The Ultimate Krakow Travel Guide

Traveling to Krakow is a journey into the heart of Poland’s rich history and vibrant culture.  As one of Europe’s oldest and most beautiful cities, Krakow uniquely blends medieval charm and modern vitality.  Visitors can stroll through the cobblestone streets of the historic Old Town, marvel at the architectural grandeur of Wawel Castle, and explore the poignant history of the Jewish Quarter.  The city’s vibrant squares are bustling with life, offering an array of cafes, restaurants, and street performers.  With its welcoming atmosphere, stunning landmarks, and a deep sense of heritage, Krakow promises an unforgettable travel experience that captivates and inspires.  In this travel guide, you will find tips on what to eat, where to stay, and what to see and do in Krakow.  You will also find an easy-to-customize sample travel itinerary to help you plan your adventure.  

St. Mary’s Basilica in the heart of Old Town Krakow

When to Go

You can visit Krakow any time of the year. However, late spring and early autumn may be the best times.  The weather is pleasant and mild during these periods, and the crowds are smaller than in the peak summer months. Krakow is also lovely during Christmas, transforming into a winter wonderland filled with festive charm and warmth. The city’s Main Market Square hosts one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe. The market stalls, adorned with twinkling lights, offer a wide array of traditional Polish crafts, handmade ornaments, and festive gifts.

Where to Stay

Krakow offers various accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some of the best areas to stay in Krakow:

  • Old Town (Stare Miasto): Staying in the Old Town puts you at the heart of Krakow’s historic and cultural attractions.  You’ll be within walking distance of landmarks like the Main Market Square, St. Mary’s Basilica, and Wawel Castle. 
  • Kazimierz (Jewish Quarter): Kazimierz is known for its bohemian vibe, rich history, and vibrant nightlife.  It’s an excellent area for those looking to explore Krakow’s Jewish heritage, trendy cafes, and unique shops.
  • Podgórze: Located across the Vistula River from Kazimierz, Podgórze is an up-and-coming neighborhood with a mix of historical sites and modern attractions.  It’s quieter than the Old Town and Kazimierz, offering a more relaxed atmosphere. 
  • Debniki: This residential area is ideal for visitors looking for a peaceful stay while still being close to the city center. It’s near attractions like the Tyniec Abbey and the Zakrzówek Lagoon. 

What to Eat

Krakow offers a delicious array of traditional Polish dishes and local specialties that are a must-try during your visit. Here are some of the top foods to eat in Krakow:

What to See and Do

Sukiennice

St. Mary’s Basilica (left) and Sukiennice (right)

The Sukiennice (a.k.a Cloth Hall), is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks and has a rich history dating back to the 13th century when it served as a trading hall for textiles and other goods.  The ground floor is still used as a market, with stalls selling traditional Polish crafts, souvenirs, jewelry, textiles, and other local goods.  The upper floor houses the Gallery of 19th-Century Polish Art, part of the National Museum in Kraków.   It features works by prominent Polish artists such as Jan Matejko, Józef Chełmoński, and Aleksander Gierymski.  Take time to appreciate the building’s architecture, both inside and out. The decorative elements and the grand staircase leading to the museum are particularly noteworthy.  Entry to the market is free, but there is an admission fee for the museum

Rynek Główny

Main Market Square and St. Mary’s Basilica

Rynek Główny, or the Main Market Square, is one of the largest medieval town squares in Europe. The square has witnessed many historical events, from royal processions to political rallies.  Located in the center of the square is the previously mentioned Suikiennice.  The square is also home to St. Mary’s Basilica, Town Hall Tower, and a monument dedicated to Poland’s national poet.  Rynek Główny is lined with restaurants where you can enjoy Polish cuisine while soaking in the lively atmosphere. It’s a great place to relax and people-watch.  In December, the square hosts a Christmas Market with festive decorations, traditional foods, and handcrafted gifts.

Rynek Underground Museum

This fascinating museum is located beneath the Main Market Square.  It offers a unique opportunity to explore the medieval history of the city from an archaeological perspective. The museum showcases a variety of artifacts unearthed during excavations, including medieval tools, coins, jewelry, and everyday objects.  Through the use of holograms, audiovisual presentations, and touchscreens, visitors can engage with the exhibits in an immersive way.  One highlight of the visit is the opportunity to walk along preserved sections of medieval streets, complete with cobblestones and the foundations of former buildings. This setup allows visitors to experience the layout of the old market square as it existed in the 13th and 14th centuries.  

Book tickets in advance, particularly during the peak tourist season. While the museum’s exhibits are highly informative, joining a guided tour can enhance your understanding of the historical context.  

Town Hall Tower

Town Hall Tower

This historic landmark is the only remaining part of the original Town Hall, which once stood in the Main Market Square.  The tower is a fine example of Gothic architecture, with its sturdy stone construction, pointed arches, and decorative elements. It stands approximately 70 meters (230 feet) tall.  Interestingly, the tower has a slight lean of 55 centimeters (about 22 inches) to the east, likely due to a storm that occurred in the 18th century.   Despite this, it has remained structurally sound.  Visitors can climb the tower’s narrow, winding staircase to reach the top, where they are rewarded with panoramic views of Krakow’s Old Town and the surrounding area. Inside the tower, several exhibits share the history of Krakow, the Town Hall, and the square. Visitors can purchase tickets to enter the tower on-site or online.  

St. Mary’s Basilica

Located in the heart of the city’s Main Market Square, this stunning Gothic church is renowned for its impressive architecture, rich history, and breathtaking interior. The church features a brick façade with pointed arches, tall spires, and large windows filled with stained glass.  One of the most distinctive features of St. Mary’s Basilica is its two uneven towers. The taller of the two towers stands at 82 meters (269 feet) and was historically used as a watchtower. The shorter tower houses the church’s bell. Every hour, a bugle call plays from the top of the taller tower.  This tradition dates back to the Middle Ages and commemorates a legendary guard who was shot while warning the city of an impending invasion.  The melody ends abruptly, symbolizing the guard’s sudden death. 

The basilica’s interior is adorned with beautiful stained glass windows, some dating back to the 14th century.  These windows depict various religious scenes and figures, filling the church with colorful light.  The most famous feature of the basilica is the intricately carved wooden altarpiece. The altarpiece is a masterpiece of Gothic art and one of the largest of its kind in the world.  It stands at 13 meters (42 feet) high and 11 meters (36 feet) wide and depicts scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary, including the Dormition, Assumption, and Coronation.  Visitors can purchase admission tickets on-site.

Florianska Street

Floriańska Street is one of the most famous and historic streets in Krakow. The street leads to the Floriańska Gate, which was one of the main gates to the medieval city.  Floriańska is a vibrant commercial street, filled with shops ranging from international brands to local boutiques.  You’ll find everything from high-end fashion to traditional Polish crafts, making it a popular spot for shopping.  The street is also home to numerous cafés, restaurants, and bars, where you can enjoy Polish cuisine, coffee, or a drink while taking in the lively atmosphere

Krakow Barbican

Krakow Barbican

The Krakow Barbican is one of the most impressive and well-preserved medieval fortifications in Europe.  Located just outside the city’s historic Floriańska Gate, the Barbican was constructed in 1498 as an essential part of Krakow’s defensive system. The Barbican is a circular Gothic structure, approximately 24 meters (79 feet) in diameter and 15 meters (49 feet) high. Inside, the Barbican has multiple levels connected by winding staircases.  These levels include platforms for archers and spaces for cannons, allowing defenders to fire upon attackers from different angles.  The Barbican is now a branch of the Historical Museum of Krakow.  Visitors can explore the interior, where exhibitions on medieval fortifications, the history of Krakow, and various artifacts are on display.  Tickets to enter the Barbican can be purchased on-site or online in advance. 

Wawel Castle and Cathedral

The Wawel Cathedral in the heart of the castle complex

Wawel Castle is a symbol of national pride and one of Poland’s most significant historical and cultural sites. Historically, the castle served as the residence of Polish kings for centuries. Today, it houses museums, art collections, and royal tombs. The castle reflects various architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque, due to its continuous development over the centuries.  Entry to the castle grounds is free, but tickets are required for most exhibitions, including the State Rooms, Royal Apartments, and the Crown Treasury. Book your tickets in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. Audio guides are also available for an additional fee.  

Main Attractions at Wawel Castle

  • State Rooms: These grand rooms once served as the royal court’s reception and administrative areas. They are adorned with tapestries, paintings, and ornate furniture, reflecting the splendor of the Renaissance period.
  • Royal Private Apartments: These chambers provide insight into the daily lives of Polish monarchs. The apartments are furnished with period pieces and decorated with artworks, offering a glimpse into the royal family’s luxurious lifestyle.
  • Crown Treasury and Armory: This exhibition showcases Poland’s most important royal treasures, including the Szczerbiec (the coronation sword of Polish kings), jewelry, crowns, and an impressive collection of weapons and armor.
  • Wawel Cathedral: This Gothic cathedral is one of Poland’s most important religious buildings. It has been the site of royal coronations, weddings, and funerals. The cathedral houses the tombs of Polish kings, national heroes, and saints, including the ornate Sigismund Chapel, which is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture.
  • The Sigismund Bell: Located in the bell tower of Wawel Cathedral, the Sigismund Bell is the largest and most famous bell in Poland.  Constructed in 1520, the bell is still used to mark important moments in the country.
  • Dragon’s Den: According to legend, a fearsome dragon once lived in a cave at the foot of Wawel Hill. Today, visitors can explore this natural limestone cave, known as the Dragon’s Den, and see a statue of the Wawel Dragon, which breathes fire at regular intervals.
  • The Lost Wawel Exhibition: This exhibition provides an archaeological and historical overview of the castle’s early history. It includes displays of artifacts found during excavations, as well as reconstructions of the castle’s earliest structures.

Krakow Pinball Museum

This unique and interactive museum is dedicated to the history and fun of pinball and vintage arcade games. The museum boasts dozens of pinball machines and arcade games, ranging from vintage models dating back to the 1930s to more modern machines.  Visitors can pay a one-hour entrance fee or a full-day entrance fee.  Find more information about the museum, including hours and admission prices here.  

Schindler’s List Passage

Schindler’s List Passage

The Schindler’s List Passage commemorates the famous 1993 film Schindler’s List, directed by Steven Spielberg. Largely shot in Krakow, the film tells the story of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saved over a thousand Jews during the Holocaust by employing them in his factories.  The passage is one of the locations where Spielberg filmed scenes for the film.  The passage itself is a narrow, cobblestone street that runs between buildings, creating a striking and atmospheric setting. 

Bernatek Footbridge

Bernatek Footbridge

This modern pedestrian bridge spans the Vistula River and connects the districts of Kazimierz and Podgórze. One of the most distinctive features of the Bernatek Footbridge is the series of sculptures suspended from cables. These sculptures depict acrobats performing various feats of balance and agility. The sculptures appear to be defying gravity, adding a whimsical and artistic element to the bridge. Like many bridges around the world, the Bernatek Footbridge has become a popular spot for couples to attach “love locks” as a symbol of their affection. 

St. Joseph’s Church

Constructed between 1905 and 1909, St. Joseph’s Church contains pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and intricate stonework. A tall, slender spire rises above the main entrance, making the church visible from various points in the surrounding area.  The interior of St. Joseph’s Church is equally impressive, with a high vaulted ceiling, tall stained glass windows, and a richly decorated altar.  While St. Joseph’s Church is primarily a place of worship, it is open to visitors who wish to admire its architectural beauty and peaceful atmosphere.

Schindler’s Factory Museum

This museum is dedicated to the history of World War II, the Holocaust, and the life-saving efforts of Oskar Schindler. It is housed in the former enamel factory owned by Schindler, who is credited with saving over a thousand Jewish lives during the Nazi occupation of Poland.  The museum’s exhibitions are extensive and deeply moving.  They combine historical artifacts, photographs, personal testimonies, multimedia installations, and recreated environments. A highlight of the visit is seeing the carefully preserved office of Oskar Schindler. The office includes his desk, personal items, and the famous “list” of saved Jewish workers.  The room is a powerful reminder of Schindler’s extraordinary actions and the lives he touched.

Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season. Guided tours are also available for those wanting a deeper understanding of the exhibits. 

Museum of Contemporary Art in Krakow

The permanent collection at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Krakow (MOCAK) includes a wide array of contemporary artworks, including paintings, sculptures, installations, photography, and multimedia pieces.  The collection highlights significant works by Polish artists as well as notable international figures.  In addition to its permanent collection, MOCAK regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that explore various themes, artistic movements, and individual artists. These exhibitions are often curated to reflect current trends and issues in contemporary art, providing visitors with fresh perspectives and new experiences.  Visitors can purchase tickets on-site or online in advance of the visit.  

Krakus Mound

Not only is this ancient mound steeped in legend and history, but it also offers stunning views of the city. According to local legend, Krakus Mound is the burial site of King Krakus, the mythical founder of Krakow.  King Krakus is said to have defeated a dragon that terrorized the area and established the city on Wawel Hill. After his death, the people of Krakow allegedly built the mound as a tomb and a monument to their beloved king.  While the legend of King Krakus adds a romantic allure to the site, the exact origins of Krakus Mound remain uncertain.  Archaeologists have dated the mound to the 7th or 8th century, making it one of the oldest man-made structures in Krakow.  It stands at about 16 meters (52 feet) high and has a base diameter of approximately 60 meters (197 feet)

The top of Krakus Mound offers some of the best panoramic views of Kraków, including the city’s historic center, Wawel Castle, and the surrounding hills and countryside.  It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists to enjoy the scenery, especially at sunset.  The climb to the top of the mound is relatively easy, making it suitable for visitors of all ages.

Wieliczka Salt Mine

One of the many tunnels at Wieliczka Salt Mine

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Wieliczka Salt Mine dates back to the 13th century, making it one of the oldest salt mines in the world.  The mine has nine levels, with the tourist route taking visitors through the first three levels, descending to a depth of about 135 meters (443 feet). Each level features a variety of chambers, chapels, and lakes, all carved out of salt rock.  One of the most famous and breathtaking features is the Chapel of St. Kinga. This underground chapel is entirely carved out of salt, including the altar, chandeliers, sculptures, and reliefs. In addition to the chapel, visitors can see an array of salt sculptures and reliefs throughout the mine. Many of these sculptures and reliefs were created by the miners themselves.

Tickets to the Wieliczka Salt Mine include a guided tour. Tours are available in several languages and typically last about two to three hours.  For those seeking a more immersive experience, the Miners’ Route offers a hands-on tour where visitors can don miner’s gear and participate in some of the traditional tasks performed by miners, such as measuring methane levels and digging salt.  Book your tickets in advance, especially during the peak tourist season. The Wieliczka Salt Mine is located in the town of Wieliczka, about 14 kilometers (9 miles) southeast of Krakow.  It is easily accessible by car, bus, or train.

Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum

Execution Wall at Auschwitz I

The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is a solemn and profoundly significant site dedicated to preserving the memory of the atrocities committed during the Holocaust. The site encompasses the former Nazi concentration and extermination camps of Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau.  It stands as a stark reminder of the horrors of genocide and serves as a place of remembrance, education, and reflection.  

The original camp, Auschwitz I, houses the main museum, where visitors can see exhibitions that document the history of the Holocaust, the lives of the prisoners, and the atrocities committed. Visitors can view the camp prison, which was the site of the first experimental gassing, and the Execution Wall, where many prisoners were shot. Birkenau, also known as Auschwitz II, was the largest of the Auschwitz camps and the primary site of mass extermination. At this site, you can see the main entrance to Birkenau, known as the “Gate of Death” as well as remnants of the gas chambers and crematoria.  The ruins of these structures are some of the most powerful and tragic sights at the memorial.  Visitors can view the Birkenau Barracks, the wooden and brick barracks where prisoners were housed in appalling conditions.  

Visitors to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum are encouraged to take guided tours, which provide detailed historical context and personal stories that bring the site’s history to life. This tour from Viator includes transportation from Krakow and covers both sites.  

Krakow Travel Itinerary

Are you ready to start planning your Krakow adventure? Start by downloading our easy-to-customize sample travel itinerary. Easily make changes to the itinerary to make it fit your schedule and interests.