Nestled in the picturesque southern region of Poland, Krakow is one of Europe’s most beautiful and friendly cities, where the past and present lace together to reveal an enchanting story of medieval splendor and the resilient people who have called Krakow home for more than 1,000 years.
The charming city of Krakow, with many unique neighborhoods and historical landmarks, is home to Europe’s largest town square and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. However, it is the diverse journey through the pages of history that greets visitors as they wander through cobblestoned streets, past medieval architecture, and historic sites that makes Krakow a must visit city.
Krakow and its people have created a flourishing cultural hub, emerging from the dark shadows and storms weathered by World War II and the horrors of the Holocaust, and through the years of Soviet occupation. Yet, amidst these layers of history, Krakow emerges as a beacon of renewal. This city, with its blend of old-world allure and contemporary vibrancy, deserves a place on every traveler’s bucket list, offering a journey through time that is as enlightening as it is unforgettable.
What makes Krakow a must-visit destination? Here are a just a few of our reasons why you should pack your bags and experience Krakow’s magical charm.
Old Town Square
Krakow’s Old Town Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is simply gorgeous. The medieval charm of Europe’s largest town square is a bustling hub of activity from sun up to sun down. In the center of the square is where you will find the famous Cloth Hall, built in the 13th century as a market place for merchants trading various goods, most notably textiles. Today the Cloth Hall is filled with vendors selling a multitude of souvenirs.
Old Town Square is also home to St. Mary’s Cathedral, important statues, restaurants, cafes, and shops. At night, the buildings are illuminated and the square takes on a magical elegance.
The Barbican and Florianska Gate
Krakow’s Barbican is a medieval engineering marvel. It was constructed in the late 15th century to add to the city’s defenses. The circular fortress is one of Europe’s best preserved examples of this style of city defense.
Directly across from the Barbican is the Florianska Gate, where the Royal Route began back in 1307. It sits at the beginning of Florianska Street, one of Krakow’s main shopping streets.
Stroll The Royal Route
A popular activity is to walk the Royal Route. The Royal Route or Royal Road (both terms are used depending on who you talk to) is a historic part of Poland’s history. The Royal Road begins at the northern end of the medieval Old Town, outside the old city walls, where royal grand processions would proceed, and winds its way southward, leading directly to Wawel Hill. Here, atop the hill, stands the majestic Wawel Castle—the former royal residence.
Landmarks Along the Way: Barbican, St. Wojciech’s Church (a Romanesque gem tucked away in the southeast corner of the Main Square), Matejko Square (home to the Battle of Grunwald Monument), the Arsenal of the Czartoryski Museum, Wawel Hill (where the castle and cathedral await).
Wawel Castle and Cathedral
Wawel Castle Hill is Krakow’s most visited tourist site. The complex of royal buildings including Wawel Cathedral and Wawel Castle, offers sweeping views of the Old Town and Vistula River. Enjoy strolling along is winding paths and manicured gardens.
Wawel Cathedral, formally known as the Archcathedral Basilica of Saint Stanislaus and Saint Wenceslaus, is a magnificent Catholic cathedral situated on Wawel Hill in Kraków, Poland. Built approximately a 1,000 years ago, Wawel Cathedral holds immense historical importance as the coronation site for Polish monarchs.
The best part of visiting Wawel Castle Hill is it is free to explore the grounds. However, there is a nominal admission fee to see the Cathedral. At the bottom of Wawel Castle Hill, facing the Vistula River is where you will find Krakow’s famous dragon.
Planty Park
Planty Park is a lush serene park that circles Krakow’s Old Town. During medieval times, the park was the location of the city’s fortified walls and moat. Today, Krakow residents enjoy this unique green space to relax and unwind under a canopy of trees.
Take a Free Walking Tour
If you would like to have a more in depth introduction to Krakow, sign up for a free city walking tour. There are several to choose from, including a Jewish History walking tour, and an Old Town walking tour. Just make sure to tip your guide as this is how they earn a living.
Check Out Jagiellonian University — – the Oldest University in Poland
Jagiellonian University, with its complex of beautiful medieval buildings, is not only the oldest university in Poland, but also one of the oldest continuously operating universities in the world. Founded in 1364 by Polish King Kazimierz III, this university has stood the test of time and has contributed significantly to both Polish culture and European intellectual heritage. Notable alumni include: Nicolaus Copernicus; Saint John Paul II; writer, Stanislaw Lem; Beata Szydlo, Poland’s former Prime Minister.
Explore Kazimierz (The Old Jewish Quarter)
Kazimierz, a historical district located just outside the boundaries of Krakow’s Old Town, is renowned as the city’s vibrant Jewish quarter. Its unique blend of history, culture, and renewal makes it a living testament to Krakow’s rich Jewish heritage. Kazimierz is a must-visit for anyone exploring this beautiful city with its blend of old-world charm and historic buildings and the bohemian vibes and vibrant nightlife. This is the epicenter of Krakow’s Jewish heritage with centuries-old synagogues, cobblestone streets and important historical buildings.
Visit Oskar Schindler’s Factory
Made famous by Steven Spielberg’s movie, “Schindler’s List”, this important Krakow museum tells the story of the Jewish people, the occupation of the Nazis, and the horrors inflicted on the Jewish people during the Holocaust. The museum also memorializes the courageous efforts of Oskar Schindler in his attempt to help save Jewish lives. Here visitors can see the desk Oskar Schindler sat at and tour the former factory. If you visit only one museum during your visit to Krakow, this is it. While there is a nominal admission fee to enter the museum, it is FREE on Monday’s except for the first Monday of every month (when it is closed to the public).
Marvel at Krakow’s Historic Cathedrals and Churches
While we already mentioned a trip to Wawel Cathedral should be on your itinerary, Krakow is home to many historic and beautiful churches and cathedrals. Most notable are: St. Mary’s Basilica located in Old Town Square, Basilica Franciszkanow (where Saint John Paul II held mass), and St. Wojciech’s Church (the oldest stone church in Poland, dating back nearly 1,000 years ago) located on the corner of Old Town Square.
Take a Day Trip To Auschwitz Concentration Camp
For many visitors, the reason they come to Krakow is to experience first hand the history and horror of the Holocaust. While utterly disturbing to see in person, Auschwitz is important historical remembrance of how evil, if unchecked, can lead to such devasting loss of humanity. Tour guides will lead you through several buildings housing artifacts and other historical documentation in the Auschwitz concentration camp, which will educate visitors on the abominations that happened here, before continuing on to the Birkenau concentration camp.
The Birkenau camp is an open air museum giving visitors an eerie look into the subhuman conditions the Jewish people and political enemies endured before being systematically murdered by the Nazis. While Auschwitz-Birkenau are emotionally disturbing to experience, paying witness to these crimes will stop history from repeating itself.
Tour The Salt Mine
The Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is just a stone’s throw away from Krakow and a must see half-day trip. The mine was the city’s main source of income during medieval times and has been in operation for over 700 years, making it one of the world’s oldest continuously operating salt mines. The mine’s labyrinth of tunnels and passages extends over 178 miles.
Tour guides will take you on a journey deep within the earth to discover the history of how important the salt mine was to Krakow, past displays of salt-mining technology, lead you past numerous statues carved out of salt, and through several chapels carved out of rock salt. There is even an underground lake to discover. This subterranean marvel is another reason to visit Krakow.
Sample Authentic Polish Food
No trip to Krakow would be complete without sampling the region’s traditional foods. Be sure to try these popular Polish foods while in Krakow.
Pierogies: These little dumplings are Poland’s pride and joy. Imagine pockets of dough filled with various fillings—mashed potato, cheese, onion, and more. The classic version is topped with caramelized onions and a dollop of sour cream. You’ll find pierogies on practically every corner in Old Town Kraków.
Zapiekanka (Polish Pizza): Forget the round pizza slices; in Kraków, a popular street food is zapiekanka! It’s like a long, open-faced baguette topped with melted cheese, sautéed mushrooms, and sometimes ham or other goodies. You’ll spot these at street stalls or small eateries. Perfect for a quick, satisfying bite while exploring.
Kotlet Schabowy (Schnitzel): A crispy breaded pork cutlet that’s a staple in Polish households. It’s often served with mashed potatoes, cabbage salad, and a wedge of lemon. Look for it on menus—it’s a comforting, home-cooked classic.
Obwarzanek Krakowski: Dating back to 1394, this braided dough ring can be found being sold from food carts through out Krakow. The texture is soft, and tastes like a cross between a pretzel and a bagel. It’s definitely a unique treat to try.
Bonus Reasons to Visit Krakow
Beyond the beautiful and historical sights unique to Krakow, the people of Krakow are warm and welcoming. During our most recent visit, we met so many people who were just as curious about where we came from as we were about them. In Old Town, English is widely spoken, so it will be easy to navigate and get help or service in shops, restaurants, and hotels.
The food surprised us. Growing up with a Polish grandmother, I was used to eating traditional Polish food, but beyond the traditional food we ate, every meal we had in Krakow was by far better than many cities we’ve traveled to.
Prices. Coming from the U.S., the exchange rate allowed us to stretch our dollars. Budget or not, you will find that prices make dining out, buying souvenirs, etc., will not empty your pockets. At a convenience store, we bought two waters and two beers and it was the equivalent of $3.00 U.S. A full breakfast for two with coffee and tip was $14.00 U.S.
It’s a walkable city and easy to lose track of time wandering through the maze of cobblestone streets. Most of the sights tourists will want to see are conveniently located in Krakow’s Old Town or in Kazimierz, a lively bohemian neighborhood. However, if you do want to get from the Old Town to Oskar Schindler’s Factory or tour the former Jewish Ghetto area it can be quite a long distance walk for the average person, so we recommend taking a tram, as Krakow’s public transportation is efficient and inexpensive.
We hope we’ve enticed you to put Krakow on your bucket list. If you’ve been to Krakow, leave us a comment in the comments section with what your favorite thing to see or do in Krakow was.
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