Explore Enchanting Krakow, Poland: A 2-Day Itinerary
Krakow, Poland
2 days
About Krakow, Poland
Discover the enchanting city of Krakow, Poland, a place where history and culture intertwine. As the former royal capital, Krakow is a treasure trove of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, with the majestic Wawel Castle dominating the skyline. Wander through the atmospheric Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at the grandeur of the Main Market Square and St. Mary's Basilica. Experience poignant history at the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp and Schindler's Factory. Enjoy a leisurely stroll in the Planty Park, or explore the vibrant Jewish district, Kazimierz. Don't miss the Wieliczka Salt Mine, another UNESCO site, with its stunning underground chapels. Krakow is also a gateway to the Tatra Mountains, perfect for hiking and skiing. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant nightlife, Krakow offers a unique blend of the past and the present.
2-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Immersing in Krakow's History and Nature
Morning
Start your second day with a visit to the Schindler's Factory Museum. Learn about the city's history during World War II and the life of Oskar Schindler.
Lunch
Have lunch in a local restaurant in the Podgórze district, where the museum is located. Try some local dishes like golonka (pork knuckles) or żurek (sour rye soup).
Afternoon
After lunch, take a stroll in the Planty Park, a beautiful green belt surrounding the Old Town. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the beautiful views of the city's landmarks.
Dinner
For your last dinner in Krakow, head back to the Main Market Square. Choose a restaurant offering traditional Polish cuisine and enjoy the lively evening atmosphere.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to the St. Mary's Basilica. Attend an evening mass or simply admire the stunning interior of this Gothic church.
Attractions in Itinerary (9)
1Main Market Square
One of the largest medieval town squares in Europe, featuring Cloth Hall, St. Mary's Basilica, and the Town Hall Tower.
2Cloth Hall
A historic trading center that now houses a market with stalls selling traditional Polish goods and souvenirs.
3Wawel Castle
A historic castle that was the residence of Polish kings and queens, now a museum with art, antiques, and an armory.
4Dragon's Den
Dragon's Den is a natural limestone cave located in the Wawel Hill in Kraków, Poland. According to the legends, it was once inhabited by a dragon, known as the Wawel Dragon. Today, it's a popular tourist attraction with a metal sculpture of the Wawel Dragon at the entrance, which breathes fire every few minutes.
5Kazimierz
A historic Jewish district with synagogues, cemeteries, and cultural centers, also known for its vibrant nightlife and dining scene.
6Vistula River
The Vistula River, the longest river in Poland, offers stunning views of Krakow's landmarks. Boat tours are available for a unique sightseeing experience.
7Schindler's Factory Museum
Schindler's Factory Museum is located in the former administrative building of Oskar Schindler's enamel factory. The museum tells the story of Krakow and its inhabitants, both Polish and Jewish, during World War II. It's also a tribute to Oskar Schindler, who saved over 1,000 Jews from the Holocaust.
8Planty Park
A beautiful city park that surrounds the Old Town area, offering a green oasis with monuments and fountains.
9St. Mary's Basilica
St. Mary's Basilica is a Brick Gothic church adjacent to the Main Market Square in Kraków, Poland. Built in the 14th century, its foundations date back to the early 13th century and serve as one of the best examples of Polish Gothic architecture. Inside, you can admire the wooden altarpiece carved by Veit Stoss and listen to the trumpet signal, called Hejnał mariacki, played from the top of the taller of its two towers every hour.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Pierogi
These are traditional Polish dumplings, often filled with a variety of ingredients such as cheese, meat, or fruit. They are a must-try when visiting Krakow.
Kielbasa
Kielbasa is a traditional Polish sausage, typically made from pork. It's a staple in Polish cuisine and a popular street food in Krakow.
Zapiekanka
This is a popular Polish street food, essentially an open-faced sandwich made with half a baguette, topped with sautéed mushrooms, cheese, and often other ingredients, then toasted.
Bigos
Known as 'Hunter's Stew', Bigos is a traditional Polish dish made from a variety of meats, sauerkraut, fresh cabbage, and mushrooms. It's a hearty dish perfect for the colder months in Krakow.
Golabki
Golabki are cabbage rolls stuffed with a filling of minced meat and rice or barley. They are a traditional Polish dish, often served with a tomato or mushroom sauce.
Zurek
Zurek is a sour rye soup, often served in a bread bowl. It's a traditional Polish dish, typically eaten during Easter but available year-round in Krakow.
Paczki
Paczki are Polish doughnuts, typically filled with rosehip jam and covered with powdered sugar, icing, or glaze. They are particularly popular on Fat Thursday, but can be found in bakeries throughout Krakow all year round.
Sernik
Sernik is a traditional Polish cheesecake, typically made with a type of curd cheese called twaróg. It's a popular dessert in Krakow, often flavored with vanilla or lemon.
Kasza Gryczana
This is buckwheat groats, a staple in Polish cuisine. It's often served as a side dish, similar to rice or potatoes.
Kompot
Kompot is a traditional Polish drink made by boiling fruit in water with sugar. It's a popular non-alcoholic beverage in Krakow, often made with apples, cherries, or other seasonal fruit.
Piwo
Piwo is the Polish word for beer. Poland has a rich beer culture, and Krakow is home to many breweries and pubs where you can sample local brews.
Wodka
Wodka, or vodka, is a traditional Polish spirit. Poland is known for its high-quality vodka, and sampling some in Krakow is a must for spirit enthusiasts.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Krakow, Poland is during the spring (April to June) and the fall (September and October). During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant and the city is less crowded than in the peak summer months. The springtime is particularly beautiful as the city's many parks and gardens are in full bloom. The fall, on the other hand, offers a stunning display of autumn colors. Both seasons provide excellent conditions for sightseeing and exploring the city's rich history and culture.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 6 | Sat | Epiphany |
March 31 | Sun | Easter Sunday |
April 1 | Mon | Easter Monday |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day / May Day |
May 3 | Fri | Constitution Day |
May 19 | Sun | Whit Sunday |
May 30 | Thu | Corpus Christi |
August 15 | Thu | Assumption of Mary |
November 1 | Fri | All Saints' Day |
November 11 | Mon | Independence Day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
December 26 | Thu | Second Day of Christmas |
How to get around
Walk
Krakow is a compact city with many of its main attractions located close to each other, making it easy to explore on foot. The city center is pedestrian-friendly with plenty of signposts and maps.
Bicycle
Krakow is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and bike rental services available. You can use the city's bike-sharing system, Wavelo, which has stations all over the city.
Tram
Krakow has an extensive tram network that covers most of the city. Trams are a reliable and efficient way to get around, especially for longer distances. Tickets can be purchased from machines at tram stops or on board.
Bus
Buses are another public transportation option in Krakow. They are particularly useful for reaching destinations outside the city center or for traveling to and from the airport.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Krakow and can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or through a mobile app. Always ensure the taxi is licensed and metered.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services such as Uber and Bolt are available in Krakow. These can be a convenient and cost-effective way to get around the city, especially if you're traveling in a group.
Car Rental
Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to explore outside of Krakow. However, parking in the city center can be challenging and expensive. It's also worth noting that Krakow has many pedestrian zones where cars are not allowed.
Train
Krakow has two train stations - Krakow Glowny and Krakow Plaszow. Trains are a good option for day trips to nearby cities or for traveling to and from other parts of Poland.
Tourist Mini-Buses
For visiting popular tourist destinations outside of the city, like the Wieliczka Salt Mine or Auschwitz, there are tourist mini-buses that depart from the main bus station.
River Cruise
For a different perspective of Krakow, consider taking a river cruise on the Vistula River. This can be a relaxing way to see the city and its landmarks.
Important information
Currencyzł PLN
Time zoneUTC+1
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone112, 999
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Krakow, Poland as a first time visitor
1
The official currency in Poland is the Polish Zloty (PLN), not the Euro. It's best to have some local currency on hand for small purchases.
2
Credit cards are widely accepted in Krakow, but it's always good to carry some cash for smaller establishments or street vendors.
3
The official language is Polish, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.
4
Poland is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Agreement, so check visa requirements before you travel.
5
Tipping is customary in Poland. It's typical to leave a 10-15% tip in restaurants and cafes.
6
Public transportation in Krakow is efficient and reliable. It includes trams, buses, and a fast train to the airport.
7
Taxis are relatively inexpensive in Krakow, but make sure to use a reputable company to avoid being overcharged.
8
Krakow is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
9
The weather in Krakow can be quite variable. Summers (June to August) can be hot, with temperatures ranging from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C), while winters (December to February) can be very cold, with temperatures often below freezing.
10
Polish cuisine is hearty and delicious. Don't miss trying pierogi (dumplings), kielbasa (sausage), and bigos (hunter's stew).
11
Poland is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+1).
12
Poland has a universal healthcare system, but it's recommended for tourists to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.
13
The drinking age in Poland is 18. Vodka and beer are popular local drinks.
14
Smoking is banned in public places in Poland, including bars and restaurants.
15
Poland has strict laws against drug use. Possession of even small amounts can lead to heavy fines or imprisonment.
16
Most shops in Krakow are open from 10 am to 8 pm, and many are also open on Sundays.
17
Poland uses the Type E power socket, and the standard voltage is 230 V. You may need a power plug adapter or voltage converter.
18
Krakow is a city with a rich history and culture. It's worth learning a bit about Poland's history before your visit.
19
Polish people are generally friendly and hospitable. Don't hesitate to ask for help or directions.
20
Remember to respect local customs and traditions. For example, it's customary to greet people with a handshake, and when visiting churches, women are expected to cover their heads and men to remove their hats.
Basic Polish to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Cześć | Cheh-sh-ch | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Do widzenia | Doh vee-dzen-ya | Saying goodbye |
Please | Proszę | Proh-sheh | Making a request |
Thank you | Dziękuję | Jenkoo-yeh | Expressing gratitude |
Yes | Tak | Tahk | Agreeing or confirming |
No | Nie | Nee-eh | Disagreeing or denying |
Excuse me | Przepraszam | Pshe-pra-sham | Getting attention or apologizing |
I don't understand | Nie rozumiem | Nee-eh roh-zoo-myem | When you don't understand something |
Do you speak English? | Czy mówisz po angielsku? | Chih mooveesh po ahn-gyel-skoo | Asking if someone speaks English |
Where is...? | Gdzie jest...? | Gdzie yest | Asking for directions |
Bathroom | Łazienka | Wah-zhyen-kah | Looking for a bathroom |
Help | Pomoc | Poh-mots | In case of emergency |
I'm sorry | Przykro mi | Pshih-kroh mee | Apologizing |
Good morning | Dzień dobry | Jen doh-bri | Morning greeting |
Good night | Dobranoc | Doh-brah-nots | Nighttime farewell |
How much does it cost? | Ile to kosztuje? | Ee-leh toh kosh-too-yeh | Asking for the price |
I would like... | Chciałbym... | Hchyauh-bim | Making a request |
Water | Woda | Voh-dah | Ordering water |
Food | Jedzenie | Yed-zhen-ee-eh | Talking about food |
Cheers | Na zdrowie | Nah zdroh-vee-eh | Making a toast |
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear
Socks
T-shirts
Pants/Jeans
Comfortable walking shoes
Sweater or Jacket (depending on the season)
Sleepwear
Raincoat or Umbrella (if rain is forecasted)
Toiletries
Toothbrush and Toothpaste
Shampoo and Conditioner
Body Wash or Soap
Deodorant
Razor and Shaving Cream
Makeup and Makeup Remover (if applicable)
Travel-sized First Aid Kit
Prescription Medications (if any)
Sunscreen and Lip Balm
Travel documents and essentials
Passport/ID
Flight Tickets
Hotel Booking Confirmation
Travel Insurance Documents
Credit/Debit Cards
Cash in local currency (Polish Złoty)
Emergency Contact Information
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for Smartphone
Power Bank
Headphones/Earbuds
Camera (if not using phone camera)
Charger for Camera
Travel Adapter (Poland uses type E plug)
Miscellaneous items
Snacks for the journey
Travel Pillow and Eye Mask
Reusable Water Bottle
Guidebook or Map of Krakow
Phrasebook or Translation App (if you don't speak Polish)
Notepad and Pen
Hand Sanitizer
Tissues or Wet Wipes
Weather Conditions
Krakow, Poland experiences a temperate climate with a mix of both maritime and continental elements. This means that weather can be quite variable, so it's essential to be prepared for a range of conditions. The warmest months are typically July and August, with average high temperatures around 75°F (24°C). These months are perfect for outdoor activities like visiting the Wawel Castle or strolling around the Main Market Square. However, it's advisable to carry a light jacket or sweater for the evenings as temperatures can drop. The coldest months are January and February, with average low temperatures around 23°F (-5°C). If you're visiting during this time, be sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Despite the cold, winter can be a beautiful time to visit, especially if you enjoy winter sports or want to experience the Christmas markets. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are transitional seasons with moderate temperatures. The average highs range from 50°F (10°C) in the cooler months to 70°F (21°C) in the warmer months. These seasons are often less crowded with tourists and can be a great time to visit. Rainfall is relatively evenly distributed throughout the year, but the wettest month is usually July. Therefore, it's a good idea to carry an umbrella or raincoat if you're visiting during the summer. Lastly, keep in mind that weather can change quickly in Krakow, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast regularly during your visit. Enjoy your trip!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 1° / -6° | January is the coldest month in Krakow, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy winter sports or want to experience a true Polish winter. |
February | 3° / -4° | February is still quite cold in Krakow, but you'll start to see a slight increase in temperature. Snow is common, making the city look like a winter wonderland. |
March | 7° / -1° | March sees the start of spring in Krakow, with temperatures slowly rising. However, it can still be quite chilly, especially in the evenings. |
April | 13° / 3° | April is when spring truly arrives in Krakow, with temperatures becoming more comfortable. It's a great time to visit if you want to avoid the summer crowds. |
May | 18° / 8° | May is a beautiful month to visit Krakow, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. The city's parks and gardens are in full bloom. |
June | 21° / 11° | June is the start of summer in Krakow, with long, sunny days. It's a great time to explore the city's outdoor attractions. |
July | 23° / 13° | July is the hottest month in Krakow, perfect for enjoying the city's many outdoor cafes and beer gardens. However, it can also be quite crowded with tourists. |
August | 23° / 13° | August is another hot month in Krakow, with similar temperatures to July. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy warm weather and don't mind the crowds. |
September | 19° / 9° | September sees the start of autumn in Krakow, with temperatures starting to drop. The city is less crowded, making it a great time to visit. |
October | 14° / 4° | October is a beautiful month in Krakow, with autumn colors in full display. However, temperatures can be quite chilly, especially in the evenings. |
November | 8° / 0° | November is a cold month in Krakow, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy the quiet and calm of the off-season. |
December | 3° / -4° | December is a magical time to visit Krakow, with Christmas markets and festive decorations. However, it can be quite cold, so make sure to pack warm clothes. |
Did you know?
Places near by Krakow, Poland
Wieliczka Salt Mine
One of the world's oldest salt mines, which has been in operation for over 700 years. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Auschwitz-Birkenau
A former Nazi concentration camp, now a museum and memorial to the victims of the Holocaust.
Zakopane
A popular resort town in the Tatra Mountains, known for its unique wooden architecture and beautiful hiking trails.
Częstochowa
Home to the Jasna Góra Monastery, which houses the Black Madonna, a revered icon of the Virgin Mary.
Wrocław
A beautiful city with a picturesque Old Town and a unique collection of dwarf statues scattered throughout the city.
Katowice
An industrial city with a rich history and a vibrant arts scene. Home to the Silesian Museum and Spodek concert hall.
Kielce
A city surrounded by nature, featuring Kadzielnia Nature Reserve and the Geopark Kielce-Centre of Geoeducation.
Tarnów
A city with a rich history, known for its beautiful Renaissance buildings and the Ethnographic Museum.
Sandomierz
One of the oldest and historically most significant cities in Poland, with a beautiful Old Town and a stunning view of the Vistula River.
Rzeszów
A city with a mix of modern and traditional Polish culture, featuring the Underground Tourist Route and the Rzeszów Castle.
