Kraków, located in the southern part of Poland, is a city that embodies the country’s rich history and vibrant culture. From its stunning architecture to its delicious cuisine and friendly people, there is so much to explore and experience in this charming destination.
Kraków’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its well-preserved medieval buildings, narrow streets, and cozy cafes. Here, you can wander through the stunning Rynek Główny (Main Market Square), one of the largest medieval squares in Europe, and admire the stunning St. Mary’s Basilica, which dates back to the 14th century. Don’t forget to take a stroll down Grodzka Street, which is lined with beautiful townhouses and historic churches.
If you’re interested in history, you’ll definitely want to visit Wawel Castle, which sits atop a hill overlooking the Vistula River. The castle, which dates back to the 14th century, was the residence of Polish kings for centuries and is now a museum that showcases Poland’s rich cultural heritage.
Another must-see attraction in Kraków is the Wieliczka Salt Mine, which has been in operation for over 700 years. The mine, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, features a labyrinth of tunnels and chambers filled with stunning salt sculptures and underground lakes.
When it comes to food, Kraków is known for its hearty, traditional cuisine, which includes dishes like pierogi (dumplings), kielbasa (sausage), and bigos (stewed cabbage and meat). There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants in the city where you can try modern Polish cuisine, as well as international dishes.
Finally, Kraków is a city that loves to celebrate, with festivals and events happening throughout the year. Some of the most popular events include the Kraków Christmas Market, the Pierogi Festival, and the Jewish Culture Festival.
In conclusion, Kraków is a city that truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, food, or culture, you’ll find it all here in this charming Polish destination. So why not book your trip today and discover the magic of Kraków for yourself?
3 Days in Kraków
Kraków is a beautiful city that is rich in history and culture. With so much to see and do, it can be challenging to plan a trip that allows you to experience everything the city has to offer. In this itinerary, we’ve put together a three-day plan that covers some of Kraków’s most iconic attractions.
Day 1
Start your day by exploring the Old Town, the heart of Kraków. Take a walk around the Rynek Główny, one of the largest medieval squares in Europe, and admire the stunning St. Mary’s Basilica. Take a stroll down Grodzka Street, which is lined with beautiful townhouses and historic churches. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Wawel Castle, a former residence of Polish kings, and explore its grounds.
In the evening, head to Kazimierz, Kraków’s Jewish Quarter, for a taste of its vibrant nightlife. The district has an abundance of restaurants and bars, so you’re sure to find something to your liking.
Day 2
Start your second day by visiting the Wieliczka Salt Mine, one of the oldest and most famous salt mines in the world. The mine is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, and you can take a guided tour of the underground tunnels and chambers filled with stunning salt sculptures and underground lakes.
In the afternoon, head back to the Old Town to visit the Cloth Hall, a historic marketplace that has been in operation since the 14th century. You can browse the stalls selling souvenirs and local crafts, or head up to the second floor to visit the National Museum’s Gallery of 19th-Century Polish Art.
In the evening, catch a performance at the Juliusz Słowacki Theatre or the Kraków Philharmonic Orchestra.
Day 3
On your final day, take a trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi concentration and extermination camp during World War II. This site is a sobering reminder of the atrocities that occurred during the war, and it’s essential to pay your respects to the victims.
In the evening, relax and unwind at one of Kraków’s famous thermal baths, such as the Széchenyi Baths or the Gellért Baths. You can soak in the mineral-rich water and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere before heading back home.
This three-day itinerary is just a starting point for exploring Kraków’s rich history and culture. There are so many attractions and activities in the city that you could easily spend a week or more here. But by following this itinerary, you’ll be able to experience some of Kraków’s most iconic sites and create unforgettable memories.
How to get to and around Kraków
Kraków is a popular tourist destination that is easily accessible by air, train, or bus. Once you arrive in the city, there are several ways to get around and explore all the attractions it has to offer.
Getting to Kraków
By air: Kraków has its international airport, John Paul II International Airport Kraków–Balice, located about 11 km (7 miles) from the city center. Many airlines operate direct flights to Kraków from major European cities. From the airport, you can take a taxi or use public transportation to get to the city center.
By train: Kraków is well-connected by rail to other major cities in Poland and Europe. The main railway station, Kraków Główny, is located in the city center, and you can take a taxi, tram or bus from there to get to your destination.
By bus: Kraków has several bus stations, and many bus companies operate services to and from the city. FlixBus, PolskiBus, and Eurolines are some of the popular bus companies that operate in Kraków.
Getting around Kraków
Public transportation: Kraków has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses and trams. You can purchase tickets at kiosks or vending machines located at the bus/tram stops. You can also use the mobile app to buy tickets and plan your journey.
Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Kraków, and you can hail one on the street or use an app like Uber or Bolt to book a ride.
Bicycle: Kraków has an extensive bike-sharing system, and there are several bike rental companies in the city. Cycling is a great way to explore the city, and there are many dedicated bike lanes.
Walking: Many of Kraków’s attractions are located in the Old Town, which is easily walkable. Walking is also an excellent way to explore the city’s charming streets and alleys.
Kraków is a well-connected city that is easy to get to and get around. Whether you prefer public transportation, taxis, bikes, or walking, there are many ways to explore all the attractions and enjoy the unique charm of this Polish city.
Places to stay in Kraków
Kraków is a popular tourist destination that offers a wide variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels and apartments, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to stay in Kraków:
- Hotel Copernicus: This five-star hotel is located in a historic building in the heart of Kraków’s Old Town. It offers luxurious rooms, a restaurant serving Polish cuisine, and a spa.
- Hotel Stary: This five-star hotel is located in a renovated 14th-century building in the Old Town. It features stylish rooms, a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city, and a wellness center.
- Sheraton Grand Krakow: This four-star hotel is located on the banks of the Vistula River, just a short walk from the Old Town. It offers spacious rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving Polish and international cuisine.
- Radisson Blu Hotel Krakow: This four-star hotel is located in the city center, just a few minutes’ walk from the Old Town. It features modern rooms, a restaurant, a fitness center, and a sauna.
- Mosquito Hostel: This budget-friendly hostel is located in the heart of Kraków’s Old Town. It offers dormitory and private rooms, a common area, and a fully equipped kitchen.
- Mama Shelter Krakow: This stylish and affordable hotel is located in the trendy Kazimierz district. It offers colorful rooms, a restaurant serving Polish cuisine, and a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city.
- Apartamenty Stradomska: These apartments are located in a historic building in the Old Town. They offer comfortable rooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and easy access to all the major attractions.
In conclusion, Kraków offers a wide range of accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel or a budget-friendly hostel, you’re sure to find something that suits your needs and makes your stay in Kraków comfortable and enjoyable.
What and where to eat in Kraków
Kraków is known for its traditional and delicious Polish cuisine. The city has a wide range of restaurants and cafes that offer everything from traditional pierogi and kielbasa to modern fusion dishes. Here are some of the best foods to try and where to eat them in Kraków:
- Pierogi: Pierogi are a traditional Polish dumpling filled with various savory or sweet fillings. You can find them in almost every restaurant and cafe in Kraków, but some of the best places to try them include Pierogarnia Krakowiacy, ZapieKanka, and Przystanek Pierogarnia.
- Kielbasa: Kielbasa is a type of sausage that is a staple in Polish cuisine. You can find kielbasa in many restaurants and cafes, but some of the best places to try it include Pod Nosem, Morskie Oko, and Kiełbaski pod hala targowa.
- Bigos: Bigos is a traditional Polish stew made with sauerkraut, various meats, and spices. You can find it in many restaurants and cafes, but some of the best places to try it include Polskie Smaki, Chimera, and U Babci Maliny.
- Zapiekanka: Zapiekanka is a popular street food in Kraków. It’s a baguette topped with mushrooms, cheese, and other toppings, then baked in the oven. You can find it in many street vendors in the Kazimierz district.
- Obwarzanek: Obwarzanek is a type of bread that is a popular snack in Kraków. You can find it in many street vendors around the city, but some of the best places to try it include Stara Zajezdnia, Biedronka, and Krakowska Manufaktura Bagietek.
- Sernik: Sernik is a Polish cheesecake that is a popular dessert in Kraków. You can find it in many cafes and restaurants around the city, but some of the best places to try it include Cafe Camelot, Wawel Royal Castle, and Bunkier Cafe.
Kraków is a food lover’s paradise, with a wide range of traditional and modern dishes to try. Whether you’re looking for traditional pierogi and kielbasa or modern fusion dishes, you’re sure to find something that satisfies your taste buds. So don’t hesitate to explore the city’s vibrant food scene and indulge in some delicious Polish cuisine.
Coworking in Kraków
Kraków is a city that is quickly becoming a hub for startups and freelancers, with a growing number of coworking spaces that cater to their needs. Whether you’re a digital nomad, a freelancer, or a startup, here are some of the best coworking spaces in Kraków:
- HubHub: Located in the city center, HubHub offers a vibrant coworking space with a focus on community and collaboration. It features modern workspaces, meeting rooms, and events that connect like-minded professionals.
- Krakow Coworking: This coworking space is located in the trendy Kazimierz district and offers a range of workspaces, including private offices, shared desks, and meeting rooms. It also has a cafe, a lounge area, and a terrace with stunning views of the city.
- Creative Coworking: This coworking space is located in the heart of Kraków’s Old Town and offers a cozy and inspiring environment for freelancers and startups. It features comfortable workspaces, meeting rooms, and events that foster creativity and innovation.
- Regus Krakow: Regus is a well-known coworking space provider that offers flexible workspace solutions for businesses of all sizes. It has several locations in Kraków, including the city center and the airport.
- Off Office: This coworking space is located in the heart of Kraków’s business district and offers a professional and modern workspace with all the amenities you need. It features private offices, shared desks, meeting rooms, and a lounge area.
Kraków has a vibrant coworking scene that caters to the needs of startups, freelancers, and digital nomads. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant community, a professional workspace, or a cozy and inspiring environment, you’re sure to find a coworking space that suits your needs in Kraków.