Poland is an increasingly popular, yet still slightly obscure, holiday destination. Being half-Polish, I personally think that there’s no better way to experience the country’s rich culture and traditions than by visiting their Christmas markets. From unique crafts to lesser-tasted delights, Poland’s Christmas markets are really an unforgettable experience. If you’re looking to make the Festive season extra special and memorable, here are the best Christmas markets to visit in Poland.
The Best Christmas Markets to Visit in Poland | 2024
Wrocław Christmas Market
Wrocław Christmas Markets are some of the largest and most beautiful in Poland. The main one out of the four is located in the city’s picturesque Rynek (Main Market Square). From past visit, the market is a true winter wonderland and has everything you could want from a festive getaway. The market is known for its cozy wooden stalls, where you can find everything from local handicrafts to Polish Christmas ornaments. Look out for the many ornamental festive mushrooms and dwarfs around the place.
Polish food is one of my favourites, even though it is not really known about. Don’t miss the chance to try some delicious Polish pierogi, hot mulled wine, or zapiekanka (Polish-style baguettes). The market also hosts live performances and a mini ice rink, making it a fantastic spot to soak up the holiday atmosphere. There is also even a roller-coaster this year!
Open from: 29th November to 7th January 2025
Kraków Christmas Market
Off to one of my favourite European cities now. Kraków’s Christmas Market is a must-visit for anyone travelling to Poland. It is located in the iconic and gorgeous Rynek Główny (Main Square), the market is set amongst the perfect backdrop, including the iconic St. Mary’s Basilica. As you would expect from the city, the market has a magical, old-world charm. You are also right next to the Cloth Hall which exceeds itself each Christmas.
Kraków’s market is also known for its vibrant atmosphere and festive music. The area is known for their alcohol, and the mulled wine is no exception. The main market is also a great place to dive into local delicacies like oscypek (smoked cheese) and kwaśnica (sauerkraut soup), along with various meats. The Kraków Nativity Scene Competition is another highlight, where local artisans showcase their elaborate, colorful nativity scenes.
Open from: 24 November 2024 to 1 January 2025
Need more inspiration? Check out my posts on 24 hours in Krakow and What to do in Krakow
Gdańsk Christmas Market
Gdańsk is a place close to my heart and is from the area where my family is from. Their Christmas Market, set in the historic Long Market (Długi Targ), is one of the most picturesque in Poland. You might think I’m bias, but it actually won the Best Christmas Market in Europe 2025 recently! The city is seriously stunning and is a must-see during the festive period.
One aspect that helped it win is the gorgeous scenery around the city, alongside a whole host of magical attractions. The market is also a foodie’s paradise, with stalls offering delicious Polish gingerbread, grilled sausages, and even Christmas-themed pastries. Don’t forget to try a warm cup of grzane wino (mulled wine) to keep you warm and make sure to buy some amber, a regional speciality.
Open from: 22nd November to 23rd December 2024
Need more inspiration? Check out my posts on 10 Day Trips from Gdańsk and Gdańsk City Guide
Warsaw Christmas Market
If you are looking for a busier experience in Poland, then the Warsaw Christmas Market at Castle Square offers a festive experience right in the heart of Poland’s capital. The main event is set against the backdrop of the reconstructed Royal Castle and is filled with all the delights you could dream of. Pierogi, bigos (hunter’s stew), and kielbasa (sausage), and so much more can be found all around the market. If you’re a fan of sweets, you could try the traditional Polish gingerbread or świętomarcińskie rogale, a delicious pastry filled with poppy seeds and walnuts.
I would say that, with the location, the markets in Warsaw have one of the best range of choices in Poland. Warsaw in general is criminally underrated and the festive decorations add to the city’s charm, making it ideal to visit. Make sure that you also see the large Christmas tree standing tall in the centre.
Open from: 25th November to 6th January 6th 2025
Need more inspiration? Check out my post on What can I do in Warsaw?
Poznań Christmas Market
Poznań is home to one of the most charming and lesser-known Christmas markets in Poland. The Poznań Christmas Market is held in the equally beautiful Old Market Square (Stary Rynek). It is hidden away from the crowds that you’d find in Warsaw, and has a cozy, intimate feel.
Poznań’s market is famous for its beautiful wooden stalls, where you can find unique gifts like hand-carved wooden ornaments, woolen scarves, and festive candles. It also has a great variety of Polish treats, such as pierogi and grzaniec (mulled beer), while enjoying the festive performances on the square. Make sure to check out the Christmas tree, which is beautifully illuminated in the centre of the square. Or, if you are feeling brave, try the Venetian carousel which takes centre stage each year.
Open from: 16th November to 6th January 2025
Lublin Christmas Market
The Lublin Christmas Market is another hidden gem in Poland which is perfect for a quieter experience. It is a bit further than the others on this list, being as East as you can get, but it means it is far less touristy and feels more classical and authentic. This has to be one of the best Christmas Markets to visit in Poland.
The market is set in Lublin’s Old Town and showcases the city’s rich history with its medieval buildings and beautiful decorations. Here, you can also find a variety of local artisan stalls, where you can easily buy local gifts, such as pottery, wooden toys, and handmade textiles.
The market here runs more like a festival and, instead, the main focus shifts based upon the days you visit. In 2024, you can find special events focussed on Christmas Illuminations, Christmas Concerts and the Market itself
The Market is Open From: 15 – 17 December
The Christmas Festival is Open From: 6 December – Early January.
Toruń Christmas Market
Lastly, we have Toruń, a place not regularly visited by the British tourist. The Christmas Markets here are definitely worth a trip; once more expect a quieter, more traditional ambiance. The market is set against the backdrop of stunning Gothic architecture and, once more, you can find a range of different treats and gifts.
This is aimed at being a full family-fun market and draws upon its fairy-tale atmosphere and rich history. Make sure to try out the merry-go-round and to sample yet more of the yummy Polish food of Toruń.
Open From: 23rd November to 22nd December 2024
Final Thoughts | The Best Christmas Markets to visit in Poland
If you are looking for something a bit different this Christmas, try a Polish Christmas Market. These are really underrated and I hope that they become more popular as the British realise just how beautiful Poland actually is. Plus, it is far cheaper than other European countries offering the same experience with arguably just the same on offer.
If you want further inspiration, check out my post on What to Eat in Poland | My 21 Things You Must Try
Happy exploring!
Love, V x
*cover image: comejoinmyjourney.com
