Krakow is a beautiful city, brimming with history, culture, and stunning architecture. Whether you’re planning a short break or wondering how to spend a few days in Krakow, this guide will help you explore its medieval Old Town, vibrant Jewish Quarter, iconic sites like Wawel Castle and Schindler’s Factory, and even nearby day trips such as Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine..
Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply seeking a captivating getaway, Krakow has something to offer everyone. Here’s your ultimate guide, featuring the best things to do, where to eat, and where to stay.
What to do in Krakow
Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links for travel services I use and love, such as experiences and hotel bookings. If you click and make a booking, I may receive a small commission which helps support this site. This does not affect the price you pay.
Explore the Old Town (Stare Miasto)
The historic Old Town is the heart of Krakow and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Main Market Square (Rynek Główny): The largest medieval square in Europe, surrounded by cafés, shops, and historic buildings.
- St. Mary’s Basilica (11:30–18:00 / Sundays & Public Holidays: 14:00–18:00): Famous for its wooden altarpiece and the trumpet call (Hejnał) played every hour from its tower.
- Cloth Hall (Sukiennice, 10:00–18:00): A Renaissance-era market hall where you’ll find local crafts, artwork, and souvenirs.
Visit Wawel Castle & Wawel Hill
- A must-see landmark overlooking the Vistula River, filled with history and stunning architecture.
- It’s free to walk up Wawel Hill and to explore the castle courtyards and admire the architecture.
- However, tickets are required for interior sections (sold separately):
- State Rooms
- Crown Treasury & Armory
- Wawel Cathedral
- Dragon’s Den
- Visiting multiple areas can take hours, so consider focusing on one or two.
- Guided tours and audio guides are available for a deeper experience.
👉 Get a guided tour of Wawel Castle & Cathedral here.
Take a Free Walking Tour
- A free walking tour is a great way to learn about the city’s history, including its medieval past, Jewish heritage, and the legacy of World War II. Book your free walking tour here.
Explore Kazimierz and the Ghetto by Golf Cart
- Two of Krakow’s most historic districts, rich in culture, resilience, and memory.
On this heated electric golf cart tour, you’ll visit:
- Kazimierz: synagogues, Jewish cemeteries, and charming streets full of cafés and art
- The Jewish Ghetto: Ghetto Heroes Square, fragments of the ghetto wall, and Schindler’s Factory
The tour lasts 1.5 hours, offering:
- A perfect balance of history without being overwhelming
- Comfort in any weather—rain, cold, or shine
- Stories and insights from a knowledgeable guide
👉Book your Golf Cart Tour here for only €19.50.
Schindler’s Factory
- A must-visit museum housed in the former enamel factory of Oskar Schindler, who saved over 1,000 Jews during World War II.
- The museum offers a powerful and immersive experience, detailing life in Kraków under Nazi occupation. Interactive exhibits, personal artifacts, and photographs bring this history to life.
- Tickets are required for entry and can sell out, so it’s highly recommended to purchase in advance.
- A guided tour or audio guide is ideal if you’re interested in learning more about the history, the Jewish community, and Schindler’s heroic efforts.
Walk Along the Vistula River
- The riverbanks are a great spot for a relaxing stroll, with views of historic bridges, Wawel Castle, and the city skyline.
- If you’re interested in outdoor activities, you can rent a bike or enjoy a scenic boat ride to see Krakow from a different perspective.
👉 Book a picturesque Vistula River boat ride here for a memorable experience and stunning photo opportunities. The tour is limited to 12 guests per boat and runs daily from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Visit Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum
- A deeply moving site about 1.5 hours from Krakow, providing insight into the suffering endured by millions during the Holocaust.
- Tickets can be booked directly and the memorial is reachable by train or bus (Flixbus or shuttle), allowing you to explore at your own pace.
- Advance tickets: Go on sale 90 days in advance and sell out quickly; if missed, you may need to queue early, with lines starting as early as 6:00 AM.
- Guided tours: Booking through a trusted company secures tickets in advance and provides historical context; tours typically start early in the morning.
- Experience highlights:
- Walk through the Auschwitz and Birkenau camps at your own pace or with a knowledgeable guide.
- Learn about the history of the Holocaust and the lives of those who suffered here.
- Reflect on the significance of the site in a respectful and meaningful way.
👉 Book a recommended Auschwitz-Birkenau guided tour here
Take a Day Trip to Wieliczka Salt Mine
One of Poland’s most famous attractions, the Wieliczka Salt Mine is a UNESCO World Heritage site just outside Krakow.
- A unique, memorable experience suitable for all ages.
- Explore stunning underground tunnels, chambers, and intricate salt sculptures.
- Visit independently for flexibility, or take a guided tour with transfers for a hassle-free experience.
- Learn about the history of salt mining and the lives of miners.
👉 Book your Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour with Transport here
TIP: If you’re short on time but want to experience Krakow’s most iconic sites, this full-day tour combines visits to Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine. Enjoy the convenience of organized transport and guided tours, so you can focus on the history and beauty of both destinations without worrying about logistics.
👉 Book your day tour ticket here.
Take a Day Trip to Zakopane in the Tatra Mountains
From Krakow, a day trip to the mountains in Zakopane is easy to plan. The simplest way is with a guided tour, but if you have more time, I highly recommend staying overnight to fully enjoy the town. Travelling to Zakopane is straightforward, and you can find all your transport options, including direct links to official websites, in my full blog post here.
Where to Eat in Krakow
- Pod Wawelem – For an authentic Polish dining experience, head to Pod Wawelem, a local institution. The restaurant offers hearty traditional Polish dishes such as pierogi (dumplings), bigos (hunter’s stew), and mouth-watering roasted meats.
- W Starej Kuchni – If you’re looking to dive into some classic Polish dishes in a traditional, no-frills environment, this restaurant is definitely a good choice and one of our favourite restaurants we dined at whilst in Krakow. The spicy goulash in bread is absolutely delicious!
- Starka Restaurant – This restaurant in the Kazimierz district is renowned for its house-made vodkas, which come in a variety of flavors. Try their famous schnitzel or the succulent Polish pork belly, all served in a cozy, intimate setting.
- Gossip Cafe – If you’re in the mood for something light or want to unwind in a trendy, relaxed environment with good coffee and a bite to eat, this is a solid choice.
- Pankejk – It’s not a place for traditional Polish cuisine, but if you’re craving a more casual, light meal, Pankejk is a great choice, particularly if you’re a fan of pancakes.
- Wodka Bar – Vodka is a popular Polish drink, and Wodka Bar in Krakow’s city centre offers a variety of house-made flavored vodkas in a cozy, inviting setting.
TIP: If you’re planning to dine at a popular restaurant, it’s always a good idea to make your reservation well in advance. You can book most restaurants online through the restaurants’ website (linked above).
Where to Stay in Krakow
The city offers a wide range of accommodation options; whether you’re a backpacker looking for budget-friendly hostels, a couple seeking a stylish boutique hotel, or a traveller wanting a touch of luxury in a historic setting.
Most visitors prefer staying close to the Old Town or the Kazimierz (Jewish Quarter). Both areas are filled with cafés, restaurants, and landmarks, and you can reach most attractions on foot. If you’d like to be in the heart of the action, the Old Town is ideal, while Kazimierz offers a slightly more bohemian and laid-back vibe.
Below, I’ve listed some of the best accommodation options in Krakow—organized by budget, mid-range, and luxury—to help you choose the perfect place for your stay.
Budget friendly
- Moon Hostel – This hostel offers great value for money, with spacious rooms (including private rooms), a free breakfast, and an ideal location near trendy cafes and bars in the Kazimierz district.
- Ibis Budget Krakow Stare Miasto – A modern, budget-friendly hotel located just a short walk from Kraków’s Main Railway Station and the bustling Main Market Square. Its central location makes it an excellent base for exploring the city.
Mid-range
- Aparthotel Stare Miasto – I personally stayed here and loved it for its unbeatable location just steps from the Main Market Square. Being right in the center made it easy to explore Krakow entirely on foot. The apartments offer comfort, space, and independence, making them a great choice if you want the freedom of a self-catering stay in the heart of the city.
- Hotel Indigo – a modern hotel with vibrant decor, offering comfort and luxury at a reasonable price. The location is just a short walk to major attractions like St. Mary’s Basilica and the Main Market Square.
Luxury
- Hotel Wentzl – this intimate and beautifully restored hotel offers personalized service with rooms that overlook the lively Main Market Square.
- Hotel Copernicus – one of Krakow’s finest 5-star hotels, this hotel is perfect for those seeking a premium experience.
Other Tips & Notes for Visiting Krakow
- Getting Around: Krakow has an excellent public transport network of trams and buses. Tickets are inexpensive and can be purchased at machines in most stops or via mobile apps. Don’t forget to validate your ticket once on board, as checks are common and fines are steep. Ride-hailing apps like Bolt and Uber are also widely available and reasonably priced, making them a convenient option.
- Safety: Krakow is considered a safe city for travelers. That said, as in any tourist destination, be cautious in crowded areas like the Main Market Square, especially at night, and keep an eye on your belongings.
- Money: Poland uses the Polish złoty (PLN). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, even in smaller cafés and shops. Still, it’s handy to carry some cash for small purchases, local markets, or public toilets (which often charge a small fee). ATMs are easy to find throughout the city.
- Language: The official language is Polish, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Most younger Poles speak English well, so communication shouldn’t be an issue.
- Local Culture: Poles are friendly and helpful, though they may come across as reserved at first.
- Food: Don’t miss the chance to try traditional Polish dishes such as pierogi (dumplings), żurek (sour rye soup), and obwarzanek (a Krakow-style bagel sold on street corners). The city also has a growing café culture and excellent craft beer scene.
- Weather: Summers (June–August) can get hot, with temperatures reaching into the high 20s °C, so pack light clothing, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for walking. Winters (December–February) are cold and often snowy, so bring warm layers, a proper coat, and waterproof boots. Spring and autumn are milder but can be unpredictable, so it’s wise to pack a mix of layers.
A few days in Krakow offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and charm. Wander the Old Town, explore Kazimierz, reflect at Schindler’s Factory and Auschwitz, and marvel at the Wieliczka Salt Mine. Great food, cozy cafés, and a variety of accommodations make it easy to enjoy the city your way. Krakow is unforgettable; pack your walking shoes and get ready to explore!
Happy Travels! x
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