What's The Weather Like In Krakow In December
Temperature
Winter truly comes to town in December in Krakow, with an average daily temperature of -1°C (about 31°F). The lows drop to much below freezing, averaging -3°C (about 27°F), chilly but typical for this part of Poland and Eastern Europe. The highs only peak to a little bit above freezing, going up to an average of 2°C (around 36°F). Even though the weather isn't that great, this month is still a great time to visit because of all the festive Christmas events and lack of tourists.
If you do visit during this time, be sure to pack extra layers and warm clothes like sweaters and maybe even your long underwear to keep you warm under your regular clothes. You'll definitely want to bring along a hat, gloves and a scarf to protect yourself from the cold air. This month would be a good time to explore the museum and cathedrals that speak to the city's history and Polish culture. It's also a good time to visit the many restaurants and cafes serving up authentic Polish cuisine to warm your belly.
Sunshine Hours
Compared to November, you lose nearly 30 minutes of sunshine each day, with an average of only one sunshine hour. The amount of rainfall also drops, down to 27 mm over the course of the month.
Rain
You will see an average of 14 days of rainfall, giving you plenty of chances of having a dry day during your stay. More than likely, rather than an umbrella, you'll need a winter coat or parka; typically, precipitation falls as snow rather than rain this month.
The chance of rain or snow on any given day this month is 50 percent, as is the chance of having a foggy day. There is a 33 percent chance of having a cloudy day and a 33 percent chance of having a windy day this month as well.
Krakow Hotels In December
Andel's Hotel
Andel's Hotel is a four-star hotel that boasts modern architecture and unique atmosphere. Situated in the center of Krakow, there are 159 rooms and suites, a conference center, executive floor with business amenities, a restaurant and bar, and fitness center with massage rooms. Room choices include standard, superior, executive, junior and regular suites and all rooms have free Wi-Fi and complimentary daily newspapers and magazines.
Hotel Unicus
Hotel Unicus is housed in an old section of row houses but offers an updated and modern interior. Choose the hotel's bed and breakfast package and get a gourmet buffet breakfast at the on-site restaurant. The single and double rooms all have satellite television, ironing board, safe, mini fridge, docking stations for your iPhone and iPad, and underfloor heating to keep your tootsies warm during your visit in the cold month of December.
Bonerowski Palace
A boutique hotel in the center of Krakow, the Bonerowski Palace offers high-class style in its accommodations. Services the hotel offers include a professional concierge to answer all your tourist questions, car rentals and airport transfers, and spa and wellness center. The rooms feature tasteful decorations, plush bedding, plasma televisions and luxurious bathrooms. Some of the rooms have views of the city and others boast separate seating areas.
Bars And Restaurants
Pimiento Argentino Grill
The Pimiento Argentino Grill has two locations in Krakow, one on Old Town and one in Kazimierz. It features high-quality Argentinian steak and beef dishes, served along with classic steakhouse sides like fries, baked potatoes and grilled veggies. The restaurant has an extensive wine list and the wait staff is knowledgeable to help you choose the best drink to complement your meal.
Morskie Oko
Morskie Oko offers up authentic Polish meals that diners enjoy in a classic atmosphere of exposed brick, heavy wood furniture and traditional highland singers. While there, you'll enjoy all the favorites including highland potato pancakes, black pudding, hunter's stew, kielbasa, sauerkraut soup and beef stroganoff. Visit the restaurant for lunch and dinner, or stop in late for a nightcap and dessert.
Guliwer Café and Restaurant
The perfect spot for a cozy breakfast, lunch or dinner, the Guliwer Café and Restaurant is also the ideal place for a quick snack or warming up with a cup of coffee or tea. It is conveniently located near many Old Town attractions, so you can easily stop in between sightseeing. The wine list includes French, Italian, Spanish, Austrian, Slovak and Hungarian bottles and the menu is made of fresh dishes without preservatives or additives.
Things to Do In Krakow In December
Krakow's Christmas Market
A must-do during the month of December is Krakow's Christmas Market, which continues throughout the entire month and marks the start of the seasonal festivities. It takes place around the Main Market Square of Rynek Glowny, and features carol singing, hot food and dancing, and other fun, family-friendly, and festive activities. You can also shop local vendors for Christmas gifts and unique souvenirs.
Krakow Nativity Cribs Exhibition
There is also the Krakow Nativity Cribs Exhibition/Christmas Creche Contest, which takes place across December and January. It showcases Polish talent with art exhibitions and religious cribs dotted around the Old Town Square. The contest winners get to have their pieces on display at the Historical Museum throughout the Christmas season. The scenes can get as big as two meters by three meters and feature intricate details and stunning colors.
Galicia Jewish Museum
Don't miss the Galicia Jewish Museum, which provides a look at the history of Jews in Poland and honors the Jews who were killed in the Holocaust. Permanent exhibits include "Traces of Memory" and "An Unfinished Memory" and the museum also plays host to traveling and temporary exhibitions. Take advantage of one of the half or full-day guided tours, available in English, to get an in-depth look at the museum. If you need a snack or quick bite to eat during your visit, the museum has a café and attached bookstore to browse.
