Kraków Christmas Market 2026
Last updated · How we compile this guide
When is the Kraków Christmas market in 2026?
Krakow Christmas Market (Krakowskie Targi Bozonarodzeniowe) on Rynek Główny usually opens in late November; we haven't confirmed the 2026 dates yet. Entry is free. The first Sunday of Advent in 2026 is 29 Nov 2026.
Kraków's Christmas market fills the Main Market Square (Rynek Główny), one of the largest medieval squares in Europe, around the Cloth Hall and St Mary's Basilica. In early December the city holds its famous nativity scene (szopka) competition — a tradition on UNESCO's list of intangible cultural heritage.
Dates, location and website
Dates shown are from the 2025–26 season unless 2026 dates are marked — check the official website before you go.
Plan your visit to Kraków
Getting there
Kraków Główny station is about a 10-minute walk from the Main Market Square, and a direct train links the airport with the city centre in around 20 minutes.
Don't miss
On the first Thursday of December, Kraków's nativity scene makers bring their glittering, tower-shaped szopki to the Main Market Square for the annual competition; the winners go on show at the Museum of Kraków. Listen for the trumpet call (hejnał) played every hour from the tower of St Mary's Basilica.
What to eat
Try pierogi, grilled oscypek (smoked sheep's cheese) with cranberry jam, kiełbasa and grzaniec (mulled wine). Kraków is one of the most affordable big Christmas markets in Europe.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Kraków Christmas market 2026?
The dates weren't published in our source last season. The first Sunday of Advent in 2026 is 29 Nov 2026; check the official website for this year's dates.
Is the Kraków Christmas market free?
Yes, entry is free — you only pay for food, drinks and gifts.