excavations highlight how the original square was organized, with clear sections showing trade routes, workshop areas, and the remains of early buildings. Displays explain how the site was uncovered, what each structure was used for, and how the discoveries helped trace Krakow’s growth from a medieval trading hub into the city you see today.
If you want more background while you explore, a Rynek Underground Museum guided tour can help you follow the story behind the excavations and understand how archaeologists uncovered these layers.
12. Ride a Golf-Cart City Tour
A Krakow golf-cart tour is a practical option on cold or busy days when you want to see more of the city without walking long distances. In about 1.5 hours, the route moves through Old Town, Kazimierz, and Podgórze, giving you a clear sense of Krakow’s layout and major districts.
You pass landmarks such as Planty Park, Skalka Church, Corpus Christi Church, the Tempel Synagogue, and the Old Synagogue. In Podgorze, the tour highlights sites linked to the former Krakow Ghetto, including Ghetto Heroes Square and the Pharmacy Under the Eagle. Audio commentary explains what you’re seeing as you go, so the history of each neighborhood is easy to follow.
The electric buggies are heated in winter, making the ride comfortable even in colder months. It’s an efficient way to get an overview of the city and decide which areas you want to explore more deeply later on.
13. Travel to Zakopane for a Winter Day Trip
Zakopane in December feels like stepping into a winter resort town at the edge of the mountains. The wooden chalets, smoke from food stalls, and steady backdrop of the Tatras give the place an atmosphere that’s completely different from Krakow.
You can stroll through the center at your own pace, stop for hot cheese or mulled drinks, and take in the views that appear around nearly every corner.
A ride up Gubalowka Hill adds a bit of elevation, with long, open views across the valley that show why the town draws so many people in winter. Down in the center, Krupowki Street is lively but not overwhelming. And the thermal baths are the highlight for many: warm outdoor pools, cold air on your face, and the mountains fading into the distance.
A Zakopane tour with thermal bath access and hotel pickup keeps the day moving smoothly. You’re taken directly to the scenic stops, given time in town, and brought to the baths without needing to organize transport or tickets yourself, which makes the entire trip feel more relaxed from start to finish.
Christmas in Krakow
Christmas in Krakow feels very traditional, and you see it throughout December. The season starts on December 6 with Mikolajki, or St. Nicholas Day. Children receive small gifts, and St. Nicholas figures appear around the Main Square and in shopping areas. It’s a simple tradition that marks the beginning of Christmas in Krakow.
The most important part of the holiday is Wigilia, the Christmas Eve dinner on December 24. Families sit down to a meatless meal with twelve dishes, often including pierogi, barszcz, and carp. Because most people spend the entire evening at home, the city becomes quieter, and many restaurants close earlier than usual. This change in pace is normal for Krakow at Christmas time.
Church traditions also play a major role. Many people attend midnight Mass, and churches around the Old Town display nativity scenes and seasonal decorations. Throughout December, you hear choirs and small Christmas concerts, often held inside churches or community halls. Holiday lights appear around the Old Town, and the style stays simple and tied to Polish customs.
Christmas Day in Krakow: What's Open, What To Do & Where To Eat
Christmas Day in Krakow feels different from most European cities. While Polish families celebrate their main Christmas meal on December 24 (Wigilia), the city center comes alive again on December 25 with restaurants, public transport, and attractions operating.
What's Open on December 25
Public transport runs on reduced service, and many restaurants, bars, and convenience stores stay open throughout the day. The Christmas markets continue operating, though some stalls close after December 26. Cafes and confectioneries around Main Square and Kazimierz welcome visitors, along with hotel restaurants and churches holding Christmas masses.
All museums and galleries remain closed on Christmas Day, along with banks, shopping malls, and larger shops. The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial is also closed, and most grocery stores don't open.
Christmas Day Itinerary
Start your morning with a peaceful walk through the Old Town between 10:00 and 12:00. The streets are quieter than usual as locals attend Christmas mass and spend time with family. Visit Wawel Castle's exterior and courtyards; the interior is closed, but the complex takes on special magic with a sprinkling of snow.
Head to the Christmas Market for lunch around midday. Food stalls remain open and serve hot pierogi, oscypek, sausages, and mulled wine. The market atmosphere is festive and provides an easy, no-reservation-needed meal option.
Spend your afternoon exploring decorated churches to see nativity scenes (szopki), a popular Christmas Day activity for many Krakow residents. You can also stroll through Planty Park and Kazimierz as the city takes on a peaceful winter character.
By evening, the center becomes noticeably livelier with cafes, confectioneries, and restaurants buzzing with activity. Enjoy your main Christmas dinner at a restaurant with a special menu, or keep it casual at a pub or brewery.
Where To Stay in Krakow in December
Finding the right base for a winter trip makes a big difference, especially in a city where the Christmas Market, shorter daylight hours, and cold evenings shape the rhythm of your visit. Krakow is compact, but each district offers a different experience.
Whether you want to stay steps from the Krakow Christmas Market or need quick access to Krakow Glowny Station, choosing the right area will help you get the most out of December in the city.
Old Town (Best for First-Time Visits and the Christmas Market)
If you’re deciding where to stay in Krakow in December, the Old Town is the most convenient and festive option. This is where the Main Market Square comes alive with lights, wooden stalls, and holiday food, making it the perfect spot for anyone who wants direct access to the Krakow Christmas Market.
Many of the most popular Krakow Old Town hotels sit around the square or within a short walk of St. Mary’s Basilica, the Cloth Hall, and key museums. With cafés everywhere and minimal travel time between sights, it’s a practical choice in cold weather.
Kazimierz (Best for Food, Culture, and a Local Feel)
The Kazimierz Jewish Quarter is one of the best areas to stay in Krakow if you want a neighborhood feel without sacrificing convenience. Its narrow streets, synagogues, small galleries, and excellent restaurants create a warm atmosphere in winter, and the cafés here are perfect for escaping the cold.
Kazimierz is close to the Old Town but feels calmer, and many Kazimierz hotels offer good value while still keeping you within easy reach of major attractions.
Podgorze (Best for History and Quieter Stays)
Across the river, Podgorze offers a quieter base and gives you direct access to Oskar Schindler’s Factory, Ghetto Heroes Square, and several historical sites. It’s a good choice if you prefer more space and lower prices while still staying connected to the city’s main landmarks.
A short tram ride brings you to the Main Market Square, but in exchange, you get more peaceful evenings and a more residential atmosphere, ideal if you like slower-paced stays.
FAQs About Krakow in December
Is Krakow cold in December? Yes. December is one of the coldest months of the year. Daytime temperatures are typically low, often hovering around freezing, and nights are colder. Snow is possible, and icy conditions are common.
Does it snow in Krakow in December? Snowfall is possible throughout the month, though not guaranteed. Light snow or brief snow showers are more common than heavy storms.
Are Christmas markets open all month? Yes. Krakow’s main Christmas market on Rynek Glowny normally runs from late November until late December. Dates change slightly year to year, so always check the city’s official announcements.
Are shops and museums open during the holidays? Most operate normally on regular December days. However, expect widespread closures on 24 December (Christmas Eve) and 25 December (Christmas Day). Many museums, shops, malls, and local restaurants close completely on those two days.
Is Krakow crowded in December? Early December is moderate. Mid-December to Christmas gets busier, especially around the market. After Christmas, crowds thin again.
Is it expensive to visit Krakow in December? Prices for accommodation tend to rise around the Christmas market period and New Year’s Eve. Outside these dates, Krakow generally remains affordable compared to other major European cities.
What should I wear in Krakow in December? Bring warm layers, a proper winter coat, gloves, a hat, and waterproof footwear. Streets and sidewalks can be icy.
Is public transport reliable in winter? Yes. Trams and buses generally run on schedule, but delays can occur during snow or freezing conditions. On public holidays, service may follow a reduced timetable.
Are restaurants open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day? Most local restaurants close on both days. Hotel restaurants, international eateries, and select venues remain open. Reservations are essential.
Is December a good month to visit Krakow? If you enjoy festive markets, winter scenery, and a cozy holiday atmosphere, December is a great time to visit. Just be ready for cold weather and reduced openings around Christmas.
Make the Most of Krakow in December
Krakow takes on a different character in December, with early winter light, festive streets, and plenty of warm indoor spaces to balance the cold. The city stays easy to navigate, and its compact layout lets you make the most of shorter days without feeling rushed. With the right layers and a well-located hotel, December becomes a comfortable and enjoyable time to explore.
If you want to plan the rest of your trip, these resources can help:
Krakow is rewarding in any season, and a bit of preparation helps you make the most of your time. Start exploring the guides above and begin organizing your trip.
