New Year’s Eve in Krakow, locally known as Sylwester, offers an unforgettable blend of vibrant celebrations, historic charm, and festive cheer. As the city transforms into a winter wonderland, Krakow’s Main Market Square becomes the heart of the festivities, hosting free concerts, dazzling performances, and a lively atmosphere that fills every corner of the Old Town.
December in Krakow is truly magical, with its Christmas Markets, ranked among the best in the world, filling the air with the aroma of mulled wine, gingerbread, and local delicacies. This adds a touch of enchantment to an already festive city, making it the perfect backdrop for a memorable New Year’s celebration.
Whether you’re looking for an affordable party destination or a romantic getaway, Krakow has something for everyone. Depending on your preferences, you could unwind at one of the marvelous and luxurious spa hotels nestled in the heart of the Old Town, treat yourself to a cozy, intimate evening at one of the city’s best restaurants, or mingle with people from around the world and dance the night away at its buzzing nightlife spots.
In this guide to New Year’s Eve in Krakow, we’ll reveal all the local secrets about these celebrations, which are among the most anticipated of the year for both residents and visitors. If you’re planning your holiday, here you’ll find everything you need to know, the best insider tips, and recommendations for the top things to do, the best hotels, and the finest restaurants to fully enjoy your stay in Poland’s most beautiful city!
What you will find in this guide to New Year’s Eve in Krakow:
KRAKOW NEW YEAR’S EVE 2024/2025
Krakow’s New Year’s Eve celebrations have gained increasing popularity in recent years, becoming one of the most eagerly anticipated events of the year. This enchanting city, nestled along the banks of the Vistula River, has cemented its reputation as one of the best places in Europe to spend the Christmas and New Year holidays.
At the heart of Krakow’s New Year’s festivities is the charming Main Market Square. In December, Krakow’s Old Town transforms into a truly magical place, adorned with captivating Christmas lights and its famed Christmas Markets, celebrated as some of the most beautiful in Europe. As the clock ticks closer to New Year’s Eve, the Main Market Square comes alive in spectacular fashion. From early afternoon, it begins to fill with locals gathering to ring in the New Year with friends.

Until just a few years ago, the Main Market Square was the epicenter of the celebrations, hosting a large free outdoor concert featuring music, light shows, and fireworks. The festivities would kick off around 8 PM and continue well past midnight, with performances by renowned local and international artists.
However, this now seems to be a thing of the past. Since 2020, Krakow’s traditional New Year’s Eve concert has no longer been held. In 2020 and 2021, the event was canceled due to the global pandemic. In the following years, the city council chose not to organize any New Year’s Eve celebrations, citing cost-saving measures due to the energy crisis. Officials justified the decision by stating they preferred to allocate funds to other priorities rather than hosting such events.
But don’t let this deter you from planning your New Year’s Eve in Krakow. The city remains lively and festive, with the square beautifully decorated and the Christmas Markets open until the first days of January. Celebrations still take place in many squares around the Old Town and in Kazimierz, as well as in restaurants, hotels, and theaters.
Important Information about Krakow New Year’s Eve 2025
If you’re planning to celebrate New Year’s Eve 2025 in Krakow, be aware that, as in recent years, the traditional concert in the Main Market Square will not take place. This has been confirmed by Krakow City Council, which has once again decided to redirect the funds typically allocated for the event to other purposes (source – in Polish).
That said, as in previous years, you can still expect lively spontaneous celebrations, both in the square and throughout the Old Town, which will be buzzing with activity. The traditional Krakow Christmas Market will be running from November 29th to January 1st, 2025, featuring over 100 stalls selling everything from handcrafted ornaments and festive decorations to local delicacies like soups, pierogi, pork neck, pork knuckle, sausages, and highland cheeses, all within a magical festive atmosphere.
You can also marvel at traditional handcrafted nativity scenes and attend one of the many Christmas carol concerts. Simply wandering through the Old Town and the nearby Kazimierz district—two of Krakow’s most popular New Year’s Eve destinations—will provide plenty of charm.
However, if a New Year’s Eve concert is a must for you, consider heading to the mountain town of Zakopane, about a two-hour drive south of Krakow. Known as Poland’s winter capital, Zakopane hosts one of the country’s most famous New Year’s Eve concerts, along with excellent ski resorts, thermal spa retreats, and an extraordinary festive atmosphere.
Best Things to Do in Krakow for New Year’s Eve
🌟 Discover the Wonders of Krakow
☞Free Walking Tour of Krakow Old Town – Explore the historic heart of Krakow with a knowledgeable guide.☞Free Walking Tour of Kazimierz (Krakow’s Jewish Quarter) – Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Kazimierz.
🍽️ Experience Authentic Food and Drink Culture
☞Vodka Tasting Tours in Krakow – Sample Poland’s finest vodkas and learn their fascinating history.☞Guided Food Tour with Local Tastings – Savor traditional Polish dishes paired with local drinks.
🎉 Celebrate Krakow’s Party Scene
☞Legendary New Year’s Eve Pub Crawl – Includes 2 hours of unlimited drinks and free entry with shots at top clubs.🔑 Must-See Tours Near Krakow
☞Guided Tour of Auschwitz and Birkenau – A moving and educational experience of history.☞Guided Tour of Wieliczka Salt Mine – Marvel at the underground labyrinth and its stunning chambers finely carved in salt.
Best Restaurants and Pubs for New Year’s Eve in Krakow
If partying in the square isn’t your scene, Krakow offers a vibrant culinary landscape where you can indulge in the delightful specialties of local cuisine this New Year’s Eve. Throughout the city, numerous restaurants provide special fixed-price menus for New Year’s dinner. Most feature authentic Polish cuisine, complete with a selection of hot and cold buffets and a range of dishes, from traditional pierogi to more refined options.
Typically, these menus also include classic meat specialties and delectable Polish desserts. Moreover, while you dine, music and entertainment often enhance the atmosphere, and when the clock strikes midnight, the arrival of the New Year is celebrated with champagne and dessert.
It is highly recommended to make reservations in advance, as many of the city’s top restaurants are booked by locals weeks ahead of time. Offering recommendations can be challenging given the abundance of choices available, catering to all tastes. From the upscale restaurants in the finest hotels of the Old Town and Kazimierz, perfect for families or romantic dinners, to more casual venues that suit young couples and groups of friends.
Among the elegant options is the restaurant at Kościuszko Mound, the famous tumulus located just outside Krakow’s center, which offers a refined menu in a sophisticated setting, accompanied by live music. For a more laid-back experience, popular spots like CK Browar, a well-known craft brewery in the heart of the Old Town, and Piwnica Pod Złotą Pipą, also in the Old Town, offer local cuisine menus with a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, plus music and entertainment late into the night.
Prices typically range from 400 to 800 PLN (approximately 90 to 190 EUR) per person.
Another hotspot for New Year’s Eve in Krakow is Kazimierz, the historic Jewish District, renowned as a vibrant nightlife hub and very popular among locals and students. In Kazimierz, you’ll find a variety of restaurants offering everything from local to international cuisine, with some—especially around ul. Szeroka—serving exceptional Jewish dishes often accompanied by live music.
But, New Year’s Eve in Krakow isn’t just about traditional dinners. The city is also famous for its lively nightlife, boasting a wide selection of pubs, bars, and clubs, which make for a more casual and budget-friendly way to ring in the New Year.
Many students and young locals choose to spend the night in one of the city’s numerous clubs and pubs. However, it’s important to note that tickets often need to be purchased in advance, especially for the more exclusive or popular venues, which tend to sell out months ahead.
That said, you can still enjoy a drink or two at one of the best pubs and bars in the Old Town and Kazimierz, such as Alchemia and Propaganda Pub, one of the most iconic pubs in the Jewish District, renowned for its excellent beers, cocktails, and live music.
Krakow New Year’s EVE Pub Crawl: The Best New Year’s Party in Town
Krakow is renowned for its legendary pub crawls, undoubtedly one of the best ways to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife. If you’re looking to celebrate the arrival of the New Year in style with people from around the globe, then this is definitely for you.
While pub crawls are one of the most popular nightlife activities in Krakow year-round, special events are usually organized for New Year’s Eve, providing unparalleled fun and the chance to celebrate not just in one, but in several of the best pubs and clubs in the Old Town. Having personally tested several, we’ve prepared a guide to the Best Pub Crawls in Krakow, complete with honest reviews and tips on which one to choose and why.
To get straight to the point, if we were to recommend just one, our choice would undoubtedly be the New Year’s Pub Crawl from Krawl Through Krakow. Their pub crawls are regarded as some of the best and longest-running in Krakow, and the New Year’s event is a must-attend, usually drawing hundreds of partygoers from around the world for a night of fun, plenty of drinks, and music to kick off the new year in style.




For 250 PLN (about 58 EUR, making it one of the city’s most affordable parties), you can experience one of the most exciting celebrations in town. Enjoy TWO HOURS OF UNLIMITED DRINKS (yes, you read that right: drink as much as you like!) with a selection including beer, wine, Polish vodka, gin, rum, whiskey, shots, mixers, and champagne!
Additionally, you’ll have access to a huge all-you-can-eat buffet (including vegetarian and vegan options) and FREE VIP ENTRY to three of the best bars and clubs in Krakow, with complimentary welcome shots at each bar and champagne at midnight! All of this takes place in a lively, festive, and cosmopolitan atmosphere, complete with drinking games and much more. Spaces are limited, and this is undoubtedly the most famous party in Krakow, so be sure to book your spot well in advance!
Limited Special Offer
Vodka Tasting Tour: Uncover the Secrets of Poland’s National Drink
Among the top experiences to enjoy in Krakow, one that stands out as truly unmissable is joining a Vodka Tasting Tour. Perfect for food and drink enthusiasts, it offers an unparalleled glimpse into one of Poland’s most cherished cultural traditions: vodka.
Krakow’s Vodka Tasting Tour takes you through some of the city’s most authentic venues, where you’ll savor a curated selection of premium local vodkas, learn about its rich history, and discover the traditions that have made vodka one of Poland’s most beloved beverages. Each stop along the tour not only features a variety of vodkas to sample but also includes tastings of local snacks such as sausages, cheeses, and more.
For an insider’s perspective, check out our review of Taste Vodka Krakow, renowned as the best vodka tasting tour in the city—and one of the top experiences of its kind worldwide. Having experienced it ourselves, we can confidently say it’s a must-try.
The itinerary typically includes visits to several pubs and shops in Krakow’s Old Town, each with its own unique ambiance, allowing you to appreciate the diversity of Polish vodka. Knowledgeable guides will explain how vodka is made and share fascinating stories and anecdotes about its history, turning every sip into a journey through the heart of Polish culture.
Participating in a vodka tour on New Year’s Eve afternoon is the perfect way to warm up and mingle before diving into the evening’s festivities. It offers a delightful introduction to Polish traditions and sets the tone for a night of celebration—perhaps capped off with a special toast to welcome the New Year in unforgettable style.
Check Availability and Prices ➔
Best SPA Hotels for New Year’s Eve in Krakow
One of the most delightful ways to spend your New Year’s Eve holidays in Krakow is by choosing one of the city’s splendid spa hotels for your stay. This option is particularly favored among couples, as Krakow boasts an array of exceptional hotels conveniently situated within the charming confines of the Old Town. These establishments place you within easy walking distance of major attractions like the Main Market Square and the city’s most exquisite dining establishments.
Furthermore, many of these hotels are home to superb restaurants, with some even earning the esteemed recommendation of the Michelin Guide. This presents an opportunity for a gourmet dining experience that sets the perfect tone for welcoming the New Year with a relaxing stay in Krakow. The icing on the cake? You won’t have to break the bank for this luxurious experience. Compared to other European cities, Krakow offers surprisingly affordable prices, all while maintaining the high-quality services and facilities that these spa hotels are renowned for.
Without a doubt, the top choices for your New Year’s Eve in Krakow include:
- Hotel Copernicus: Nestled in the heart of the Old Town, this hotel not only offers an exceptional spa but also features a Michelin-recommended restaurant showcasing delectable local cuisine.
- Bachleda Luxury Hotel Krakow: Situated a stone’s throw away from the Main Market Square, this hotel boasts a serene spa and a restaurant serving delectable international cuisine.
- Hotel Unicus Palace: Located on Ulica Florianska, the Old Town’s main thoroughfare, this hotel stands out with its splendid spa, complete with a wellness center, hammam, and hot tub. It also offers a rooftop terrace and a fine restaurant.
Additionally, worth noting is the Hotel Stary, also positioned in the heart of the Old Town. It is celebrated for its superb spa and houses one of the city’s best restaurants, Trzy Rybki, which has earned a Michelin recommendation.
Christmas Markets in Krakow
New Year’s Eve in Krakow is the perfect time to immerse yourself in one of the city’s most beloved and renowned events: the Krakow Christmas Markets. Recognized internationally, these markets proudly rank among the best in Europe. Typically starting in the last week of November and running until December 26, they often extend their charm until January 6, transforming into a true Winter Market and becoming a focal point of Krakow’s New Year’s celebrations.
At the heart of the Main Market Square, you’ll find over 100 charming wooden stalls offering a wide array of goods. From local handicrafts—woodwork, glass, and ceramics (including the famous hand-decorated Christmas ornaments)—to embroidery, handmade jewelry, and an extensive selection of decorations and souvenirs, the markets are a treasure trove for holiday shoppers.
However, the true highlight of these festive markets is the abundance of food stalls serving local street food and warming beverages, perfect for chilly December days. Must-tries include mulled wine and the famed Polish hot beer, alongside grilled meats, hearty regional soups, and beloved local specialties such as pierogi and grilled mountain cheeses served with sweet jam.
Best Things to See in Krakow
There are numerous compelling reasons to spend New Year’s Eve in Krakow, and one of the most prominent is the opportunity to explore its magnificent Old Town – a place that can be effortlessly traversed on foot in just a few hours. Krakow’s Old Town has earned its place as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, solidifying its reputation as one of Poland’s most ancient and graceful medieval cities. As you wander through its cobblestone streets, you’ll be captivated by a plethora of exquisite monuments and historic edifices.
The ideal way to unravel the secrets and legends of Krakow’s Old Town is by participating in one of the engaging free walking tours offered each morning. These tours are led by knowledgeable and friendly guides proficient in English, Spanish, or Italian. Due to their immense popularity, particularly during December and January, it’s advisable to book in advance, as the groups are deliberately kept small to ensure a more intimate experience.

Embarking from the Rynek Glowny, the Main Market Square, you’ll first encounter the stunning St. Mary’s Basilica and the iconic Kraków Cloth Hall (known as Sukiennice in Polish). Inside the Cloth Hall, you’ll discover a vibrant local handicraft market and an art gallery. Krakow boasts a rich artistic and cultural heritage, boasting more than 30 great museums. Among the prominent ones, located beneath the Main Market Square there is the Rynek Underground Museum, offering a fascinating glimpse into Krakow’s medieval past.
Art enthusiasts should not miss the opportunity to visit the MOCAK Museum of Contemporary Art in Krakow and the Czartoryski Museum, where Leonardo Da Vinci’s renowned masterpiece “Lady with an Ermine” is on display. The Manggha Museum, dedicated to Japanese art and culture, also offers a captivating experience.
Venturing toward the Vistula River, you’ll arrive at the Wawel Castle, once the opulent residence of Poland’s royal families. The castle houses an intriguing museum, offering a panoramic view of the city and the river. Note that on December 31st, only select attractions within the museum are open, and it is entirely closed on January 1st.
Krakow’s museums are conveniently compact, allowing you to explore several in a single day. Consider acquiring the affordable City Pass Krakow Card, which grants complimentary access to over 40 museums and includes unlimited rides on city buses and trams.
No visit to Krakow would be complete without exploring Kazimierz, the former Jewish Quarter, and the Krakow Ghetto in the Podgòrze district, just outside Krakow’s Old Town. Kazimierz now pulsates with vibrant nightlife, featuring numerous traditional pubs and restaurants serving both Jewish and Polish specialties. While strolling through Kazimierz, take in the sight of ancient synagogues, including the Tempel Synagogue and the Old Synagogue, which graces the district’s main street, ulica Szeroka.
Crossing one of the bridges over the Vistula River leads you to the Krakow Ghetto, a place infamous for the horrors endured by Jews during World War II. Here, you can witness a poignant remnant of the ghetto wall and visit the Eagle Pharmacy, owned by Dr. Tadeusz Pankiewicz, celebrated for his aid to the Ghetto’s Jewish population.
From there, a brief walk brings you to Schindler’s Factory, immortalized in Steven Spielberg’s “Schindler’s List“. Today, it functions as a captivating museum, recounting the city’s wartime Nazi occupation and the remarkable actions of Oskar Schindler, whose factory saved countless Jewish lives.
To enhance your exploration of the old Jewish Quarter and delve deeper into the history of the Krakow Ghetto, consider joining an outstanding free walking tour. As demand is high, it’s prudent to secure your spot in advance. For a more comprehensive experience, there are guided tours available that encompass visits to Schindler’s Factory, the Krakow Ghetto, and the nearby Plaszow Concentration Camp, another significant location associated with “Schindler’s List”.
Best Day Trips from Krakow
One of the compelling reasons to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Krakow is the plethora of activities it offers. If you plan to spend at least 3-4 days in this vibrant city, you’ll have the opportunity to also explore two of Poland’s most important landmarks: the Wieliczka Salt Mines and the Auschwitz Concentration Camp, both designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The renowned Wieliczka Salt Mines are easily accessible through well-organized guided day tours from Krakow. These mines, some of the world’s oldest and most stunning, boast extensive underground tunnels, vast chambers adorned with exquisite salt sculptures, subterranean lakes, and even underground cathedrals. It’s important to note that the mines close early at 4:00 pm on December 31st and remain closed on January 1st.

Another deeply meaningful excursion is a visit to the Auschwitz Birkenau Concentration Camp, conveniently reachable via guided tours from Krakow. These tours typically include round-trip transportation, admission fees, and an official guide fluent in your preferred language. Do keep in mind that the Auschwitz Museum is closed on January 1st but operates regularly on December 31st. Advance booking is highly recommended to secure your spot.
For those yearning for an immersive historical experience but find themselves short on time, there are convenient guided tours that offer the opportunity to explore Auschwitz, Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mines all within a single day. This comprehensive tour package encompasses transportation, entrance fees, and expert-guided tours at both locations, ensuring that you can make the most of your limited time. However, if you can spare more time, we highly recommend dedicating an entire day to visiting Auschwitz and at least half a day to exploring Wieliczka for a more in-depth exploration of these historically significant sites.
According to information provided by the Auschwitz Museum, the availability of tickets in the last week of December and the first of January is very limited, because they are in high demand. There are still a few tickets available for this guided tour in English (includes round-trip transport and visits to some interesting temporary exhibitions in Auschwitz). Otherwise there are still some tickets available for this guided tour (also available in Italian, Spanish, German and French, as well as in English).
Availability for the combo tour to visit Auschwitz and the Wieliczka Salt Mines on the same day is very limited (and in high demand).
Discovering Krakow: Getting There & Around
In recent years, Krakow has emerged as a popular destination for New Year’s Eve celebrations, drawing visitors with its rich cultural attractions, delectable cuisine, top-notch hospitality, and budget-friendly prices. New Year’s Eve in Krakow has become a highly anticipated event for both locals and tourists, earning recognition as one of the top winter holiday destinations, particularly among European tourists.
Krakow enjoys excellent connectivity to major European cities, making it an ideal choice for a weekend getaway or a short trip. Krakow Airport serves as a gateway to the city and is well-served by major airlines, including several low-cost carriers. Convenient train and bus links connect the airport to the central railway station, simplifying your journey to the city center.
Given that many businesses in Krakow close early on New Year’s Eve, it’s advisable to pre-book a private transfer between the airport and your hotel, and vice versa. Booking online with reputable authorized operators ensures you benefit from affordable rates and a worry-free experience.
Your designated driver will await your arrival at the airport, assist with your luggage, and swiftly transport you to your hotel or chosen destination. This service proves particularly convenient when traveling with bulky luggage, family members, or a group, or when arriving during late or early hours. However, rely only on legal, official, and reputable transfers or taxis to stay on the safe side and start your New Year’s Eve in Krakow on the right foot!
Useful Tips for Your Trip to Krakow
Planning your New Year’s Eve in Krakow? Then you should check out our ultimate guide to the BEST THINGS TO DO IN KRAKOW, discover the best KRAKOW FREE TOURS, and – if you’re in the mood to party – the legendary KRAKOW PUB CRAWLS.
Furthermore, Krakow is also well connected to Warsaw, making it possible to plan a trip that includes both of these two beautiful cities. Find out more in our guide to the TRAIN FROM WARSAW TO KRAKOW (AND VICE VERSA). If you are looking for advice on must-do day trips, you should take a look at our guides on HOW TO VISIT AUSCHWITZ and WIELICZKA SALT MINES.
And it doesn’t stop there! You can discover a wealth of valuable advice from locals to enhance your trip planning experience! These are our comprehensive guides containing everything you need to know for planning an extraordinary trip to Krakow:
- KRAKOW TRAVEL GUIDE: Discover the top things to do and see in Krakow and explore the captivating attractions in the vicinity. This guide is your gateway to a remarkable Krakow experience.
- KRAKOW TRAVEL TIPS: Our collection of best tips and tricks will equip you with everything necessary for planning your trip effectively. From logistics to cultural insights, we’ve got your back.