Discover Krakow, Poland: Top 10 Things to Do
If you’re dreaming of a city that wears its history like a well-loved vintage coat – utterly charming, slightly mysterious, and unexpectedly cool – then Krakow is calling your name. Here at The Travel Tinker, we’re all about finding those places that make your heart do a little happy dance, and believe us, Krakow delivers (That good, I’ve been twice). Forget stuffy history lessons! Think fairytale castles, underground marvels, buzzing squares, and food that’ll make you want to write poetry (or at least loosen your belt). So, grab a cuppa (or perhaps a kieliszek wódki to get in the spirit?), and let’s dive into the magic. Ready to discover Krakow, Poland: Top 10 Things to Do? Let’s go! 🇵🇱
Let's Discover Krakow, Poland: Top 10 Things to Do!
Krakow isn’t just ticking a box on your Interrail trip; it’s stepping into a story. Miraculously spared the worst of the bombs in WWII, its Old Town is the real deal – like stepping back centuries, but with better plumbing (mostly). But don’t think it’s stuck in the past; there’s a fizz of energy here, full of students, artists, hidden bars, and plates piled high with pierogi. Prepare to fall head over heels.
Get Delightfully Lost in the Epic Main Market Square (Rynek Główny)
Get this: it’s Europe’s biggest medieval square. Not just big, it’s HUGE. And it’s not some empty museum piece; it’s Krakow’s beating heart, its main stage, its meeting point. Day or night, there’s always something going on. You’ve got the flutter of a million pigeons (guard your sandwiches!), the romantic clip-clop of horse-drawn carriages, street performers, flower stalls, and just… life. It’s utterly captivating.
Seriously, just plonk yourself down at one of the outdoor cafes (pricey, but worth it for the people-watching!) and soak it all in. Gawp at the gorgeous Cloth Hall smack bang in the middle, and listen out for the Hejnał Mariacki. That’s the trumpet call from St. Mary’s Basilica tower, played every single hour. Legend says the poor trumpeter got shot by an arrow mid-tune warning the city. Talk about drama!
💡 Here’s a little nugget: That trumpet call? It always cuts off mid-note, supposedly in honour of the original trumpeter. Stand near the Basilica on the hour; you can’t miss it. Fancy a cracking view of the square? Hoof it up the Town Hall Tower – it’s separate from the Cloth Hall and gives you a brilliant perspective.
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Channel Your Inner King or Queen at Wawel Castle & Cathedral
Sitting proudly on its hill like the king of the castle (literally), Wawel doesn’t just sit there, it presides over the Vistula River. This isn’t just a castle; it’s the castle for Poland. Think Tower of London meets Buckingham Palace, Polish style. For centuries, kings were crowned and buried here, and you can practically feel the echoes of history bouncing off the Renaissance courtyard walls.
You can poke around the swanky State Rooms, check out the crown jewels (well, replicas and treasures), and imagine knights clanking about in the Armoury. The Cathedral next door is stunning, crammed with tombs and chapels. Oh, and the dragon chat! Yep, legend says a grumpy dragon lived in a cave under the hill. You can even visit his supposed den (Smocza Jama) – brace yourself for the slightly cheesy, but fun, fire-breathing statue outside! Visiting Wawel Castle is non-negotiable, folks.
💡 Bit of Pub Trivia: They say the Wawel Dragon met its fiery end thanks to a clever cobbler’s apprentice named Skuba. He fed the beast a sheep stuffed with sulphur. The dragon got so thirsty it drank half the Vistula River and… KABOOM! True story? Probably not, but way more fun.
More Guides To Poland, sure!
Soak Up the Vibe in Kazimierz (The Old Jewish Quarter)
Kazimierz has soul. Once its own town, this district was the heart of Jewish life in Krakow for centuries. Its history is deeply moving and complex, marked by tragedy during the war. But today? It’s bounced back with this incredible energy – think cobbled lanes, synagogues shoulder-to-shoulder with quirky galleries, vintage shops that smell wonderfully musty, and some of the city’s absolute best, most atmospheric bars and eateries.
Honestly, the best way to see Kazimierz is to just wander. Ditch the map for a bit, get properly lost down side streets, peek into hidden courtyards dripping with ivy, find a cosy café, and just watch the world go by. You might even stumble upon some live Klezmer music drifting from a window. It’s got this unique blend of melancholy and resilience that just gets under your skin. Exploring the Kazimierz Jewish Quarter is like finding Krakow’s bohemian heart.
🔹 Top tip from us: Keep your eyes peeled for amazing street art – Kazimierz is plastered in it, often tucked away where you least expect it. And if you’re wondering where the buzz is after dark (or where to get those legendary Zapiekanki), head straight for Plac Nowy.
Find Your Krakow Adventure...
Have Your Mind Blown Underground at the Wieliczka Salt Mine
Right, prepare yourselves. This place is bonkers, in the best possible way. A short hop from Krakow city centre lies this subterranean labyrinth that’s been pulling salt out of the earth for centuries. But Wieliczka isn’t just some dark, damp mine. Oh no. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site packed with kilometres of tunnels leading to vast chambers, underground lakes that shimmer eerily, and chapels… chapels carved entirely out of salt. Chandeliers, altarpieces, statues – all salt! It’s properly jaw-on-the-floor stuff.
The undisputed showstopper is the Chapel of St. Kinga. It’s basically an underground cathedral, and knowing miners carved this by hand deep underground is just mind-boggling. It gets busy, so booking tickets online beforehand is the smart play. And wear comfy shoes – you’ll walk a fair bit, including down a LOT of wooden stairs at the start (don’t panic, a miners’ lift whisks you back to the surface!).
💡 Weird but true: They say the air down in the salt mine is ridiculously good for you! It’s super clean, packed with micro-elements, and apparently great for folks with breathing problems. There’s even a health spa down there. Who knew?!
Pause and Reflect: Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum
Okay, deep breath time. A visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau isn’t ‘fun’, and it shouldn’t be. It’s a day trip from Krakow that’s profoundly moving, deeply sobering, and utterly vital. This was the largest Nazi concentration and extermination camp, a place of unimaginable horror during the Holocaust. Visiting is about remembrance, learning, and honouring the millions who perished.
Walking through the gates under the infamous “Arbeit Macht Frei” sign, seeing the piles of personal belongings, the cramped barracks, the starkness of Birkenau… it hits you hard. It’s essential to go with respect and a willingness to bear witness. While heartbreaking, a visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau provides a perspective on history that books and films just can’t replicate. Trust me, get a guided tour; the context they provide is invaluable.
🔹 Seriously, book ahead: Especially if you want a tour in English (or any specific language), book your official Auschwitz-Birkenau tour weeks, if not months, in advance. Spaces fill up incredibly fast, particularly in summer. Also, dress respectfully (cover shoulders/knees) and be prepared; it’s emotionally draining but so important.
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Connect the Dots at Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory
If the film “Schindler’s List” got to you, visiting the actual factory site is powerful stuff. This is where Oskar Schindler employed Jewish workers, ultimately saving over a thousand lives from the gas chambers. But the museum here, housed in the factory’s old admin building, is much broader than just Schindler’s story.
The main exhibition, “Krakow Under Nazi Occupation 1939–1945,” is incredibly well done. It uses photos, artefacts, and walk-through reconstructions to plunge you into what life was like in Krakow during those dark years – the fear, the resistance, the everyday struggle. It doesn’t just tell you; it shows you, making places like Kazimierz and the stories from Auschwitz even more real. It’s gripping.
💡 Give yourself proper time: Don’t try and rush this museum. The exhibition is dense and deserves a good couple of hours, maybe even three, to take it all in properly. Booking tickets online saves you queuing, which can be a godsend.
Recommended Tours & Tickets in Krakow
Take a Breather by the Vistula River
Need to shake off the history cobwebs for a bit? Head down to the Wisła (Vistula) River. The boulevards running alongside are perfect for a gentle stroll, a bike ride (you can rent bikes easily), or just finding a bench to watch the world go by. It’s where locals come to jog, chill, and walk their dogs, and you get fantastic, postcard-perfect views back up towards Wawel Castle perched on its hill.
Feeling lazy? Jump on a boat! Plenty of companies run little cruises up and down the river. It’s a lovely, relaxed way to see the city skyline from a different angle, spotting landmarks while bobbing about on the water. You might even get another wave from that fire-breathing dragon statue near Wawel! A really pleasant way to spend an hour, especially if the sun’s out.
Chill Out in Planty Park's Green Embrace
Imagine the Old Town getting a big green hug – that’s Planty Park! It’s this gorgeous belt of gardens, trees, fountains, and pathways that circles the entire historic centre, right where the old medieval walls used to be. It’s about 4km all the way around, offering shady escapes from the summer sun and a blaze of colour in autumn.
It’s the perfect spot to just… be. Go for a morning run, find a quiet bench with a book, grab an ice cream, or just use it as a scenic shortcut between sights. It breaks up the city beautifully and feels like a little oasis just steps away from the main hustle and bustle. Krakow locals adore it, and you’ll see why.
💡 History hidden in plain sight: Planty was created back in the 1800s after they knocked down the old city walls. But keep your eyes peeled – you can still see chunky bits of the original fortifications integrated into the park, like the impressive Florian Gate and the round Barbican defence tower. You’re literally tracing the old city limits!
Stuff Your Face: A Polish Food Adventure!
Right, the REALLY important bit: food! You absolutely cannot come to Krakow and not get stuck into Polish cuisine. Forget any stereotypes; it’s proper comfort food – hearty, flavourful, and utterly delicious. The undisputed champion? Pierogi. These little parcels of joy (dumplings) come stuffed with everything imaginable – the classic ‘Ruskie’ (potato and cheese), meat, sauerkraut and mushroom, spinach, even sweet ones with fruit. Hunt down a traditional “Bar Mleczny” (Milk Bar) for the real-deal, cheap-as-chips experience.
But don’t just stop at pierogi! Be brave. Try Żurek, a tangy sour rye soup often served dramatically in a hollowed-out loaf of bread. Dig into Bigos, a rich ‘hunter’s stew’ bubbling with meat and sauerkraut. Snack on Placki Ziemniaczane (potato pancakes), glorious fried discs often served with goulash or sour cream. And for street food gold, you must grab a Zapiekanka in Kazimierz – basically a giant, toasted pizza-baguette hybrid. Oh, and grab an Obwarzanek Krakowski (a chewy bread ring like a bagel/pretzel lovechild) from the blue street carts everywhere. Go on, loosen that belt!
Right, the REALLY important bit: food! You absolutely cannot come to Krakow and not get stuck into Polish cuisine. Forget any stereotypes; it’s proper comfort food – hearty, flavourful, and utterly delicious. The undisputed champion? Pierogi. These little parcels of joy (dumplings) come stuffed with everything imaginable – the classic ‘Ruskie’ (potato and cheese), meat, sauerkraut and mushroom, spinach, even sweet ones with fruit. Hunt down a traditional “Bar Mleczny” (Milk Bar) for the real-deal, cheap-as-chips experience.
But don’t just stop at pierogi! Be brave. Try Żurek, a tangy sour rye soup often served dramatically in a hollowed-out loaf of bread. Dig into Bigos, a rich ‘hunter’s stew’ bubbling with meat and sauerkraut. Snack on Placki Ziemniaczane (potato pancakes), glorious fried discs often served with goulash or sour cream. And for street food gold, you must grab a Zapiekanka in Kazimierz – basically a giant, toasted pizza-baguette hybrid. Oh, and grab an Obwarzanek Krakowski (a chewy bread ring like a bagel/pretzel lovechild) from the blue street carts everywhere. Go on, loosen that belt!
Here’s your cheat sheet:
| Polish Dish | What on Earth is it? | Should I Eat It? |
| Pierogi | Dumplings! (Loads of fillings) | YES. ALL OF THEM. |
| Zapiekanka | Huge open-faced toasted baguette thingy | Absolutely (esp. late night) |
| Żurek | Tangy sour rye soup (maybe in bread!) | Definitely worth a try |
| Bigos | Meaty, sauerkrauty hunter’s stew | If you like hearty! |
| Obwarzanek | Chewy, twisted bread ring (local snack) | Yep, grab one on the go |
| Placki Ziem. | Potato pancakes (fried golden goodness) | Oh yes! |
Try Your Hand at (Polite) Bargaining in the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice)
Slap bang in the middle of the Main Square sits the Sukiennice, or Cloth Hall. It’s stunning – a grand Renaissance building that used to be the place for international trade back in the day (think silks and spices). Now, its ground floor arcade is an absolute hive of activity, crammed with stalls selling all sorts of Polish goodies.
This is the perfect spot to snag souvenirs. You’ll find loads of amber jewellery (Poland’s famous for it), fluffy sheepskin slippers and rugs, beautifully carved wooden boxes, traditional folk costumes (maybe just for looking!), and intricate lacework. Even if you’re just browsing, it’s great fun to wander through, soaking up the buzz and admiring the building itself. Bonus: the upstairs houses an art gallery focusing on 19th-century Polish painting.
ℹ️ Now, about haggling… While you might haggle like mad in a Moroccan souk, it’s not really the done thing in the Cloth Hall. Prices are generally marked. You might get a tiny discount if you’re buying several things from one stall, but don’t push it. Do compare prices between stalls for similar items though. And if you’re buying amber, look for stalls offering certificates of authenticity – there’s lots of the real deal, but fakes exist everywhere!
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5 Other Things to Do in Krakow
Explore the Rynek Underground Museum: Literally dive beneath the Main Market Square! This high-tech museum showcases the archaeological discoveries made during excavations right there. You’ll walk over medieval market stalls, see ancient artefacts, and get a fascinating glimpse into Krakow life centuries ago. It’s surprisingly cool and right under your feet!
Climb St. Mary’s Basilica Tower (or Admire the Altar): Besides listening for the trumpet, you can actually climb the taller tower (Wieża Hejnalica) for cracking views over the square (book ahead, limited numbers!). Alternatively, make sure you’re inside the Basilica when the stunning, enormous wooden altarpiece by Veit Stoss is opened (usually around midday) – it’s a medieval masterpiece.
Discover Nowa Huta District: Fancy a complete change of scene? Take a tram out to Nowa Huta. This vast district was designed as a model socialist city during the communist era. It’s a fascinating, stark contrast to the Old Town, with wide avenues, imposing architecture, and a unique history. You can even take tours in vintage Trabant cars!
Visit MOCAK (Museum of Contemporary Art): Right near Schindler’s Factory, MOCAK offers a sharp dose of modern culture. Housed in a striking building, it showcases thought-provoking contemporary art from Polish and international artists. A great spot if you need a break from ancient history and fancy something more cutting-edge.
Hike up Krakus Mound (Kopiec Kraka): For panoramic views and a bit of legend, head just south of Kazimierz to Krakus Mound. It’s one of Krakow’s prehistoric mounds, supposedly the burial place of the city’s legendary founder, King Krakus (the guy who supposedly slayed the Wawel Dragon before Skuba got involved!). It’s a nice walk up and offers fantastic vistas back over the city.
Krakow’s a city that grabs you by the heart and doesn’t let go. From the regal Wawel Castle to the haunting echoes of Auschwitz, it’s a tapestry of tales woven with pride. But it’s not stuck in yesterday, think buzzing squares, cosy eateries, and nights that sparkle with laughter. Discover Krakow, Poland: Top 10 Things to Do is your ticket to a place that’s equal parts history lesson and joyride. Whether you’re here for a quick fling or a long romance, Krakow delivers. So, what’s stopping you? Dust off your suitcase, chase that Polish magic, and let The Travel Tinker guide your way. You’ll leave with a full camera roll, a happy belly, and a promise to return, because one visit just isn’t enough.
Your turn…
Have you visited Krakow? What were your highlights? Did we miss any of your favourite spots, or do you have another killer Pro Tip to share? Share your experiences, tips, or burning questions in the comments below – let’s get the Krakow conversation started! We love hearing from fellow travellers at The Travel Tinker! 👇🗣️
Adventure on,
The Travel Tinker Crew 🌍✨
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FAQs (Because people are curious...)
What is the best time of year to visit Krakow?
Honestly, Krakow charms year-round! Spring (May-June) and Autumn (Sept-Oct) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds – the sweet spot, really. Summer (July-Aug) is vibrant and bustling but busier and hotter. Winter (Nov-Feb) can be chilly, but the Christmas markets are utterly magical, transforming the Main Square into a festive wonderland.
How many days do I realistically need to see Krakow?
To cover the main highlights within the city (Old Town, Wawel, Kazimierz, Schindler’s Factory) comfortably, aim for at least 3 full days. If you want to include day trips like Wieliczka Salt Mine and Auschwitz-Birkenau, you’ll need 4-5 days to avoid rushing like a mad thing.
Is Krakow an expensive city for tourists?
Compared to many Western European capitals like London or Paris, Krakow is refreshingly affordable! Accommodation, food, drinks, and public transport offer great value for money. You can eat like royalty (or at least a very well-fed peasant!) without breaking the bank, especially if you check out the traditional Milk Bars. Activities and museum entries are also reasonably priced.
Is Krakow safe for travellers?
Yes, Krakow is generally considered a very safe city for tourists. The Old Town and Kazimierz are well-policed and accustomed to visitors. Like any popular tourist destination, exercise standard precautions: be aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and watch out for pickpockets in crowded areas (especially on trams and around the Main Square). But overall, you can relax and enjoy exploring.
What Polish food absolutely must I try while I'm there?
Okay, if we have to choose… number one is definitely Pierogi – try the ‘Ruskie’ (potato and cheese) and maybe a meat or cabbage version. Number two, grab a Zapiekanka from a street vendor in Kazimierz late at night (it’s practically a rite of passage!). And number three, sample an Obwarzanek Krakowski from a street cart for an authentic local snack. Smacznego! (Enjoy your meal!)
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Nick Harvey
Hi, I am Nick! Thank you for reading! I created The Travel Tinker as a resource designed to help you navigate the beauty of travel, allowing you to tinker your own travels! Let's explore!
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