One of the most magical things about winter in Europe is the Christmas markets and Poland is no exception. Browsing Christmas markets is a great way to experience the atmosphere and traditions of each of these cities and get set for the most wonderful time of the year. Here are the three best ones to visit.
Visit one of the most magical Christmas markets in Wroclaw
Are you looking for a wonderful Christmas experience somewhere new? Head to the city of Wroclaw, and you’ll find one of Europe’s most atmospheric settings. The Christmas Market in Wroclaw will be taking place in four main areas: The Market Square, Salt Square (Plac Solny), Świdnicka Street and Oławska Street. The festive atmosphere at Wroclaw Christmas Market is a huge draw for overseas tourists and the locals love it too. Visitors can experience the fairytale forest, gnomes, and much more. Additionally, there are Christmas-themed rides and parades for everyone to enjoy. It goes without saying there will be a wide range of stalls offering a tempting array of festive goodies and local delicacies. A tasty treat that visitors must sample is the famous Oscypek- a traditional smoked cheese you won’t find anywhere else.
Dates: The Christmas market runs from 18 November to 31 December 2022.
Experience yuletide magic in Krakow.
Christmas in Poland’s ancient city of Krakow has to be seen to be believed. The fairytale atmosphere attracts not only overseas visitors but also native people from all over the country and the Christmas market is must-see. Browse the brightly-lit stalls at your leisure while enjoying a cup of mulled wine or nibble some mouth-watering gingerbread. The tempting aroma of hot kielbasa (sausage) fills the air but there’s plenty of other local food to try.
The majestic Renaissance Sukiennice Cloth Hall dominates the square and is also worth a visit. There’s so much to see and do in Krakow – there’s something for everyone. To start your Christmas adventure, get your skates on at the ice rink or spend some quiet time in tranquil galleries or candlelight churches. Krakow also has an annual tradition of hosting a nativity scene competition. Participants create colourful interpretations featuring churches, or szopki, 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: The Christmas market runs from 25 November 2022 to 1 January 2023
Immerse yourself in the magic of the season with a trip to historical Gdansk
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. Visitors can enjoy an elf parade, a talking moose, the Snow Queen and her singing carollers and the chance to take a spin on the traditional carousel. 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.
Dates: The Christmas market runs from 20 November to 24 December 2022.
How to get there?
Flights to Poland from the UK are regularly available from airports across the UK, including London Stansted, London Luton, Bristol, Leeds, Edinburgh and Aberdeen with Ryanair and Wizz Air.
