What to visit in Krakow in Poland? The complete guide

Today, we are set to visit Krakow. In this article, you'll uncover essential information to ensure your trip to the city is a memorable one: must-see places, activities to indulge in, how to book them, accommodation suggestions, and top restaurant recommendations. If you have further queries, please drop them in the article's comments section!

Why Should You Visit Krakow?

Some eyebrows raised when I shared my plans to visit Krakow. Many viewed it as an unconventional choice: a city scarred by the Second World War, with unpredictable weather, in a country perceived by some as underdeveloped. These were the misconceptions I often heard before my visit.

However, it's essential to set these biases aside.

Describing Krakow's highlights entails mentioning its UNESCO World Heritage-listed city center, the legendary castle, its historic Jewish district bearing the marks of WWII, its proximity to Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka salt mines, its myriad museums, vibrant culture, the intriguing communist district, and its bustling marketplace.

Additionally, Krakow has been home to renowned personalities such as Tadeusz Kosciuszko, Tadeusz Pankiewicz, and Copernicus (an alumnus of Jagiellonian University). Steven Spielberg's influence is felt through the filming of Schindler's List here, among numerous other captivating facets.

As an enticing conclusion, the city offers remarkably affordable prices for travelers from affluent nations. It's an excellent opportunity to indulge, be it in an insightful guided tour, gourmet dining, or luxury accommodations.

One's initial impression of Krakow, especially when compared to European cities like Prague or Budapest, revolves around its ambiance. The city exudes a welcoming and warm atmosphere. Melodies resonate in the streets, children's laughter echoes as they chase pigeons and pop bubbles, vibrant cafes beckon, and street stalls tempt with obwarzanki, the traditional crown-shaped bread.

The historic center is predominantly pedestrian-friendly. A profound sense of security prevails, with regular police patrols ensuring safety. Cars readily yield to pedestrians, and pedestrians, in turn, respect traffic rules. Every interaction is usually met with a smile.

Geographically, Krakow is Poland's second-largest city and frequently dubbed the country's most picturesque city. Positioned 180 miles south of Warsaw and 50 miles east of Katowice, here's its location on the map:

When Is the Best Time to Visit Krakow? Considering Weather and Timing

The weather in Krakow mirrors that of the north of my home country (France): summers fluctuate between 59°F in the morning and 77°F in the afternoon, with occasional heatwaves; shoulder seasons (spring and fall) range between 41°F and 59°F; winters average around 32°F, but occasional drops below freezing and snow are possible. For an up-to-date forecast, check the 10-day weather predictions here.

When planning, note that during winter, certain places close early. For instance, Auschwitz-Birkenau closes at 2 pm in December, contrasting with its 7 pm summer closure. Visitors are allowed to remain for 90 minutes post-closing, but in the heart of winter, this shortens the overall experience.

Post-October, many places transition to "off-season" mode or close for the public. Reservations for specific castle sections, for example, are unavailable from November to March.

Personally, I'd recommend visiting between May and September. The climate is ideal, activities are extensive, and most sites are open.

What To Do in Krakow? Must-Visit Activities and Monuments

It's essential to remember there are activities within the city and those to engage in in the surrounding region (like Auschwitz, Wieliczka, the Tatra Mountains, and the picturesque village of Zakopane), which I will discuss subsequently.

This overview should give you a comprehensive insight into your trip's potential. For a more in-depth perspective, refer to detailed articles about specific places by clicking on the highlighted links in the text.

Let's begin by highlighting Krakow's unmissable neighborhoods. Consider checking out the Krakow Card. Valid for 1, 2, or 3 days, it offers unlimited transportation and numerous complimentary activities, including the monuments discussed below.

The old town (Stare Miasto)

The historical center has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1978. Easily navigable by foot, its quaint streets brim with shops, cafes, and restaurants, most paved with cobblestones and where you occasionally cross horse-drawn carriages.

What should you explore in Stare Miasto?

The market square (Rynek Glowny)

The market square has long been the pulsating heart of local life. Its history traces back to the Middle Ages when it served as a significant crossroads on Europe's trade routes. Spanning roughly 10 acres, the Rynek Glowny is one of the most expansive medieval squares in Europe.

Central to the square is the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), teeming with artisan and souvenir shops.

Points of interest include:

• The Cloth Hall, featuring stalls selling furs, amber, wood and ceramic items, toys, and a historic knife hanging above an entrance — a nod to a local legend;
• The Rynek Underground: In the Middle Ages, the marketplace sat roughly 16 feet lower. Over time, layers accumulated, and this captivating museum showcases remnants of medieval Krakow (you can easily book tickets online for a guided tour ahead of your visit);
• The 19th-century Polish art gallery located on the Cloth Hall's upper floor;
• The Town Hall Tower, a modest structure offering panoramic views of the Basilica of St. Mary;
• St. Adalbert's Church, an unassuming 11th-century church, stands as one of the nation's oldest stone structures;
• The Krzysztofory Palace, situated at number 35, is a petite baroque palace featuring an exhibition on local history.

The square also features a monument dedicated to poet Adam Mickiewicz and another in tribute to Walenty Badylak. The latter self-immolated in the market square, protesting the authorities' silence about the Katyn massacre—a tragedy where thousands opposed to communism lost their lives.

Around the market square, you'll discover a plethora of restaurants and cafes. Recommendations include Restauracja Wierzynek (established in the 14th century), Dobra Kasza Nasza, Sioux, Pimiento Argentino Grill, chocolatier E. Wedel, and the cocktail bar Piwnica Pod Baranami.

To dive deeper into Stare Miasto's history, consider guided tours such as this walking tour ranging between 2 and 6 hours, or a 2-hour Segway excursion, or even a 1.5-hour electric scooter journey. You can also have a look a this 2-hour tour.

Group tours can be a good way to locate the main points of interest in the city to quickly find your way around.

There is a monument on the Rynek Glowny that attracts everyone's attention and that we will discuss now.

The Basilica of St. Mary

St. Mary's Basilica

is truly a must-visit place. Regardless of your religious beliefs or personal preferences regarding churches, it's worth stepping inside.

Inside, you'll be awestruck by the magnificent ceilings, ornate decorations, vibrant sculptures, and a brilliant altarpiece crafted by Veit Stoss. Additionally, you can ascend one of its towers for a breathtaking view of the Rynek Glowny.

From one of the towers, a trumpet player sounds the Hejnal Mariacki, a historic "signal." Originally intended as a warning for impending threats or enemies, it evolved into a ceremonial call for distinguished guests and visitors, and now stands as a cherished tourist tradition.

Address: Plac Mariacki 5, 31-042 Kraków.

The Jagiellonian University

Established in 1364, the Jagiellonian University holds the distinction of being the second oldest university in Central Europe, right after Prague's institution. Among its notable alumni was the famous astronomer, Nicolaus Copernicus. Within the university's picturesque courtyard, the Collegium Maius, visitors can marvel at a charming clock that performs at specific hours (9am, 11am, 1pm, 3pm, 5pm).

Nicolaus Copernicus began his studies at this prestigious university in 1491, shortly after his father's passing. He dedicated around three to four years here, acquiring knowledge in mathematics, astronomy, medicine, and law. Following this, he returned to his family and then traveled to Italy to further his education.

Visitors are welcome to stroll through the courtyard and can also explore the various exhibitions on offer (more information available here).

I was particularly fond of the serene, shaded garden, which provides a tranquil retreat from the lively streets of Krakow.

Jagiellonian University Address: Gołębia 24, 31-007 Kraków.

The Mały Rynek

Discover the Mały Rynek, a quaint square that hosts a vibrant weekend market. Here, food stalls set up shop, allowing you to savor local delicacies right on the street.

St. Florian's Gate and the Barbican

Venture to St. Florian's Gate and admire the Barbican, a fortification that historically guarded the city's entrance. While the interior may not be a must-visit, surrounding the Stare Miasto are tree-lined pathways showcasing beautiful edifices such as the Juliusz Słowacki Theater, Stary Theater, and Pałac Sztuki.

Stroll through charming streets adorned with archways.

Address of the Barbican: Basztowa, 30-547 Kraków.

The Plac Szczepański

Just a short stroll from the Rynek Glowny lies the more intimate Szczepański Square. Calm during the day, it buzzes with activity in the evenings, often featuring street performances around its fountain. It's a favored spot for an evening drink.

Other places of interest

For those rainy days in Krakow or when you're in the mood to delve deeper, Stare Miasto offers several underrated yet intriguing museums:

• Czartoryski Museum (św. Jana 19) displays artworks, including Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece, The Lady with an Ermine.
• Hipolit House (Kamienica Hipolitów, at Mariacki 3) provides a glimpse into the life of Krakow's bourgeoisie from the 17th to the 19th century. Named after an Italian merchant family who once owned it, this museum is a lesser-known treasure often overlooked by tourists.
• Archaeological Museum (Senacka 3) boasts an impressive collection featuring ancient Egyptian artifacts, including a mummy. Its garden offers a picturesque view of the Wavel cathedral.

Churches in the historical center

Poland's robust Catholic tradition is evident in the heart of the city, where you'll find numerous churches and religious structures, despite the compact area.

Should you need to select a few, apart from St. Mary's, consider visiting the Church of Saint Francis of Assisi. Having suffered multiple fires, the church has seen several restoration phases, resulting in a unique blend of Gothic, neo-Gothic, and Art Nouveau designs, especially evident in its stained glass.

Pope John Paul II was known to have a particular fondness for this church. When in Krakow, he would reside in the neighboring monastery. A commemorative plaque marks his "favorite spot" within the church.

You might also explore the Church of the Holy Trinity, which, with its temple-like design, stands apart from typical churches. Originally a temple, chapels were added over the centuries, lending it its distinct appearance.

Lastly, the Church of Saints Peter and Paul, a Baroque edifice erected by the Jesuits, is worth a visit.

Krakow Planty: The Historical Center's Green Oasis

Krakow's historic center is almost entirely encircled by the Planty, a green belt that spans around 2.5 miles and provides a verdant and shady retreat in the heart of the city.

When viewed from above, as in an airplane, the distinctive outline of the old town is evident. It resembles a heart set amidst the broader city landscape. Here's a picture for reference:

It's this verdant promenade that creates such a distinct boundary. If you're visiting Krakow during the summer, the Planty offers a wonderful respite with its shade. You'll find ample benches for relaxation.

Wawel Hill

A must-visit on your itinerary! Wawel Hill houses the Wawel Castle, an expansive compound with multiple courtyards, established in the 14th century as a royal abode.

The stunning cathedral on its grounds is the final resting place of prominent figures like Poland's former president, Lech Kaczyński, who tragically died at 60 in a plane crash, as well as renowned poets Juliusz Slowacki and Adam Mickiewicz.

There's much to explore at Wawel Castle, and it's not easy to grasp its intricacies. Notably, there are different booking options available for the castle's various sections: the state apartments, the royal apartments, and the cathedral.

And for those traveling with kids, don't miss out on the dragon legend. According to folklore, a dragon once resided in a secret cave beneath the hill, terrifying locals until it was ultimately defeated by a brave hero.

Situated between the old town and the Vistula River, the castle complex also features a playful attraction on the riverbank: a dragon that breathes fire.

For a comprehensive experience, consider booking a guided tour, which includes both the royal apartments and the cathedral, through the Excursions City agency.

Kazimierz, the Jewish Quarter

The Jewish Quarter boasts a vibrant atmosphere with its myriad of cafes, street art, and multiple synagogues. If you're interested, consider booking a guided tour of the area through an English-language guide.

What to experience in Kazimierz?

Soak in the Atmosphere of the Jewish Quarter

Many travelers draw parallels between the ambiance here and that of Berlin, noting its cosmopolitan, lively, creative, and bustling vibe.

The Szeroka street/plaza acts as a focal tourist point, teeming with Jewish restaurants and shops. Moreover, the Nowy Square features a central hall where takeaway food is available.

Explore a Synagogue

In Kazimierz, the numerous synagogues stand out: from the Remuh synagogue and Tempel to the Popper, Kupa (in baroque style), Izaak synagogue, and the High Synagogue. Keep in mind that they typically remain closed to the public during Shabbat (from Friday to Saturday nights) and on Jewish holidays.

To delve deeper into Jewish traditions, consider visiting the Old Synagogue (located at Szeroka 24).

Wander through a Jewish Cemetery

The local Jewish cemeteries poignantly reflect the struggles this community faced during World War II, as well as their deep-rooted history here.

Key sites include:

• The New Jewish Cemetery (Nowy cmentarz zydowski) established in 1800 and still operational. It spans approximately 11 acres and features a monument dedicated to the Holocaust victims.
• The Old Jewish Cemetery (Remuh Cemetery) situated next to the synagogue bearing the same name. It was primarily active from 1553 (the year the synagogue was erected) until 1800. One of its notable features is a wall constructed from tombstone fragments—a poignant symbol, especially considering how the Nazis severely vandalized the cemetery, turning it into a wasteland.

Men are traditionally expected to cover their heads during a visit (yarmulkes are usually available at the entrance).

Embark on a Street Art Adventure

Kazimierz is renowned for its street art murals. Roaming its lanes in pursuit of these artworks adds an element of surprise and discovery. However, if you're a seasoned traveler, you might find the murals less captivating compared to those in other major cities. Most of these artworks can be found in Kazimierz and the adjacent Podgorze district.

Visit the Corpus Christi Church

Established in the 14th century and nestled within the Jewish Quarter, this church is an architectural marvel. While it boasts a Gothic exterior, its interior dazzles with baroque flair. It's certainly worth a visit if you're in the vicinity.

Podgorze, the Former Jewish Ghetto

Kazimierz is nestled along the Vistula River. During the Second World War, the Jewish community was relocated across the river to Podgorze, designated as the ghetto.

The Ghetto Heroes' Square

Bohaterow Getta Square stands as a testament to both the tragedies and acts of bravery that took place. The Nazis used this location to assemble Jews before deporting them to concentration and extermination camps. At the same time, it was a focal point for Resistance activities.

Today, the square features an art installation of empty chairs, symbolizing all those who never came back.

The Eagle Pharmacy

I recommend visiting the Apteka pod Orlem, or The Eagle Pharmacy. Once operated by a Pole, Tadeusz Pankiewicz, this pharmacy served as a covert meeting point where Jewish prisoners could obtain comfort, exchange messages, and procure medicines and supplies from the "outside".

Pankiewicz bravely contributed to the Resistance, risking his life in the process.

Address: Plac Bohaterów Getta 18.

Walls of the Former Ghetto

The Krakow ghetto was a sealed-off zone, with controlled entries and exits. The Nazis constructed walls shaped like tombstones around it. Fragments of these walls remain and can be seen near No. 22 Lwowska Street.

Oskar Schindler's Factory

If you've watched Steven Spielberg's film or read Mietek Pemper's poignant autobiography "The Road to Freedom", you'll be familiar with Oskar Schindler.

A Czech industrialist, Schindler initially saw an opportunity to profit in Krakow during World War II by leveraging cheap Jewish labor. However, upon witnessing the systemic extermination of the Jewish people, he felt compelled to use his influence to save as many lives as he could from the horrors of the Holocaust.

The Schindler factory has since been converted into an evocative and modern museum.

Consider hiring an English-speaking guide for a very reasonable price by booking here.

Address: Lipowa 4, 30-702 Kraków.

Interestingly, the factory is connected to the Zablocie district, closely associated with Podgorze. Historically, this was Krakow's primary industrial hub, home to most of the city's factories. However, it experienced significant decline from the late 1980s when numerous state-owned enterprises went under. Currently, the district is undergoing revitalization, accommodating Krakow's growth.

It's worth noting that for many years, Krakow overlooked its past, and several historical sites were left neglected for decades. Recently, there's been a renewed appreciation for these sites, leading to their restoration—for instance, the Bohaterow Getta Square and the Schindler factory were both renovated in 2005. The Plaszow camp, which I'll touch on later, began its museum project around 2018, and it remains incomplete to this day.

The MOCAK, Museum of Contemporary Art

Adjacent to the factory is the MOCAK, a contemporary art museum established in 2011, spanning six buildings that were once part of the Schindler complex.

Address: Lipowa 4, 30-702 Kraków.

Plaszow concentration camp (KL Plaszow)

If you continue to explore the south of Kraków, you can visit the Plaszow camp. This is a place for "insiders", people who have some knowledge of the history of this concentration camp.

Indeed, except for some signs around the area that indicate that it is a former concentration camp, there is no signposting, no explanation of the few remaining vestiges (Plaszow having been largely destroyed by the Nazis to conceal their crimes).

Nearby, there is the quarry where Spielberg's film was shot... but here again, it is not a very "easy access" place. The quarry is now largely invaded by weeds and even by water when it has rained a lot.

Going on the trail of Schindler's List filming locations (in Plaszow, Kazimierz and Podgorze in particular) is often a way for tourists to approach this story.

By the way, it's very recent but some professionals have started to propose tours around the Plaszow camp... and you can't imagine how happy I am to see that this place will finally be explained to tourists. There is this tour in English or this excursion that combines the camp and the factory.

The museum on Pomorska Street

This is a special place, as it is located in the former Gestapo headquarters. It traces the history of the Polish Resistance during the Second World War.

It's an off-center place (but still accessible by streetcar), rather for those who are really interested in this period of history.

Address: Pomorska 2, 33-332 Kraków.

Going to see traditional concerts

You can take advantage of your stay to go see a recital of Chopin's pieces at the Chopin Concert Hall(tickets can be booked here), it's a popular outing that honors a local composer.

You can also opt for a recital of traditional Polish music (tickets bookable here).

The Banks of the Vistula

I fondly remember my initial encounter with the Vistula. It's a tranquil, expansive river that was bathed in the golden hue of dawn, with a gentle mist hovering over the waters during my first visit.

You can leisurely stroll or cycle along the riverbank. Crossing the Vistula provides a stunning view of Wavel Castle.

Don't miss the Father Bernatek pedestrian bridge connecting Kazimierz and Podgorze, adorned with hanging sculptures.

For a unique perspective, consider embarking on a Vistula river cruise. Options include a cruise accompanied by wine, a basic sightseeing cruise or a cruise on a traditional gondola.

The Mounds of Krakow

Around Krakow, you can find several mounds or tumuli: the Krakus Mound, the Kopiec Wandy, the Kopiec Kosciuszki, the Kopiec Pilsudskiego, and the Kopiec Jana Pawla II.

Kopiec Krakusa, standing at about 52.5 feet tall, is located near the Plaszow camp. According to legend, this is the resting place of Krakow's founder, the same hero who defeated the dragon of Wawel Hill (though archaeological findings haven't confirmed the tale!). From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of Krakow.

The Kopiec Kosciuszki is especially noteworthy. Situated to the west of Krakow, this 115-foot tall mound was erected in honor of the military leader Tadeusz Kosciuszko. Its location near the Salwator Park makes it a splendid spot to unwind and immerse oneself in nature.

The Zwierzyniec district boasts lush wooded areas, and it's also home to the renowned Krakow Zoo. It's a perfect destination for a family day out.

The District of Nowa Huta

Another distinctive district in Krakow is Nowa Huta. Established rapidly in 1949, it became a hub for the thriving metal industry, providing housing for factory workers.

Now a part of Krakow, Nowa Huta is starkly industrial, characterized by its gray, cold ambiance. However, it holds historical significance as a representation of a "quintessential communist city", contrasting starkly with the more affluent Krakow.

The central tourist attraction of Nowa Huta revolves around Ronald Reagan Plaza or Plac Centralny. Symmetry dominates the layout, and there's a renowned museum that showcases this era, the Muzeum Nowej Huty - Osiedle Centrum E 1.

Many visitors prefer to explore Nowa Huta with a guide to fully grasp its historical context.

What to Visit Around Krakow?

This article's length alone suggests there's no shortage of things to do in and around Krakow!

It's worth noting that many monuments offer free entry on Mondays. While this might mean larger crowds, it's handy for those traveling on a budget.

If you're eager to explore the region and southern Poland, I've penned a comprehensive article on excursion ideas around Krakow. Here's a brief overview!

You can explore the Wieliczka Salt Mines, but it's essential to have a guide. To ensure a spot, it's recommended to book in advance! You can check this tour or this one.

Another moving experience awaits at the Auschwitz-Birkenau camp, approximately an hour's drive from Krakow. It's a poignant reminder of history, and it's advised for children under 14 to skip this site due to its intense nature.

Additionally, if you wish to visit with transportation included from Krakow, consider booking this tour.

On a lighter note, the Tatra region beckons. It's a mountainous area on the border with Slovakia. Here, you can visit Zakopane and embark on hikes, such as the scenic Morskie Oko trail. If you're without transportation, guided tours are available such as this one.

In the vicinity, you can explore:

• Zalipie: A quaint village about 1.5 hours away, famed for its wood-decorated homes.
• Sandomierz: Located 2.5 hours away, this ancient town has remained largely unchanged for seven centuries.
• Tarnów: A picturesque town an hour away, renowned for its Polish architecture.
• Katowice: An hour from Krakow, it boasts Poland's largest park.
• The Pienines Nature Park: Popular for rafting down the Dunajec River Gorges.

For those drawn to religious history, the legacy of Pope John Paul II, a cherished figure, offers numerous sites. His hometown, Wadowice, is under an hour away. Moreover, the city of Czestochowa is a significant pilgrimage site, housing the Black Madonna and the Jasna Gora Monastery.

There are plenty of ideas for activities on the GetYourGuide website.

Before your departure, consider a visit to Tyniec Abbey, an 11th-century monastery situated on a cliff overlooking the Vistula River. The best vantage point is from the opposite shore. Situated only about 6.2 miles south of John Paul II International Airport, it's a tranquil spot to conclude your journey.

How Long Should You Stay in Krakow?

Having gone through all this information, an inevitable question arises: how many days should you spend in Krakow?

Your answer will largely depend on two factors:

• Do you want to just explore Krakow or also venture into the surrounding regions?
• Is the World War II period significant to your visit?

For a 3-day weekend, you could:

• Dedicate a day to exploring Stare Miasto and the Wawel Castle, along with its cathedral. You might want to pick and choose the sections that intrigue you the most, given its vastness;
• Allocate half a day for the Wieliczka salt mine, and finish off with a stroll through the old Jewish district of Kazimierz and its neighboring area, Podgorze. Starting with Oskar Schindler's factory is a good idea, followed by a pleasant evening walk around Kazimierz.
• Use the third day for additional attractions that catch your interest: the Rynek Underground, St. Mary's Basilica, the Eagle Pharmacy, and so on.

If you're keen on incorporating the Auschwitz Birkenau camp into your itinerary, it would be wise to reserve 4 days in Krakow (or consider skipping other attractions). The city of Oswieçim, where the concentration camp is situated, is quite a distance from the city center. Given the emotional weight of the visit, many travelers allocate an entire day to it, often feeling too overwhelmed to engage in other activities afterward.

If you're pressed for time but wish to cover as much ground as possible, there are guided tours combining Auschwitz and the Wieliczka mines. This tour from Legendary Krakow agency is highly recommended.

If you're eager to discover the region more deeply or immerse yourself in Krakow beyond the typical tourist spots, don't hesitate to plan a 7-day or even a two-week trip!

This duration will also afford you the chance to take a few excursions in the region, granting you a fuller picture of the country.

How to Get to Krakow?

Get to Krakow By Plane

The most straightforward method is to fly to Krakow. For example, a direct flight from London to Krakow takes less than 2.5 hours. Generally, if you book in advance, flight prices are quite reasonable (around 90€ for a round trip from London, for reference).

Depending on the city you come from, the availability of a direct connection varies. If there isn't a direct flight, you have two options:

• Opt for a flight with a layover, which typically occurs in cities like Paris, London, Brussels or Amsterdam.
• Consider flying to Warsaw first, and then traveling to Krakow on your own. While this option can be time-consuming, it may be a worthwhile choice for those considering a combined visit to both Warsaw and Krakow.

How Do You Get from the Airport to the City Center?

Given the length of this article, I recommend this detailed guide on how to travel from Krakow airport to the city center cost-effectively and without hassle.

In my opinion, the best option is to take the train which conveniently stops at the airport.

How Do You Get from Warsaw to Krakow?

If you arrive in Warsaw, one option is to rent a car and drive to Krakow. The distance between the two cities is roughly 186 miles. The journey on the S7 takes a minimum of 3 hours and 15 minutes.

Alternatively, you can take a train from Warsaw Central Station. There are direct trains connecting the two cities in just under 2.5 hours.

Traveling to Krakow by Bus

Several bus companies, like Flixbus, offer routes from major cities in Europe to Krakow. To view travel options from your city, consider using the Omio comparison tool.

However, I'd suggest not taking this route in one stretch considering how long the journey is! But, for those traveling on a tight budget and exploring Europe, it might be a viable option. Krakow's bus station is conveniently located adjacent to the train station.

Traveling to Krakow by Train

For train enthusiasts, envisioning a scenic train journey across Europe, hopping from one station to the next, is enticing.

The E-Podroznik website provides comprehensive train schedules and travel options.

For instance, you could plan a route that includes stops in Prague (6 hours by train from Krakow) or Vienna (an overnight train requiring 7 hours)... or even pause to appreciate the splendid city of Wroclaw en route to Krakow.

Public Transport in Krakow

Buses and Trams in Krakow

Krakow boasts a robust public transport system. Numerous tram lines intersect, reaching the city's major destinations. For more outlying areas, like the park where the Krakow Zoo resides, buses are available. The Stare Miasto, or Old Town, is compact and thus easily explored on foot.

To bypass the sometimes confusing route maps, I downloaded the public transport app, Jakdojade, on my smartphone. It's a game-changer: its geolocation feature is incredibly accurate, displaying nearby transport departure times, journey duration, walking time, and even a map directing you to the right stop.

Interestingly, trams often halt "in the middle of the road", with a lane of traffic between the pavement and the tram line. It might be unexpected at first, but the tram actually stops directly in front of the station, and passengers cross the road to board, with cars yielding to them.

Transport Tickets

If you're planning a long weekend in Krakow, consider securing the Krakow City Pass in advance. Depending on the option you choose, this card grants 1 to 3 days of public transport access and complimentary entry to roughly 40 museums and attractions.

Not only is this card economical, but it also saves the hassle of ticket purchases. A version of the card excluding transportation is available if you're mainly walking or have rented a car.

For those staying longer or preferring a more à la carte approach, individual tickets like the 7-day pass offer unlimited travel. Vending machines offer both Polish and English instructions. You may need to scroll to find the 7-day option, and current ticket prices can be viewed online.

Long-Distance Buses and Trains

Poland also provides an excellent network of long-distance buses and trains, which are convenient if you're hoping to explore other cities independently. Remember, PKP denotes trains, and PKS refers to buses—these acronyms will be evident at train and bus stations. I've utilized these transport modes multiple times during my visits.

However, sourcing online schedules for buses and trains can be a tad challenging, as many websites lack translations, especially for specific carriers. You might often rely on Google Translate for clarity. The E-Podroznik website is a reliable resource for checking train and bus timetables between cities.

Where to stay in Krakow?

There is no lack of good hotels and as I told you at the beginning of the article, keep in mind that the standard of living in Poland is much lower than in countries such as France or the UK. The minimum wage in Poland is around €610/$659 per month.

This means that you can often bet on well-located hotels and book more upscale establishments than what you usually afford. I advise you to choose an accommodation close to the old town, it allows you to do a lot of things on foot.

Among the good hotels well located, there are notably..

• The Polski Pod Białym Orłem Hotel: this is a 4-star hotel that is very "Polish" in its decoration, with a restaurant that serves Polish specialties. The Polski Pod Białym Orłem is located not far from the Barbican. Count on around 80€/$86 per night.
• The Grand Ascot Hotel, 600 meters from the Rynek Glowny, with sauna, gym, restaurant and very modern decor.
• The Gródek hotel: a 5 star hotel a few minutes walk from the Rynek Glowny, with different rooms... at a price you will never find a 5 star hotel in France :) Indeed, you can find rooms for less than 100€ a night.
• The Unicus hotel: for about 75€ a night, this 4 stars hotel is also very well located. The restaurant is absolutely sublime, in rooms with natural stone walls and vaults. The decoration of the rooms is very modern and functional.
• Hotel Jan: this is a 3 star hotel where you can find rooms between 60 and 70€ a night for an unbeatable quality of service.

There are plenty of other the Eden Hotel, it actually appeared in Spielberg's movie before it was renovated: the hotel is located in the Jewish quarter and was once the residence of the founder of the Isaak Synagogue. There is a salt cave... and it is also the only hotel in Poland to have its own mikveh (note for non-Jews: the mikveh is a ritual bath in which one immerses oneself to purify oneself).

Restaurants and Polish Delicacies to Sample

Put simply: I dined out quite a bit in Krakow! You can find a summary of my favorite restaurants in Krakow in this article.

Traditional Polish cuisine is hearty and comforting, with an abundance of cabbage, soups, and pierogis (akin to stuffed dumplings). Though these dishes might not be my personal favorites, I did find some foods that the Polish excel at preparing: beets are a staple, appearing in smoothies, purees, and soups; their mushrooms are exquisite; the fish dishes are top-notch, and their duck dishes are exceptional. Plus, the prices are significantly lower than what you'd find in my home country France!

Souvenirs to Collect from Krakow

In Krakow, as well as in surrounding cities, you'll unsurprisingly find the typical souvenir offerings like magnets, postcards, and keychains.

However, the region also boasts more unique keepsakes. For instance, you might consider items related to woodcraft, including intricately carved figures, wooden boxes, and chess sets.

Krakow is also renowned for its stained-glass artistry, particularly those masterpieces by Stanislaw Wyspianski. There's a famous stained-glass museum, and around Sukiennice, you'll discover shops selling vibrant glass memorabilia.

Additionally, there's a plethora of fur and leather items, woolen goods such as socks, hats, and plush slippers, and of course, amber necklaces and jewelry.

Given Poland's devout Catholic populace, you'll also find numerous craft shops centered around religious themes. I've often seen locals attending church before heading to work, as the churches remain bustling throughout the day.

Near the Old Synagogue, there's an assortment of affordable and "symbolic" keepsakes: small Jewish amulets or charms. Though they might not be of the highest quality, each is believed to offer protection or bestow blessings.

Memorabilia from the Wieliczka salt mines are also abundant. These can be procured directly from the mine or from various shops in Krakow and airport stores. I personally cherish a salt and rose petal scrub I brought back. Its aroma is captivating, and it feels delightful on the skin.

For younger visitors, dragon plush toys are a popular choice. The dragon is an emblem of Krakow, so its likeness can be spotted everywhere, from pens and clothing to stuffed toys.

Other souvenirs include dried flower crowns and carved wooden flowers. Don't forget to pick up some E. Wedel chocolates, renowned as the finest local chocolate treats.

Lastly, while on your travels, you'll stumble upon a myriad of books. In most tourist destinations, you'll find comprehensive reads that offer deeper insights than the complimentary guidebooks provided during tours.

Extra Tips for Visiting Krakow

Electrical Outlets

Be informed that the electrical outlets in Krakow use the same plugs and voltage as in most European countries (230 V, 50 Hz),.

Currency in Poland

The local currency is the zloty, which is roughly equivalent to a quarter of the euro/dollar and a fifth of the pound (divide Polish prices by 4 to estimate the amount in euros/dollars and by 5 for a quick conversion to British pounds).

Exchange rates are fairly consistent throughout the city, but you can verify the rates by specific exchange offices on this site.

A note about attractions: photographing/video recording often comes at an additional cost to your admission ticket. It's typically not pricey (often around 5 zlotys), but in return, you get a fluorescent sticker that allows you to capture moments.

Always have some zlotys handy!

Interacting with the Locals

It's worth noting that many locals don't speak fluent English, even at tourist-heavy locations where you might expect English speakers. For instance, the ticket counter staff at the Eagle Pharmacy didn't speak any English during my visit, nor did the shopkeeper at the Old Synagogue.

However, people are generally eager to assist you, using gestures, smiles, and even technology. I recall sharing a laugh with the staff at the Eagle Pharmacy as we utilized Google Translate in real-time to inquire about a specific book.

Most tourist sites provide materials in both English and Polish.

And with that, we've reached the conclusion of this piece! I genuinely hope this information ensures you have a memorable experience and helps you plan your trip to a country that boasts numerous treasures!