Christmas Markets in Poland 2025

Polish Christmas markets are more than just trading venues; they are vibrant showcases of Polish culture and traditions, where modernity gracefully intersects with centuries-old customs.

In 2025, Polish Christmas markets are set to impress even more. After receiving international recognition for their holiday traditions, interest in these Christmas bazaars has surged. This well-deserved acclaim highlights Poland’s status as a host of some of the most authentic and charming Christmas celebrations in Europe.

Gdańsk – The Jewel of European Christmas Markets

Dates: November 21, 2025 – December 23, 2025
Hours: Daily from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Location: Targ Węglowy (Coal Market Square)

The Gdańsk Christmas market is renowned as one of the most beautiful in Europe. Nestled in the picturesque Targ Węglowy, a cobblestone square behind the Great Arsenal, this market perfectly blends Baltic maritime charm with a traditional Christmas atmosphere.

A standout feature of the Gdańsk market is its grand advent calendar, which serves as the market’s entrance. Each day at 5:00 PM, a new window opens to reveal a Christmas surprise. Flanking the calendar are stairs leading to a viewing platform that offers a panoramic view of the entire fair.

Unique attractions include a Venetian carousel, an ice rink, and a “lovers’ alley” – a romantic spot for kisses under the mistletoe. There are also dedicated zones for children, featuring interactive displays and beloved fairy tale characters.

Culinary delights highlight traditional Polish dishes such as pierogi, oscypek (smoked cheese), and seafood delicacies that reflect the city’s maritime heritage. Gingerbread cookies, a traditional treat from Gdańsk, are particularly popular.

Kraków – Royal Elegance in the Heart of Poland

Dates: November 28, 2025 – January 1, 2026
Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Location: Main Market Square (Rynek Główny)

The Kraków Christmas market is a festive celebration set in one of Europe’s most beautiful medieval squares. Traditionally, the main Christmas market begins in the last week of November and operates until December 26, although some kiosks may continue through New Year’s in a “winter market” format.

Surrounding the iconic Cloth Hall, this market occupies approximately a quarter of the expansive Rynek Główny square. Wooden stalls showcase offerings from traders across Poland and neighboring countries, including regional products, sweets, meats, cheeses, linens, wool goods, ceramics, and various gifts.

A highlight of the market is the Polish Christmas carol hour, which takes place daily at 8:00 PM, from December 17 to January 1. The city’s main Christmas tree is traditionally lit on December 1 in Market Square.

Additional locations include the market at Plac Wolnica in Kazimierz, known for its relaxed atmosphere, and a small fair near the Galeria Krakowska shopping center, which features an ice rink.

Wrocław – The Fairy Tale Kingdom of Gnomes

Dates: November 21, 2025 – January 7, 2026
Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Closed: December 24, 25, and January 1
Location: Market Square (Rynek), Salt Square (Plac Solny), Świdnicka and Oławska streets

The Wrocław Christmas market is hailed as one of the most beautiful in Europe, earning its place on the must-visit destination list. With a fairy tale theme evident in every detail, it creates the enchanting atmosphere of a magical kingdom.

A special attraction is “Bajkowy Lasek” (Fairy Forest), a “forest” of Christmas trees featuring boxes with animated characters that tell fairy tales. To watch a tale, simply drop a coin into the box, and the curtain will open.

Salt Square (Plac Solny) features various attractions, including a three-level fairy house with a viewing platform and a small tower with an illuminated clock. Here, you can warm up by the fireplace, enjoy hot beverages, and take in the panoramic view of the Christmas market.

The market’s symbol is the Christmas gnome. If you touch his cap three times, all your dreams may come true. This gnome appears in the square only once a year.

The gastronomic offerings are impressive, ranging from traditional Polish pierogi and smoked cheese to Hungarian lángos, Dutch pancakes, and Spanish churros.

Warsaw – Capital Sophistication

Dates: November 25, 2025 – January 6, 2026
Hours: Sunday-Thursday: 11:00 AM-8:00 PM, Friday-Saturday: 11:00 AM-9:30 PM
Location: Castle Square

While the Warsaw Christmas market may appear modest compared to other Polish fairs, it possesses a unique charm. Located in the historic Old Town, the market provides a serene Christmas experience with a more subdued atmosphere than some larger markets.

The centerpiece is a towering Christmas tree in Castle Square, which hosts one of the best light shows in Europe at night and is recognized as one of the most beautiful trees in the continent.

The market features about 60 wooden chalets offering sweets, gingerbread, and authentic Christmas gifts, such as hand-painted glass ornaments, knitted sweaters, wood carvings, and embroidered tablecloths.

Additional entertainment includes an ice rink on Market Square, offering skating sessions from 1:00-3:00 PM, 4:00-6:00 PM, and 7:00-9:00 PM. Entry is free, while skate rentals are 10 zloty per hour.

Poznań – International Ice Sculpture Festival

Dates: November 19 – December 23, 2025
Hours: 11:00 AM-9:00 PM (closed Mondays)

Location: Plac Wolności (Freedom Square) and Old Market Square (Stary Rynek)

The Poznań Christmas market is renowned for its International Ice Sculpture Festival, drawing skilled artisans from around the globe. Visitors have a unique opportunity to see these craftsmen create stunning ice sculptures right before their eyes.

The main attractions at the 2025 event will feature a mill wheel, an ice rink, a Venetian carousel, Santa’s house, a Christmas tree, and a stage showcasing a diverse artistic repertoire.

The market is divided into two sections: Plac Wolności offers a vibrant atmosphere highlighted by a towering Ferris wheel, a variety of Christmas attractions, and numerous mulled wine stalls.

In contrast, the Old Market Square has more spread-out stalls, allowing for a more relaxed walking experience through the market. One of the highlights here is the grand Christmas tree located in front of the impressive Renaissance town hall.

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Zakopane – Mountain Christmas Charm

Dates: December 6, 2025 – January 5, 2026
Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM (closed on Christmas)
Location: Center of Zakopane with the stunning Tatra Mountains as a backdrop

The Zakopane Christmas market is distinctively located in the heart of the Tatra Mountains, boasting a breathtaking mountainous backdrop. It exudes cozy alpine charm, featuring wooden kiosks that offer traditional mountain products and crafts.

Culinary specialties at the market include the renowned smoked mountain cheese from the region, honey, mead (a traditional alcoholic drink made from fermented honey), pickles, dried plums, and classic Christmas desserts.

Visitors can enjoy sleigh rides and live music while sampling local treats such as oscypek (smoked cheese) and warm mulled wine.

Other Significant Polish Christmas Markets 2025

Toruń

Dates: November 21 – December 23, 2025
Hours: Daily from 3:00 PM to midnight

Toruń, the birthplace of Nicolaus Copernicus and famous for its gingerbread, offers a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Guests can participate in workshops to learn how to make traditional Toruń gingerbread.

Lublin

Dates: December 6, 2025 – January 9, 2026
Christmas Market: December 15-17, 2025

Lublin dazzles with its stunning Christmas illuminations, considered among the most beautiful in Poland.

Katowice

Dates: November 22, 2025 – January 5, 2026
Location: Market Square

The Katowice fair draws many visitors with its enchanting attractions, including a carousel, Ferris wheel, Christmas train, and a magical light park.

Practical Tips for Visiting

Climate and Clothing

Winter in Poland can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping to -10°C and below. Be sure to bring:

• Warm coat and hat
• Waterproof shoes with good soles
• Gloves and scarf
• Thermal underwear for extended walks

Transportation

Traveling between Polish cities by train is convenient. Use the official PKP Intercity website to book tickets. Express trains are faster but more expensive than regular ones.

Accommodation

Book hotels in advance, especially in central areas, as the Christmas season sees peak tourist activity. Staying in old towns is recommended for convenient access to markets.

Gastronomic Specialties

Must-try dishes include:

• Pierogi with various fillings
• Smoked oscypek cheese with cranberry sauce
• Bigos (sauerkraut stew with meat)
• Żurek (sour rye soup)
• Gingerbread (pierniki)
• Mulled wine (grzaniec galicyjski)

Best Time to Visit in 2025

Optimal Period: The first half of December 2025 is ideal when all markets are open but not as crowded as just before Christmas.

For Families with Children: Weekend mornings until the afternoon, when all children’s entertainment is available.

For Romantic Trips: Weekday evenings provide beautiful illumination with fewer crowds.

For Photographers: Early mornings or late evenings offer the best lighting.

Souvenirs and Shopping

Best souvenirs from Polish Christmas markets include:

• Amber jewelry (especially in Gdańsk)
• Hand-painted Christmas ornaments
• Wood and ceramic products
• Traditional Polish textiles
• Gingerbread in beautiful packaging
• Smoked oscypek cheese
• Polish vodka and liqueurs

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