travel republic krakow

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The 14th-century Cloth Hall hosts a market that sells Polish crafts and curios.

Why is everyone going to Krakow?

Cathedrals, castles, cafés—and a centuries-old salt mine: everything comes together in this Polish city.

At the stroke of every hour, a melodious trumpeting from St. Mary’s Basilica echoes throughout Krakow’s Old Town, a legacy that dates back seven centuries. Tradition is important in Polish culture, but Krakow is a city that perpetually looks forward. Its most storied neighborhoods host trendy cafés and buzzing bars alongside centuries-old buildings. Discover Jewish history in Kazimierz, explore the labyrinthine chambers of Wieliczka Salt Mine, and follow in the footsteps of kings on Wawel Hill. Here’s how to make the most of your stay in this city on the banks of the Vistula River.

Day 1: Royal rendezvous

Dive deep into Krakow’s historic center in Old Town . Make Rynek Główny , or the main square, your first port of call. Mornings are the best time in Europe’s largest medieval square. Overflowing buckets of blooms are hauled to the flower market while pushcarts dispense fresh obwarzanek —a ring-like Polish bagel topped with salt. The square’s centerpiece is the 14th-century, Gothic-style St. Mary’s Basilica , featuring stained glass windows, gilded interiors, and a wonderful choir during the evening service. Across the square, the 14th-century Cloth Hall now hosts a market selling Polish crafts and curios. Trendy cafés full of lunching locals surround the square’s grand statues and buildings. Step into Wesele for lunch, where you’ll have a prime view of the bustling square while dining on Polish specialties like pork chops with sauerkraut and fried potatoes, and żurek , a tangy rye soup with sausages and quail egg.

The seven-mile-long Royal Route was the coronation path of Polish kings and is the main sightseeing artery for many Old Town masterpieces. The route begins at the foot of Wawel Hill (maps are available on the street along the way) and runs through lively Grodzka Street . Pause at Saints Peter and Paul’s Church to examine the 12 apostles who adorn its grand frontage. Walk through leafy Jagiellonian University , where Copernicus studied in the 15th century. The path leads through the main square and St. Florian’s Gate, ending at St. Florian’s Church .

As the day progresses, Rynek Główny transforms into a melee of activity: street performers, horse-drawn carriages, and diners galore. Soak it in before ending the night at Piano Rouge , an upscale basement restaurant decked out in chandeliers and plush red carpets. Live jazz transports you to the 1940s while you order from the extensive wine list. The menu features everything from citrus-doused prawns to mini meat-stuffed samusas , pork tenderloin, and Polish specialties like grilled sheep’s cheese .

One of the highlights of Old Town is the opulent, 14th-century St. Mary’s Basilica.

Day 2: Subterranean sojourn

Spend the better part of the day exploring the 13th-century Wieliczka Salt Mine , a wondrous UNESCO World Heritage site located about 30 minutes from the city center. This nine-level labyrinth runs 1,100 feet underground, and its 3,000 chambers, sculptures, and stairways were all painstakingly carved by miners. A rattling metal lift first takes visitors 210 feet below to galleries of solid black salt. Descend deeper underground on rock-hewn stairs, past a life-size statue of Copernicus in the Copernicus Chamber and intricate depictions of the miners. The highlight is the grand St. Kinga’s Chapel . It took three miners 70 years (1896–1963) to complete the 5,000-square-foot chapel, which sits at a depth of about 330 feet. The walls are carved with Biblical scenes, including the Last Supper, and chandeliers made with the purest salt crystals hang from the ceiling.

Visitors can also dine underground at the Miners’ Tavern in the Budryk Chamber, where everything is seasoned with Wieliczka salt. Polish specialties such as cabbage soup and pierogi are on the menu .

Related: photos across Poland

Head back toward the city center and spend what’s left of the day shopping at the Galeria Krakowska , which features international chains, Polish stores, and eateries. Stop at Wedel , a century-old chocolatier, for indulgent desserts and hot chocolate. Polish amber and ceramics are world-renowned. You’ll find delicate jewelry and decorative items at galleries such as World of Amber . For popular blue-and-white patterned Bolesławiec ceramics, Mila and Kobalt are good bets.

Day 3: Castles and cathedrals

At the southern edge of the Old Town, the Royal Castle and Wawel Cathedral looks over the city. It’s worth stopping atop Wawel Hill to take in the view of the Vistula River before exploring the castle. Polish monarchs took up residence on Wawel Hill in the 11th century. Since then, the castle has been built and rebuilt in Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles, featuring gilded walls, grand murals, and expansive courtyards. Spend a few hours exploring the castle’s ornate state rooms, intricate tapestries, and art collections.

Twenty minutes from the main square lies the historic Jewish district of Kazimierz , which featured prominently in Steven Spielberg’s Schindler’s List . Pre-World War II, the area was a buzzing center of Jewish life, with nearly 65,000 residents, six synagogues, and kosher markets. But after the Nazi occupation, Kazimierz bore the aura of a ghost town for many years. Today, the district has been reinvented as one of Krakow’s trendiest enclaves, full of bohemian cafés, hip bars, and high-energy nightclubs. The district maintains a large part of its Jewish heritage. Oskar Schindler’s factory is now a museum devoted to Jewish experiences under Nazi occupation.

Wawel Hill overlooks the Vistula River.

Take a stroll down Szeroka Street , lined by synagogues, 17th-century buildings, art galleries, and cafés. The early 16th-century Old Synagogue , the city’s oldest, is no longer functional, but hosts exhibitions on Jewish culture and tradition . The Jewish Memorial in the main square honors the 65,000 Cracovian Jews murdered here in 1942. Kupa Synagogue is still functional for religious services and visitors can stop in every day except Saturday. For a kosher meal, head to the 17th-century, baroque-style Isaac Synagogue , which runs the Szalom Falafel kitchen .

Kazimierz wears an entirely different look after hours. Grab dinner at Alchemia in Nowy Square, a cozy restaurant that serves burgers, and hummus platters . Head to Omerta for a whopping selection of well-priced Polish and international craft beers and in-house ales. The curious little Godfather -themed pub is frequented by locals, and features plaques with film quotes and Marlon Brando’s visage.

Where to stay

Make Krakow’s Old Town your base. With its historical charm and vibrant cafés, it is the seat of all the action. Charming Hotel Pod Roza , situated between the main Market Square and Florianska Gate, is housed in a 17th-century Renaissance palace. Rooms are cozy, with sloping roofs and large windows that look out onto red roofs and church spires. At the fringes of the Old Town is the trendy hotel Puro Krakow , with pop-colored furniture, free Wi-Fi, bicycles, coffee, and a roster of in-house events. Family-friendly and modern, Hotel Kossak is situated close to Kazimierz and has great views of Wawel Hill.

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25 Things to Do in Krakow for the Perfect Visit

Krakow is one of those cities that tends to polarize travelers. Some love it and stay for several weeks, others quickly jump ship to nearby Wroclaw or Warsaw, or maybe even hop the border to Germany or the Czech Republic. 

Yet whether you love it or hate it, you can’t deny Krakow is probably Poland’s most traveler-friendly city. Public transport is fantastic, things are cheap, the city is beautiful and clean, the nightlife is raging and there is a ton of things to do in Krakow.

If you’re planning on heading to this historic city, here’s a blueprint to help you hit the ground running without missing any of the best that Krakow has to offer.

25 Things to do in Krakow, Poland

Table of Contents

Krakow’s Old Town is gorgeous and always brimming with activity – most of the action centers around the main square.

Make the most out of your time in Krakow with a 3-day museum and transport pass that gives you complimentary access to 40 top museums, tram travel, and a 24-hour bus ticket.

You’ll also enjoy discounts at select restaurants, shops, and other activities with your pass.

Get your Krakow Museums and Transport Official Pass

1. Old Town Walking Tour

This a free walking tour in Krakow (there are a few). You can choose to go at 10 AM or 2 PM (there’s also a 4 PM slot between March and October). I definitely recommend getting the 10 am spot, as the sun can be pretty heavy in the afternoon.

This particular tour will take you through Krakow’s beautiful Old Town (it really is beautiful).

Like most of Europe, there is so much history here and the guide will unravel Krakow’s story right from the Middle Ages to the present day.

The tour takes around 2.5 hours, so make sure you have walking shoes on. The meeting point is between the St. Florian’s Gate and Barbican – just show up.

Cycle the scenic streets on this Sightseeing Bike Tour of Krakow . Led by a local guide, pedal past the city’s top attractions, such as Jagiellonian University, Wawel Castle, the Jewish quarter and more.

Learn about the area’s rich history and architecture as you go, stopping to relax with a traditional Polish lunch. After an afternoon of exploration, your tour concludes at your original departure point.

2. Underground Museum

As you’ll already be around the Old Town, spend the afternoon wandering Krakow’s Underground Museum. Literally, underneath the main square, the museum is a collection of exhibits that illustrate the city’s entire history.

It’s pretty snazzy (and cozy) so there’s a 300 person limit at any one time. Especially in the busy season, make sure to book in advance. You can do it online or pre-purchase tickets at the Cloth Hall in the main square (ask, it’s not hard to find).

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Poland (Travel Guide)

3. Lunch at Moaburger

This was one of my favorite places to eat around the main square. The burgers are huge, fresh and delicious, the french fries are superb, and the ample sauce tops everything off nicely.

Not exactly Polish, but will definitely hold your stomach down for the rest of the day.

4. Check out Galeria Krakowska

A little shopping to end the afternoon. I was super impressed by this mall. It’s 3 stories of non-stop shopping, all your favorite brands, and the prices are good too.

I visited Krakow near the beginning of my Eurotrip, so ended up buying quite a few supplies here.

Also if you have any housekeeping to do, such as buying a sim card or grabbing a few groceries, this is a pretty good place to do it. Not a bad place to enjoy a coffee and do some people watching as well!

You could also take a Communism Tour in a Genuine Trabant Automobile in the afternoon or a Krakow WWII Private tour to learn about the cities role in the war.

5. Dinner at Smakołyki

This is a Polish cafe that serves slightly spruced-up versions of traditional Polish dishes. The menu is a melting pot of deliciousness, and even after three visits here you probably won’t have tried everything you wanted to (I hadn’t – that’s for sure).

The pancakes are awesome if you’re looking for breakfast, but I prefer to head here later in the day when I’m ready for something heavy. I easily go through three courses here, every time. Find them at Straszewskiego 28.

Are you a foodie? You can not visit Krakow without going on a Krakow Evening Food Walking Tour .

Treat your taste buds to fresh local smoked cheese and “pierogies , “ the famous stuffed dumplings filled with meat and potatoes while walking through the evening-lit streets of Krakow.

Enjoy a cold Polish beer in one of the many hidden haunts along the main market square. The Krakow Evening Food Walking Tour last 2.5 hours and is filled with many great local eats!

You’ll probably be exhausted (and full!) after that, so head home for some shuteye and rest up for the next day. There’s a lot to see in Krakow , you’ve barely scratched the surface of your Krakow itinerary.

6. Walking Tour Jewish Town

The cool thing about Krakow’s walking tours is they don’t try and cram everything into one afternoon – things are split into several tours meaning you can take a different tour each day.

The Jewish Tour is another one of their free tours, which runs every day at 10 AM, 1:30 PM (plus a 5 PM between March and October). Again, I’d recommend the first or the last spot to avoid the heavy sun.

Kazimierz is a charming little area of Krakow where the Jews, after being shunned by much of Europe, finally found a home. In fact, Kazimierz is still considered one of the most important places in Jewish history.

The Jewish population was allowed to flourish here due to Krakow’s religious tolerance back in the day, meaning the Jewish community grew to be quite large and prominent.

This walking tour takes about 2.5 hours and you’ll see a lot of interesting corners of Kazimierz, plus the stories that go with them.

The meeting point is in front of the Old Synagogue on Szeroka Street. Again, just show up.

7. Lunch at Gossip Cafe

Not far from Kazimierz is Gossip Cafe. This is a boutique coffee shop on Zwierzyniecka 4, along the main road and not hard to find at all. It’s small, so you may have to wait, but most times I was able to find myself a seat.

The menu is a collection of healthy choices made fresh daily, with smoothies, juices, classic breakfasts, and a few traditional Polish choices too.

Definitely one of the best places in Krakow for a brunch or a quick coffee break.

Don’t leave home without:  Lonely Planet Poland (Travel Guide)

8. Walk the riverside

Krakow’s riverside is gorgeous. During the summer you’ll find many students sitting on the grass banks studying, people rollerblading and riding bikes, some doing yoga under the trees, and many people simply enjoying an afternoon stroll.

The river is huge so it’s a good way to spend a slow afternoon and people-watch, or simply sit on the banks and enjoy some time out.

I spent many afternoons here, recovering from long nights out, reading books, meeting up with friends. In my opinion, it’s one of the best places in Krakow.

9. Wawel Castle and Cathedral

Another popular thing to do when in the riverside area is to visit the Wawel Castle , the home of much of Poland’s old royalty in the olden days.

Today it’s been transformed into an art and culture museum that’s always teeming with visitors.

Depending on the time of year, not all areas are accessible, and there is also a limit to the number of people allowed in.

Try to head there earlier in the day if you really want to visit. The impressive Wawel Cathedral is right behind it – also worth checking out.

10. Dinner at Pod Temida

You can’t leave Poland without eating at a bar mleczny. Literally translated as “milk bar”, these are workers’ canteens from the Socialist era, that were set up to ensure all workers were able to get access to a nutritious meal.

It was usually included in the worker’s salary, so they would just show up, get fed quickly and head back to work.

These milk bars flourished all through the 1900s and are still popular today – now run as cheap canteens open to the public. If you’re looking for cheap, delicious, traditional Polish food, a milk bar is hands down the best place to get it.

My favorite is Pod Temida, which is right in the middle of the action on Grodzka 43. Try the blueberry dumplings, known as pierogi – they’re amazing.

Alternatively, consider an evening food walking tour to sample all the popular local favorites or a Polish Folklore Show and Dinner with traditional food and dancing.

11. Nowa Huta

While Krakow is famous for its action-packed center, there’s a lot more to the city than that. One of the best places to get a glimpse of what else it has on offer is Nowa Huta.

This is a part of Krakow that not many tourists see, but it’s an important part of the city that you shouldn’t miss. If you jump on tram number 4, you’ll be there in 25 minutes (head to the Plac Centralny stop).

The history here though is rather fascinating. Nowa Huta was planned and built by the Soviet Union in the late 40’s, designed to be a model socialist era city – a rival opposite to the cute and artsy Krakow. The buildings are all almost identical, and the city laid out in generic blocks to give it that Soviet feel.

The wide streets and colorless buildings are a stark contrast to the Krakow most people know, something you’ll notice quite quickly before you even get off the tram.

What can you do there? Wander the “Plac Centralny” central square, check out the Nowa Huta Museum, see if there are any exhibitions at the Nowa Huta Culture Centre, take a look at the Ludowy Theatre and the Arka Pana Church.

My visit to Nowa Huta was quite rushed near the end of my trip, so I kind of just scrambled around the town. Book a Nowa Huta Tram and Walking Tour to ease your stress.

I would have loved to have taken a tour here if I’d had the chance, there is so much history to see and learn about.

12. Lunch at Max Grill

Max Grill is a little open-air grill in Nowa Huta. It has a street food feel to it, and you can see the guys flame grilling piles of meat right behind the counter.

It’s cheap, easy and delicious, and has the grill firing well into the night. Definitely worth a visit! Find them at Jana Pawła II 232.

13. See the Steelworks

One of the icons of Nowa Huta was the massive steelworks, which employed almost 40,000 people at its height.

In fact, the name Nowa Huta actually translates to “new steel mill”, as these steelworks were intended to be the Socialist era symbol that Nowa Huta was known for.

Take the number 4 tram and go another two stops and you’ll get there (if you’re unsure, ask – everyone knows where it is). You’re not actually allowed inside the steelworks anymore, but it’s cool to see what the town was built around.

14. Grab a beer at CK Browar

One of the better places to wind down with a drink in Krakow is CK Browar. This is a huge pub/restaurant at Podwale 6/7 that brews their own beer. There are lots of brews to choose from, so it’s great to come in a group if possible and share a few pitchers (or just drink a lot, that works too).

It’s popular to come here for dinner before a night out, and most groups indulge in a multi-liter tower of beer to go with their meal.

It’s almost always busy, so try to show up early to get a seat. Experience the craft beer culture of Kraków on a small-group, 3-hour walking tour.

15. Spend the Night Out

Not ready for the night to die young? Nightlife in Krakow is an animal of its own, and travelers from all over Europe come here just for the parties. Kazimierz turns into a total hipster bar-hopping town after sundown, and there are many traditional bars and clubs in the main square.

I won’t name any specific places, because the truth is there is just too many – Krakow has the highest density of bars and pubs in the world.

There is also a pub crawl every night if that’s your scene. The town pops almost every night of the week, just put on your dancing shoes and show up.

With such a variety of bars and clubs, it can often be difficult to choose the best nightlife venues in Krakow. Guarantee a great night in Poland’s capital on a Krakow Club and Bar Crawl .

This is a great choice for travelers looking to meet like-minded people. Your evening experience includes a 1-hour open bar, free shots in each venue, a photographer, and VIP entry to one of Krakow’s hottest nightclubs.

16. Visit Auschwitz & Birkenau

The most popular day trip out our Krakow itinerary is to the Auschwitz concentration camp. This is one of the most well known of the German concentration camps where over a million people were killed during the Nazi regime.

Today, it serves as a memorial of the crimes committed against the Jews and other minorities during the war and post-war era. A place where you can better understand exactly what went on during those years.

To get there, simply catch the train to Oswiecim from Krakow’s main train station. It should cost you 15.60 PLN (about 3.5 EUR). From Oswiecim, you can simply walk to Auschwitz – about 25 minutes away – or catch a bus if you prefer.

There’s bound to be a lot of other travelers making the same day trip, so it shouldn’t be hard to figure out.

If you are not up for doing this adventure alone, book an Auschwitz – Birkenau Guided Tour . Make your visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum as easy as possible on this tour from Krakow.

In a small group limited to eight people, you’ll travel to the former Nazi concentration camp in a comfortable minivan before embarking on a shared guided tour of the complex.

Entry to Auschwitz is free, but there is a quota on the number of visitors so you should reserve in advance for the time slot that you want. You can do that online here .

You’ll need around 90 minutes for the Auschwitz site and maybe another 90 minutes for Auschwitz II-Birkenau. Make time to see them both and be prepared for a humbling and reflective experience.

Other Krakow Tours Worth Checking Out

• Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour from Krakow
• Zakopane and Tatras Mountains Day Tour
• Pieskowa Skala Castle and Czestochowa Day Tour
• In the Footsteps of John Paul II Day Tour from Krakow
• Lagiewniki – Wadowice – Kalwaria Zebrzydowska Day Trip
• Full-Day Warsaw Trip from Krakow by Train

Krakow Travel Tips

Where to stay in krakow.

I stayed in Krakow for five weeks and  I Couchsurfed the first week (the Couchsurfing community is very active) and stayed in an Airbnb quite far outside the center for the remainder.

As mentioned the public transport is excellent so there was no need for me to stay within the city center for the length of the visit I did.

On a shorter trip, however, close to the center is probably where you want to be. If you’re on that backpacker vibe, there is an endless number of hostels, and you can find some decent private rooms too.

I’d recommend staying at Hotel Kazimierz in the Kazimierz area, which is a little chicer and less bloated with tourists.

We have put together a shortlist of hotels we recommend in Krakow based on luxury: Sheraton Grand Krakow , mid-range: Hotel Astoria , and hostel: Moon Hostel . All hotels are located no more than .05 miles from Krakow’s main center allowing you to be located in the best area of town to experience Krakow.

Read reviews and check prices with our  Hotel Search Engine , that gives you the best hotel deals found across the web. Our search engine pulls results from all of the major booking places, including Expedia, Hotels, Booking and more. All the options, all the deals, all in one place and just for you.

Getting Around in Krakow

Getting around Krakow is incredibly easy. The tram system runs until 11 PM (there is a night service too which is less frequent) and reaches most corners of the city. Simply get on board and buy a ticket at the self-service machines (they’re in English). A ride will cost you less than a euro.

If you’re feeling lazy, in a rush, or need a ride home after a big night out, grab an Uber. Uber is efficient and surprisingly cheap in Krakow. I used it regularly and it was always great, most drivers speak English and ride only cost about 10-15 PLN (2.50-3.50 EUR).

If you plan to use local transport and trams, be sure to purchase a  Krakow Museums and Transport Official Pass  to check off the best things to do in Krakow.

If you are interested in exploring Europe by train then check out our Ultimate Guide to Eurail Pass Train Travel in Europe.

Basic Information for Visiting Krakow

• Currency – Poland uses the Polish złoty (pronounced zwoh-tay). A lot of major banks are in Poland and it’s easy enough to get cash from the ATM. Also, paying with tap-tap credit cards is hugely popular here. You’ll see currency converters around the main center too, although I never had the need to use them.
• Language –  The official language here is Polish. Most people speak at least basic English, and a lot of the younger crowd speak quite well. It’s rare to find people who are fluent though. A little Polish will go a long way.
• Safety – Krakow is considered a very safe city to navigate both during the day and at night. Knowing this, we encourage you to get out and see the city at night when it is lit up, especially the Wawel Castle. There is also a lively street culture with dancing that happens at night and you shouldn’t miss it.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Brendan is a former accountant turned full time traveler from Auckland, New Zealand. He is the blogger behind Bren On The Road and the founder of Missing Wanderer . His travels have taken him across every continent since he first started his journey in 2011. He lives and breathes budget travel , and writes to educate others on how to see the world on small budgets.

More on Poland:

• 15 Best Things to Do in Warsaw, Poland
• Ultimate Guide to Eurail Pass Train Travel in Europe
• When is the Best Time to Visit Europe?
• Travel Insurance for Europe Vacation: Do I Need It?
• Best Places to Fly a Drone in Europe
• Viking River Cruises in Europe-What to Expect

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Guest writers for Divergent Travelers offer insider tips and information on destinations that they are experts in. It is important to us that we are able to have the highest level of travel information available to you from local writers and experienced travelers.

9 thoughts on “25 Things to Do in Krakow for the Perfect Visit”

Krakow is so lovely! I visited with my mom last year as part of our effort to retrace our family history. Now I’m already talking to my fiancé about returning so we can research his family history.

My time in Kraków was cool, but in sommer it is too noisy and overcrowded. However I fell in love with Warsaw during winter months.I visited the city last winter and it was magical! I really liked how Nowy Świat and Krakowskie Przedmieście was looking with all of those Christmas lights and decorations, all covered in snow. I also spend wonderful night in New Orleans, nice place to eat something or relax by great pole dancing shows.

I am heading to Krakow tomorrow and this post definitely covered it all! Thanks fort helpful info!

Love to hear that! Have an amazing trip. 🙂

Wow, Krakow looks amazing! I go to Poland quite often, but usually stay in Warsaw. Well, Krakow is on my list, I will for sure visit it during my next trip to Poland! Warsaw is also a very nice place, there are also tens of fantastic places. As it comes to eating out my favorite restaurant is a place called “Akademia”. They specialize in Polish food, but they do everything with a very modern approach. Their food is really delicious, and the restaurant itself is very elegant and nice. I love visiting them 🙂

Great tip for Warsaw, thanks for sharing! Yes, def put Krakow on your visit list, it’s a charming city.

lovely article. I also did food tour there. enjoyed it.

Great information not found elsewhere & as we have 3 days in Krakow – ideal article 🙂

Glad to hear you found the information useful! Krakow is a fantastic city, enjoy.

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The 15 best things to do in Kraków

Nov 21, 2023 • 9 min read

Here are the top things to do on a trip to Kraków © martin-dim / Getty Images

Crowned with an impressive royal castle and dotted with church spires and world-class museums, Kraków combines the historic with the cosmopolitan.

The streets of former Jewish quarter Kazimierz and nearby Auschwitz are sobering reminders of 20th-century tragedy, while the crowds thronging Kraków’s main square and the restaurants lining photogenic Old Town lanes buzz with 21st-century joie de vivre. Alongside heavy-hitting attractions exist simpler local pleasures: strolling alongside the Vistula River; dining on hearty home-style cooking in a retro bar mleczny (cafeteria); catching a local band at a legendary dive bar; enjoying a coffee in hipster enclave Tytano; gawping at the art nouveau architecture.

Here are the best things to do in Kraków.

1. Wawel Royal Castle and Wawel Cathedral

Overlooking Old Town from its Wawel Hill perch, what was once the seat of Polish royalty for centuries is the city’s most impressive sight, not to mention the symbol of Poland and a source of local pride. Red-roofed, turreted and ringed by a red-brick wall, this 16th-century Renaissance palace is merely the latest incarnation: royal residences on this very spot have come and gone (burned down, extended, vandalized by Swedish and Prussian armies…) since the 11th-century.

Highlights include the 16th-century tapestries and carved wooden heads in the grand state rooms, the royal private apartments that give you an intimate glimpse into the monarchs’ private lives, the crown jewels in the treasury, and the Szczerbiec (jagged sword) that’s played an essential role in Polish coronations from 1320 onwards – find it inside the vaulted Gothic armory.

Give yourself plenty of time to visit the adjoining Wawel Cathedral , where many of Poland’s kings and queens are seeing out eternity in elaborate tombs, alongside the bones allegedly belonging to the legendary Wawel dragon. The grounds are free to visit, but it’s a really good idea to book tickets for exhibits you want to see at least two weeks ahead due to their enormous popularity.

2. Główny Rynek (Main Market Square)

Surrounded by restaurants and overlooked by handsome centuries-old buildings, Główny Rynek (Main Market Square) is the focal point of Old Town, as well as Europe’s largest medieval town square. After you’re done browsing the wares inside the market building, go back to the Middle Ages by descending to the medieval-meets-the-21st-century museum beneath the square.

Clever multimedia displays, holograms and animated puppets show you medieval market stalls and teach you about vampire prevention burials. Buy your timed ticket online in advance. Free entry on Tuesdays; closed second Monday of each month.

3. Auschwitz-Birkenau

You don’t know what will touch you particularly deeply until you get there. For some, it’s the "Death Block" with its torture cells and its crematorium. For others, it’s the gas chambers and the endless rows of crematoria chimneys at Birkenau , where most of the mass killings occurred. For others still, it’s the mountains of eyeglasses and prosthetic limbs, the mass of human hair collected from victims to be used in textile production, and piles of battered suitcases with home addresses written on them by those for whom this Nazi extermination camp became their final destination.

In any case, Auschwitz is unlikely to leave you unmoved. More than a million Jews, as well as numerous Poles and Roma, were systematically killed here between 1940 and 1945, and the death camps have been preserved as a brutal, essential history lesson.

Auschwitz is reachable by bus, train and organized day tour from Kraków. While solo travelers can visit the site without a guide, it’s well worth joining a tour to get the most out of it, from the screening of the graphic 1945 documentary film by the Soviet liberators to the exhibitions in the barracks.

4. Explore Kazimierz

Southeast of Old Town, the Kazimierz neighborhood had been Poland’s most important center of Jewish culture for 500 years until mass deportation and extermination of Kraków’s Jews by the Nazis destroyed it. Largely rundown during the Communist era, Kazimierz has bounced back in recent years.

A stroll through its streets is a wonderful way to get to know its historic sights, from the restored Old Synagogue and a 19th-century Jewish cemetery with surviving tombstones to the Moorish-style Temple Synagogue and the sobering Galicia Jewish Museum that traces the history of Jews in Kraków. Browse the flea markets on Plac Nowy on the weekends, or attend a film screening or concert at Cheder during the Jewish Culture Festival.

5. Wieliczka Salt Mine

Another massively popular attraction that’s not actually in Kraków proper but is easily reachable from the city, this UNESCO-certified subterranean labyrinth of passages and chambers has been drawing visitors since the 1720s. It’s not for the claustrophobic: as part of a "tourist" tour, first-timers descend at least 125m (410ft) below the ground and spend two hours in the depths of the former mine, while return visitors can opt for a more immersive miners’ tour.

Highlights include an underground lake, chapels adorned with statues carved from the white stuff, and a salt cathedral with chandeliers. And yes, everything around you is carved from salt; we licked the wall so that you wouldn’t have to. Wieliczka Salt Mine is easily reached from Kraków by bus, train or tour. Pack a sweater.

6. Schindler’s Factory museum

You’re likely to have heard of Oscar Schindler, the German industrialist immortalized in Steven Spielberg’s 1993 film Schindler’s List . During WWII, Schindler saved more than a thousand Jewish inhabitants of the Podgorzé ghetto from deportation to the death camps by employing them at his enamel factory. Schindler's Factory museum , which was part of the Schindler’s List film set, was given a major facelift in 2010 and became one of Kraków’s must-visit museums . Book your timed slot online at least three days in advance (it’s hugely popular!), and don’t miss the superb permanent exhibition, Kraków During Nazi Occupation 1939-1945, that tells the story of everyday life, underground resistance and anti-Semitic repressions in the city during WWII.

7. Eat street food

Many cities have signature street food. Paris has its croissants, Hanoi has its bánh mì, Vienna has its käsekrainer , and Kraków has its obwarzanek . Chewy, moreish and topped either with poppy seeds or sesame seeds, Kraków’s bagels are found at stalls on every corner in Old Town, and locals will tell you which stall is likely to have the fresher lot.

But there’s more to Kraków’s street dining than bagels. For the best kielbasa (signature Polish sausage) in town, head for the Kiełbaski z Niebieskiej Nyski van in front of the Hala Targowa market on ul. Grzegorzecka. Then there’s zapiekanka – half a baguette topped with melted cheese, mushrooms and a squirt of ketchup. Poland’s answer to pizza was invented in the 1970s when basic ingredients were all you could get, but now versions with fancier toppings are ubiquitous at fast food stands. For numerous zapiekanka sellers under one roof, try the Okrąglak food court at Plac Nowy in Kazimierz.

8. Nowa Huta

If you want to see how steelworkers lived in the 1950s, catch tram 4 or 10 from central Kraków to this masterpiece of socialist-realist urban planning and Communist architecture in the east of the city. If wandering around the uniformly grey, identical blocks of flats isn't enough of a draw, take a tour of Nowa Huta in a vintage, Communist-era Trabant with Crazy Guides , who’ll take you down into the old nuclear fallout shelters and ply you with vodka.

9. Klub Awaria

Klub Awaria is the kind of dingy dive bar that your mother warned you about: a sticky-floored, vaulted-ceilinged saloon where the carpe-diem clientele will gladly press a drink into a sober stranger’s hand to help them participate in the mildly anarchic nightly revelry. Up-and-coming local blues and rock bands perform on the little stage most nights and after the band is done, there’s occasional dancing on the tables and on the bar itself by regulars to Tina Turner classics.

10. Cruise along the Vistula

The slow-flowing Vistula River bisects the city. Join locals during their morning runs along the footpaths that run alongside the river banks for several kilometers from near Wawel Royal Castle to the city’s eastern suburbs, skirting Kazimierz on the way. Alternatively, if you have local friends, you might be invited aboard a party boat with a full bar and music system; these are available for hire by groups and are essentially floating nightclubs. More easily accessible are hour-long cruises that depart below Wawel Castle Hill, showing off the city’s important landmarks, such as the Dębnicki Bridge, the Norbertine Monastery , the Manggha Museum of Japanese Art and Technology  and the Piłsudski Bridge.

11. Swim in Zakrzowek

Tall limestone cliffs and dense pine forest surround this lagoon with its clear, turquoise waters that feel a million miles away from urban life, even though it’s only a short tram ride (on route 1 or 4) to Kapelanka, southwest of Old Town. The lagoon began its life as a limestone quarry but it was deliberately flooded in 1990 after falling into disuse. It then became a popular swimming and picnicking spot for locals. It's currently undergoing renovations that won't be complete until 2023, so you can't swim or dive here at the moment, but it's perfect for a scenic picnic and some lovely out-of-town hiking.

12. Dine at a bar mleczny

Cheap, cheerful, and with seriously retro decor, a bar mleczny is a time-warp step behind the Iron Curtain into 1980s Poland – in a good way. Dotted around the city, bar melczny are dirt-cheap cafeterias, where you’ll be rubbing shoulders with locals while you load up your tray with soup, pierogi (filled dumplings), placki ziemniaczane (potato pancakes) and other hearty, belly-warming staples – all without dropping more than 10zl (around US$2). There’s a branch at Grodzka 43 in Old Town and another at Starowiślna 29 in Kazimierz.

13. Summit Kopiec Kościuszki

When you’re standing on Wawel Hill, you may notice lump-like green hills surrounding Kraków. The origins of Kraków Mounds are lost in the mists of time, but it’s believed that the oldest – Kopiec Krakusa and Wandy – were built by pagan tribes several millennia ago as part of some solar calendar: during the summer solstice, the sun rises at Wandy and sets at Krakusa. Kopiec Kościuszki is a newer mound, completed in 1823 to commemorate a fallen Polish general. Catch bus 100 to the mound for fantastic views of Wawel Castle, St Mary’s Basilica  and Główny Rynek.

14. Spend your night out finding a “lost bar”

Other cities have speakeasies, while Kraków has its “lost bars”. It’s the same idea, even though Kraków’s hidden drinking dens are a recent development. Head to the Smakolyki restaurant on Floriana Straszewskiego, find your way to the cloakroom and pass through to a hidden courtyard from which you enter Mercy Brown . It’s 1920s Kraków – all velvet couches, mood lighting, chandeliers, and cocktails from a bygone era (gin with jasmine tea cordial, anyone?). Entertainment includes burlesque shows.

15. Hang out in Tytano

Just west of Old Town, a decrepit former tobacco factory has been transformed into a pocket of hipsterdom, complete with art studios, exhibition spaces, beer gardens and brunch cafes that attract Kraków’s young and cool contingent. Check out the latest photography exhibition or fashion event, then grab a coffee from Kraków’s specialty roasters at Bonjour Cava.

This article was first published July 2022 and updated November 2023

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Home » Europe » Krakow

WEEKEND IN KRAKOW Itinerary (2024)

Beautiful Krakow is located in southern Poland, near its border of the Czech Republic. This city is a true historical and visual gem of Europe offering a striking medieval core, trendy restaurants, and countless cultural attractions. Krokow is a perfect city for a weekend vacation!

Krakow is a great choice for travelers interested in history, culture, and architecture. It’s an extremely photogenic city, filled with Gothic churches, medieval castles, and quaint parks. It possesses a fairytale-like enchantment that draws in visitors from around the world!

The old-world charm of the city blends in perfectly with the more modern, communist elements, providing tourists with an abundance of options for activities and enjoyment!

We’ve come up with a comprehensive Krakow city guide to answer all your questions, and ensure you hit all the highlights! Trying to figure out how long to spend in Krakow? Uncertain on the best Krakow places to visit? Well read on, and we’ll help you discover the best areas of the city!

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Insider Tips for an AMAZING Weekend in Krakow

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A weekend trip to Krakow will give you plenty of time to explore the city. The key to spending your weekend wisely is choosing the right Krakow neighborhood , ideally as central as possible. This will allow you to easily hit all of your Krakow points of interest!

With a Krakow City Pass , you can experience the best of Krakow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Know Where to Stay in Krakow

The best area of Krakow for tourists to stay in is the Old Town, or Stare Miasto , in Polish.

Throughout the year you’ll find this lively section of the city buzzing with tourists. As its name suggests, this is the area of the city with Krakow’s oldest architecture and attractions, from churches, to statues, to towers! There are also plenty of modern bars, restaurants and cafes. Choose a hostel in central Krakow and you’ll easily be able to explore the key areas of the city on foot!

Our Favorite Hostel – Greg and Tom Hostel

• You won’t find any bunk beds at this hostel, all dorms and rooms have single beds!
• Common room with free tea and coffee 24/7
• Storage lockers in all dorms and padlocks provided upon request

This highly rated Krakow hostel is a great value for money. It’s ideally located next to Krakow’s main attractions and public transportation. There are 3 fully equipped kitchens and free breakfast and dinner is available every day!

Our Favorite Airbnb – Stylish historical loft

• Style, comfort, history, great location, affordable – this Airbnb has it all. Seriously, there are no “but’s” when it comes to this home.
• The loft has an incredibly original design (check the pictures) while being super centrally located. Literally moments from the market and other cool things to see – there’s no FOMO for you!
• If you’re visiting the city for the first time, you won’t regret staying here.

Our Favorite Budget Hotel – AS Smart Apartment Old Town Krakow

• Large and modern rooms
• Located in the heart of Krakow’s Old Town
• Clean, cozy and comfortable

This Krakow hotel will make for the perfect home away from home! Guests will enjoy a fully equipped kitchenette, private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, and more! It has a great central location; bars, restaurants, and Krakow’s main attractions will be right at your doorstep!

Our Favorite Splurge Hotel – PURO Kraków Stare Miasto

• Room service available
• Each room includes a tablet and 40-inch flat-screen TV
• On-site restaurant, bar and lounge

This lavish Krakow hotel is stylish and modern. It’s located next to the city’s main train station and just a quick walk from the top attractions of Old Town. There is a large buffet style breakfast offered every morning (for a fee).

Know How to Get Around in Krakow

We’ve included some helpful tips in this Krakow travel guide that will allow you to confidently navigate your way around the city!

Krakow’s public transport system is well-developed, budget-friendly, and will take you anywhere you want to go in the city. Krakow has no underground metro system but relies on an integrated bus and tram system instead.

You can use tickets for either trams or buses. They run based on time, allowing you to change between tram or bus lines as much as you wish within the allotted time you purchased them for. You can buy your tickets at bus and tram stations and on-board most trams and buses as well.

Krakow has many pedestrian-friendly zones and you’ll find that exploring the city on foot is quite easy. Most of the city’s top attractions are in close proximity to each other and you can easily spend all day walking around.

Taxis and Uber are also available in Krakow and a great option for quick and hassle-free transportation from one place to the next.

Weekend trips to Krakow are a great time to experience the nightlife. Here are the best options to choose from to suit your nighttime vibe!

Party in the Old Town District

• Lots of options for high energy clubs and bars
• Easy to walk around and navigate
• Youthful atmosphere for the young, or young at heart

The majority of Krakow’s parties take place within the Old Town. If you’re looking for loud music, big dance floors and party-people, Old Town is the place to be! Check out the Frantic Club for pop and dance music and themed party nights. Or, head to Prozak for an alternative scene and 3-levels of dance floors!

Have a Chill Night in the Kazimierz District

• Cozy ambiance and low-key vibe
• A great place to bar hop
• The best area of Krakow for beer lovers

Kazimierz is Krakow’s historic Jewish Quarter. Here, you’ll find a wide range of bars; from hip cocktail dens, to traditional pubs, to shabby-chic spaces. Head to Omerta Pub for a large selection of local and foreign brewed craft beers. Or, check out Absynt Cafe & Bar for great cocktails and 15-20 different types of absinthe!

Take a Vodka or Pub Tour

• A fun way to learn about Krakow’s drinking culture
• Follow an expert tour guide to Krakow’s best night time venues
• Tours operate in main areas of the city

Discover the history, culture, and customs of Krakow’s most beloved drinks. Enjoy a wonderful introduction to the city and explore the best spots for nightlife! Start the night off right by exploring the city with fellow drink enthusiasts! This is a great way to make new friends and find out where the locals go to drink!

It may have a meat-and-potatoes reputation, but the Polish cuisine offers a wide array of culinary creations! Poland is also one of Europe’s most vegan friendly countries. If you’re visiting Krakow, Poland, here are the best ways to enjoy the food!

For an Authentic Polish Dining Experience – Starka Restaurant

• Intimate setting and warmly decorated
• Hearty and authentic Polish dishes and extensive vodka menu
• Options for vegetarians and meat eaters

Starka Restaurant is located in the heart of the Jewish Quarter, in the Kazimierz district. Enjoy traditional Polish dishes, friendly service, and reasonable prices. Guests will have a memorable dining experience at this restaurant, complete with romantic music and subtle candlelight! When you travel to Krakow, this is the best place to go for great Polish food!

The Best Vegan Restaurant in Krakow – Glonojad

• Vegetarian/vegan venue
• Serving all-day breakfasts and global dishes
• Affordable prices and great location, close to the Main Square

Glonojad has made quite a name for itself among Krakow restaurants. This fun eatery takes a healthy spin on classic meals; you’ll be surprised by the creativity that goes into every dish! The food served here is fresh and full of flavor! The atmosphere is super casual and offers indoor and outdoor seating.

Food Truck Park – Bezogródek

• A great way to sample the local culinary flavors of Krakow!
• Outdoor area with social atmosphere
• Casual style eating, great for groups and people with different dietary needs

Head to Bezogródek and try something different! This outdoor food truck area has a large and diverse variety of local food and drink options. From snacks to mains, to dessert, to drinks, there’s something for everyone! Make sure to bring your appetite, there are lots of different food options to choose from!

A weekend trip to Krakow is a great time to partake in fun activities and experience the city’s sports culture. Here are the best Krakow, Poland attractions for a bit of entertainment or exercise!

Play a Game of Bumper Ball

• This game is sure to provide lots of laughs
• Fun and unique way to spend a few hours
• A great form of enjoyable exercise

Bubble Football is a hilarious and memorable take on soccer. The concept is simple you try your best to play soccer with your upper body encased in a massive inflated bubble! This is a fun and unique activity that’s perfect for larger groups in particular.

Stretch Your Legs at Planty Park

• The perfect place for a peaceful stroll
• A fun activity for all ages
• A nice reprieve from the busy city

Planty Park is an urban garden that surrounds the oldest part of Krakow. Planty is one of the largest parks in Krakow, measuring 49-acres with a perimeter of 2.5-miles. Enjoy the walking paths that snake through the park and admire the beautiful views of the city!

Check out Krakow’s Football Stadium

• Capacity of 33,268 spectators
• The stadium where Wisa Kraków play their home matches
• Located just 20-minute from Old Town using public transportation

Krakow’s football stadium is the home ground of the Wisa Kraków football team playing in the Ekstraklasa. The Wisa Kraków are one of the most successful Polish football clubs in recent years, winning 8 league championships since 1999! Watch a match and immerse yourself in the electric feel of game-day!

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A weekend in Krakow is the perfect time to experience the city’s music and theater culture. Add a stop at one of these venues to your Krakow itinerary for an entertaining experience!

Juliusz Slowacki Theatre

• 19th-century venue offering concerts and theatrical performances
• Wonderful selection of performances and good visibility
• The place to go in Krakow to experience the performing arts

This historic theater was erected in 1893 and modeled after some of the best European Baroque theaters at that time, such as the Paris Opera House. The architecture and design of the theater is truly breathtaking and beautiful from the inside out! Watch a performance and immerse yourself in Krakow’s magical world of art!

Jazz Rock Cafe

• Live music venue in Old Town
• Large bar with affordable prices
• Interesting and exotic decor

If you’re into rock, metal, and alternative music, this is the place to go for some head-pumping fun! The Jazz Rock Cafe specializes in loud music and high energy. Dance the night away in their underground area, meet new people from all over the world, and let loose on your weekend in Krakow!

Mercy Brown Dive Bar

• Regular events include live music and burlesque shows
• Open until late
• Reservations are encouraged

Travel back in time with a visit to the Mercy Brown Dive Bar, Krakow’s secret speakeasy! The vintage decor offers a small glimpse of what life was like in Krakow in the 1920s. Wind down with soft lighting, frilly lampshades, velveteen couches and live jazz music. Their cocktail menu is short and sweet, the prices are very reasonable and the ingredients are top quality!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

10 Other Awesome Things to do in Krakow This Weekend

The city is overflowing with awesome hotspots just waiting to be explored. If you want to visit all of Krakow’s famous places , read on for 10 more awesome city attractions!

#1 – Wander the Wawel Cathedral and Castle Complex

The Wawel Cathedral and Castle complex is full of history and splendor. The Wawel contains a gorgeous assortment of predominantly Romanesque, Renaissance and Gothic architecture dating from around the 11th-century onwards. There are many areas to be explored in Wawel, from the cathedral and crypt, to the crown treasury and the armory private royal apartments, and more!

The complex is perched on top of a hill south of the Old Town. Make sure to set some extra time aside to take a leisurely stroll around the castle courtyards and open spaces. Admire the beautiful views of the lake and the wonderful vantage points of Krakow city!

#2 – Pursue the Main Square

Krakow’s Main Square is located in Old Town, in the very center of the city. The Square dates back to the 13-century. Measuring 9.4 acres, it’s one of the largest medieval squares in Europe. It houses many of Krakow’s historic monuments, including the Town Hall Tower, St. Florian’s Gate, and the Krakow Barbican!

Set aside some time to explore the Main Square and take in the architectural beauty that surrounds it. Enjoy a free walking town around the Main Square and learn about its history from a knowledgeable tour guide, or take a horse drawn carriage ride through the most picturesque area of Krakow!

#3 – Marvel at St. Mary’s Basilica

Poland is still a devout Catholic country and Krakow is filled with many beautiful churches that date back hundreds of centuries. Of course, we recommend you visit as many as your time allows; however, if you only get a chance to visit one church in Krakow, make it St. Mary’s Basilica!

The beauty of this basilica is truly breathtaking. It was built in the 14th-century and is a jewel of Polish Gothic architecture! Step inside and you’ll be surrounded by a fairy-tale-like charm! The ceiling is filled with ornate blue and gold detailing that puts it in the high leagues among Europe’s most beautiful places of worship!

#4 – Tour the Wieliczka Salt Mine

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a half-day tour from Krakow and descend 460-feet below the surface to an underground Chapel carved into the salt.

You’ll see entire churches, altars, and life-size statues all carved from salt! You can take a fully guided tour as you journey to the different areas of the mine, and learn about this fascinating location from a knowledgeable expert. This is definitely one of the coolest Krakow things to see!

Oh, and the Wieliczka Salt Mine has been producing table salt for over 700 years.

Greg and Tom Hostel

This highly rated Krakow hostel is a great value for money.

• Free Breakfast
• 24 Hour Reception

#5 – Check Out The Cloth Hall

The Cloth Hall is the central feature of the main market square in Krakow’s Old Town. This old Market Hall dates to the Renaissance and is one of the city’s most recognizable icons. Today, it’s a tourist-focused area that offers a wide selection of local products ranging from souvenirs to clothes to paintings!

This is a great place to pick up all of your Krakow keepsakes! The Cloth Hall is also surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and bars. If you’re trying to decide what to see in Krakow in 3 days, make sure this stop is on your list!

#6 – Take a Full-Day Guided Tour to Auschwitz

The infamous Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp was located just one hour from Krakow. For a sobering and educational trip, take a fully guided day-tour of the Auschwitz concentration camp and learn about the brutal history of the Holocaust.

In the various exhibit centres, you will see personal belongings of the victims who were murdered at Auschwitz as well as visit the gas chambers themselves.

Tours are conducted by knowledgeable guides who take you inside the walls of the concentration camp to show, and tell you the important history of the camp. If you’re visiting Krakow, this is a highly important tour you should not miss.

An Aushwitz tour from Krakow is best booked in advance to avoid disapointment. Book yours here.

#7 – Visit Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory

The Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory is a former metal item factory. Oskar Schindler was a Czech born member of the Nazi party turned wartime profiteer. He employed Jewish Slave labour in his factory but truly earned redemption after using his influence and money to save the lives of 1,200 jews working for him.

Today, it houses two museums: the Museum of Contemporary Art in Krakow, and a branch of the Historical Museum of the City of Krakow. Visit these museums to gain a deeper understanding of occupied Poland during WWII.

#8 – Visit Lost Souls Alley For a Quick Thrill

Get your adrenaline levels up at Lost Souls Alley, Krakow’s scariest activity! This attraction is a mix between a haunted house and an escape room. The themes of the various rooms are inspired by horror movies. Make your way through a creepy maze of rooms and solve puzzles before heading to the next!

Watch out for the actors, dressed to scare and lurking around every corner! Lost Souls Alley is Poland’s first interactive museum devoted to the basic instinct of fear! This attraction will definitely get your heart pumping! Be afraid… be very afraid!

#9 – Go Below the Streets to the Rynek Underground Museum

Explore the Rynek Underground Museum, where the past and present intermingle. Discover the history of medieval Krakow and see how ordinary people lived their lives in this time period.

The museum is located inside an actual archaeological excavation! It’s artfully designed and uses a variety of lightning and interactive exhibits to guide guests through the underground areas. See the ancient foundations, medieval bridges, ancient coins, skeletons and vampire burials! Make sure to watch the videos at the end to get a wider overview of the history of Poland and learn about other important sites in the city!

#10 – Go Inside the Old Synagogue

The Old Synagogue is an Orthodox Jewish synagogue in Kazimierz district of Krakow. It’s the oldest synagogue building still standing in Poland, and one of the most treasured landmarks of Jewish architecture in Europe. The synagogue was built sometime in the 15th-century.

It was renovated from 1956 to 1959 and currently operates as a museum. It’s a great place to learn about Jewish history and culture! It provides for an education experience with lots of items on display with descriptions and information for guests to read.

If you’ve never visited Krakow before you might not know what to expect.

No need to worry, we’ve got you covered! We’ve added a few more details into your weekend Krakow guide, and answers to questions you might be asking yourself.

What should I pack for a weekend in Krakow?

– Supportive Shoes  – Krakow is definitely a walking city, and It’s entirely possible to spend all day on your feet. Many areas of Krakow are still paved in cobblestones, this means your walking surface will be uneven. A comfortable pair of sneakers with good support will be your best friend when you visit Krakow, Poland! – Jacket – Krakow’s weather leans towards the cooler side. Even in summer, the temperatures stay mild and rain is frequent. Always make sure to check the weather forecast before heading out. Keep in mind that even if the temperatures seem warm during the day, the nighttime temperatures will drop once the sun disappears. – Bag – Krakow is a compact city, and you’ll find it very easy to spend all day out exploring. Take a good day bag or good-sized purse with you to keep all your travel must-haves in. It’s also a great place to store any Krakow souvenirs you pick up!

Can I get an apartment in Krakow for the weekend?

Booking an apartment in Krakow for the weekend has never been easier! Apartments are a great accommodation option when traveling, as they usually offer great perks! Generally speaking, they tend to have more amenities than hotels and hostels. These usually include a kitchen, laundry facilities, living area, more privacy, and more space in general. You’ll have a few options to choose from when selecting your accommodation. Airbnb is widely used by tourists visiting Krakow. This is a great option for groups in particular, as splitting the cost of your accommodation more ways will save you more money. The apartments you find on Airbnb are usually rented out by locals. You can find some pretty unique places with a cool local feel and design to them! Another way to find an apartment in Krakow is by checking out booking.com. This popular online platform has a lot of apartment options listed on their website. Both of these options will make booking an apartment in Krakow hassle-free and convenient!

Is Krakow safe for a weekend trip?

Krakow is fast becoming one of Europe’s top travel destinations. Safety is always an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a new city, and there are certain precautions you’ll want to take. Krakow’s  tourism industry blossomed  after Poland joined the European Union in 2004, and more and more visitors travel to Krakow each year. With this influx in tourism, petty crime has also increased. Pickpocketing is the main crime you’ll want to watch out for. Pickpockets often work as an organization, meaning someone can approach you and act as a distraction while someone else steals something from you. To avoid being targeted, stay in well-populated areas, travel with others when possible, especially at night, and keep track of your belongings. Following these simple guidelines and keep your wits about you and you should be just fine! Trips to Krakow, Poland are generally very safe, and you should have no reason to worry!

Don’t Forget Your Krakow Travel Insurance

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Final Thoughts on a Great Weekend in Krakow

We hope this weekend guide has made your decision on what to see in Krakow, Poland a little easier. This stunning city is the cradle of Polish culture, possessing the most natural and alluring beauty that draws in countless visitors from all over the world!

Whether you’re spending a quick 36 hours in Krakow, or more, you’ll discover right away why this city is considered a true jewel of Europe!

From its windy cobblestone streets, to its gorgeous medieval buildings, to its wonderful culinary creations, this is a city you’ll want to keep coming back to! All that’s left to do now is pick a date, book a place, and enjoy your weekend in Poland’s most charming city!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Agness and Cez

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Welcome to Krakow

Rent a car or moto to move around Krakow and its surroundings more comfortably by dismissing predicament and avoiding traffic jams.

Searching for where to stay in Krakow or surrounding towns? Check these hotels and hostels in Krakow for all budgets and all tastes.

Krakow is known for its gastronomy, deliciously diverse cuisine. Check out these bars, cafes, and restaurants in Krakow and around.

Discover the best nightclubs and bars in Krakow. Here are some of the places for rambling around the town, letting loose, and dancing.

Find popular guided tours and excursions in Krakow and its surroundings. Book your transfer from the airport to Krakow or vice versa.

Language schools and other educational institutions and centers offering Polish language courses and cultural programs in Krakow, Poland.

Architectural monuments of Krakow Old Town

Florianska Street – St. Florian’s Street

Kanonicza Street – Ulica Kanonicza

Krakow Barbican – Barbakan Krakowski

Kraków Cloth Hall – Sukiennice

Kraków Old Town – Stare Miasto

Main Market Square – Rynek Glówny

Royal Road Kraków – Droga Królewska

The former capital of poland.

Kraków, one of the oldest cities in Poland, was the capital of the country until 1596. Situated on the Vistula River, the city dates back to the 7th century.

KRAKOW – THE CITY OF CHURCHES

The abundance of churches, and the plenitude of monasteries and convents earned the city a countrywide reputation as the Northern Rome.

UNESCO WORLD CULTURAL HERITAGE

Kraków’s Historic Center along with the nearby Wieliczka Salt Mine was entered on the first List of the UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage.

Kraków city’s extensive cultural heritage across the epochs of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture includes the famous Wawel Cathedral and Wawel Royal Castle on the banks of the Vistula River, great St. Mary’s Basilica, majestic Saints Peter and Paul Church and the largest medieval market square in Europe, the Rynek Główny.

Krakow has been the capital of Poland for five centuries. Walk through Krakow Old Town, immerse yourself in the history of the inhabitants of medieval colorful houses on the Main Market Square, and listen to legends about dragons, the times of the reign of Casimir the Great, and the heyday of Wawel, its destruction and gradual revival.

ONE DAY EXCURSIONS FROM KRAKOW

Auschwitz-Birkenau – Oświęcim

Błonia Park

Kościuszko Mound – Kopiec Kościuszki

Ojców National Park

  what is krakow known for.

Kraków Old Town with Wawel Royal Castle has been declared the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in the world. The city of Krakow was known as a busy trading center of Central Europe back in 985 and has grown to Poland’s second-most-important city.

Read more..

  Things to do in Krakow

Krakow is the former capital of Poland and a city with thousand-year-long traditions. The city of Krakow is famous for its rich history, world-class monuments, historic Old Town, Wawel Royal Castle, a lot of churches, and of course pretzels.

The city of Krakow was known as a busy trading center of Central Europe back in 985 and has grown to Poland’s second-most-important city. Kraków Old Town with Wawel Royal Castle has been declared the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in the world. Discover the main tourist points of Krakow’s historic Old Town. Walk through its picturesque streets and historic neighborhoods. Learn facts and legends about the picturesque city of Krakow. Follow in the footsteps of the kings of Poland as you explore the famous Royal Route from the medieval Old Town to Wawel Hill.

READ MORE ABOUT KRAKOW

Must-visit attractions in Krakow

History of Krakow

Weather and Climate in Krakow

Nightlife in Krakow

Best day trips from Krakow

KRAKOW ON GOOGLE MAPS

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Travel Guide To Krakow

Poland's former capital and oldest university town lies in a broad valley on the banks of the Vistula river, and is a treasure house of national culture and dazzlingly beautiful. Its ancient, elegant Old Town has been placed on the UNESCO list of World Historic Sites. It is ideal for a long weekend break, without the tourist hoards and high prices. Be dazzled by its art and architecture, from baroque to Art Nouveau, renaissance to Gothic, and by the sheer spectacle of the city.

Where to stay in Krakow

HOTEL ELEKTOR

Ulika Szpitalna 28 (00 48 12 423 2317). A smart option in a central location, which benefits from a good restaurant and wine bar. Rooms have been restored in the style of 19th-century private apartments. £

HOTEL FRANCUSKI

Ulika Pijarska 13 (00 48 12 422 5122). Situated near St Florian's gate, this comfortable and atmospheric old building offers comfortable double rooms and has a restaurant serving French food. £

HOTEL POD ROZA

Ulika Florianska 14 (00 48 12 422 1244). Translated as 'Under the Rose', Hotel Pod Roza was established in the early 19th-century and is one of the most elegant and charming hotels in the city. £

Where to eat out in Krakow

Ulika Szeroka 17 (00 48 12 421 3870). Serves high-quality Jewish food, along with regular concerts of Klezmer music.

Ulika Swiat Anny 3 (00 48 12 423 2178). This has fine borsch and rolled veal fillets which are popular with locals.

JAMA MICHALIKA

Ulika Florianska 45. A fabulous Art Nouveau café serving delicious pastries.

RESTAURACJA HAWELKA

Rynek Glowny 34 (00 48 12 422 0631). This serves outstanding East European food served in the elegant Sala Tetmajerowska.

RESTAURACJA POD ANIOLAMI

Ulika Grodzka 35 (00 48 12 421 3999). Translated as 'under the angels', this is a stylish cellar restaurant serving excellent trout and duck. You can opt for the traditional stereotypes of East European cuisine or more subtle, modern dishes.

THE WIERZYNEK

Rynek Glowny 15 (00 48 12 422 9896). Traditional cuisine served in a historic setting.

What to see in Krakow

Regular train and bus services connect Krakow with the industrial town of Oświęcim, 50km to the west. It was here in 1940 that the Nazis built their largest and most notorious extermination camp, Auschwitz-Birkenau, where an estimated four million people died during the Second World War. The museum, open from 8am to 3pm, takes a 'no holds barred' approach and the experience can be distressing, every gruesome detail of life in the camp is documented.

KAZIMIERZ AND THE BAROQUE ISAAK SYNGAGOGUE

Walking south from the foot of Wawel Castle towards the Pilsudski bridge you enter the ancient Jewish settlement of Kazimierz. The Second World War years changed the area beyond recognition, within four years the Jewish community that had lived in the city for at least 600 years was virtually obliterated and today the district is a shadow of its former self. It comes as a surprise to discover that many of the quaint streets in which this tragedy took place have survived, and it is here that that Steven Spielberg decided to base the ghetto in Schindler's List .

There is only a small Jewish population left in Krakow, and a small congregation, mostly elderly, still attends the 16th-century Remu'h Synagogue on Ulica Szeroka in Kazimierz, but most other synagogues now function solely as museums. The most handsome is the Baroque Isaak Synagogue. There is not much to see inside: a few inscriptions in Hebrew; a couple of life-size photographs; cut-out images of men in prayer and a few videos. The first film shows a party of Hassidic Jews travelling to Palestine in the 1920s. The second is a documentary about the work of a Jewish medical agency immediately before World War II. The other films were made by the Gestapo for training purposes and some of the events occurred right outside the doors of the synagogue. The most shocking scenes of all record the clearing of the ghetto in Podgórze. Open from 9am to 7pm daily except Saturday.

RYNEK GLOWNY

Krakow's marketplace is Rynek Glowny, located at the centre of the city's historic old town. This is a magical space of clustered Gothic spires and classical façades. Shoppers crossing to the boutiques and galleries of surrounding streets - Florianska, Grodzka and Swietego Jan- vie with drinkers in pavement cafés, the odd tourist and a few tuneless buskers from the highlands further south, dressed in bright-clue jackets, breeches and boots. Elderly ladies, consuming cream pastries observe the spectacle from the coffee house in the Sukiennice, the enormous Renaissance Cloth Hall at the centre of the square.

THE CZARTORYSKI MUSEUM

The Czartoryski is the oldest museum in Poland and began as the private collection of Princess Izabela Czartoryska (1746-18350), who amassed a large collection of Polish art and memorabilia. The most famous room contains a single masterpiece and an empty picture frame. The missing painting is Raphael's Portrait of a Young Man which disappeared during the Nazi occupation. But Leonardo da Vinci's sinuously alluring Lady with an Ermine remains, an ode to the chastity of Cecilia Gallerani, the Duke of Milan's favourite mistress. Elsewhere the museum, established by the Czartoryska family in 1876, has the feel of a private collection. Other highlights include Rembrandt's Landscape with the Good Samaritan . Cabinets of curiosities recall the taste of eccentric individuals, while gorgeous fake Oriental sashes proclaim the family's belief that they were descended from the legendary Sarmatian warriors of central Asia.

THE GALLERY OF THE SUKIENNICE

This is one of Krakow's best-known architectural monuments. Rectangular in shape, the Cloth Hall was the medieval city's main centre of trading, surrounded on all sides by a labyrinth of market stalls. Enjoy the morbid fantasies of 19th-century Krakovian painters in the gallery here: wild-eyed women on rearing horses with glam-rock hairstyles.

THE MARIACKI

This is Krakow's most spectacular historic church, and the immense high altar by Veit Stoss, a 15th-century German, can be viewed daily from 11.50am until evening mass. Carved from limewood, gilded and painted, the altarpiece is a visionary interpretation of the Virgin Mary's life. The Virgin herself rises, beneath a frothy Gothic canopy, to her coronation in heaven.

CNT Editors

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

WAWEL CASTLE

Wawel is a Renaissance palace, complete with graceful courts and loggias, built by Italians for the 16th-century king Zygmunt the Old. Pope John Paul II once described it as 'a sanctuary of Poland's history which cannot be entered without awe and inner trembling'. Yet for all its Florentine veneer, Wawel remains a northern citadel, a magnificent array of jostling turrets and balconies rising above the Vistula river. Inside, its massive rooms boast Venetian battle scenes and grandiose fireplaces. The monarchs are buried close by, in the adjoining cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece in miniature studded with fabulous tombs of red Hungarain marble. The view from Wawel hill also takes in Krakow's harsher side, from the modern suburbs to the older, Jewish quarters of Kazimierz and Podgórze, the locations of the darkest episodes in the city's history. Open from 10am to 3pm daily except Monday.

Of all Krakow's memorials and monuments, the one to receive the most reverence is located in a small, unexceptional town a few miles south-east of the city. When Wieliczka was placed on UNESCO's World heritage list in 1978, it suddenly found itself ranked alongside the Pyramids and the Taj Mahal. Yet its famous salt mines, 1,000 ft underground, are unquestionably a phenomenon; these rich mineral deposits, which paid for many of Krakow's grandest edifices, have been a tourist attraction for six centuries. For most Poles, the thousands of 'delvers' who laboured here have come to embody a kind of national spirit, the perennial triumph over adversity. Perhaps only in Poland can you find a mine adorned with vast chasmed chapels with translucent sculptures - delicate Madonnas and whole cycles of Biblical reliefs - illuminated by salt-crystal chandeliers hanging 40ft above.12km to the southwest of Krakow, the salt mines of Wieliczka are best reached by bus from Krakow's main station. These are open daily and can be reached by the Lux-Bus from the main bus station or by taxi. Between June to September, English-language tours begin at 10am, 12.30pm and 3pm. Between July and August, they begin at 11.30am and 1.45pm.

OTHER SIGHTS

Even the most energetic visitors could spend weeks trying to visit all of Krakow's monuments, from the exquisite 15th-century cloister of the Collegium Maius, part of the city's Jagiellonian University, to the surreal splendours of the Modern Art Gallery. Or the Archdiocesan Museum, where the medieval altarpieces on display are overshadowed by Pope John Paul II's typewriter, furniture and skis. Still more remarkable however, are the city's churches, from the Romanesque St Andrew's to the baroque St Peter and St Paul and the frankly decadent Franciscan church, redecorated around 1900. Its plain brick exterior hardly prepares you for the polychromatic riot inside, where fields of writhing painted poppies, lilies and sunflowers encircle vast Art Nouveau windows. This is the invention of Stanislaw Wyspianski, the Gaudí of the north.

How to get to Krakow

Balice airport is located 15km from the city centre. A taxi to the city is relatively cheap.

AIRLINES FROM THE UK

LOT Polish Airlines (0845 601 0949; www.lot.com ) flies from London Gatwick to Krakow. British Airways (0870 850 9850; ww.ba.com ) also flies from London Gatwick to Krakow.

Touch real history

Wawel, the Cloth Hall, Jewish Kazimierz, the charms of old Podgórze, the socialist realism of Nowa Huta – join us on a journey through Kraków’s most beautiful heritage.

The treasure trove of culture

Masterpieces of Polish and European culture, and the art of the Far East; prehistorical dungeons and views into the future – Kraków’s museums know no bounds.

Green leisure

How about unwinding for a while? Kraków’s ancient mounds, the Planty garden ring, Błonia Common, Skałki Twardowskiego Rocks, the Botanical Garden, and Lasek Wolski Forest are perfect spots to relax in.

Tourist guide

See the famous heritage sites, marvel at the most cherished treasures and discover Kraków’s most interesting nooks and crannies. See what attractions are waiting for you – fall in love in our city!

The Main Market Square, the Cloth Hall, Wawel, Kazimierz – Kraków’s most famous heritage at your fingertips! See how beautiful our city is.

Catch a concert, a film, or a play – Kraków is a city of culture, a city where something is always on.

Take a walk along the Vistula, relax in a park, climb the Krakus mound – see Kraków the green way…

Down in the dungeons and up a tower, art both ancient and contemporary, from prehistory to the latest trends – visit Kraków's museums!

Plan a stay

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There is a country… historical walk for family.

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Green Kraków by bike for children

Animal counting rhyme, or a family urban game, thick as thieves with physics, or a walk for fans of science, discovery and experiments, practical information.

Hungry? Need accommodation? Looking for a post office or pharmacy? Do you know how to get around Kraków by bus and tram? Our practical information will help you during your visit.

Recommended events

Concert, film, or play? Kraków boasts a plethora of cultural events – see what we have selected for you.

36th International Festival of Kraków Composers

Saturday, April 20, 2024 - Sunday, April 28, 2024

This year’s 36th Krakow International Festival of Composers explores the close relationship between the world of sounds and the kingdom of numbers – a phenomenon humankind has been familiar with since the Antiquity. “Maths in Music” will resound at the concert Two +...

Mastercard OFF CAMERA 2024

Friday, April 26, 2024 - Sunday, May 5, 2024

Stars of Polish and world cinema, outdoor screenings, backgrounds to TV series, concerts by artists from all corners of Europe – all in Kraków’s unique atmosphere! Fascinating opportunities, meetings with fellow cinephiles, discussions on featured films… Mastercard...

Krakow Philharmonic: Anniversary of Poland's accession to the EU

Saturday, April 27, 2024, 6:00 PM

During this concert, symbolism plays a role that is just as important as exquisite music. The programme prepared for the 20th anniversary of Poland's accession to the European Union by the Kraków Philharmonic refers to the Polish ‘spiritual revolution’ and the universal concepts...

Don Pasquale (Kraków Opera)

Saturday, April 27, 2024, 6:30 PM

Cunning plans, alluring singing, affrays and slapped cheeks – Don Pasquale features all this and more on stage, remaining a pearl of charm and carefree humour. The intrigue in Gaetano Donizetti’s opera buffa masterpiece centres around the idea of cooling the protagonist’s...

4 Traditions Festival

Tuesday, May 7, 2024 - Friday, May 10, 2024

Music explores myriad languages, nationalities and cultures, yet the emotions it dresses up in sounds are universal to us all. That’s the message of the 4 Traditions Festival prepared by the Kraków Philharmonic, exploring various cultural circles once comprising the Commonwealth...

Thirty Seconds to Mars: Seasons at Tauron Arena Kraków

Thursday, May 9, 2024, 6:00 PM

A Beautiful End of the World Although preparing a world tour seems like a great event in and of itself, Jared Leto decided that it needs to be announced in a very special way, so one day at dawn he scaled the Empire State Building in New York, becoming the first person ever to do so. The event...

Once a year, on the Thursday following Corpus Christi , crowds gather in the courtyard of the Premonstratensian Convent . Everyone is waiting for the main hero of the day – Lajkonik, or the...

Stay up to scratch! Check the latest news from Kraków.

Cinematic Spring in Kraków

24 April 2024

  Krzysztof Siwoń Cinematic life wakes up in spring, and Kraków’s festivals have been presenting captivating screenings and events for many years. Mastercard OFF CAMERA,...

Faces of Jadwiga

10 April 2024

  She fascinates artists and scholars alike. A woman of flesh and blood, King of the Commonwealth… Marek Mikos Kraków Culture It’s hard to believe just...

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Kraków was the only major city in Poland to come through World War II essentially undamaged, and its assembly of monuments has since been hailed as one of Europe’s most compelling by UNESCO. The city’s Old Town (Stare Miasto) swarms with visitors in summer, but retains an atmosphere of fin-de-siècle stateliness, its streets a cavalcade of churches and palaces. A university centre, Kraków has a tangible buzz of arty youthfulness and enjoys a dynamic nightlife.

Czartoryski Palace

The market square, mocak museum of contemporary art, rynek underground, arts and crafts, clothes and food, the university, wieliczka salt mines.

Kraków is bisected by the River Wisła, with virtually everything of interest on the north bank. At the heart of the Old Town is the Main Square, with Wawel Hill , ancient seat of Poland’s kings and Church, and the rejuvenated Kazimierz lying to the south.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Poland, created by local experts

11 days  / from 1584 USD

Explore the Liberation Route in Poland

Poland was the first country that Hitler invaded and with it starting World War II. Discover the Polish sites of World War II with this itinerary, from the Northern city of Gdansk where the first battle took place to the concentration camps of Auschwitz close to Krakow.

A few blocks north of the Rynek on ul. Pijarska sits the Czartoryski Palace , usually home to Kraków’s finest art collection, although it is closed until 2014 for renovation. When it reopens, highlights will include Rembrandt’s brooding Landscape with Merciful Samaritan and Leonardo da Vinci’s Lady with an Ermine .

A Jewish centre from the fourteenth century onwards, Kraków’s Kazimierz district had grown by 1939 to accommodate some 65,000 Jews. After the Nazis took control, however, this population was forced into a cramped ghetto across the river. Waves of deportations to the death camps followed before the ghetto was liquidated in March 1943, ending seven centuries of Jewish life in Kraków. Kazimierz is now a fashionable and bohemian residential district, filled with poignantly silent synagogues . Just off pl. Nowy, a colourful square surrounded by chic cafés, is the Isaac Synagogue (Fri 9am–2.30pm, Sun–Thur 9am–8pm) at ul. Kupa 18 – now a working synagogue once again, it contains sizeable chunks of Hebrew inscriptions on its walls. At ul. Szeroka 24 is the Old Synagogue (Mon 10am–2pm, Wed, Thurs, Sat & Sun 9am–4pm, Fri 10am–5pm; 9zł), the oldest surviving example of Jewish religious architecture in Poland and home to the Museum of Kraków Jewry , with its traditional paintings by the area’s former inhabitants. Nearby, the Remu’h Synagogue on ul. Szeroka (Mon–Fri: May–Sept 9am–6pm; Oct–April 9am–4pm; 6zł) contains lovely original furnishings; the cemetery behind the synagogue contains restored 18th-century gravestones.

At the southern end of Kazimierz, the Municipal Engineering Museum at św. Wawrzynca 15 (Tues–Sun 10am–4pm; 8zł) contains a fantastic display of vehicles in a former tram depot.

The largest square in medieval Europe, the Market Square (Rynek Główny) is now a broad expanse with the vast Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) at its centre, ringed by magnificent houses and towering spires. Originally a collection of outdoor market stalls, the Cloth Hall was first built in 1300 and reconstructed during the Renaissance, and still houses a bustling covered market. To its south is the tiny copper-domed St Adalbert’s , the first church to be founded in Kraków. On the east side is the Gothic St Mary’s Church (Mon–Sat 11.30am–6pm, Sun 2–6pm; 6zł), the taller of its two towers, which you can climb during the summer months (May–Aug Tues, Thurs & Sat 9–11.30am & 1–5.30pm; 5zł), topped by an amazing ensemble of spires. Inside is the stunningly realistic triptych high altar (1477–89), an intricate wood-carving depicting the Virgin Mary’s Quietus among the apostles.

Legend has it that during one of the thirteenth-century Tatar raids, a guard watching from the tower of St Mary’s Church saw the invaders approaching and blew his trumpet, only for his alarm to be cut short by an arrow through the throat. Every hour a local fireman now plays the sombre melody ( hejnał ) from the same tower, halting abruptly at the point when the guard is supposed to have been hit.

The former industrial district of Podgorze/Zabłocie just across the river from Kazimierz is one of contemporary Kraków’s fastest-developing districts, thanks in part to the 2011 opening of this art museum at ul. Lipova 4 (Tues–Sun 11am–7pm; 10zł; Tues free; mocak.pl ). Occupying renovated buildings that once formed part of Oskar Schindler’s Emalia Factory it contains a compelling collection of Polish contemporary art, and a regular programme of big-name exhibitions.

Central Kraków’s newest and most entertaining tourist attraction is the Rynek Underground (April–Oct: Mon 10am–8pm, Tues 10am–4pm, Wed–Sun 10am–10pm; Nov–March: Mon, Wed–Sun 10am–8pm, Tues 10am–4pm; closed first Tues of every Month;17zł), an extensive subterranean museum that stretches beneath the market square – it is entered from the eastern side of the Cloth Hall. Recent archeological excavations have been left in situ and covered by glass walkways, allowing you to explore the layout of the medieval marketplace. The display also features touchscreen computers, recreated thatched wooden huts, and videos of role-playing actors dressed up as medieval traders.

Touristy Floriańska and the boutiques in the Rynek contain a few bargain art dealers among the overpriced souvenirs. Kazimierz is filled with reasonably priced galleries and secondhand shops and, on Sundays, pl. Nowy becomes a colourful flea market of cheap clothes and jewellery.

You can find a good selection of English used books, including translations of Polish authors, at the café/bookshop Massolit on Felicjanek 4 (Sun–Thurs 10am–8pm, Fri & Sat 10am–9pm), where you can also trade in your old books for new reading material.

For a Western “mall experience”, head for Galeria Krakowska (Mon–Sat 9am–10pm, Sun 10am–9pm), just next to the train station. It has all the fashionable Western brands that you could wish for, in addition to a large Carrefour supermarket.

West from the Rynek is the university area, whose first element was the fifteenth-century Collegium Maius building at ul. Jagiellońska 15. Now it’s the University Museum (Mon–Fri 11am–2.20pm, Sat 11am–1.20pm; 16zł). Entrance is by guided tour only – the museum office will sign you up for the next English-language tour, which depart at regular intervals throughout the day. Inside, the ground-floor rooms retain the mathematical and geographical murals once used for the teaching of figures like Copernicus, one of the university’s earliest students.

For over five hundred years, Wawel Hill was the seat of Poland’s monarchy. The original cathedral (Mon–Sat 9am–5pm; 8zł) was built in 1020, but the present basilica is a fourteenth-century structure, with a crypt that contains the majority of Poland’s 45 monarchs. Their tombs and side chapels are like a directory of European artistic movements, not least the Gothic Holy Cross Chapel and the Renaissance Zygmuntówska chapel. The excellent Cathedral Museum (Mon–Sat 9am–4pm; 12zł) features religious and secular items dating from the thirteenth century, including all manner of coronation robes.

Visitor numbers are restricted, so arrive early or book ahead to visit the various sections of Wawel Castle (ticket office Mon–Fri 9am–5.45pm, Sat & Sun 10am–4.45pm), including the State Rooms (April–Oct Tues, Thurs & Fri 9.30am–4pm, Wed & Sat 9.30am–3pm, Sun 10am–3pm; Nov–March Tues–Sat 9.30am–3pm, Sun 10am–3pm; 16zł), furnished with Renaissance paintings and tapestries, and the grand Royal Private Apartments (Tues–Sun 9.30am–5pm, Sat & Sun 11am–6pm; 21zł). Much of the original contents of the Royal Treasury and Armoury (same times as the State Rooms; 16zł) were sold to pay off royal debts, but still feature some fine works, including the Szczerbiec, the country’s original coronation sword.

Smok – the dragon of kraków

On the western side of Wawel Hill is the Dragon’s Den (daily: July & Aug 10am–7pm; April–June, Sept & Oct 10am–5pm; 3zł), a cavern accessed by a spiral staircase. This was reputedly once the home of Smok, a dragon whose rather objectionable diet included children, cattle and unsuccessful knights. Krak, the legendary founder of Kraków, tricked him into eating a sheep stuffed with sulphur; to quench the burning, Smok drank half the Wisła, causing him to explode. Despite his unfortunate end, the dragon is now the symbol of the city.

Ten kilometres from Kraków is the “underground salt cathedral” of Wieliczka , 300km of subterranean tunnels that have been used to mine salt since the thirteenth century (daily: April–Oct 7.30am–7.30pm; Nov–March 8am–5pm). The ticket price includes a tour (68zł English, 49zł Polish), which passes by an underground lake and a number of impressive statues and edifices – including chandeliers – carved out of rock salt. To get there, catch bus #304 from ul. Kurniki next to the main train station (every 20min; 3zł).

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13 Day European Tour of Germany, Poland, Hungary, Austria and Czech Republic

13 days, 5 countries and 9 cities

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12 Breakfasts, 6 Dinners, 1 Farewell Dinner

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A jam-packed Bohemian trip showcasing the stories of central Europe. Learn about its colorful folklore and the tragedies of war as you visit the heart of Old Town Kraków, slice through the Carpathians and see all the highlights of Prague, Budapest and Vienna.

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Deals, savings and exclusive private touring options available plus if you need a different date or itinerary change we can create a custom trip. Contact us for more details

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13 days itinerary trip from Berlin to undefined visiting 5 countries and 9 cities Choose your end location

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This tour ends in Frankfurt in 2024. Choose to end in Prague or Berlin in 2025.

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This tour version ends in Prague.

This tour version ends in Berlin.

About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Berlin, Warsaw, Kraków, Budapest, Vienna and Prague with a Local Specialist

Visit the Berlin TV Tower, Poznań, the former concentration camp at Auschwitz, St. Mary's Church and the Cloth Hall in Kraków, Győr, Tábor, St. Vitus Cathedral and the Old Town Square of Prague

View the famous Reichstag and Tiergarten in Berlin, Kraków Cathedral and Wawel Royal Castle in Kraków and the Castle District in Budapest

See Hofburg Palace and the Opera House in Vienna

Travel highlights

Specific transfer information can be found here:

Airport Transfers

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

All porterage and restaurant gratuities

All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

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Net-zero by 2050

Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Support Local

Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNESCO sites and places of cultural significance.

Sustainable Practices

Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

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