Itinerary Summary
Fly into Warsaw (WAW). Days: Warsaw Old Town Christmas market and Castle Square market with grzaniec mulled wine, the train south to Krakow for its Main Square market, Wawel in winter, Wieliczka salt…
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1
Warsaw arrival and the first night of the Old Town market
14:00
2h
Warsaw Chopin Airport arrival and winter transfer
Take the S2 train or a taxi into the centre, allowing extra time if snow is falling. Buy a ZTM ticket in the arrivals hall and keep your coat within reach for the walk from the station.
📍 Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW)
17:00
2h
Old Town Christmas market opening evening
Walk the wooden stalls on the Market Square for mulled wine, grilled sausage and amber jewellery. The market runs from late November to early January, and the illuminations switch on around 16:00.
📍 Warsaw Old Town
💡 Pro Tip: December daylight runs from about 07:30 to 15:30, so plan outdoor sightseeing for the middle of the day. Warsaw's Christmas market runs from late November to early January, and stalls generally prefer cash even where a card terminal is on display. Entry rules depend on your passport, so check the Poland visa section before booking, and pack shoes with grip for icy pavements.
Days 2-6 are member-only
Members get the complete day-by-day plan with timing, transport and on-the-ground tips.
Budget Breakdown
AccommodationUS$65035%
Winter city hotels, 5 nights
Food & DiningUS$37020%
Market sausage, mulled wine and hot chocolate
Remaining cost categories are member-only
Members see the full breakdown for flights, hotels, food, tickets and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
When are the Warsaw and Krakow Christmas markets open?+
Both usually run from late November into early January, with Warsaw's Old Town and Castle Square markets and Krakow's Main Square stalls as the main draws. Exact opening and closing dates shift each year, so check the city tourism sites before booking. Early to mid December gives full markets and thinner crowds.
How much daylight and cold should I expect in Poland in December?+
Expect roughly eight hours of daylight, with sunset before 4 pm in mid December, and temperatures commonly between -5 and 5 C, colder in the mountains. Snow is possible but not guaranteed. Pack insulated, waterproof footwear with grip for icy old-town cobbles and a warm layer for evening market visits.
How much does a six-day Poland Christmas market trip cost?+
Budget around $1,500 to $2,240 per person excluding international flights, covering mid-range hotels, meals and market spending. December is low season for hotels outside the holiday peak, so rates are lower than summer. Markets are cash-heavy, so carry zloty for mulled wine, food stalls and small gifts.
Is a December Christmas market trip to Poland suitable for children?+
Yes. The markets are family-friendly, with food stalls, lights and small rides, and the Wieliczka mine works as a warm indoor half-day. Watch for ice on cobbles and keep children close in crowds. Mulled wine is for adults; hot chocolate and gingerbread suit younger visitors. Short daylight means planning outdoor time early.
Attractions in This Guide
Guide at a Glance
- Duration: 6 days
- Budget: Comfort · approx. $1,500–2,240 (≈ €1,300–1,950), excl. int'l flights
- Difficulty: easy
- Best for: Winter Getaway
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