Christmas all wrapped up at Poland’s dazzling markets

Tuesday, Oct 24, 2023 0

There’s magic in the air in most places at Christmas but in December, Poland’s cities have a real sparkle about them. Oozing charm all year round but they each take on a whole new look during the festive season. It’s the perfect place to visit for a short, pre-Christmas break and for celebrating the most wonderful time of the year.

As Poland’s famous Christmas markets start to spring up festive cheer spreads across the old towns of these glorious cities. Just think, you could be hopping on a plane and be landing in a fairytale setting in just a couple of hours. A lovely mulled wine in your hand by teatime. Sound good?

There’s no getting away from it, presents have to be bought, but, this year why not do it in style and add a few days away into the bargain? What more incentive do you need to do your Christmas shopping and treat yourself at the same time.

Browsing Christmas markets is a great way to experience the atmosphere and traditions of each of these cities, and indeed of Poland. Everything takes on a whole new vibe. Twinkling lights casting a magic glow over the old town squares, the sound of carol singers – it’s a feast for the senses as the heady aroma of hot soups, gingerbread and sausages fill the air, leaving you with a warm glow inside.

You’ll be feeling all Christmassy in no time!

Some of the prettiest Christmas markets can be found in Poland, and as well as seeing some of Europe’s most exciting cities, you’ll be able to pick up some lovely souvenirs.

Here are the top Polish cities to visit this winter…

Wroclaw: Visit one of the most magical Christmas markets in Europe

If you are looking for a wonderful Christmas experience somewhere different, why not try Wroclaw.

The festive atmosphere at Wroclaw Christmas Market is a huge draw for overseas tourists and the locals love it too. It goes without saying there will be a cracking range of stalls selling all manner of festive goodies and delicious local delicacies that will make your taste buds tingle!

Wroclaw Christmas market is a must-see.

Dates: Wroclaw Christmas market runs from 24 November – 7 January

For more information on Wroclaw, visit: https://www.poland.travel/en/cities/wroclaw

Krakow: Experience yuletide magic in one of the oldest market squares

Christmas in Poland’s ancient city of Krakow has to be seen to be believed. Spellbindingly beautiful at any time of the year but when she has her Christmas sparkle on, it’s a whole new level of fabulous.

In the shadow of the majestic Cloth Hall and St Mary’s Basilica, browse the cute stalls at your leisure while enjoying a cup of mulled wine or nibbling some delicious gingerbread.

Krakow also has an annual tradition of hosting a nativity scene competition. Participants create colourful interpretations featuring churches and other architecture you’ll find in Krakow. It’s a beautifully festive display which is showcased in shops and squares around the city. A trip to this magical Polish gem will certainly leave you with long-lasting memories.

Dates: Krakow Christmas market runs from 24 November – 1 January

For more information on Krakow, visit: https://www.poland.travel/en/cities/krakow

Gdansk: Steal a winter kiss at the Christmas market

A highlight for visitors is to spend some time visiting the dazzling Christmas Market but the entire city becomes a real winter wonderland at this time of year. The Christmas market brings the wonder and magic of the season to Gdansk and is considered one of the most beautiful in Poland. If retail therapy is on the cards, browsing the decorated stalls is a must to pick up some unique Christmas gifts. And, an ideal way to round off your market shopping is to enjoy some delicious local cuisine and an aromatic mulled wine or hot chocolate.

This is definitely one for the romantics out there. Go on; steal a cheeky winter kiss under the mistletoe.

Dates: Gdansk Christmas market 24 November – 23 December

For more information on Gdansk, visit: https://www.poland.travel/en/cities/gdansk-and-tricity

Lodz: A big long winter wonderland

This isn’t so much a Christmas market square, more of a market mile! The super long Piotrkowska Street is bedecked in twinkly lights and pretty trinkets and you’ll usually find some cool music events going on too.

This lively, colourful promenade is bursting with life and packed with bars, cafes, restaurants, shops and it looks magnificent at Christmas!

Dates: Lodz Christmas activities run throughout December

For more information visit https://www.inyourpocket.com/lodz/lodz-christmas-market_4825e

Warsaw: A festive treat of shimmering light

The city of Warsaw takes on a special charm as the festive season kicks in too. Wilanow Royal Garden is a spectacle of light and one of the most beautiful things to see in Warsaw at this time of year but this opens on 13 October ahead of the Christmas attractions.

The Christmas market stretches along the Old Town walls, packed with pretty stalls selling handmade decorations, woollens and loads of other local specialities.

Dates: 26 November – 6 January

For more information visit https://warsawtour.pl/en/winter-in-warsaw-2/

How to get there?

Budget flights to Poland from the UK are regularly available with Ryanair and Wizz Air.