Christmas Markets in Non-Euro European Cities: A Money & Currency Guide for Basel and Cracow

Traveling in December to explore Europe’s winter markets completely transforms the festive season. Leaving routine behind to wander through illuminated wooden chalets filled with the scent of mulled wine, spices, and gingerbread in historic town squares is a truly magical experience. However, when your destination lies outside the eurozone—such as the magnificent Christmas markets in Basel (Switzerland) or Cracow (Poland)—financial preparation becomes a key aspect of your journey that is best sorted before packing your bags.

If you are planning a winter getaway to these northern and central European destinations, organizing your travel budget and currency exchange in advance allows you to enjoy the trip completely stress-free. You can easily order your foreign currency ahead of time through Currency exchange online and have it delivered straight to your home or pick it up at your preferred Eurochange branch.

Two European Gems: Basel and Cracow at Christmas

Planning a festive holiday outside the euro area requires understanding each destination’s unique characteristics. Basel, situated along the Rhine River, hosts one of Switzerland’s largest and most atmospheric Christmas markets across Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz, boasting pristine alpine charm and exquisite craft traditions. Meanwhile, Cracow sets up its historic market in the massive Main Market Square (Rynek Główny), surrounded by medieval architecture and featuring its unique, UNESCO-recognized nativity scenes.

While both destinations share an unparalleled winter charm, their economic contexts differ significantly: Switzerland operates with a high price level and the Swiss franc (CHF), whereas Poland offers a considerably more budget-friendly stay thanks to the Polish zloty (PLN).

Money and Payments at Your Destination: Cash or Card?

One of the most common questions when visiting international Christmas markets is whether you can rely entirely on cards or if carrying cash is mandatory. The current landscape is mixed and varies by country:

  • In Switzerland (Basel): Card acceptance is widespread, and some market stalls even operate on a cashless basis. Nevertheless, cash remains essential for small everyday purchases, tips, and especially for the traditional ceramic mug deposits (Glühwein cups) returned upon giving back the mug.

  • In Poland (Cracow): Credit and debit cards are accepted smoothly in hotels, restaurants, and major shops. However, traditional craft stalls, street food vendors, and small artisans at the Main Square Christmas market primarily operate using cash (zlotys).

Additionally, relying solely on standard bank cards abroad can sometimes incur steep foreign transaction fees or unfavorable exchange rates applied by your home bank. Having foreign banknotes ready before departure prevents unexpected surprises and gives you absolute control over your daily budget.

How Much Cash Should You Bring?

Calculating the exact amount of cash depends on several personal factors: the duration of your trip, accommodation arrangements, dining choices, and planned purchases of holiday crafts. As a general guideline for a weekend getaway or holiday bridge to Basel or Cracow, bringing a base amount of cash dedicated to small purchases at market stalls, local public transit, and tips is ideal, complementing larger expenses with card payments.

Securing your foreign currency beforehand avoids the hassle of searching for improvised exchange booths at airports or train stations upon arrival, where rates are rarely favorable

Practical Tips for Organizing Your Travel Budget

    • Monitor the exchange rate: Keep an eye on exchange fluctuations for currencies like the Swiss franc or Polish zloty weeks before your trip to choose the right moment to get your cash.

    • Keep your money safe: Store the bulk of your cash securely in your hotel or carry-on luggage, keeping only your daily spending money in your wallet.

    • Mind the deposits: In northern European Christmas markets, paying a small deposit for reusable hot drink mugs is standard practice; always carry small change.

    • Combine payment methods: Use cards for major bookings and larger bills, keeping cash handy for the authentic, everyday charm of artisan markets.

Subscribe to our Blog

Enter the captcha
Recharge
I agree to the Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.
Utilizamos cookies propias y de terceros para mejorar nuestros servicios mediante el análisis de sus hábitos de navegación. Puedes configurar y aceptar el uso de cookies a continuación. También puede consultar la política de cookies de este sitio web.

Guardar configuración actual

Más información