Krakow Poland

Jun 02, 2015, Updated Oct 12, 2024

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Krakow Poland is an incredible picturesque city, one of my absolute favorites to visit. There’s tons of great shopping, it is safe and affordable, very family-friendly, great for girls trips – and there’s great food and bars!

If you love pierogi, you’ll be in heaven – but there’s also fantastic pork knuckle, bread, smoked cheeses, and cozy soups – Krakow is an unexpected foodie heaven!

Visting Krakow in Poland
About Krakow
Where to Stay in Krakow
Tips for Visiting Krakow
Taste of Poland at Home
Tours to Check out in Krakow

Visting Krakow in Poland

Krakow is an absolutely magical city that is one of the hidden gems of Europe. During a recent family trip we decided to check out Krakow since I had heard it was lovely from my sister in law. The city center of Krakow is a pedestrian only area that was once the walled castle. Where the once moat was there is now a beautiful greenspace that encircles the lovely downtown.

A slice of cake with powdered sugar and pink sauce sits on a white plate, ready to be enjoyed with a fork. This delightful treat brings a touch of Krakow, Poland, to your table.

A bowl of soup reminiscent of Krakow, Poland, featuring sliced sausages, fresh herbs, and a halved boiled egg, with a spoon resting inside.

Snow-covered stone building entrance with a wooden door, adorned with a wreath, and a black metal gate in the foreground. A Latin inscription graces the doorway of this charming Krakow, Poland setting.

The dimly lit vintage bar in Krakow, Poland features a crystal chandelier, a rustic wooden counter, and bottles lined up against a mirrored wall.

In a dimly lit bar corner in Krakow, Poland, a round table with cushioned seating welcomes you. A wall sign catches your eye: "A PAINTING MADE OF THIRTY THREE LETTERS.

A tall, illuminated church tower with intricate design and multiple spires stands majestically against the dark night sky, echoing the historic charm of Krakow, Poland.

A religious statue in an alcove is mounted on a green wall beneath a plaque with worn text in Krakow. Snow is gathered on top of the alcove, adding a serene touch to this Polish scene.

Two horses in ornate harnesses stand in front of a carriage on a snowy street in Krakow, Poland, with a person in a green jacket and pink hat seated inside.

A snow-covered architectural detail in Krakow, Poland, showcases a red wall with carved stone decorations and arched windows adorned with ornate ironwork, all set in a wintry scene.

Front view of a historic church in Krakow, Poland, with a triangular pediment, statues on pillars, and a snow-covered roof set against a cloudy sky.

A display of vintage cameras with leather straps, including a Werra and a Zorki model, hangs against a blurred background reminiscent of Krakow, Poland.

A vintage street lamp adorned with gold ornaments stands near a peach-colored building on a snowy day in Krakow, Poland. Signs on the wall indicate "Ma?y Rynek.

Cozy cafe setting in Krakow, Poland, with a lit table lamp, wooden table, and plaid cushioned chairs. Bottles lined up on a shelf in the background add to the charming ambiance.

About Krakow

Krakow, one of Poland’s oldest cities, dates back to the 7th century and became the capital of Poland in 1038. The city flourished during the Renaissance, becoming a major center of science, culture, and art. It was significantly impacted by World War II, with much of its Jewish population perishing in the Holocaust. The infamous Auschwitz concentration camp is just an hour outside Krakow and the jewish geto in Krakow has been the setting of many World War II movies including Schindler’s List. Post-war, Krakow emerged as a symbol of Polish heritage and resilience, preserving its historic architecture and cultural legacy. Krakow is filled with history and is a place of pilgrimage for many families of holocaust survivors.

A cathedral with two towers in the heart of Krakow.

A group touring Krakow walks around the courtyard in front of Wawel Castle, passing by the Cathedral.

A clock tower building in the middle of Krakow with Wawel Castle and Cathedral.

A grand castle overlooks a sprawling green field in Krakow.

Where to Stay in Krakow

Old Town (Stare Miasto)

The heart of Krakow, where the Christmas market is located. Staying in the Old Town puts you within walking distance of the market stalls, restaurants, and iconic landmarks like St. Mary’s Basilica and Cloth Hall.

It’s a lively and picturesque area with plenty of accommodation options ranging from luxury to budget – expect to have lots of other tourists around, but it is a safe city and largely quiet after hours. Make sure your airbnb or hotel isn’t next to a nightclub though, as they tend to be open (and loud) much later than American clubs.

Hotels in Stare Miasto:

Hotel Saski: This GORGEOUS hotel has been entirely remodeled in a luxurious belle epoch style, and is steps to the main market, the cathedral, cloth hall, and fantastic restaurants.
Hotel Stary: A luxurious boutique hotel just steps from the Main Market Square. It’s known for its modern elegance, stunning views, and a beautiful underground spa with a pool.
Wyndham Grand Hotel Krakow: This boutique chain offers remodeled rooms that are close to everything in Old Town, with comfortable beds and great onsite restaurants.
Stradom House: This Autograph Collection hotel has been gorgeously remodeled and is a perfect base for exploring the old town, with onsite restaurants, and just steps to the market, cathedral, cloth hall, and restaurants.
Feniks Apartments: We stayed at these Old town apartments and loved how close they were to everything, the adorable decor, and that we could get a few girls in each apartment for a girls trip.

Kazimierz (Jewish Quarter)

A little further from the main market but only a 10-15 minute walk away, Kazimierz is Krakow’s historic Jewish district.

It has a bohemian vibe, with plenty of trendy cafes, restaurants, and bars, and even it’s own more local Christmas market, offering a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere than the bustling Old Town.

Hotel Recommendations in Kazimierz:

Hotel Rubinstein: Located in the heart of Kazimierz, this boutique hotel blends historical charm with modern comforts. It’s a cozy and stylish option within walking distance of both Kazimierz and the Old Town.
Puro Kazimierz: Puro is a boutique Polish chain with gorgeous remodeled rooms and great options for solo travelers – with unique touches and a great location close to all of the best restaurants and bars in the Kazimierz.

A piece of layered pastry, reminiscent of Krakow's delightful treats, is dusted with powdered sugar and elegantly presented on a white plate with a fork beside it.

Various blue and white ceramic mugs and plates with winter-themed designs, including snowmen and heart patterns, reminiscent of Krakow's festive charm, are displayed on a wooden surface.

A ceramic Christmas tree featuring blue floral patterns and star cutouts captures the charm of a Krakow, Poland artisan's touch, illuminated under a lamp.

A decorative street lamp adorned with winter ornaments stands in a snowy Krakow, Poland, mingling with signs and buildings that add charm to the urban setting.

Various gingerbread cookies wrapped in clear plastic with red ribbons are beautifully displayed on wooden racks at a market stall in Krakow, Poland.

Close-up of a decorated Christmas tree with snow-covered branches reminiscent of a Krakow winter, gold and white leaves, and blue patterned ornaments. Twinkling lights are draped among the branches.

Baskets of various bread rolls and pastries, reminiscent of a Krakow bakery, are displayed on a festive green tablecloth adorned with snowflake patterns.

A religious painting in an ornate stone frame is mounted on a brick wall in Krakow, Poland, overlooking a small shrine adorned with pink flowers and a lantern.

Planty Park Area

Surrounding the Old Town is Planty Park, a green belt that offers a quieter, more residential vibe while still being just a short walk from the Main Market Square and the Christmas market. This area is ideal if you prefer a slightly more peaceful setting with easy access to the festivities.

Hotel Recommendations near Planty Park:

Bachleda Luxury Hotel: A five-star hotel offering opulent rooms and suites, just a short stroll from Planty Park and the Old Town. Its luxurious decor and top-notch service make it a great choice for those seeking comfort and elegance.
Radisson Blu Hotel Krakow: Situated near Planty Park and Wawel Castle, this hotel is perfect for those who want a modern stay with convenient access to both the Old Town and the Christmas markets. We stayed at the Radisson Blu in the summer and booked a suite, so the kids could sleep in roll-away beds. The room was huge and we had a direct view of the castle!

Wawel Castle Area

The area near Wawel Castle offers a mix of history and beauty, being a short walk (10-15 minutes) from the Main Market Square. It’s a much quieter option with stunning views of the Vistula River and Wawel Hill, yet close enough to the Christmas market and Old Town.

Hotel Recommendations in the Wawel district:

Sheraton Grand Krakow: A luxurious hotel with beautiful views of the Wawel Castle and the Vistula River, offering spacious rooms, a rooftop bar, and excellent amenities.
Hotel Copernicus: A five-star boutique hotel located near Wawel Castle, known for its historic architecture and elegant interiors. It has an atmospheric, old-world feel with modern luxuries like an indoor pool.

Budget-Friendly Options

Greg & Tom Hostel: If you’re looking for budget accommodation, this popular hostel offers clean, comfortable rooms and a social atmosphere. It’s located just a short walk from the Christmas market, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.

A historical brick church, Saint Mary's Basilica in Krakow, Poland, features two tall towers with ornate details, arched windows, and a decorative entrance under a cloud-streaked blue sky.

The inside of Saint Mary's Basilica in Krakow, Poland featuring an ornate ceiling.

A scenic view of Krakow, Poland from the top of Saint Mary's Basilica.

A man in a suit playing a trumpet in Saint Mary's Basilica Krakow.

A Christmas tree adorned with ornaments and twinkling lights, evoking a cozy country ambiance or perhaps a touch of Polish tradition.

An ornately decorated altar in Saint Mary's Basilica, Krakow, Poland.

Tips for Visiting Krakow

Best Time to Visit: Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are the best times to visit due to milder weather and fewer tourists. Summer can be crowded, and winter, while cold, has its charm with Christmas markets.

Currency and Payments: The Polish z?oty (PLN) is the local currency. While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, it’s a good idea to carry some cash, especially for small purchases or at local markets.

Language: Polish is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas. Learning basic Polish phrases can enhance your experience and interactions with locals.

Getting Around: Krakow has an efficient public transportation system, including trams and buses. The old town is very walkable, and cycling is also a popular option. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available.

Accommodation: Book your accommodation well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. There are options for every budget, from luxury hotels to budget hostels and Airbnb.

Cultural Etiquette: Poles are generally friendly and hospitable. When entering someone’s home, it’s customary to remove your shoes. A firm handshake is a common greeting.

Local Cuisine: Try traditional Polish dishes such as pierogi (dumplings), bigos (hunter’s stew), kielbasa (sausage), and zapiekanka (Polish-style pizza bread). Visit local restaurants and milk bars (bar mleczny) for authentic and affordable meals.

Safety: Krakow is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Keep an eye on your belongings to avoid pickpocketing.

Tours and Day Trips: Consider guided tours for a deeper understanding of Krakow’s history. Popular day trips include the Wieliczka Salt Mine, Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, and the Tatra Mountains.

Taste of Poland at Home

Polish Smalec Spread – When traveling in Poland, you’ll often be greeted with little pots of Smalec – a rich, delicious lard spread – instead of butter for bread and crackers. This spread is easy to make, full of homestyle flavor, and totally addictive!

Polish Country Style Ribs – Delicious tender melt in your mouth boneless Polish country style ribs slow roasted in their own delectable gravy are absolutely mouthwatering!

Chimney Cakes – Sprinkle Chimney Cakes, Kürtoskalács, are a deliciously sweet dessert often found at European Christmas markets and festivals – and SUPER easy to make at home.

Polish Country Style Ribs

Polish Smalec Spread

Sprinkle Chimney Cakes Kürtoskalács

Tours to Check out in Krakow

Krakow is one of my favorite cities to visit because there are simply so many affordable tours to check out and really unique places to visit.

From tours to Auschwitz and around Krakow’s Jewish Disctrict, to the Salt Mines, to visiting Zakopane’s thermal baths and even tours around the Eagles Nest castles – you can find SO many things to do in Krakow!

Check out some of my favorite tours below, or head to my Viatour Affiliate Page for my hand-picked selections.