Kraków Travel Guide: What to See, Do & Eat
“Krakow is one of my favorite places on earth. It is a medieval city full of young people. A wonderful, striking combination.”
Is Kraków worth visiting? I'd say absolutely.
Some city breaks leave you feeling like you need another vacation by the time you get home. You're constantly trying to fit in one more sight, one more museum, or one more neighborhood before it's time to head home. What I love most about Kraków is that it never feels like you have to choose between seeing the main sights and actually enjoying the city. It's compact enough that you can explore most of it on foot, but there's still more than enough to fill a long weekend. You could spend one day wandering around one of Europe's largest medieval market squares, having lunch by the river with castle views, or exploring a centuries-old salt mine deep underground. Or, if you're staying a little longer, you could spend the day hiking in the mountains or visiting Auschwitz, both within easy reach of the city.
Although I was born in Kraków, I moved away when I was still a child. My family still lives there, though, so I come back at least twice a year. Over the years, I've experienced the city from two very different perspectives. I've lost count of how many times I've shown friends around Kraków, taking them to all the places you'd expect to visit on your first trip. At the same time, because I keep coming back, I've also had the chance to discover cafés, restaurants, neighborhoods, and seasonal events that I probably wouldn't have found on a single city break. I think that's given me a pretty good idea of what first-time visitors shouldn't miss, what's worth making time for, and what I'd save for another trip.
Whether you're still deciding if Kraków is the right destination or you've already booked your trip, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know before you go. From the best time to visit and where to stay to my favorite things to do, the best day trips, and practical tips, I'll help you make the most of your time in one of my favorite European cities.
In this guide:
Already planning your trip? I've put together a detailed 3-day Kraków itinerary to help you make the most of a long weekend.
Whether you're still deciding or already booking your trip, here's everything you need to know about visiting Kraków:
What Makes Kraków Worth Visiting?
One of the things I think Kraków gets exactly right is that history never dominates the experience. Yes, you'll find royal castles, medieval squares, churches, museums, and centuries of Polish history around almost every corner, but it never feels like that's the only reason you're there. You could spend the morning walking through Kazimierz with a local guide, learning about the history of the former Jewish Quarter, then spend the afternoon shopping, walking along the river, or making your way from one cocktail bar to the next until late in the evening.
I don't know if this makes any sense, but Kraków has never felt like the kind of city that gets annoyed if you skip a museum because you found a nice terrace instead. Like, I still feel guilty that I never made it to the Colosseum because I was too busy drinking Aperol Spritz in Rome—but Kraków has never given me that feeling. There's plenty to see if history is your thing, but it never feels like you have to spend every waking hour ticking landmarks off a list. If you're anything like me and enjoy starting your day with a bit of history before spending the rest of the afternoon just wandering around, I think Kraków gets that balance just right.
If I had to compare Kraków to another European city, I'd actually say it's a little like Berlin's slightly older cousin. Not because the two cities look alike, but because they both have that mix of independent cafés, galleries, vintage shops, and cocktail bars that make them fun to explore without much of a plan. The difference is that Kraków mixes all of that with medieval squares, royal history, and one of the best-preserved historic centers in Europe. It might sound like an unusual combination, but somehow it works.
If you're visiting both Kraków and Warsaw on the same trip, you'll probably notice the difference between the two almost immediately. Warsaw is much more modern because so much of it had to be rebuilt after World War II, while Kraków has managed to preserve its historic center. I don't think one is better than the other—they complement each other really well—but if someone asked me which city feels easier to settle into for a long weekend, I'd probably pick Kraków.
Best Time to Visit Kraków & How to Get There
Best Time to Visit Kraków
One of the things I like about Kraków is that there really isn't a bad time to visit. It all depends on the type of trip you're planning.
If you're visiting for a long weekend and simply want to enjoy the city, I'd probably recommend May. Temperatures are usually around 68–77°F (20–25°C), which is warm enough to spend time outside without the intense summer heat. The café terraces are full again, and everything feels lively without the peak summer crowds.
Summer can also be a great time to visit, especially if you want to spend time by the river or cool off at Zakrzówek after a morning of sightseeing. Just keep in mind that temperatures have regularly reached around 95°F (35°C) in recent summers, so if you're planning to spend most of the day exploring on foot, May or September might be a little more comfortable.
Winter really depends on what you're hoping for. If you're dreaming of snow-covered streets and Christmas markets, just know that winters in Kraków aren't quite as predictable as they used to be. Some years you'll get lucky with fresh snow, while other years it disappears after a few days. The Christmas Market is still worth visiting, but I wouldn't book a trip expecting a guaranteed winter wonderland.
If you're planning a bigger trip through Poland, I'd also think about the rest of your itinerary. Spring and fall are great if you're combining Kraków with cities like Warsaw or Gdańsk, while summer is perfect if you're planning to continue on to Zakopane for some hiking. Winter, on the other hand, makes the most sense if skiing is part of your trip.
As for the crowds, yes, Kraków gets busy during the summer. But compared to Amsterdam, where I live now, I've always found it much more manageable. I'd still recommend booking popular attractions in advance, but the streets and squares are much wider, so it never feels like you're leaving a concert where everyone's trying to squeeze through the same exit at once.
How to Get to Kraków
Getting to Kraków is surprisingly easy, despite its relatively small airport. Depending on where you're flying from, you might have fewer direct flight options than you would for cities like Paris or Rome, but I wouldn't let that stop you. Once you land, getting into the city is quick and easy.
The airport is only about 20–30 minutes from the city center. Uber and Bolt are both widely available and pretty affordable, but there are also regular trains and buses connecting the airport to the city if you'd rather use public transportation.
If you're already traveling through Poland, I'd also recommend taking the high-speed train between Warsaw and Kraków. The journey takes around 3 hours, the trains are comfortable, and tickets are generally very reasonably priced if you book them in advance.
How Many Days Do You Need in Kraków?
If you're visiting Kraków for the first time, I'd recommend spending three days here. I think that's the sweet spot for a city break. It gives you enough time to explore the Old Town, visit Wawel Castle, spend some time in Kazimierz, hit a museum or two, and still leave room to enjoy a piwo (beer) or two without feeling like you're constantly checking your watch.
Personally, I'd split those three days into two days exploring Kraków itself and one day for a day trip. Whether that's Auschwitz, the Wieliczka Salt Mine, or a day hiking in Zakopane really depends on what you're interested in. If you're fascinated by World War II history, Auschwitz is an incredibly important place to visit. If you'd rather spend the day underground exploring one of Poland's most unique attractions, head to the Wieliczka Salt Mine. And if you're craving fresh mountain air after a couple of days in the city followed by famous Thermal Baths, Zakopane makes for a great day trip.
Could you do Kraków in two days? Absolutely. But I think you'll appreciate the city a lot more if you give yourself that extra day. One of the things I love most about Kraków is that it never feels like a city you have to rush through, and I'd try to keep it that way.
Looking for a day-by-day plan? Check out my complete 3-day Kraków itinerary.
Where to Stay in Kraków
If it's your first time visiting Kraków, I'd keep it simple and book a hotel in either the Old Town (Stare Miasto) or Kazimierz. They're the two neighborhoods I'd recommend to almost everyone, and you can easily walk between them in about 15–20 minutes.
Old Town (Stare Miasto)
If your main priority is sightseeing, staying around the Rynek Główny (Main Market Square) is hard to beat. You'll be within walking distance of Wawel Castle, St. Mary's Basilica, and many of Kraków's biggest attractions. It's also where you'll find plenty of restaurants, cafés, and hotels, making it the perfect base if it's your first visit.
The only thing to keep in mind is that some streets can get a little noisy at night, especially during the summer or on weekends. If you're a light sleeper, it's worth checking hotel reviews before you book.
Kazimierz
If you're the kind of traveler who enjoys spending just as much time discovering cafés, restaurants, and cocktail bars as you do sightseeing, I'd take a look at Kazimierz.
The former Jewish Quarter has become one of my favorite parts of the city. You'll find some of Kraków's best restaurants, independent cafés, vintage shops, and bars, while still being only a short walk from the Old Town. It has a completely different feel but is just as convenient for exploring the city.
What I'd Choose
Personally, if I were booking a hotel in Kraków, I'd stay either around the Rynek Główny or in Kazimierz. Those are the two areas where I think you'll get the most out of your trip.
That said, if you're traveling on a tighter budget, don't worry too much about staying a little farther from the center. Kraków has an excellent network of trams and buses, so getting around is easy and inexpensive. I just think one of the best things about the city is how walkable it is, and staying in either the Old Town or Kazimierz lets you make the most of that.
Top Things To Do in Kraków
If it's your first time visiting Zakopane, I'd start with the region's biggest highlights. They're popular for a reason, and I genuinely think they're all worth doing at least once. Whether you're visiting during the warmer months or in winter, here are the activities I'd prioritize.
Explore the Main Market Square
If you only have time to visit one place in Kraków, make it the Rynek Główny. It's one of Europe's largest medieval market squares and, in my opinion, the heart of the city. Whether you're grabbing breakfast before a day of sightseeing, stopping for a coffee in the afternoon, or walking through after dinner when everything is lit up, chances are you'll end up here more than once during your trip.
You'll also find several of Kraków's most famous landmarks around the square, including St. Mary's Basilica, the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), and the Rynek Underground Museum. If you only have time to visit one church while you're in Kraków, I'd make it St. Mary's Basilica. The deep blue ceiling covered in gold stars is one of the most beautiful church interiors I've come across, and it's completely different from what you'd expect looking at it from the outside.
One thing I always tell people to listen out for when they’re on the Rynek is the Hejnał Mariacki, the famous trumpet call played from the tower of St. Mary's Basilica every hour. Oh, and if you hear it suddenly stop halfway through, that's completely intentional. According to legend, it commemorates a trumpeter who was sounding the alarm during a Mongol invasion in the 13th century before he was struck in the throat by an arrow, causing the tune to end abruptly.
Right in the middle of the square, you'll also find the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice). Originally built as a center for international trade, it's now filled with stalls selling everything from amber jewelry and handmade souvenirs to traditional Polish gifts. Even if you're not planning to buy anything, it's worth walking through while you're exploring the square.
If you have a little extra time, I'd also recommend visiting the Rynek Underground Museum beneath the square. You can literally walk through the remains of medieval Kraków below today's Main Market Square, making it one of the city's most unique museums.
And if you're visiting during the winter, this is also where you'll find Kraków's famous Christmas Market. The entire square fills with wooden stalls selling traditional food, mulled wine, handmade gifts, and Christmas decorations, making it one of my favorite times of year to visit. Planning a winter trip? Read my complete guide to the Kraków Christmas Market.
Explore Wawel Castle
If it's your first time in Kraków, Wawel Castle is one place I wouldn't skip. For centuries, it was home to Polish kings and queens, and today it's one of the country's most important landmarks. There's plenty to see here, from the Royal Apartments and the cathedral to the castle grounds and the famous Dragon's Den.
Even if you don't feel like going inside, I'd still recommend walking around the castle grounds. You can explore the courtyards, enjoy the views over the Vistula River, and take in the atmosphere completely free. If you'd like to visit the Royal Apartments, the cathedral, the Dragon's Den, or one of the other exhibitions, you'll need to buy a ticket.
And then there's the Wawel Dragon. If you walk down to the river below the castle, you'll find a dragon statue that breathes real fire every few minutes. I still remember my grandpa bringing me here as a child and convincing me it was a real dragon because... well... it actually breathed fire. Safe to say I totally believed him.
Wander Around Kazimierz
If you've spent any time researching where to eat, grab a coffee, browse a vintage shop, or find a good cocktail bar in Kraków, chances are quite a few of the places you've saved are in Kazimierz. Once the city's historic Jewish Quarter, it's now one of my favorite neighborhoods in Kraków and somewhere I always recommend people spend at least half a day exploring.
That doesn't mean you should skip the history, though. I'd definitely recommend joining a walking tour if it's your first visit, as it gives you a much better understanding of the neighborhood and everything that happened here during World War II. Walking through Kazimierz feels completely different once you understand its history.
Once the tour is over, this is one part of Kraków where I'd happily put Google Maps away for a while. Wander through the side streets, pop into a few independent shops, stop for a coffee, or find a terrace for lunch and see where the afternoon takes you. Chances are you'll end up staying much longer than you planned.
Step Inside Schindler's Factory
Despite its name, Schindler's Factory isn't really a museum about Oskar Schindler himself. Instead, it tells the story of what life in Kraków was like during the German occupation in World War II, making it one of the city's most interesting museums if you'd like to understand more about its history. The museum does a great job of putting everything into context, especially if you've already spent some time exploring Kazimierz.
I'd recommend booking your tickets in advance, especially if you're visiting during the summer or around Christmas, as it can sell out several days ahead.
Walk Along the Vistula River
After a morning of sightseeing, one of my favorite things to do is simply head down to the Vistula River. It runs right through Kraków, and on a sunny day it's one of the nicest places to slow down for a bit without feeling like you've stopped exploring.
The riverside paths are perfect for a walk, and you'll get some of the best views of Wawel Castle from here. During the warmer months you'll find people cycling, having picnics, or simply sitting by the water enjoying the sunshine.
If you'd rather see Kraków from a different perspective, you can also take one of the evening river cruises. They usually last around an hour and are a really nice way to see the city from the water, especially around sunset.
Visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine
Although it's technically located just outside Kraków, I wouldn't skip the Wieliczka Salt Mine if it's your first visit. It's one of Poland's most famous attractions and somewhere that's unlike anything I've visited elsewhere.
The tour takes you hundreds of feet underground, where you'll walk through a network of tunnels, underground lakes, and enormous chambers carved entirely out of salt. The highlight for most people is the Chapel of St. Kinga, an underground church complete with chandeliers, sculptures, and even altars made from salt.
The mine is only about 20–30 minutes from Kraków, making it an easy half-day trip if you're staying in the city. Just make sure to book your tickets in advance, especially during the summer, as tours often sell out.
The Best Day Trips From Kraków
If you have a little extra time, don't just stay in Kraków the entire trip. Some of southern Poland's best attractions are less than two hours away, making them easy to visit in a single day. Whether you're interested in history, hiking, skiing, or roller coasters, there are plenty of great options.
Visit Auschwitz-Birkenau
If you're interested in World War II history, Auschwitz-Birkenau is one of the most important day trips you can take from Kraków. The former concentration and extermination camp is around an hour and a half from the city and offers an incredibly important insight into one of history's darkest chapters.
If you don't have a rental car, I'd actually recommend booking a guided tour from Kraków. Oświęcim is around a 45-minute to 1-hour drive from the city, and while you can get there by public transportation, joining a tour is often the easiest option as transportation is included.
Spend a Day in Zakopane
Zakopane is one of my favorite places on earth, and I make a point of visiting every single time I'm in Kraków—even if it's only for the day. Sitting at the foot of the Tatra Mountains, it feels completely different from the city and is the perfect escape if you want to swap medieval streets for mountain views.
What makes Zakopane so special is that it doesn't matter what time of year you visit. During the summer, you can spend the day hiking in the Tatra Mountains, rafting through the Dunajec Gorge, relaxing in one of the region's thermal baths, or even going quad biking. In the winter, Zakopane transforms into one of Poland's most popular ski destinations, where you can go skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, or simply enjoy the snowy mountain scenery.
Whether you're looking for a relaxing day surrounded by nature or something a little more adventurous, Zakopane has something for just about everyone. If I had to recommend just one day trip from Kraków, this would be it.
Ride Roller Coasters at Energylandia
If you're a roller coaster fan, you can't miss Energylandia. Located just over an hour from Kraków, it's home to more roller coasters than any other theme park in Europe, including Hyperion, Europe's tallest and fastest mega coaster, and Zadra, the world's tallest hybrid roller coaster.
Even if you're not someone who plans every vacation around theme parks, it's still a really fun way to spend a day. Besides the record-breaking roller coasters, you'll also find family rides, themed areas, and a large water park during the summer months.
If you're visiting during the peak summer season, I'd recommend arriving as early as possible. The park gets incredibly busy, and getting there when it opens gives you the best chance of riding the biggest coasters before the queues build up.
Where to eat in Kraków
Remember earlier when I said Kraków never feels like a city that's constantly pushing you towards the next museum? I definitely wasn't talking about the restaurants. Between traditional Polish food, cozy cafés, trendy brunch spots, and some genuinely excellent cocktail bars, it's very easy to plan your entire day around your next meal.
One thing I've noticed about Poland is that there's almost always some kind of festival or event happening—and somehow, it almost always involves food. Whether you're visiting the Christmas Market in December, the Pierogi Festival in August, or simply happen to stumble upon another food festival, trust me... you'll be well fed here.
Here are a few of my favorite places to eat (wódka optional):
Here are a few places I'd recommend:
Międzymiastowa for drinks, small bites, and one of my favorite terraces overlooking the Main Market Square.
Restauracja Sukiennice if you're looking to try traditional Polish food without breaking the bank. If you can, ask for a table downstairs—it has a much more unique atmosphere than the main dining room.
Nago if you're craving sushi. It might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Poland, but it's genuinely one of my favorite sushi restaurants in Kraków.
Pino River if you don't mind walking a little farther from the Old Town. The restaurant sits on a boat overlooking Wawel Castle, and the outdoor terrace is especially nice on a sunny day. If possible, I'd recommend requesting a table outside when making your reservation.
Practical tips for your trip to Kraków
A few last tips that will hopefully make your trip a little easier:
Book popular attractions in advance. Places like Auschwitz-Birkenau, Schindler's Factory, and the Wieliczka Salt Mine can sell out, especially during the summer and around Christmas.
Wear comfortable shoes. Kraków is an incredibly walkable city, but you'll probably end up walking much more than you expect. The Old Town is also full of cobblestone streets, and while Polish women somehow make walking across them in heels look effortless—that's level advanced. I'd definitely recommend sticking to comfortable shoes instead.
You don't need a car. Between walking, trams, buses, Uber, and Bolt, getting around Kraków is incredibly easy. I'd only consider renting one if you're planning to explore more of southern Poland beyond the city.
Download Jakdojade before you arrive. If you're planning to use public transport, the Jakdojade app is by far the easiest way to plan journeys in Poland. You can also buy tickets directly from the ticket machines on most trams and buses, so there's no need to find a ticket office beforehand.
Poland uses the Polish złoty (PLN). Around 99% of restaurants, cafés, hotels, and shops accept card payments, so you probably won't need much cash. That said, I still like to keep a few złoty in my wallet, just in case.
Most shops are closed on Sundays. Poland has Sunday trading restrictions, so most supermarkets and shopping malls will be closed. Restaurants, cafés, and tourist attractions generally stay open, and if you need to pick up a few essentials, don't worry—Żabka (yes, the one with the hot dogs) is always open.
Don't worry if you don't speak Polish. Kraków is a very tourist-friendly city, and you'll find that many people working in restaurants, hotels, and attractions speak English. That said, a simple dzień dobry (hello) or dziękuję (thank you) is always appreciated.
There you have it - a list of everything you need to know for your trip to Kraków. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. Happy Travels!
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