Warsaw Christmas Market (Jarmark Bożonarodzeniowy) 2026

Warsaw’s Christmas market runs across the final weeks of advent and is spread across several locations in the city centre, with the primary site at Plac Zamkowy — Castle Square — at the entrance to the Old Town. The market is free to enter and attracts both Warsaw residents and visitors looking to experience a Polish Christmas in the capital. Unlike some European Christmas markets that feel primarily commercial, Warsaw’s edition maintains a genuine seasonal character: carol concerts, children’s events, and traditional Polish crafts sit alongside the more expected mulled wine and food stalls.

Castle Square and the Old Town

The main market at Castle Square sits directly in front of the Royal Castle, which is illuminated attractively after dark. Stalls here sell hand-painted Christmas ornaments, amber and silver jewellery, wooden toys, hand-embroidered linens, and traditional Polish folk crafts. Food stalls offer grzaniec galicyjski (Polish mulled wine), hot oscypek (smoked sheep’s cheese, often grilled and served with cranberry jam), zapiekanka (open-faced baguettes with various toppings), and seasonal sweets. The Old Town streets adjacent to the square are also decorated with lights and populated with additional market stalls.

Other Market Locations

Warsaw typically runs secondary Christmas markets at Plac Defilad (in front of the Palace of Culture and Science) and in some years at locations such as Ogrod Saski or along Nowy Swiat Street. The Palace of Culture market tends to have a larger fairground element including a skating rink and more commercial vendors, while the Castle Square market skews toward crafts and traditional goods. Check the Warsaw tourism website in November 2026 for confirmed locations.

Hours and Programme

Markets generally run daily from around 11:00 to 21:00, with extended hours on weekends. Carol concerts and live music performances take place on the Castle Square stage most evenings from around 17:00 to 20:00. A programme of children’s events — visits from Mikolaj (St. Nicholas), craft workshops, and storytelling — typically runs on weekend afternoons.

Getting There

Castle Square is at the northern end of the Old Town and easily walkable from most central Warsaw accommodation. The nearest metro station is Ratusz Arsenal (M1 line), a 10-minute walk. Buses 116, 175, and 222 stop near the Old Town. Avoid driving to the market — the Old Town is pedestrianised and central parking is expensive.

December in Warsaw is cold and often overcast, with temperatures between -3°C and 4°C. Waterproof boots, warm layers, and a hat and gloves are essential for comfortable browsing. See our Warsaw city guide for where to stay in the capital, and our December travel guide for the full picture of Poland at Christmas.