Experience Winter in Poland: Christmas Markets, Polish Cuisine & Fun Activities!

Winter in Poland is an enchanting experience for travellers seeking a mix of snowy landscapes, rich history, festive celebrations, and warm hospitality. The season offers unique opportunities for winter sports, exploring charming cities, and indulging in hearty Polish cuisine. 

The capital city is covered in snow, so taking a stroll through its medieval castles and cobbled streets is a delight. The main square of Krakow is lit up during Christmas and is also home to Christmas markets. If you’re planning a visit, this guide will help you navigate the best of Poland trip during its coldest months.

Is Winter a Good Time to Visit Poland?

Yes, winter in Poland is beautifully snowy and a festive time for tourists. The winter season in Poland starts from December to February. It transforms the country into a winter wonderland. The season offers fewer crowds, making it ideal for you if you prefer a quiet, more intimate travel experience. 

Whether you are a ski enthusiast, a history buff, or a food lover, you can find many things to enjoy here. In December, Polish cities are adorned with Christmas decorations and lights. Its mountainous towns are filled with winter adventures like skiing and snowboarding opportunities.

Weather Guide for Polish Winter

Poland experiences cold winters with significant regional variations. Snow is expected in the mountains and central regions. Coastal areas are likely to be really mild but still chilly. 

Furthermore, short daylight hours, with the sun setting as early as 3:30 PM in December, are standard in winter.

Region	Average Daytime Temperature (°C)	Average Nighttime Temperature (°C)	Snowfall
Warsaw (Central)	-1 to 3°C	-4 to -8°C	Moderate to Heavy
Krakow (South)	0 to 4°C	-3 to -7°C	Light to Moderate
Zakopane (Tatra)	-5 to 0°C	-10 to -15°C	Heavy
Gdansk (North)	1 to 4°C	-2 to -6°C	Rare Snowfall

Festivals and Celebrations in Poland

Winter in Poland is loaded with cultural events and festivals that bring a lot of warmth and joy.

Christmas Markets

Christmas markets in Poland are grand and festive. You will find them in cities like Krakow, Wroclaw, and other places. Markets have beautifully decorated stalls selling crafts, trinkets, Christmas decorations, and traditional food like mulled wine. The atmosphere is entirely magical, with twinkling lights, the aroma of freshly baked gingerbread, and carolers spreading festive cheer so you can experience the traditional Christmas in Europe.

• Krakow Christmas Market
• Poznan Christmas Market 

New Year’s Eve

Some major cities like Krakow and Warsaw host plenty of outdoor concerts, balls, and fireworks. You can join locals in Old Town squares for music, dancing, and celebrations. If you want to party with Poles, you must go pub-crawling through Polish nightclubs. You can even go river cruising or a fancy restaurant if you want to enjoy an intimate dinner. 

Epiphany Parade in January 

Epiphany Parade, also known as the Three Kings’ Day, takes place on 6th January. It’s a religious procession with carol singing and reenactments of the three kings’ journey. The procession is grand. It has actors dressed as kings, shepherds, horses, goats, and Death. You can spot the king riding a camel or horse.

SnowFest Festival

Winter is also the time for Poland’s iconic SnowFest Festival. It takes place in the two of Szczyrk. The music lineup includes Gorgon City, Netsky, Last Robots, House of Walkers, and more. You can dance, party at various music concerts, and go skiing on the slopes. Multiple sports competitions, such as SnowFest Games, feature top snowboard and freeski riders.

Dates: 7-8 March, 6 PM
Website: https://www.snowfest.pl/en
Tickets: 200-400 Polish złoty
Location: Amfiteatr Skalite, Szczyrk, Deptak nad Żylicą 43-370

Top Winter Activities in Poland

Winter and Poland offer plenty of activities for all types of travellers.

Skiing and Snowboarding in Zakopane

Also known as the winter capital of Poland, Zakopane offers fantastic ski resorts. They are suitable for all skill levels and have plenty of rental options. The surrounding Tatra mountains provide amazing views that elevate your skiing experience.

Stroll through Old Towns

Don’t miss the UNESCO-listed Old Towns of Kraków and Warsaw. They are renowned for their stunning architecture, vibrant squares, and historical significance. The old towns are covered in snow and carry a medieval charm. You will encounter historic buildings, churches, castles, and houses steeped in history. 

Soak in Poland’s Termy

The natural hot springs are called “Termy” in Poland. They are a great way to relax in the cold and swim in hot, calming waters. These spas have therapeutic abilities and health benefits that can help you cure your pain and offer a reprieve. Spas are a huge part of the Polish culture. Some exciting resorts include Cieplice Spa, Ladek Spa, and Duszniki Spa.

Snowshoeing in the Tatra Mountains

Snowshoeing is common in the Tatra Mountains. A winter activity that involves walking on snow using special footwear called snowshoes. They are big and a great outdoor activity for beginners. The snowshoeing trails are marked with breathtaking scenery of snow-covered peaks, pristine forests, and frozen lakes.

Ice Skating

Ice skating is very popular in Poland. As the winter sets in, the skates come out. To experience this activity, you can visit the city squares like Warsaw Old Town or Krakow’s central Market Square. Skating under fairy lights is fun and romantic for couples and families. You can also rent your gear at several rinks in different parts of Poland. 

Museums and Castles

Poland offers an opportunity to unravel the past. You can yourself in the poignant history of World War II at the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, or delve into the fascinating world of Polish art at the National Museum in Warsaw. To taste medieval grandeur, visit the majestic Wawel Royal Castle in Kraków or the imposing Malbork Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Try Polish Cuisine 

Polish cuisine is a delightful blend of hearty flavors and comforting dishes. Must-tries include pierogi (dumplings with various fillings), bigos (hunter’s stew), and kotlet schabowy (breaded pork cutlet). Don’t miss the flavorful soups like żurek (sour rye soup) and barszcz (beetroot soup). Indulge in pączki (jelly doughnuts) or sernik (cheesecake) for a sweet treat.

Polish Bars and Nightclubs

Poland’s nightlife scene is vibrant and diverse, offering something for everyone. In major cities like Kraków, Warsaw, and Gdańsk, you’ll find various options, from traditional milk bars serving local beers to trendy cocktail bars and bustling nightclubs. Enjoy live music at jazz clubs, dance the night away at popular clubs, or relax with a drink at a cozy pub.

Horse-drawn Carriages 

In Poland, you can enjoy the famous horse-drawn sleigh rides in quaint villages and mountain towns. This activity will add a touch of old-world charm to your trip. The ride takes you through snow-capped pine trees while you are covered in warm blankets. At the end of the ride, you can sit by the bonfire and enjoy a hearty meal while listening to Highland bands’ music. 

Famous Tourist Spots in Winter

Zakopane

Zakopane is one of Poland’s top 20 destinations for skiing, snowboarding, and traditional mountain culture. You cannot miss out on the iconic wooden architecture, which looks stunning under a layer of snow.

Krakow

The Old Town and Wawel Castle looked magical under a blanket of snow. You can try a horse-drawn carriage ride around Market Square for a fairy tale experience.

Warsaw

It is known for its incredible Christmas market and picturesque bridges covered in frost. The city is also known for its charming statues scattered around the streets, which are fun to discover even in the winter. 

Where to Stay During Winter in Poland?

Luxury 

Bristol Warsaw is your best bet if you are looking for top amenities and a central location. Furthermore, Aries Hotel and Spa Zakopane is perfect for you looking for a luxurious mountain gateway. Both options generally provide special winter packages like spa treatments and festive dinners.

Budget

Hostel Cinnamon Krakow is entirely affordable and generally located. Tetra Top Zakopane offers budget-friendly chalets for families.

Unique Stays

The one-of-a-kind experience allows you to book an ice hotel in Bialka Tatrzanska. If you are looking to stay in a blend of history and charm, then cave apartments in Kazimierz Dolny are your best bet. The unique accommodations generally provide special winter-themed activities, as you can go for guided snowshoe tours and cooking classes.

What to Pack for Winter in Poland?

Staying warm during Poland’s winters is essential. The key is to layer your clothes and stay protected from the frosty cold. 

Clothing Item	Description
Base Layer	Thermal underwear (top and bottom) made from wool or synthetic materials like Merino wool or polypropylene.
Mid Layer	Fleece jacket or sweater for insulation.
Outer Layer	Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants. A down jacket is highly recommended for extreme cold.
Headwear	Warm hat that covers your ears, beanie, or balaclava.
Footwear	Sturdy, waterproof, and insulated boots with good traction.
Gloves	Warm, insulated gloves or mittens.
Scarf or Neck Gaiter	To protect your neck from the cold.
Socks	Warm, wool or synthetic socks.
Accessories	Sunglasses, sunscreen (yes, even in winter!), lip balm.

Additional Tips:

• Dress in layers so you can adjust to changing temperatures.
• Higher altitudes may affect your breathing. Buy attitude medicine to keep the sickness at bay.
• Sunglasses are a must-have for bright, snowy days. 
• Carry a backpack is a must for carrying essentials like snacks and water. You must also pack a thermos for hot drinks during long outdoor excursions. 

• Portable chargers and a good-quality camera are ideal for snowy landscapes. Additionally, you must bring power adapters compatible with European outlets.

Travel Tips

• Poland’s trains and buses are reliable even in winter. You can check out apps like Jakdojade. It can help you plan local routes.
• You’ll need to learn a few Polish phrases like good morning and thank you as they go a long way.
• Cold weather can make you forget to drink water, so always keep a bottle handy. It’s also very important to carry lip balm and moisturizer to protect your skin from the harsh cold. 
• You need to plan your outdoor activities as early as possible, as daylight hours are limited. Furthermore, watch weather forecasts to adjust your plan if needed. 
• Poland uses the Polish zloty. Cards are available and widely accepted, but you need to keep some cash for small towns or markets. ATMs are easy to find, but inform your bank beforehand about your international transactions.

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FAQs

Is Poland too cold in winter?

Poland can be cold, especially in mountain regions, but proper clothing makes it enjoyable.

What are the best winter activities?

Here are some famous winter activities in Poland: skiing in Zakopane, exploring Krakow, and visiting Christmas markets, which are genuinely must-do things in the winter.

Are tourist spots open in winter?

Yes, most tourist attractions Remain open with the bonus of fewer crowds.

What is the best food to try in winter?

You can try traditional dishes like hunter’s stew, beetroot consommé soup, and smoked cheese.

How can you get around in winter?

The public transport in Poland is entirely efficient, and major cities have well-maintained roads for driving. However, during winter in Poland, the train schedule may be affected by snowstorms or snowfall.