Best Time to Visit Krakow

January is Krakow's coldest month with sub-zero temperatures, grey skies, and occasional snowfall. However, the city has a quiet beauty in winter — snow-dusted spires, cozy cellar bars, and virtually no tourist crowds. Hotel prices are at their lowest and you can explore Wawel Castle and the Old Town in peaceful solitude. Pack warm layers and embrace the cold.

February remains cold but days start getting slightly longer. Fat Thursday (Tlusty Czwartek) is a beloved Polish tradition where everyone eats paczki (jam-filled doughnuts) — bakeries across Krakow sell out by midday. Still very much low season with rock-bottom prices. A great month for budget travelers who enjoy cold-weather charm.

March is a transitional month — winter is loosening its grip but spring has not quite arrived. Temperatures hover around freezing in the mornings and reach 8-9C on warmer afternoons. Snow is still possible. Easter sometimes falls in March, bringing festive markets and decorated eggs to the Old Town. Prices remain low.

April marks the real arrival of spring. Trees in Planty Park and the Vistula boulevards begin blooming, outdoor cafes reopen, and the city shakes off winter. Easter celebrations (if in April) bring colourful traditions and festive markets. Temperatures are pleasant for walking but pack a jacket for cooler evenings. Tourist numbers start rising.

May is one of the best months to visit Krakow. Warm, sunny days with comfortable temperatures, blooming gardens, and long daylight hours. Juwenalia — the massive student festival — fills the city with parades and concerts. Night of Museums offers free entry to cultural institutions after dark. Outdoor dining along the Vistula is at its best.

June brings warm weather, long summer evenings, and some of Krakow's most magical events. The Wianki (Midsummer) festival celebrates the summer solstice with wreath-floating on the Vistula, concerts, and fireworks. The Lajkonik Parade is a unique Krakow tradition dating back 700 years. Book accommodation ahead as summer demand peaks.

July is peak tourist season with the warmest temperatures and longest queues. The city buzzes with open-air events, Vistula River bars, and summer festivals. Temperatures can reach 30C+ on hot days. Outdoor life is at its peak — the boulevards and Planty Park are lively until late. Book everything well ahead.

August continues summer with warm temperatures and busy tourist numbers. The Assumption of Mary (August 15) is a national holiday — many Poles travel, and some businesses close. Afternoon thunderstorms are common but usually brief. The second half of August sees slightly fewer tourists as European holidays wind down.

September is many locals' favourite month. Summer crowds thin out, temperatures are comfortable for walking, and golden autumn light makes the Old Town glow. The Sacrum Profanum contemporary music festival attracts international audiences. Outdoor cafes are still open and the Vistula boulevards are beautiful with early autumn colours.

October brings spectacular autumn foliage to Planty Park and the Vistula riverbanks. The Unsound Festival is Krakow's biggest music event, attracting electronic and experimental artists from around the world. Temperatures cool but remain comfortable for sightseeing. A perfect balance of good weather, manageable crowds, and fair prices.

November is Krakow's grey season — cold, damp, and short on daylight. All Saints' Day (November 1) sees Poles visiting cemeteries with thousands of candles creating a beautiful, solemn atmosphere at Rakowicki Cemetery. It is a good month for budget travelers and those who prefer indoor attractions like the Underground Museum and Kazimierz galleries.

December transforms Krakow into a winter wonderland. The Main Market Square hosts one of Poland's best Christmas markets with mulled wine (grzaniec), gingerbread, and traditional crafts. The Szopki nativity scene competition (UNESCO) is unique to Krakow. Prices rise for the festive season but the magical atmosphere is worth it.