Warsaw Christmas Market 2026: Old Town and Praga

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Christmas in Warsaw

Warsaw is a fantastic tourist destination throughout the year. The city is exciting and dynamic, with an eclectic mix of old and new, a complex history, classical music, fascinating museums and cool cafes.

A few years ago, I visited Warsaw and took this video to show what it’s like in winter. It includes footage of the small market in Praga.

Local Specialities

Warsaw’s markets are smaller than those in Munich and Vienna, but they still offer a diverse selection of goods on display.

There is traditional Polish food, such as pierogies, fried fish, sweets, hearty soups, and grilled meat, as well as international food like langos, goulash, dried fruit, and chocolate.

You can’t go wrong with a cup of mulled wine or a shot of sweet fruit vodka (try the raspberry or peach).

Things to Do in Winter

I was fortunate to spend a couple of months in Warsaw. I always felt that it was a mini version of Berlin. It has a counter-culture lifestyle, vibrant nightlife, great vodka bars, and craft beer breweries, but I would say it’s better in many ways.

There is a delicious, dynamic foodie scene, as well as World War II and Cold War history, cool architecture, and an entrepreneurial spirit.

• Old Town – Restored after the devastation of World War II, the Old Town and New Town (also known as the old and rebuilt areas) are picturesque areas to explore and are also home to the Royal Castle.
• Visit the viewing platform at St. Anne’s Church for the best views of Warsaw’s Old Town.
• The Royal Route – Start at the Royal Castle, walk down the medieval Nowy Świat and continue past historic royal landmarks towards Wilanów Palace.
• The Soviet-era Palace of Culture and Science in central Warsaw is an Art Deco-inspired skyscraper and the tallest building in Poland. In winter, an ice skating rink is located in front of the building.
• Warsaw Uprising Museum – One of Central Europe’s most fascinating yet sombre museums depicting life in the Warsaw Ghetto, the resistance and the aftermath of the uprising in 1944.
• Warsaw Ghetto – Approximately 400,000 Jews were forced to live in the sealed-off ghetto. In one small area, you can see the remains of the ghetto walls.
• Lazienki Park – The largest park in Warsaw and home to Lazienki Palace on the water and the Chopin monument. The park is part of the Royal Route, which links the Royal Palace and Wilanów Summer Palace.
• Tomb of the Unknown Soldier – The last remaining part of the Saxon Palace that was destroyed during WWII and never rebuilt.
• Wilanów Palace – One of the few buildings in its original state, the renovated Baroque palace is now a museum, art gallery, and a beautiful garden. It’s the last stop on the Royal Route.
• Lublin – If you have time, take a day trip to nearby Lublin, an adorable small city with pastel-coloured buildings and pretty facades.

Sustainable Travel Tips

• Shop mindfully. Only purchase what you need.
• Walk, cycle and use public transport to get around.
• Stay in a sustainable hotel powered by renewable energy.
• Stay in hotels. Short-stay apartment accommodation can lead to a lack of affordable housing for locals.
• Avoid using plastic or buying items made or packaged with plastic.
• Try to eat locally sourced organic food where possible.
• Limit your consumption of meat and dairy.
• Be open to diverse cultures and experiences.
• Explore more than just the main tourist areas.
• Support the arts and attend local events.
• Visit fewer places but stay longer at each destination.

If you have visited Warsaw in winter or would like to review the Xmas market, leave your thoughts and tips below.

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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. While we make every effort to provide accurate information, the dates and details listed here should not be relied upon as definitive. Please consult the official website before booking your trip or planning a visit.