The Christmas Market on the Main Market Square is an annual festive highlight in Kraków — wooden stalls are set up between the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) and St. Mary’s Basilica, and the atmosphere of lights, aromas and carols draws both locals and visitors. If you’re planning a trip, it’s useful to know the dates and typical opening hours so you can make the most of the event.
In the current season the market on the Main Square runs from late November through early January — a long window that makes it easier to fit a visit into your travel plans.
There are usually around 100–110 trade and food stalls on the Square, so the offer is broad: handicrafts, decorations, sweets and regional specialties. The exact number of vendors and the day-by-day programme change each year, so if you want to be there for specific events (for example the nativity scene contest or concerts), check the up-to-date programme before you travel.
Stalls on the Square sell a wide range of items: hand‑painted baubles, wreaths, miniature nativity scenes, wood and wool products, ceramics, beeswax candles and regional treats. Look for labels marked “handmade” and talk to the sellers — many are local makers who will happily explain the technique and origin of the materials.
To avoid mass-produced items pretending to be handmade, look for small imperfections, unique decorations and natural materials. If you’re after an authentic gift, ask about the item's story and whether it was made in Poland. A good stall usually shows several pieces by the same maker and will gladly describe their process.
It’s worth having a few ideas in advance — popular ornaments and distinctive owls or angels can disappear quickly, especially on weekends and in the days just before Christmas.
The market is a great place for small local treats: oscypek with cranberry, mulled wine (grzaniec), various styles of pierogi, roasted nuts and traditional gingerbread. Food stalls also offer regional dishes and seasonal specials — perfect for warming up during a walk around the Square.
If you prefer to sit down in a well‑rated restaurant after a short walk from the Square, consider places with an established reputation. The historic Restauracja Wierzynek at the Main Market Square is a classic — elegant atmosphere and tradition. You will also find cosy cafés and concept restaurants nearby — a good option if you want a break from the market crowds and a warmer, more comfortable meal.
Remember that market prices can be higher than in regular restaurants — that’s the price of convenience and festive ambience, so consider dining at a nearby restaurant if you want to save money or try more elaborate dishes.
To browse the stalls calmly and try a few treats, allow 1.5–2.5 hours. If you plan to photograph and shop for unique items, set aside 3–4 hours with a coffee break.
The best times for a less crowded visit are morning (opening until around midday) and weekdays outside the peak holiday period. In the evening (after dark) the market looks most magical because of the lights, but it attracts the biggest crowds — great for a romantic walk, less ideal for comfortable shopping.
Weekend afternoons and the days right before Christmas are the busiest. If you’re in Kraków on a weekend, consider arriving early in the morning or late in the evening, or plan your visit for a weekday.
The market can be very busy at peak times, so follow basic safety rules: keep your wallet in an inside pocket, watch your phone and documents, and check change carefully when paying. Avoid carrying large valuables in plain sight.
Not all stalls accept cards — it’s wise to carry some cash, but also check for card terminals and prices before ordering. In winter there can be queues at popular food stalls; check whether the vendor accepts contactless payments to speed up the service.
If you’re traveling with small children, pack warm clothes, gloves and a thermos with a hot drink. The Square can be slippery in winter, so wear comfortable shoes with good grip.
A wooden nativity scene is often set up in the market area, and you may see craft demonstrations — blacksmithing, pottery or gingerbread‑decorating workshops. Check the programme for carol concerts and performances by local groups, which add to the festive atmosphere.
Kraków is also famous for its nativity scene tradition — the Kraków Nativity Scene Competition draws artists who create highly decorated miniature constructions. Even if you don’t catch the competition itself, many nearby venues display nativity scenes during the market period.
During the festive season the city centre is decorated with lights and ornaments — in past years the Square was adorned with hundreds of lit Christmas trees and garlands, creating a very photogenic setting.
Arriving without a shopping plan — result: overspending and impulse purchases. Solution: set a priority list and a budget beforehand.
Wearing uncomfortable shoes and not dressing in layers — result: unhappy children or cold adults. Solution: dress in layers, wear comfortable non‑slip shoes and bring a thermos.
Relying only on card payments — result: declined transactions, longer queues. Solution: carry a small amount of cash and ask about contactless payment options before ordering.
Q: Is there an entry fee to the market? A: Entrance to the market is free; you only pay for goods and food.
Q: Is the market open every day during the holidays? A: The market runs during the pre‑Christmas and New Year period, but hours and programme details can change; it’s best to check the latest information before your trip.
Q: Are there special activities for children? A: Yes — workshops, gingerbread decorating and craft demonstrations are common; organisers publish a programme listing family events.
The Old Town is well connected — it’s a 10–15 minute walk from the Main Railway Station, and trams and buses stop near the Square. If you use public transport, get off at stops around Grodzka Street, the Juliusz Słowacki Theatre or All Saints’ Square (Plac Wszystkich Świętych).
If you plan to stay overnight, book a hotel or apartment in advance, especially on weekends and during the holiday season. Well‑rated accommodation near the Square lets you return for an afternoon rest between market visits.
If you need help with logistics — airport transfer, booking accommodation or a restaurant table — you can contact Małgorzata Kasprowicz, a private guide who works with zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. Małgorzata can plan your route, reserve a table, buy tickets for selected attractions and take care of the trip logistics — a comfortable option if you want to enjoy Kraków without stress and queues.
Although the market is mainly about shopping and tastes, it also has an interesting history — Kraków’s market traditions go back to the Middle Ages, and the modern market blends that history with contemporary festive trends.
You will often find artistic craft pieces whose makers love to talk about their work. A conversation with a seller can reveal unusual techniques and stories connected to an item.
In some years organisers spread part of the stalls to neighbouring squares, creating small market 'pockets' around the Old Town — a quieter option for visitors (check the market map for the given year).
If you liked this guide, share it with friends or on social media — it will help them prepare for a visit to Kraków and let more people discover the festive charm of the Main Market Square.
If you’d like to combine your visit with a guided tour, restaurant reservations, museum tickets or transport arrangements, contact Małgorzata Kasprowicz, a private guide collaborating with zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. Małgorzata will help plan your route, reserve a table, buy tickets to selected attractions and handle the logistics for the whole trip — a stress‑free option to enjoy Kraków to the fullest.
Wishing you a magical visit to the Kraków market — may it be full of delicious food, great finds and beautiful photos!
