Summary of Krakow in April
Think of Krakow, Poland, and your mind may be filled with conflicting images: The country’s transformation in the 21st century, its centuries-old architecture, the horrors of the Holocaust and years behind the iron curtain after Poland was liberated by the Soviet Army in World War II. These conflicting images fuse into the reality of modern Krakow, a city on the mend from decades of difficulties that started with the invasion of Poland by Nazi Germany in 1939 and began to recede in 1989 with the fall of communism in Poland. Krakow honors its past even as it looks forward to a future of renewal.
April, in particular, is a great time to visit this Polish city. Temperatures are on the rise, making it a wonderful month to take in the city’s sights and attractions, especially its notable architecture, which includes Baroque, Renaissance, and Gothic buildings.
Krakow Weather in April
If you’re planning a trip to Krakow in April, you’ll find relatively mild weather throughout the month.
- Average high: 56 degrees Fahrenheit (13.5 degrees Celsius)
- Average low: 37 degrees Fahrenheit (3 degrees Celsius)
Timing is important in April, though. Springtime temperatures take a significant jump from the start to the end of the month, moving from an average high of 52 degrees Fahrenheit (11 degrees Celsius) at the beginning to 64 degrees Fahrenheit (17 degrees Celsius) right at the month’s close. It’s chilly at night, ranging from lows of 35 degrees Fahrenheit to 44 degrees Fahrenheit as the month wanes.
Moreover, Krakow gets a noticeable increase in daylight hours, adding approximately 1.75 hours of light by the end of the month. Visitors can anticipate around 4.5 hours of sunlight per day. Typically, the sun shines brightest in the early mornings and midday.
April does not receive excessive rain, with most precipitation spread throughout the month, so rain should not significantly affect your trip. On average, the city sees 1.5 inches of precipitation across 15 days in April. While a light dusting of snow is possible if temperatures drop low enough, it is not common.
What to Pack
Considering the daily high-temperature range in April, pack clothing that can be layered or worn alone on particularly warm days. Include jeans or cotton pants and lightweight sweaters for warmth—cashmere is an excellent choice as it takes little space in your bag. Cotton sweaters work well for this type of weather as well. Add a few long-sleeve tops that harmonize color-wise with your sweaters for flexible styling options. Carry a cotton or wool blazer or a leather jacket for nighttime when temperatures can be cooler or if you encounter an especially chilly day. Ankle boots are ideal for walking through old cities with uneven pavements, providing both comfort and warmth for this temperature range. Alternatively, opt for sturdy closed shoes paired with socks.
April Events in Krakow
Easter celebrations in Krakow—along with related holidays—are a central focus in April.
- If Easter occurs in April, the Krakow Easter market becomes a must-see for travelers. Celebrating Easter in Krakow offers a colorful and meaningful experience, with Pisanki, or painted Easter eggs, being a hallmark of the holiday.
- Rekawka: This Polish Easter celebration takes place on the Tuesday following the formal Easter holidays. Traditionally, the day features sword and axe fights to honor the memory of the deceased.
- Good Friday: A highly regarded holiday for Polish people, on this date—usually in mid-April—black cloth is used to cover the cross and other religious artifacts.
- Misteria Paschalia Festival: This classical and historical music concert is held at various venues in Krakow throughout Holy Week. If it happens in April, it’s worth attending. Expect two nightly performances of different programs, offering a wide selection of music and timings.
April Travel Tips
- From Wawel Castle to the Main Market Square, Krakow flourishes with the vibrancy of spring in April. Therefore, make an effort to see as many sights as possible on foot—this approach allows for a better feel of the city and may lead to delightful discoveries along the way.
- While in Krakow, don’t miss must-see attractions like the Rynek Underground and Schindler’s Factory (yes, the same Schindler from the 1993 Steven Spielberg movie Schindler’s List). As you walk to visit these sites or dine at local cafes, you’ll be surrounded by the beauty of Krakow’s main attractions—its remarkable architecture. Remember to look around and up to appreciate the details.
