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Poland

Advent & Christmas Markets in Krakow

Step into the magic of a Polish Advent — where ancient faith, baroque splendour and the warmth of Christmas markets fill one of Europe's most beautiful cities.

Krakow has been a city of pilgrimage for centuries, its Old Town a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its Wawel Cathedral the spiritual heart of Poland. Over four days you will visit the magnificent castle and cathedral on Wawel Hill, immerse yourself in the city's beloved Christmas market tradition — the famous szopka nativity scenes, festive wooden stalls and the warm glow of Advent in the Market Square.

Led by Revd Preb Angela Berners-Wilson, your experienced McCabe tour leader, this short pilgrimage is thoughtfully paced, fully supported and designed to feel both manageable and deeply meaningful — whether you are new to sacred travel or simply looking for a gentle, spiritually rich short break.

Itinerary

  1. Travel to Krakow & City Tour

    Meet your Airport Representative at the airport and fly to Krakow. On arrival, meet your local guide and transfer to your hotel. After settling in, enjoy an afternoon walking tour of the Old Town — the magnificent Market Square, St Mary's Basilica, the Cloth Hall and the Jagiellonian University. Return to the hotel for a welcome drink, followed by a welcome dinner.

  2. Wawel Castle, Cathedral & the Archbishop's Palace

    This morning visit the magnificent Wawel Castle and its Royal Cathedral — resting place of Poland's kings and queens, and one of the most sacred sites in Polish national life. Next, visit the Palace of Krakow's Archbishops, where Karol Wojtyla lived before becoming Pope John Paul II, and the Franciscan Church where the Pope often came to pray. The afternoon is free for an optional horse-drawn carriage ride (subject to weather and temperature) or free time to explore. Dinner together at a local restaurant close to the hotel.

  3. Worship, Nativity Scenes & Christmas Market

    We will have a Sunday service today. Afterwards, visit the Historical Museum to see the celebrated szopka tradition: the extraordinary handcrafted nativity scenes for which Krakow is world-famous. The afternoon is yours to wander the Christmas Market in the Market Square — wooden chalets, mulled wine and festive crafts in the glow of a Polish Advent. This evening we will have the opportunity to put up a Christmas Tree in the hotel. Dinner at the hotel to close the day.

  4. Farewell & Homeward

    Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before checking out and transferring to Krakow Airport, carrying the stillness, the beauty and the warmth of a Krakow Advent — an experience to treasure long after the Christmas lights have faded.

Essential Information

This tour includes:

  • Return flights London–Krakow
  • 3 nights accommodation
  • All breakfasts & dinners
  • Guided tour of Wawel Castle & Cathedral
  • Visit to the Archbishop's Palace & Franciscan Church
  • Nativity scenes at the Historical Museum
  • Old Town walking tour with local guide
  • All gratuities included
  • Tour leader: Revd Preb Angela Berners-Wilson

Flights from regional airports can be arranged at a supplement subject to availability, you can also book this tour without flights. For more information please ask for details.

A £500 per person non-refundable deposit is payable on confirmation. After which, an instalment payment amounting to 50% of the total cost of your trip is due 26 weeks prior to departure with the final balance due twelve weeks prior to departure.

Special requests
Any special requirements, such as dietary needs, mobility requests, and any other requests should be noted at the time of booking.

Final travel documents
These will be emailed to you two weeks before departure.

Travel insurance
Travel insurance is essential. We require all travellers to have adequate cancellation and medical coverage for their journey. We are partnered with Holiday Extras who offer a comprehensive policy as well as yearly policies that also cover short UK overnight stays.

Mobility
Many of our tours and excursions are designed for those who are able to travel independently, or with the support of a companion who can assist during the trip. We recommend that participants feel comfortable with physical activity and are able to manage longer travel days, which may include early starts and extended periods on the road. We encourage you to consider your personal health and comfort when planning your adventure, and we’re happy to help if you have any specific concerns or questions about the suitability of a tour for your needs.

Practical information

About McCabe Pilgrimages
McCabe has been arranging journeys of faith, culture and spirituality for over 40 years with an unwavering focus on attention to detail and service. With a deep understanding of the unique needs and aspirations of Christian travellers, McCabe strive to make every trip a memorable and meaningful experience.

McCabe Travel Ltd. trades as McCabe Pilgrimages. McCabe Travel Ltd. is registered in England and Wales. Registered No. 2125334. VAT No: 318527355. Registered office address: McCabe Travel, The Square, Basing View, Basingstoke, RG21 4EB.

The McCabe Educational Trust
The McCabe Educational Trust is an independent registered charity which was set up in 1991 to support Christian communities. To date the Trust has distributed more than £4 million in grants. McCabe Pilgrimages supports the Trust directly by contributing to the administrative and running
costs, thus ensuring all pilgrim donations are able to go directly to the important projects supported by the MET. In 2026 McCabe Pilgrimages will
once again invite all pilgrims to make a voluntary donation of £20. In addition, McCabe will also donate £20 for every pilgrim who travels with us - regardless of whether they choose to donate - effectively doubling the impact when you do. This scheme is voluntary and confidential with nobody put under any pressure to participate.

Financial and quality assurances
All monies paid are fully protected through McCabe’s membership of the ABTOT bonding scheme. In addition, McCabe are also members of the Association of Independent Tour Operators and abide by the Association’s code of conduct.

Health advice
Please carry an adequate supply of essential medication in your hand luggage in case your checked luggage is lost.

Holiday insurance
Ensuring that your holidays are appropriately protected is one of our main priorities. That’s why we have partnered with Holiday Extras so you can get a travel insurance quote to protect you before and whilst you are travelling. Holiday Extras Cover Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and has been independently rated 5-stars by Defaqto. For more information or to obtain a quote, please go to their website at www.holidayextras.com/travel-insurance or call them on 0800 083 3551 to speak to a friendly advisor.

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Dates

Our Programme Tour Leader Tour Dates Availability
Advent & Christmas Markets in Krakow Advent & Christmas Markets in Krakow Departing From London Prices from £1510 pp Revd Angela Berners-Wilson 11/12/2026 for 4 days Download brochure Book now Make an enquiry

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