Krakow, Poland Travel Guide

Discover the timeless charm of Krakow, Poland's medieval gem, where history, culture, and modernity intertwine in a captivating tapestry.

Krakow, the former capital of Poland, is a city that effortlessly blends its rich history with a vibrant modern culture. As you stroll through this beautiful city, you will be transported back in time by its medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and charming squares. The heart of Krakow is its Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can explore the bustling Main Market Square, the largest medieval town square in Europe. Here, you will find the iconic St. Mary's Basilica, with its stunning Gothic architecture and the hourly trumpet call from its tallest tower. A trip to Krakow would be incomplete without visiting Wawel Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the Vistula River. This royal castle complex is a treasure trove of Polish history and art, offering breathtaking views of the city. Another must-see is the Kazimierz district, the historic Jewish quarter, which is now a lively area filled with quirky cafes, art galleries, and a thriving nightlife. The poignant remnants of the Jewish ghetto and the nearby Oskar Schindler's Factory Museum provide a sobering reminder of the city's tragic past during World War II. Krakow is also a gateway to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, an underground marvel of intricate salt sculptures and chapels carved from rock salt. Just a short drive from the city, this unique attraction is another UNESCO World Heritage site. For those seeking relaxation, the colorful Planty Park encircling the Old Town offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle. Krakow's culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional Polish dishes and contemporary cuisine, with countless restaurants, cafes, and street food vendors to satisfy every palate.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Krakow.

Visit the Main Market Square early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful stroll.
Take a guided tour of Wawel Castle to learn about its fascinating history and secret legends.
Explore the Kazimierz district on foot to fully appreciate its vibrant street art and cozy cafes.
Purchase tickets for the Wieliczka Salt Mine in advance to secure your spot and avoid long lines.
Try local delicacies like pierogi, obwarzanek, and zapiekanka for an authentic taste of Krakow.

Neighbourhoods in Krakow

Stare Miasto (Old Town)

Kazimierz

Podgórze

Nowa Huta

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Krakow

Explore Krakow: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Krakow

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Energylandia

Discover Energylandia, Poland's largest amusement park, packed with thrilling rides, family-friendly attractions, and unforgettable entertainment.

4.9

Rynek Główny

Explore the vibrant Rynek Główny, Kraków's historic main square, rich in architecture, culture, and local flavors.

4.8

Wawel Royal Castle-State Art Collection

Explore Wawel Royal Castle, a majestic symbol of Polish history, art, and culture, where royalty once lived and ruled over the land.

4.7

Wawel Cathedral

Explore the majestic Wawel Cathedral in Kraków, a historical marvel with stunning architecture and a rich cultural heritage that captivates every visitor.

4.8

Best landmarks in Krakow

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Rynek Główny

Discover the vibrant heart of Kraków at Rynek Główny, where history meets culture in a magnificent plaza filled with life.

4.8

Wawel Royal Castle-State Art Collection

Discover Wawel Royal Castle, an iconic symbol of Kraków's history, featuring stunning architecture and an impressive art collection.

4.7

Wawel Cathedral

Explore the stunning Wawel Cathedral in Kraków, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture filled with rich history and breathtaking artistic treasures.

4.8

Wieliczka Salt Mine

Experience the enchanting underground world of the Wieliczka Salt Mine, where history, art, and geology merge in a breathtaking subterranean adventure.

4.6

Best restaurants in Krakow

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Pod Wawelem Kompania Kuflowa

Savor authentic Polish cuisine at Pod Wawelem Kompania Kuflowa in Kraków – where tradition meets flavor.

4.4

Kuchnia u Doroty

Discover the heart of Poland at Kuchnia u Doroty – where traditional recipes meet warm hospitality in Kraków's Stare Miasto.

4.6

Morskie Oko

Discover authentic Polish flavors at Morskie Oko in Kraków - a perfect blend of tradition and hospitality.

4.6

Sioux

Experience exquisite American cuisine at Sioux in Kraków – where succulent steaks meet vibrant atmosphere.

4.6

Best bars in Krakow

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BaniaLuka

Discover BaniaLuka in Kraków: A cozy bar and restaurant offering delightful Polish cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for tourists.

4.4

Cybermachina Game Pub - Kraków

Experience the ultimate gaming adventure at Cybermachina Game Pub in Kraków, where fun meets flavor in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.5

Eszeweria

Discover the unique atmosphere and exquisite drinks at Eszeweria, Kraków's eclectic bar offering a vibrant nightlife experience.

4.7

Mercy Brown Cocktails Jazz & Burlesque

Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Kraków at Mercy Brown Cocktails Jazz & Burlesque, where exquisite cocktails meet enchanting jazz and burlesque performances.

4.8

Best nightclubs in Krakow

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Shine Club Kraków

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Shine Club Kraków, where cocktails, dancing, and live music create unforgettable experiences in the heart of the city.

3.9

Klub 30

Discover Klub 30 in Kraków: A vibrant night club with cocktails, live music, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.

4.3

Coco | Music Club

Experience the electric energy of Kraków's nightlife at Coco Music Club, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await.

3.8

The Legends | Music Club

Discover The Legends in Kraków, where live music, dancing, and craft brews create an unforgettable nightlife experience.

4.2

Best shops in Krakow

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Galeria Krakowska

Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Galeria Krakowska, featuring over 250 stores, diverse dining, and entertainment options in the heart of Kraków.

4.4

Galeria Kazimierz

Experience the best of shopping, dining, and entertainment at Galeria Kazimierz in Kraków, where modern retail meets local charm.

4.4

M1 Kraków

Explore M1 Kraków, a vibrant shopping mall with diverse stores, dining, and entertainment options perfect for tourists in Kraków.

4.4

Factory Kraków

Discover unbeatable fashion deals at Factory Kraków, the premier outlet mall offering a wide range of brands and dining options for the ultimate shopping experience.

4.4

Explore Krakow on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Krakow, mapped for you.

Krakow Essentials

Krakow is well-connected by air, rail, and road. The John Paul II International Airport Kraków–Balice (KRK) is the main airport, located about 11 kilometers from the city center. Direct flights are available from many major European cities. From the airport, you can take a train, bus, or taxi to reach the city center. The train ride takes about 20 minutes. Krakow is also accessible by train from other Polish cities and neighboring countries. The main railway station, Kraków Główny, is centrally located. Buses and cars are other viable options; the A4 motorway connects Krakow with other major cities.
Krakow has an efficient public transportation system, which includes buses and trams. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks, ticket machines, or via a mobile app. Validate your ticket immediately upon boarding. Taxis are available but make sure to use licensed ones. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt are also popular. For short distances, walking and cycling are great options. The city has many bike rental services and designated bike lanes.
The official currency is the Polish Zloty (PLN). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and in case you visit places that do not accept cards. ATMs are widely available. Currency exchange offices (Kantor) offer competitive rates but always check the exchange rate before making a transaction.
Krakow is generally a safe city, but like any major tourist destination, it's important to stay vigilant. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas like the Main Market Square and public transport. Avoid poorly lit areas at night. Kazimierz and Nowa Huta are generally safe but exercise caution, especially after dark. Always keep an eye on your belongings and use hotel safes for valuables.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number works for police, medical emergencies, and fire services. The main hospitals in Krakow include University Hospital and St. Raphael Hospital. Pharmacies, known as 'Apteka', are widely available, with some open 24/7. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and other unexpected events.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites like churches. Avoid overly casual attire in fine dining restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress modestly and avoid loud conversations. Public Transport: Do give up your seat to elderly passengers and pregnant women. Don’t talk loudly or disrupt other passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like pierogi and zapiekanka. Don’t skip tipping; 10% is customary in restaurants.
To experience Krakow like a local, visit the less touristy districts like Podgórze and Kazimierz. Enjoy a Vistula River cruise or rent a bike to explore the city. Try traditional Polish cuisine at a 'milk bar' (Bar Mleczny). Attend a local festival or cultural event to immerse yourself in the local culture. Visit the local markets like Hala Targowa for fresh produce and unique finds. Engage with locals; they are generally friendly and willing to share insights about their city.

When is the best time to visit Krakow?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Krakow

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Krakow. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloCześć
  [cheh-shch]
- GoodbyeDo widzenia
  [doh veed-zen-ya]
- YesTak
  [tahk]
- NoNie
  [nyeh]
- Please/You're welcomeProszę
  [proh-sheh]
- Thank youDziękuję
  [jyen-koo-yeh]
- Excuse me/SorryPrzepraszam
  [psheh-prah-shahm]
- How are you?Jak się masz?
  [yahk shcheh mah-sh]
- Fine. And you?Dobrze. A ty?
  [doh-bzheh. ah tih]
- Do you speak English?Czy mówisz po angielsku?
  [chi moo-veesh poh ahn-gyehl-skoo]
- I don't understandNie rozumiem
  [nyeh roh-zoo-myem]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseChciałbym zobaczyć menu, proszę
  [h-chyah-bim zoh-bah-chich meh-noo, proh-sheh]
- I don't eat meatNie jem mięsa
  [nyeh yem myen-sah]
- Cheers!Na zdrowie!
  [nah zdroh-vee-eh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseChciałbym zapłacić, proszę
  [h-chyah-bim zah-plah-cheech, proh-sheh]
- Help!Pomocy!
  [poh-moh-tsi]
- Go away!Idź sobie!
  [eej soh-byeh]
- Call the Police!Zadzwoń po policję!
  [zahd-zwohn poh poh-leet-syeh]
- Call a doctor!Zadzwoń po lekarza!
  [zahd-zwohn poh leh-kah-zah]
- I'm lostZgubiłem się
  [zgoo-bee-wem shcheh]
- I'm illJestem chory/chora
  [yeh-stem hoh-ri/hoh-rah]
- I'd like to buy...Chciałbym kupić...
  [h-chyah-bim koo-peech]
- I'm just lookingTylko się rozglądam
  [tih-koh shcheh rohz-gwah-dahm]
- How much is it?Ile to kosztuje?
  [ee-leh toh kohs-too-yeh]
- That's too expensiveTo za drogo
  [toh zah droh-goh]
- Can you lower the price?Czy możesz obniżyć cenę?
  [chi moo-zhesh ohb-nee-zhich tseh-neh]
- What time is it?Która jest godzina?
  [ktoo-rah yest goh-dzee-nah]
- It's one o'clockJest pierwsza
  [yest pyehr-foosh-ah]
- Half past (10)Pół do dziesiątej
  [poow doh dzyeh-syahnt-ehy]
- MorningRano
  [rah-noh]
- AfternoonPopołudnie
  [poh-poo-wood-nyeh]
- EveningWieczór
  [vyeh-choor]
- YesterdayWczoraj
  [v-choh-rye]
- TodayDziś
  [jeesh]
- TomorrowJutro
  [yoo-troh]
- 1Jeden
  [yeh-dehn]
- 2Dwa
  [dvah]
- 3Trzy
  [tshih]
- 4Cztery
  [ch-teh-rih]
- 5Pięć
  [pyehnch]
- 6Sześć
  [shchehshch]
- 7Siedem
  [shye-dehm]
- 8Osiem
  [oh-shyem]
- 9Dziewięć
  [dzyeh-vyenhch]
- 10Dziesięć
  [dzyeh-shehnch]
- Where's a/the...?Gdzie jest...
  [gdyeh yest]
- What's the address?Jaki jest adres?
  [yah-ki yest ah-drehs]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Czy możesz mi pokazać (na mapie)?
  [chi moo-zhesh mee poh-kah-zach (nah mah-pyeh)]
- When's the next (bus)?Kiedy jest następny (autobus)?
  [kyeh-deh yest nah-stehp-ny (ow-toh-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Bilet (do ....)
  [bee-let (doh)]

History of Krakow

Krakow was founded in the 7th century and has since grown into one of Poland's most important cities. According to legend, the city was established by the mythical ruler Krakus, who built it above a cave occupied by a dragon. This legend is commemorated by the Wawel Dragon statue near Wawel Castle.
In the Middle Ages, Krakow became the capital of Poland and a major center of trade and culture. Its strategic location on the Vistula River made it an ideal hub for merchants and artisans. The city’s first university, Jagiellonian University, was founded in 1364 by King Casimir III the Great, marking Krakow as a center for learning and scholarship.
The Renaissance era was a golden age for Krakow. The city flourished as a center of arts, sciences, and trade. The construction of Wawel Cathedral and the renovation of Wawel Castle during this period are notable highlights. The Sigismund Chapel, often regarded as a pearl of the Renaissance north of the Alps, was also built during this time.
After the partitions of Poland at the end of the 18th century, Krakow was incorporated into the Austrian Empire. Despite the foreign rule, the city retained its cultural significance. The 19th century saw the development of Krakow's infrastructure, including the establishment of the Planty Park, which replaced the old city walls.
During World War II, Krakow was occupied by Nazi Germany and became the capital of the General Government. The city's Jewish population suffered immensely during the Holocaust, with many being sent to concentration camps such as Auschwitz. The Krakow Ghetto and the Plaszow labor camp were sites of horrific persecution.
After World War II, Krakow became part of the People's Republic of Poland under Soviet influence. The city developed industrially, most notably with the construction of the Nowa Huta steelworks. Despite the political repression, Krakow remained a stronghold of intellectual and cultural resistance, playing a significant role in the Solidarity movement of the 1980s.
Following the fall of communism in 1989, Krakow emerged as a vibrant cultural and economic center in Poland. The city's historic sites, including the Old Town, Wawel Castle, and Kazimierz district, have been meticulously restored. Krakow's designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978 has helped preserve its rich heritage.