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Headed to Krakow this winter? Find out exactly what you’ll need to bring and what to wear in Poland!
What to Wear in Poland in Winter
Written By: Stefania Guglielmi
In the wintertime, the already beautiful city of Krakow becomes a winter wonderland, as layers of frost and snow make every building sparkle. However, this can pose a problem to the unwary traveller who has only packed light clothing.
Start by reading these general tips on packing for winter travel:
- Capsule Wardrobe for Winter
- How to Pack for Cold Weather
- How to Stay Warm in Cold Weather (without the bulk)
- The Best Travel Shoes for Winter
To stop from freezing over, we’ve put together a few tips on what to wear in Poland for a winter trip to Krakow so you can enjoy everything this amazing city has to offer in perfect comfort.
You can still pack your winter travel capsule wardrobe in a small suitcase by using packing cubes to compress your clothing as shown in this video!
Top: Icebreaker Top | Sweater + Bottom: Icebreaker Tight | Skinny Jean + Jacket: Packable Down Coat
Layer Your Clothing
You might think it’s a good idea to pile on those thick clothes when you’re going out in the cold, but if you plan on doing any indoor activities in Krakow, you’ll soon find yourself getting overheated under all that fabric.
One way around this problem is to dress in layers, so you can easily take off a jacket while you’re inside then zip back up before you head out again.
Learn about cold weather layering!
Icebreaker Oasis | Icebreaker Crew Shirt | Icebreaker Tight
A handy weapon to have up your sleeve (or under your trousers) is thermal underwear, which will ensure that you keep warm regardless of what’s on top. Jeans are always a great choice for your legs with thermal underwear underneath.
On colder days, you probably won’t want to venture out in a skirt, but wool leggings can solve this problem.
Find out how to choose the warmest thermal underwear for women!
You’ll want something warm to wear on top, so if you’ve got a wardrobe packed with colorful sweaters, make sure you can fit them all into your suitcase before you leave for Krakow. I usually stick to neutral colors for my pants/trousers and then add some color with my tops and sweaters.
Not sure how to layer? Learn about cold weather layering.
Chevron-Quilted Coat | Down Jacket with Hood | Mid-Length Down Coat Plus
Invest in a New Coat
Polish winters are notoriously cold, so don’t be surprised if the mercury slips below zero degrees for the duration of your stay. For that reason, it’s essential that you take a functional coat that will actually keep you warm!
Although they can be on the expensive side, you might want to invest in a coat with a layer of duck or goose down insulation–you’ll really feel the benefit when the cold weather sets in!
The French really know a thing or two about goose jackets, but if you can’t afford a $600+ Moncler coat, worry not. You can easily find cheaper alternatives such as the ultra-light down coats by retail brands.
Want more coats? Here are our some tips on how to choose the best travel coat!
Buckle-Up Boot | Riding Boot | Thomsen Boots
Keep Your Feet Warm
As you plan what to wear in Poland, know that one of the great things about Krakow is how easy it is to get around–from the main square, you’re right in the heart of the city’s Old Town, which dates back to medieval times. There are new things to see and do around every corner, but naturally that means you’ll be doing quite a bit of walking.
I recommend packing waterproof shoes that are going to be comfortable all day. Chances are that the ground will be wet in winter, whether from rain or a thick layer of snow, so make sure your footwear is warm, waterproof, and comfortable.
Waterproof leather boots are favorites of mine (and all European women) for winter footwear, and are deliciously stylish for any occasion.
Check out the best waterproof boots for travel!
Oversized Plaid Scarf | Beanie Hat | Faux Fur Gloves
Add a Stylish Touch with Accessories
Although a good coat is vital, you shouldn’t forget some essential fashion accessories for your travels. A thick pair of gloves, a scarf, and a hat are all must-brings when visiting Krakow in the winter.
In particular, I recommend a large wool scarf; your shoulders will stay nice and toasty. Leather gloves might be tempting for the fashion-conscious, but be warned that they might offer limited protection from the cold. If you opt for leather gloves, consider using a pair of glove liners as well.
Don’t forget to check out these winter accessories for women!
The great thing about scarves and hats is that they come in all colors and patterns, so even though you’re wrapped up warm, you’ll still be able to flaunt your individual fashion sense, too.
Finally, make sure you bring plenty of warm socks–if you’re feeling brave, you could even opt for colorful knee-length socks or tights coupled with a skirt.
Shop top rated wool socks here!
Sweater Dress | Live In Leggings | Booties
It’s Always Party Time in Krakow
The Polish are famous across the world for their hospitality, so you’ll naturally want to soak up some of the nightlife and dress accordingly.
You should know before you go, though, that Krakow is a pretty laid-back city with plenty of students, so you might stick out like a sore thumb if you go out dressed to the nines.
As you plan what to wear in Poland, keep in mind that there isn’t really a dress code in most places in Krakow, so smart casual is the order of the day–perhaps a nice top or sweater paired with leggings or jeans and your favorite boots. High heels? Probably not: you’ll only wind up tripping on the cobbled streets on the way back to the hotel.
Struggling to make a capsule travel wardrobe? Learn how!
Krakow is a wonderful destination, no matter which time of the year you visit. Just follow our tips and you’ll be cozy and comfortable!
What are your tips on what to wear in Poland when visiting Krakow? Please comment below!
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For more packing tips, please visit these Europe Packing Lists:
- How to Pack for Europe
- What to Wear in Norway in Winter
- What to Wear in Finland in Winter
- What to Wear in Edinburgh in Winter
Suggested travel resources:
- Lonely Planet Europe on a Shoestring
- Lonely Planet Poland (Country Guide)
- Travel Shoes for Europe
- The Best Carry-on Suitcases for Europe
I hope you liked this post on what to wear in Poland in winter. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!
Author Bio: Stefania Guglielmi is an avid traveler who believes a little glamour and sustainable travel can go hand-in-hand. She loves coffee and never leaves for a trip without a hat and her favorite lipstick. You can read about her adventures at Every Steph and follow her on Instagram and Facebook.
I’m heading to Poland this winter and this list is so helpful! Hoping for a lot of snow, I have a great 3in1 jacket from Columbia that has kept me warm and dry on other winter trips.
Hi,
i am planning to visit poland , sept . 21st to 27. winter wear is requir during these period.
6 days tour plan , any tips please .
Hi Sajeevan, thank you for reaching out. Fo tips to help you with your packing you may find our 10 step guide to Europe a good place to start: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/10-step-packing-guide-europe/ In September in Poland, you will likely be experiencing fall weather, so you can expect varying temperatures and rainfall so I would definitely recommend that you pack layers. I would also highly suggest that you join our TFG facebook group and post any questions you have about Poland there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ Its a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that have the best advice and recommendations to share. Hope this helps answer your question. Have an wonderful time! ?
Going on saturday for 4 days will 1 pair of long boots do
Hi Jennifer, the best advice I can give you is to make sure that you wear comfortable shoes and you will not mind wearing for the hours of sightseeing you are bound to do, if you boots are comfy then they should be fantastic. Boots are great for keeping your feet dry and warm, and they are also a European footwear staple. Hope this answers your question. Have an amazing trip!! 🙂
I’m so Glad I found you! We are moving to Poland from Northern Virginia and I’ve been looking for good tips. I’ll be referring back to your site! 🙂
Yay, that is amazing, so pleased TFG has been able to help!! You may also find this 10 step guide to working or moving abroad helpful: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/10-step-packing-guide-to-live-or-work-abroad/ Good luck with your move! 🙂
Would ballerina shoes be alright for March with socks
Hi Alex, thank you for your question. You may find this post helpful for ideas for what shoes to pack: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/best-walking-shoes-for-europe/ The best advice would be to check the weather forecast closer to your departure dates to ensure that you have the appropriate shoes packed for the weather. I would also highly recommend that you join TFG’s free facebook community and post your question there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ Its a fabulous group of helpful female travelers that have the best packing advice and recommendations to share. Hope this helps answer your question. Have an amazing time on your trip next year! ?
I’m traveling to Poland in two weeks. I only have jeans, and some thick tights for my dresses. What other bottom options can I take?
Hi Melissa, to help you with what bottoms to pack, we have a range of recommended styles here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/travel-pants/
If you’re worried about being cold, thermals or fleece lined leggings are both good options.
Have a look at TFG’s signature packing lists for ideas for a capsule wardrobe and how many clothing items you could pack, then depending on your preferences you can choose more bottoms, less dresses, more tops – you have the ability to adjust the combination based on your needs: http://bit.ly/2M0ZOSn The packing lists show you how to pack light and have the right clothes no matter the destination or the length of the journey.
to get the best destination specific advice, I would highly recommended that you join our TFG facebook group and post your question there: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/
It’s a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that love to share all their amazing travel advice and experiences.
Have an amazing time on your trip!
Great tip about dressing in layers so you’re not overheated indoors! Heading to Poland this winter and have this article bookmarked 😊
Do you recommend a calf length coat or is that too long?
Hi Josie, check the weather for your trip. For winter and extremely cold weather, calf length coat would make sense.
This post makes me want to plan a trip to Poland! Instead I will share with my colleague who leaves for there on Saturday.
That’s awesome Leslee! Thanks for sharing!