The Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul stands at ul. Grodzka 52a, in the very heart of Kraków — just a short walk from Wawel Castle and the Royal Route. On ordinary days the parish lists standard morning and evening masses, but special days like New Year's Eve (December 31) may differ from the usual schedule. Before you set out on the last day of the year, it’s a good idea to confirm the schedule directly with the parish.
The parish (Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul, All Saints parish) publishes regular mass times: on weekdays typically at 7:00 and 18:00, and on Sundays and holy days there are additional services in the mornings and afternoons. The parish website and contact details (address ul. Grodzka 52a, phone and e‑mail) are the fastest way to learn about any changes for New Year's Eve.
In short: use the parish’s regular schedule as a starting point, but remember that on holidays and special days the parish may adjust times.
December 31 is the feast day of St. Sylvester I, but in the Catholic Church it is not generally a holy day of obligation — the exception is if December 31 falls on a Sunday. Practically speaking, some parishes keep their usual timetable, while others may add a special thanksgiving service or alter times because of city events.
Around the Market Square and Wawel the city often holds public events, fireworks and street closures on New Year's Eve — this affects access to churches and parking. When planning a visit on December 31, take possible road closures, crowds and restrictions into account.
The most reliable source is the parish itself: call +48 12 422 6573 or write to parafia@apostolowie.pl. If you plan to attend a specific mass (for example an evening thanksgiving service or a later mass before midnight), a phone confirmation will give you certainty and save stress.
If you can’t reach the parish, arrive earlier than usual — churches may change entrance times, hold additional ceremonies or restrict access for safety reasons.
Give yourself extra time — on Grodzka and near the Market Square it’s easy to get slowed down by crowds on New Year’s Eve. Plan a walking route and allow more time to reach the church.
Dress appropriately for a religious service — churches are places of worship: avoid bare shoulders or extremely short outfits. Also bring warm clothing — December evenings in Kraków are cold.
Respect the liturgy — if you arrive during an ongoing mass, silence your phone, avoid flash photography and don’t walk in front of the altar. If you want photos of the façade or the square, take them discreetly.
Secure your belongings — leave large backpacks at your hotel and don’t leave valuables unattended.
If you want to attend a special New Year’s Eve mass (for example a thanksgiving service or a later solemn mass), confirm the time beforehand — not every parish celebrates a midnight mass.
After your visit in the Old Town you’ll find many well‑rated restaurants and cafés around the Main Market Square and along the streets leading from the Royal Route. Choose places with good reviews and a solid reputation; many offer traditional Polish dishes and a cozy atmosphere.
For a quick coffee or a relaxed atmosphere on Grodzka, look for nearby cafés that are popular with locals and visitors — if you plan to spend New Year’s Eve in the center, reserve a table in advance because many places get busy.
Assuming all churches are 'open 24/7' — many churches have fixed visiting hours outside of services and may limit access while preparing for a mass or because of city events.
Not confirming times — if you are coming specifically for a mass at an unusual hour, call or write to the parish first.
Not being prepared for crowds and closures — on New Year’s Eve pedestrian and vehicle traffic can be significantly affected; plan your time and route in advance.
Assuming there will be a midnight mass — some parishes hold thanksgiving services or evening liturgies, but a midnight mass is not guaranteed. Check ahead.
Will the church be open on December 31? - The most reliable answer comes from the parish; the standard weekday schedule is 7:00 and 18:00, but on New Year’s Eve the parish might change the times. Call or write to confirm.
Is there a midnight mass? - Not every parish holds a midnight mass. If you want to take part in a New Year’s Eve mass, confirm the time in advance.
What if the church is closed? - Look for a nearby parish or sanctuary, check the diocesan mass finder or ask your hotel reception — they often know the local schedule of services.
Many Kraków churches house rich art and sacred treasures that can be seen outside service hours — however, some chapels and the treasury may be closed during preparations for special masses or events.
In some years city New Year’s events mean parts of the Old Town streets are closed earlier — even if a church plans a mass, getting there can be difficult.
If you plan to visit the Church of Sts. Peter and Paul on New Year’s Eve, start by checking the parish’s regular hours and confirming any changes: ul. Grodzka 52a, phone +48 12 422 6573, e‑mail parafia@apostolowie.pl. Arrive early, allow extra time for walking, and enjoy the special atmosphere of the Old Town.
If this article was helpful, please share it with friends or on social media. And if you’d like to explore Kraków with a private guide, I invite you to use the services of Małgorzata Kasprowicz — details are available on the guide’s website.
Safe travels in the New Year and enjoy your visit to Kraków!
