Do you need cash for Krakow Christmas Market?

While many stalls at the Krakow Christmas Market now accept card payments, it is highly recommended to carry some cash (Polish Złoty) for smaller vendors, specific food stalls, and tips. Cards are widely accepted, but having cash ensures you can purchase items from any vendor without issues.

Can you pay with a card at Krakow Christmas Market?

Although many stalls at the Krakow Christmas Market accept card payments, it is worth having some Polish zlotys with you, as not all sellers are equipped with cashless payment terminals. This allows you to make purchases at every stall, including those selling handicrafts and unique items.

Does Kraków prefer cash or card?

Cash or Card? Krakow is Poland's most tourist-friendly city, and one of the largest and most international in the country. Athough it's always a good idea to have some cash to hand, you can also pay by card in the majority of establishments, bars, and restaurants, or even on public transport.

Is Krakow Christmas Market expensive?

Expect to pay 10-40zł for some hearty grub (3-10€). Drinks are pricy by Polish standards – a large mug of mulled wine costs around 25zł (just under 6€), but you'll really feel the benefit on a cold night. Despite the abundance of food and drink stalls, the bulk of the markets are given over to gift stalls.

Is it better to take cash or card to Poland?

While major cities and tourist areas in Poland typically accept debit cards, some smaller shops, local vendors, or remote locations may only accept cash. Carrying some Polish złotys for these situations is always a good idea.

Here's why EVERYONE is visiting the Krakow Christmas Market

Is 20 zloty a good tip?

As a general rule of thumb, you should consider tipping around 10-20 PLN (approximately 2-5 USD) per day. If you stayed in a luxury hotel or received exceptional service, it may be appropriate to tip a bit more—around 20-30 PLN (5-7 USD) would be well-received.

How crowded is Krakow's Christmas market?

The markets are crazy busy in the main square. Some more about to open in the little square and a small selection with a beautiful tree near the station.

Is Krakow cheap to eat and drink in pounds?

Food and drink

A three-course meal for two in a decent restaurant in Kraków should cost you the equivalent of about £21.00, whereas the same is likely to be about £45.00 in, say, Birmingham. Whenever you fancy a regular-size cappuccino, it'll probably come with a £1.70 price tag, compared to £3.50 back home.

What do they sell at Krakow Christmas Market?

Stroll through and you'll find stalls selling frosted gingerbread, wooden decorations and delicate jewellery. Hungry? Slabs of cheese, enormous meaty sandwiches and churros drizzled in chocolate are among the goodies to grab.

Do and don'ts in Kraków?

In Krakow, DO learn basic Polish phrases, try pierogi, validate public transport tickets, explore local markets, be respectful in churches, and use ride-sharing apps like Bolt for transport. DON'T drink alcohol in public, make insensitive jokes about Polish history, be loud in religious sites, touch historical monuments, or assume everyone accepts cash only; always validate transport tickets, and be cautious of jaywalking and late-night solo walks.

Can I use my UK debit card in Kraków?

Susan Fryer Yes, you can absolutely use your card in Kraków — almost everywhere takes contactless payments now, from restaurants and bars to taxis, museums, and even market stalls. Poland is one of the most card-friendly countries in Europe, especially in major cities like Kraków, Warsaw, and Gdańsk.

Is card or cash better in Kraków?

For people who intend to stay longer in Kraków, it's a good idea to apply for travel orientated bank cards which don't charge fees for ATM withdrawals or point of sale transactions.

Can you drink the water in Kraków from the UK?

High-quality tap water

The water in Krakow's taps is clean and healthy, and it has more than 300 mg of minerals in every litre, including bioelements such as calcium, magnesium, potassium and sodium. Around 60% of the city's residents already declare that they drink tap water.

Is everything closed on Sunday in Kraków?

Many shops will be closed on Sundays and key public holidays such as Easter. Galeria Krakowska is open 9am-10pm Monday-Saturday and 10am-9pm on Sundays, but is closed on many public holidays. There are a number of 24-hour shops dotted around including branches of Carrefour Express on ul.

Does it snow in Krakow at Christmas?

December is one of the coldest times of the year in Krakow. Winter is in full swing and the region's oceanic climate is very cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing. The possibility of frost and snow is very high, so make sure to pack lots of winter clothes for your trip.

What is traditional Polish Christmas food?

The taste of dried forest mushrooms is part of Polish culinary heritage. This delicious soup usually comes with square or thin noodles. Other traditional Christmas Eve soups include soft-water fish soup (for example, carp), white borscht, vegetarian Christmas Eve sour rye soup or old fashioned sweet almond soup.

What is the most beautiful Christmas market in Poland?

The Krakow Christmas Market is Poland's most famous—and often ranked among the best in Europe. Held in Europe's largest medieval square, this market is a stunning blend of Gothic architecture, festive lights, and traditional wooden stalls.

How many zloty are in 1 pound?

£ 1 GBP = zł 4.8688 PLN

Last updated Monday, 19 January 2026 22:34. Rates shown are interbank rates. eurochange rates will differ.

What does 100 zloty look like?

The 100 złoty banknote features a portrait of King Ladislas II Jagiello. In the background, on both sides, there are stylised elements of Gothic ornamentation. The reverse side features the White Eagle on the escutcheon from the tombstone of the King.