Ah, but the climes, they are a’changin,’ people. Those nostalgic for the PRL-era can legitimately argue that things were more consistent during the communist years, when Moscow controlled the weather ( just kidding? ) and the winters were simply white and frozen from December until the end of March. In today’s warming climate you never know if the falling flakes will translate to sidewalks covered in sheets of ice or a soupy slush (we prefer the former, personally). Whatever the case, fear not, frigid one. Kraków still has plenty of attractions and activities to offer this time of year, whether it’s a winter wonderland drawing you outdoors, or a sloppy sludgepool keeping you in. Here are our top suggestions:
What to Do in Kraków in the Winter:
1. Skate into some Culture
Though some would assume winter is the worst time to visit the stark, grey socialist realism monoliths of Nowa Huta, we would argue the opposite. Winter only amplifies what makes the area interesting in the first place (its bleak severity?), and the seasonal ice rink outside the Nowa Huta Cultural Centre only makes a wintry visit more worthwhile. NCK has it all this time of year - food trucks, ice skating and the incredible imagery of Zdzisław Beksiński (we’re fans).
2. See the Szopki
One of Kraków’s most idiosyncratic Christmas traditions is the popular creation of 'szopki' or 'Christmas cribs' as they are somewhat oddly referred to in English. Something of a strange cross between a nativity scene, gingerbread house, and dollhouse, these unique structures more resemble colourful, foil-covered castles or cathedrals than cribs, and are the bizarre result of a folk tradition dating back to the Middle Ages. Each year Cracovians of all ages participate in a competition to create the most wondrous szopki, and the best are then put on display in Krzysztofory Palace from early December until late February. Visiting the szopki exhibition is an essential winter tradition for most families in Kraków, and you shouldn't miss it. If you can't fit it into your itinerary, however, you might still be lucky enough to see some of the many szopki krakowskie displayed in public spaces around the city centre; keep your eyes peeled.
3. Take a Walk in the Woods
If you're tired of the slush and bustle of the city, few things are more peaceful than a snowy winter's walk in the woods. Only 8km west of the Old Town, Wolski Forest (Las Wolski) is a massive 422-hectare (1042 acres) protected woodland perched over the city, which includes 35km (22 miles) of hiking trails and a cross-country skiing route, but also shelters several places of interest along the routes, including the Kraków Zoo (open year-round), Przegorzały Castle (a mountain-top villa with Nazi secrets, a restaurant and cafe), Pilsudski Mound (a tall man-made earthwork with panoramic views), and the Camaldolese Monastery (a mysterious hermitage on Silver Mountain). For the perfect outing with the kids, we recommend taking a cab (or bus 134 from 'Cracovia Stadion') to the Zoo, and afterwards going on a short hike to the historic Przegorzały Castle for dinner, hot drinks and great views of the valley below. Check krakow.jakdojade.pl for bus connections.
4. Go For a Sleigh Ride
The winter alternative of a horse-drawn carriage ride around Kraków's market square, a sleigh ride through the countryside is arguably more magical and romantic, and makes for a great family or group outing. A traditional ride typically includes a large horse-drawn sled kitted out with sleigh bells and flaming torches winding through the beautiful snow-draped valleys surrounding Kraków and concludes with a forest bonfire, grilled sausages, tea or warm honey vodka. There are several companies who will organise it for you, but it all depends on the weather, of course.
5. Warm up with Hot Wine or...Beer?
Of all the known methods for coping with the Polish winter, none rewards as much as a mug of mulled wine ('grzane wino'), or a pint of its distinctly Polish cousin 'grzane piwo' - spiced beer heated up in a microwave. The former is sold from barrels at winter markets, while both can be ordered in most bars during the cold months. Even if you shudder at the thought of warm beer, you have to try this variation at least once in life. Na zdrowie!
6. Go Underground in Wieliczka
If it’s absolutely arctic outside, Wieliczka Salt Mine’s steady 15 degrees Celsius should feel downright cosy. Not only that, but if Kraków’s notorious smog has you feeling like you’ve caught a case of black lung, or under the weather in any way, you might be interested to know that Wieliczka mine's unique saline microclimate is actually celebrated for its health benefits. In addition to being a popular UNESCO-listed tourist attraction, the mine also functions as a full-time health resort with specific chambers and programs dedicated to health treatments, and even the opportunity to spend the night underground for maximum effect.
