Krakow is a stunning city in Poland that offers a unique combination of history, culture and gastronomy. Its well-preserved historic center, picturesque neighborhoods, interesting excursions and good prices, both in accommodation and food, make Krakow an ideal budget European destination for travelers.
The city is easily accessible by Krakow International Airport (KRK) and by train from many European cities. The city’s central railway station is also well connected to various regions of Poland. We arrived in Krakow by train via Warsaw after spending one night in the Polish capital.
The city provides easy access to all attractions. You can choose to explore, either on foot or by bike to discover Krakow’s secret paths. Below, read carefully the 5 + 1 reasons that will make you fall in love with the medieval Polish city of Krakow.
#1 Krakow sightseeing
In Krakow, there are many attractions worth visiting. Starting with the basics:
- The Market Square (Rynek Główny w Krakowie) is one of the largest medieval squares in Europe, surrounded by impressive buildings and the Church of the Virgin Mary. The square is the heart of the city’s cultural life, with many popular festivals taking place there.
- The Basilica of Saint Mary (Kosciot Mariacki) is a Gothic church of the 13th century which you will find on the central market square. It is worth visiting to see its impressive wooden interior. Equally impressive, that you should not miss, is the sound of the trumpet that is heard every hour from the highest Tower of the church. The sound of the trumpet is played to commemorate the duduquier who was shot in the neck while calling the city’s alarm for the Mongol invasion in the 13th century.
- The Royal Road starts at the northernmost side of the medieval old town, runs vertically through the center, ending at the southernmost point on Babel Hill, where the famous Babel Castle stands. Walking along the Royal Road you will come across some of the most important historical monuments of the city.
- Wawel Castle is located at the footh of Babel Hill and offers amazing view of the city. A Gothic castle is also worth visiting, since it was the official residence of the royal family.
- The church of Saints Peter and Paul is another religious treasure with a beautiful exterior facade and impressive interiors.
- The neighborhood of Kazimierz offers a distinct cultural character, with Jewish monuments and the Galicia Jewish Museum.
#2 The Kazimierz district of Krakow
It is impossible to be in Krakow and not walk through the most lively district of the city, the Jewish neighborhood “Kazimierz”. Kazimierz, old Jewish quarter, which until 1800 was an independent city, provides a unique character and multicultural atmosphere. Start your tour from Plac Nowy, enjoying traditional Krakow dishes, or indulge in the ceramic and jewelry markets that surround the square. Afterwards, explore the surrounding narrow streets, admiring the heritage architecture that comes from another era. You will soon find that the Kazimierz district has rightly been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A museum worth visiting here is the Galicia Jewish museum, which highlights Jewish culture.
#3 Krakow local cuizine
Polish cuisine is rich in flavors and traditional dishes. Krakow has many great options to try local food and drink. One of the traditional dishes we tried and really liked is the “pierogi”, fried pasta stuffed with cheese, potato, mushroom, cabbage, onion, etc. Also, don’t miss to try the Polish “Zurek” soup, a traditional soup dish with white meat, egg and white sauce.
In the Old Town of Krakow and in the Jewish neighborhood Kazimierz you will find the most shops for food and drink. Three recommendations we have for you in the Old Town are “Lastirko bistro”, “Charlotte” restaurant and “The Artist Cocktail Bar”. Similarly, in the Kazimierz neighborhood you should taste traditional dishes at “Szynk”, “Restauracja Baster” and “Bazaar Bistro”.
#4 Guided tour of Auschwitz
For a shocking experience, you must visit the Auschwitz concentration camp, where you will discover the harsh reality of the Holocaust. Visiting the Auschwitz concentration camp is an emotionally charged and important experience. As a visitor you have the opportunity to understand the strategic importance of the place and to honor the memory of the victims of the Holocaust.
During the tour, the experienced guide will provide you with detailed information about the history of the camp, the living conditions of the prisoners and the shocking stories of people who passed through it. Visiting Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II (Birkenau) provides a complete picture of the tragedy. It is good to prepare yourself psychologically for the seriousness of the matter and to respect the places where the events unfolded. The experience leaves deep impressions and reinforces the importance of preserving historical memory.
#5 Guided tour of the Salt Mines Wieliczka (Wieliczka salt mine kinga)
Then continue on a different tour to the Wieliczka Salt Mines, an impressive underground system of salt caves. Wieliczka Salt Mines is a unique experience that combines history, art and tradition of salt mining in the region. The cave system stretches for hundreds of meters and impresses with its impressive salt-formed stalactites and stalagmites.
During the tour, you will have the opportunity to explore the underground workshops, event rooms and attractions, with informative instructions on the salt mining process. The tour also allows one to understand the history of the area and the crucial role that salt played in the development of Wieliczka.
It is important to prepare for the cold conditions, as the temperature in the caves remains constant throughout the year.
If you don’t have many days at your disposal, you can combine both tours on the same day, knowing that you will return to your hotel very late in the afternoon. You will earn most of your time for city walks on the remaining days. Of course, it is good to know that these are 2 long tours, which means that if the days allow it, it is good to divide them into 2 days to enjoy them. To schedule your tour of Auschwitz and the Salt Mines, click here here, to book with the company we chose and were completely satisfied.
#6 Zakopane Winter resort
To the south of Krakow one encounters the Tatra Mountains, which form a natural border between Poland and Slovakia. At the base of the mountains is the city of Zakopane, which is famous as a destination for its winter sports, climbing, hiking trails and cave tours in the area. To get to the winter capital of Poland, you can either take a train or a bus from Krakow with a duration of about 2.30 hours. You also have the option to book one day trip with a transfer from your hotel in Krakow.
Krakow is a city that stands out for its diversity and intense spirituality, combining the past with the present, welcoming every visitor on a journey that transcends the boundaries of time. From the ancient Old Town with its impressive Cathedral, to the charming Kazimierz district and from Auschwitz to the Salt Mines, Krakow offers a unique overall experience. With its rich cultural heritage, culinary delights and lively atmosphere, the city leaves an unforgettable impression on every visitor.
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