A beautiful city park that surrounds the Old Town area, offering a green oasis with monuments and fountains.

Planty Park is a beautiful city park that surrounds the Old Town of Krakow. It was established in the 19th century and has since become a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The park is a green belt of tranquility and beauty, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city. /n The park is home to a variety of plant species, as well as numerous monuments and landmarks. It is a perfect place for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or even a jog. The park also hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals.

A beautiful city park surrounding the Old Town of Krakow.

A historic castle that was the residence of Polish kings and queens, now a museum with art, antiques, and an armory.

Wawel Castle is a historic castle complex located on Wawel Hill in Krakow. The castle was the residence of the kings of Poland for centuries and is now a museum. /n The castle complex includes a number of different structures, including the castle itself, the Wawel Cathedral, and the Dragon's Den. The castle is one of the most important sites in Poland, both historically and culturally, and is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Krakow.

Wawel Castle is a historic castle complex located on Wawel Hill in Krakow.

A historic Jewish district with synagogues, cemeteries, and cultural centers, also known for its vibrant nightlife and dining scene.

Kazimierz is a historic neighborhood in Krakow known for its Jewish heritage. The neighborhood was the center of Jewish life in Krakow for over 500 years, and it's home to a number of historic synagogues. /n Today, Kazimierz is a vibrant neighborhood with a unique blend of Jewish and Christian cultures. The neighborhood is also home to a number of Jewish restaurants, where you can try traditional Jewish dishes. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or food, Kazimierz is a must-visit.

Kazimierz is a historic neighborhood in Krakow known for its Jewish heritage.

One of the largest medieval town squares in Europe, featuring Cloth Hall, St. Mary's Basilica, and the Town Hall Tower.

The Main Market Square in Krakow is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Poland. It's one of the largest medieval town squares in Europe, and it's filled with a variety of attractions. From the beautiful Cloth Hall to the stunning St. Mary's Basilica, there's something for everyone. /n The square is also home to a variety of restaurants and shops, making it a great place to grab a bite to eat or pick up a souvenir. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or just want to soak up the atmosphere, the Main Market Square is a must-see.

The Main Market Square in Krakow is one of the largest medieval town squares in Europe.

A historic trading center that now houses a market with stalls selling traditional Polish goods and souvenirs.

The Cloth Hall is a historic building located in the Main Market Square in Krakow. Originally a center of international trade during the Renaissance, the Cloth Hall now houses the Gallery of the National Museum on its upper floor, which features 19th-century Polish art. /n On the ground floor, you'll find a variety of shops selling souvenirs, handicrafts, and jewelry. The Cloth Hall is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, art, or shopping.

The Cloth Hall is a historic building in the Main Market Square in Krakow.

A historic route that leads from the Main Market Square to Wawel Castle, passing by numerous historic buildings and monuments.

The Royal Route in Krakow, Poland, is a historic path that takes you through the city's most important landmarks. Starting from the medieval St. Florian's Church, the route leads you through the Old Town, past the stunning Main Market Square, and ends at the majestic Wawel Castle. /n Along the way, you'll see a mix of architectural styles, from Gothic to Renaissance, and you'll get a sense of the city's rich history and cultural heritage. The route is a must-visit for any tourist, offering a unique way to explore the city and learn about its past. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or just a curious traveler, the Royal Route is sure to impress.

The Royal Route is a historic path in Krakow that leads to the city's most important landmarks.

A district known for its history during World War II, home to Oskar Schindler's Factory and the Ghetto Heroes Square.

Podgórze is a district in Krakow that has a rich and complex history. Once a separate town, it was incorporated into Krakow in the late 19th century. During World War II, Podgórze was the location of the Krakow Ghetto. /n Today, Podgórze is a vibrant district, filled with charming streets, beautiful architecture, and significant historical sites. One of the district's most notable sites is the Ghetto Heroes Square, where a memorial commemorates the Jews who were killed during the Holocaust. Another must-visit is the Oskar Schindler's Factory Museum, located in the actual factory where Schindler saved over a thousand Jews. Despite its tragic past, Podgórze is a district that has managed to transform itself into a lively and attractive part of Krakow.

Podgórze is a historic district in Krakow, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful architecture.

A museum located in the former factory of Oskar Schindler, showcasing the life in Krakow during the Nazi occupation.

The Oskar Schindler's Factory Museum is a poignant reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust and the heroism of individuals like Oskar Schindler. The museum is housed in the actual factory where Schindler employed and saved over a thousand Jews during World War II. /n The museum's exhibits are not limited to Schindler's story but also provide a comprehensive picture of life in Krakow during the Nazi occupation. Visitors can walk through a replica of Krakow's wartime ghetto, view personal belongings of the Jews who lived there, and learn about the city's resistance movement. The museum's multimedia exhibits, which include photographs, documents, and personal testimonies, make the history come alive in a deeply personal and impactful way.

A museum dedicated to the life and work of Oskar Schindler, a German industrialist who saved over a thousand Jews during the Holocaust.

A former industrial district that has been transformed into a trendy area with cafes, galleries, and tech startups.

Zablocie is a district in Krakow that has undergone a significant transformation. Once an industrial area, it is now one of the city's most trendy neighborhoods. The district's post-industrial buildings have been repurposed into modern lofts, trendy cafes, and art spaces, giving Zablocie a unique charm. /n One of the district's highlights is the MOCAK Museum of Contemporary Art, which showcases Polish and international contemporary art. The museum is housed in a former factory, adding to the district's post-industrial appeal. Zablocie is also home to several other cultural institutions, including the Krakow Academy of Fine Arts and the Cricoteka Centre for the Documentation of the Art of Tadeusz Kantor. With its mix of history, culture, and modernity, Zablocie is a must-visit for anyone visiting Krakow.

Zablocie is a trendy district in Krakow, known for its post-industrial charm and vibrant arts scene.

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.

Planty Park

Wawel Castle

Kazimierz

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the Planty Park. This beautiful green space surrounds the Old Town and is perfect for a relaxing morning walk.

Enjoy a traditional Polish lunch in a cozy restaurant in the Old Town. Try pierogi, a type of dumpling, or bigos, a hearty stew.

Visit the Wawel Castle, a stunning example of medieval architecture. Explore the castle grounds and take in the breathtaking views of the city.

Dine in a restaurant in the Jewish Quarter, Kazimierz. The area is known for its vibrant food scene, offering a mix of traditional Polish and Jewish cuisine.

End your day with a romantic walk along the Vistula River, enjoying the city lights reflecting on the water.

Relaxing Walk and Castle Exploration

Main Market Square

Cloth Hall

Royal Route

Podgórze

Begin your day with a visit to the Main Market Square, one of the largest medieval squares in Europe. Enjoy a cup of coffee in one of the many cafes surrounding the square.

Have lunch in a restaurant near the Cloth Hall, where you can try zurek, a sour rye soup, or golonka, pork knuckles.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Royal Route, a historical path that leads from the Main Market Square to the Wawel Castle. Along the way, you'll see many of Krakow's most important landmarks.

Enjoy dinner in a restaurant in the Podgórze district, known for its innovative culinary scene. Try some modern interpretations of traditional Polish dishes.

End your day with a visit to a wine bar in the Old Town, where you can sample a variety of Polish and international wines.

Historical Route and Culinary Delights

Oskar Schindler's Factory Museum

Zablocie

Start your day with a visit to the Oskar Schindler's Factory Museum. Learn about the history of Krakow during World War II and the life of Oskar Schindler.

Have lunch in a restaurant in the Zablocie district, an up-and-coming area known for its trendy eateries. Try some local craft beers along with your meal.

Spend the afternoon exploring the Kazimierz district, visiting its many synagogues and Jewish heritage sites.

Dine in a restaurant in the Old Town, where you can enjoy a traditional Polish feast.

End your trip with a relaxing evening in one of the city's many jazz clubs, enjoying live music and a nightcap.

Jewish Heritage and Jazz Night

Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March, ends last Sunday in October

UTC+1

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Pierogi

Kielbasa is a traditional Polish sausage, typically made from pork. It's a staple in Polish cuisine and a popular street food in Krakow.

Kielbasa

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.

Zapiekanka

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.

Bigos

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.

Golabki

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.

Zurek

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.

Paczki

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.

Sernik

This is buckwheat groats, a staple in Polish cuisine. It's often served as a side dish, similar to rice or potatoes.

Kasza Gryczana

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.

Kompot

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.

Piwo

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.

Wodka

New Year's Day

Epiphany

Easter Sunday

Easter Monday

Labor Day / May Day

Constitution Day

Whit Sunday

Corpus Christi

Assumption of Mary

All Saints' Day

Independence Day

Christmas Day

Second Day of Christmas

One of the world's oldest salt mines, which has been in operation for over 700 years. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Wieliczka Salt Mine

A former Nazi concentration camp, now a museum and memorial to the victims of the Holocaust.

Auschwitz-Birkenau

A popular resort town in the Tatra Mountains, known for its unique wooden architecture and beautiful hiking trails.

Zakopane

Home to the Jasna Góra Monastery, which houses the Black Madonna, a revered icon of the Virgin Mary.

Częstochowa

A beautiful city with a picturesque Old Town and a unique collection of dwarf statues scattered throughout the city.

Wrocław

An industrial city with a rich history and a vibrant arts scene. Home to the Silesian Museum and Spodek concert hall.

Katowice

A city surrounded by nature, featuring Kadzielnia Nature Reserve and the Geopark Kielce-Centre of Geoeducation.

Kielce

A city with a rich history, known for its beautiful Renaissance buildings and the Ethnographic Museum.

Tarnów

One of the oldest and historically most significant cities in Poland, with a beautiful Old Town and a stunning view of the Vistula River.

Sandomierz

A city with a mix of modern and traditional Polish culture, featuring the Underground Tourist Route and the Rzeszów Castle.

Rzeszów

Gdansk

Poznan

Warsaw

Wroclaw

St Mary's Basilica and Main Market Square

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.

Credit cards are widely accepted in Krakow, but it's always good to carry some cash for smaller establishments or street vendors.

The official language is Polish, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.

Poland is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Agreement, so check visa requirements before you travel.

Tipping is customary in Poland. It's typical to leave a 10-15% tip in restaurants and cafes.

Public transportation in Krakow is efficient and reliable. It includes trams, buses, and a fast train to the airport.

Taxis are relatively inexpensive in Krakow, but make sure to use a reputable company to avoid being overcharged.

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.

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.

Polish cuisine is hearty and delicious. Don't miss trying pierogi (dumplings), kielbasa (sausage), and bigos (hunter's stew).

Poland is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+1).

Poland has a universal healthcare system, but it's recommended for tourists to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

The drinking age in Poland is 18. Vodka and beer are popular local drinks.

Smoking is banned in public places in Poland, including bars and restaurants.

Poland has strict laws against drug use. Possession of even small amounts can lead to heavy fines or imprisonment.

Most shops in Krakow are open from 10 am to 8 pm, and many are also open on Sundays.

Poland uses the Type E power socket, and the standard voltage is 230 V. You may need a power plug adapter or voltage converter.

Krakow is a city with a rich history and culture. It's worth learning a bit about Poland's history before your visit.

Polish people are generally friendly and hospitable. Don't hesitate to ask for help or directions.

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.

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 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 sees the start of spring in Krakow, with temperatures slowly rising. However, it can still be quite chilly, especially in the evenings.

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 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 is the start of summer in Krakow, with long, sunny days. It's a great time to explore the city's outdoor attractions.

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 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 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 is a beautiful month in Krakow, with autumn colors in full display. However, temperatures can be quite chilly, especially in the evenings.

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 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.

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!

Cookie consent

3-Day Local Krakow Experience: Relaxation, Gourmet and Wine for Couples

About Krakow, Poland