What is Poland like over Christmas?

Christmas in Poland is a magical, deeply traditional, and festive experience, characterized by snowy, cold weather, vibrant, atmospheric Christmas markets (especially in Krakow, Warsaw, and Wroclaw), and a strong focus on family,, faith, and, in particular, the Wigilia (Christmas Eve) supper, which is the highlight of the holiday. Expect to see cities adorned with beautiful, elaborate, and colorful holiday lights, particularly along historic streets and in old town squares.

Is Poland good for Christmas?

More and more people are becoming convinced that Christmas in Poland is not only about spectacular illuminations and traditional flavours, but also about exceptional hospitality and a unique atmosphere.

What do people in Poland do for Christmas?

Sometimes on Christmas Eve both adults and children go to their neighbors and family. As a reward, they receive money or sweets. When midnight comes many Polish people are going to the Christmas mass. Pasterka is a midnight mass celebrated by Roman Catholics during Christmas between 24 and 25 December across Poland.

Is it worth going to Poland in December?

The best time to visit Poland in winter depends on what you're after. If you're visiting Poland in December, you'll catch the country at its most festive — with Christmas Markets, sparkling lights, and cozy seasonal food everywhere you go.

Is Krakow worth visiting at Christmas?

Visit Krakow's Christmas markets

The vibrant Christmas markets in Krakow are among the best in all of Europe and the highlight of the city's holiday season, making them one of the best places to spend the holiday season.

Here's Why Wrocław is One of the Best Travel Destinations in Poland — Especially at Christmas

Is Budapest or Krakow better at Christmas?

It compared 10 of the 'most festive' cities in the continent in order to determine which one you should jet off to for a super Christmassy holiday. Kraków, Poland's second city, came out on top. It had the least expensive food, with a mid-range meal for two generally costing 200 Polish złoty, or €47.40.

What are the do's and don'ts in Krakow?

Do and don'ts in Krakow?

• Do and Don'ts in Krakow. ...
• Do Explore the Old Town on Foot. ...
• Do Visit the Jewish Quarter, Kazimierz. ...
• Do Take a Day Trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau. ...
• Do Try Local Polish Food. ...
• Do Use Krakow's Reliable Public Transport. ...
• Don't Disrespect Historical Sites. ...
• Don't Expect Late-Night Noise to Be Accepted.

Is 4 days in Krakow too much?

All you need is two days or so to see all the must-see sights in Krakow's Old Town and Old Jewish Quarter. That means with four days in Poland's cultural capital, you can take one or two side trips to the historical sights that are a short drive away. There's more than enough to keep you occupied.

How to dress for Poland in December?

Footwear is a big part of cold weather clothes for Poland, so don't skimp here — your feet will thank you. For active adventures, pack thermal wear Poland travel and warm layers Poland to stay comfortable in the cold.

What are the pros and cons of Poland?

✅ Pros: affordable cost of living, stunning mountains, strong culture, safe environment. ❌ Cons: bureaucracy, Polish language is hard, long winters, lower salaries. The biggest challenge? Missing friends and family back home.

What are the 12 dishes of Polish Christmas?

What Are The 12 Traditional Polish Christmas Dishes?

• Pierniki – Polish Gingerbread. ...
• Barszcz Czerwone Z Uszkami – Red Borscht With Dumplings. ...
• Zupa Grzybowa – Dried Mushroom Soup. ...
• Kapusta z Grochem – Cabbage With Peas. ...
• Jarzynowa Sałatka – Vegetable Salad. ...
• Karp – Carp. ...
• Sledzie – Herring. ...
• Pierogi – Polish Dumplings.

Is there a Christmas market in Poland?

Poland, for example, has a couple of top-class Christmas markets, which you'll find in its two largest cities, Warsaw and Kraków.

Is Christmas Eve a big deal in Poland?

The most important day of the whole Christmas celebration in Poland is 24th December - Christmas Eve. That day, our Christmas trees should be decorated. That day, we spend preparing a huge feast with 12 different dishes, non meat ones, each on symbolising a different month of the year or 12 apostels.

Do Polish people drink alcohol on Christmas?

Traditionally, there's no alcohol during Polish Christmas dinner, but there are exceptions depending on each family's liking.

Is Poland friendly to tourists?

Most visitors do not experience any difficulties. Serious crime against foreigners is rare, but crimes do occur and in some cases attacks have been racially motivated.

What are 5 facts about Christmas in Poland?

10 Things You Probably Didn't Know About Christmas in Poland

• The most important day is Christmas Eve. ...
• We don't decorate the Christmas tree in November. ...
• The most important meal of Christmas time – the Christmas Eve dinner – is actually a meal at a time between lunch and dinner.

What is the 3-3-3 rule for outfits?

By selecting three tops, three bottoms and three pairs of shoes that can all work together, this guideline says, you can build your own capsule wardrobe.

Do and don'ts in Poland?

While some people are open to discussion, it's best to avoid controversial opinions or jokes unless you're invited into the conversation. Don't drink alcohol in public places. Unlike some countries, public drinking is not allowed in most parks, streets, or squares in Poland.

Is Krakow too cold in December?

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.

Is Auschwitz a day trip from Krakow?

The former concentration camp in Auschwitz Memorial and Museum is one of the most popular attractions for day trips from Krakow. Tourists from all over the world visit Auschwitz in Poland to pay tribute to everyone who died there.

What is the prettiest town in Poland?

• Ranking of the most beautiful cities in Poland. Number 1: Krakow. Number 2: Wroclaw. Number 3: Gdansk. Number 4: Warsaw. Number 5: Torun. Number 6: Poznan. Number 7: Lublin. Number 8: Sandomierz. Number 9: Kazimierz Dolny. Number 10: Zamosc. Number 11: Szczecin. Number 12: Olsztyn. Number 13: Sopot. Number 14: Gdynia. ...
• Summary.

Is it better to stay in Krakow, Old Town or city Centre?

If budget is a factor, the areas immediately outside the Old Town can be a good compromise. Meanwhile, Kazimierz has a special atmosphere all of its own. The good news is that central Kraków is very compact and many of the key attractions will be walkable from any hotel in or surrounding the Old Town.

What not to bring in Poland?

It is forbidden to import into Poland:

• unlicensed firearms and ammunition;
• drugs;
• meat, fish and dairy products from the EU;
• endangered species of plant require a permit. You are allowed to import plants, fruits and vegetables for personal use in a small amount. Otherwise, it is requered a phytosanitary certificate.

What not to do in Kraków at night?

Follow this guide to avoid the pitfalls and faux pas you might fall foul to when on a Stag Do in Krakow.

• Public transport tickets.
• Drinking in public.
• Crossing the street.
• The newest trend of electric scooters.
• Smoking in public.
• Gentleman's or Strip Clubs.
• Ordering drinks in the dance clubs.
• Illegal substance purchases.

Is Kraków English friendly?

English is widely spoken in tourist areas and it's very easy to find your way around. However, it's always good to come prepared.