3-Day Family Adventure: Outdoor Fun & Sightseeing in Krakow

Krakow, Poland

3 days

Poland's historic center
St Mary's Basilica and Main Market Square
Main Market Square
Wawel Castle
Main Market Square

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.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Historic Wawel Castle and the Beautiful Planty Park

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the historic Wawel Castle. Explore the castle grounds, admire the stunning architecture, and learn about Poland's rich history.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Polish lunch in a local restaurant in the Old Town. Try pierogi, kielbasa, and other local specialties.

Afternoon

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the Planty Park, a beautiful green space surrounding the Old Town. Enjoy the fresh air and the beautiful views.

Dinner

Dine in a family-friendly restaurant in the Kazimierz district, known for its vibrant food scene. Try some Polish desserts like paczki or szarlotka.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing boat ride on the Vistula River. Enjoy the beautiful views of the city lit up at night.

Morning

Begin your day with a visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum. Learn about the tragic history of the Holocaust during World War II.

Lunch

Have lunch in a cozy restaurant near the museum. Try some hearty Polish soup like zurek or barszcz.

Afternoon

After lunch, visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine. Explore the underground chambers, marvel at the salt sculptures, and learn about the history of salt mining.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner in a restaurant in the Old Town. Try some traditional Polish dishes like golabki or bigos.

Evening

Spend the evening exploring the Main Market Square. Watch the street performers, visit the Cloth Hall, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Morning

Start your day with a visit to the Ojcow National Park. Enjoy a family hike, admire the natural beauty, and spot some local wildlife.

Lunch

Have a picnic lunch in the park. Enjoy some sandwiches, fresh fruits, and local snacks.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, visit the Krakow Zoo. See a variety of animals, enjoy interactive exhibits, and have fun in the play areas.

Dinner

Dine in a restaurant in the Podgorze district. Try some Polish seafood dishes like fish pierogi or herring in oil.

Evening

End your trip with a visit to the Kosciuszko Mound. Enjoy the panoramic views of the city and reflect on your wonderful trip.

Attractions in Itinerary (8)

Wawel Castle

1
Wawel Castle

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

Attractions
Landmarks
Museums
Planty Park

2
Planty Park

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

Parks
Landmarks
Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum

3
Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum

Auschwitz-Birkenau is a former Nazi concentration and extermination camp. Today, it serves as a museum and a memorial, educating visitors about the Holocaust. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a poignant reminder of the atrocities of World War II.

Museums
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Wieliczka Salt Mine

4
Wieliczka Salt Mine

One of the world's oldest salt mines, which has been producing table salt for over 700 years. The mine's attractions include dozens of statues and an entire chapel that has been carved out of the rock salt by the miners. The mine is also home to a private rehabilitation and wellness complex.

Attractions
Tours
Cultural Experiences
Main Market Square

5
Main Market Square

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

Attractions
Landmarks
Cultural Experiences
Ojcow National Park

6
Ojcow National Park

Ojcow National Park is a beautiful natural reserve known for its unique flora and fauna, picturesque landscapes, and historical monuments. It is the smallest national park in Poland, but it's rich in limestone cliffs, caves, and castles.

Parks
Tours
Cultural Experiences
Krakow Zoo

7
Krakow Zoo

Located in the Wolski Forest, Krakow Zoo is home to about 1500 animals and over 260 species. The zoo is divided into zones, including a mini zoo for children and a house for reptiles. It is a perfect place for family outings.

Attractions
Entertainment
Kosciuszko Mound

8
Kosciuszko Mound

Dedicated to the Polish national hero Tadeusz Kosciuszko, the mound is made of soil from the Polish and American battlefields. The mound is surrounded by a fortification complex with bastions and a well-preserved part of the city's old fortifications. It offers a panoramic view of Krakow.

Monuments
Landmarks

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Pierogi

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

DateDayHoliday 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

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

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.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currencyzł PLN

Time zoneUTC+1

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone112, 999

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Power socket type CPower socket type E

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)

  • Pajamas

  • Swimwear (if your hotel has a pool)

  • Scarf, gloves, and warm hat (for winter season)

  • Rain jacket or umbrella

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Hairbrush or comb

  • Prescription medications

  • First aid kit

  • Sunscreen and lip balm

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport/ID

  • Airline tickets

  • Hotel reservation confirmation

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash in local currency (Polish złoty)

  • Guidebook or map

  • Emergency contacts and addresses

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Power adapter (Poland uses type E plug)

  • Portable power bank

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Snacks for the journey

  • Water bottle

  • Books or e-reader for entertainment

  • Travel-sized laundry detergent

  • Plastic bags for dirty clothes

  • Notepad and pen

  • Travel lock for luggage

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!

MonthHi / 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?

Did you know that Krakow is the second largest and one of the oldest cities in Poland, dating back to the 7th century?

1 of 10

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Wieliczka Salt Mine

Wieliczka Salt Mine

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How to get there
Auschwitz-Birkenau

Auschwitz-Birkenau

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How to get there
Zakopane

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