Poland’s Historic Heart
Introduction to Krakow, Poland
Krakow: A Blend of Past and Present
Krakow, the erstwhile royal capital of Poland, is a city that effortlessly blends antiquity with modern vibrancy. Imagine cobbled streets weaving through colourful Baroque buildings, then suddenly opening up to a hip cafe or a sleek art gallery. It’s like stepping into a time machine, yet never losing touch with the pulse of the present.
Be sure to take a look at our other guides to the Poland and Europe at the end of this article. Our full Krakow Travel Guide can be found here. Enjoy!
5 Key Takeaways
- Historic and Cultural Richness: Krakow, once the royal capital of Poland, is renowned for its historical and cultural richness. From the ancient Wawel Castle, the iconic St. Mary’s Basilica, to the poignant Remuh Synagogue in the historic Jewish district of Kazimierz, Krakow offers a deep dive into Poland’s past.
- Enriching Day Trips: Krakow serves as a gateway to two highly significant World Heritage Sites: Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine. These trips offer profoundly contrasting experiences – one sombre and reflective, the other marvellously unique and intriguing.
- Food Paradise: Krakow’s culinary scene is an eclectic mix of traditional Polish and international flavours. The city is a perfect place to try Polish favourites such as pierogi, bigos, zapiekanka, and zurek.
- Blend of Past and Present: Krakow is a city where the past and present coexist beautifully. While you can find historical treasures in every corner, the city also buzzes with modern vibrancy, visible in its thriving art scene, trendy cafes, and energetic nightlife.
- Easy Accessibility and Visitor-Friendly: Krakow is not only easily accessible from other European cities, but its city centre is also compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it a delight for travellers to explore. It’s a city that extends an open invitation for everyone to step into the heart of Poland’s history while enjoying its modern-day charm.
Getting to Krakow
By Air
Krakow’s primary airport is John Paul II Kraków-Balice International Airport, situated approximately 11 km west of the city centre. It’s the second busiest airport in Poland and offers numerous direct flights from major European cities, and a few from other continents as well. Airlines such as Ryanair, EasyJet, and LOT Polish Airlines operate frequent flights here.
Upon arrival, you can reach the city centre via train, bus, or taxi. The train journey to the main station (Kraków Główny) takes approximately 20 minutes. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber are also available.
By Train
If you’re travelling from within Poland or neighbouring countries, taking a train to Krakow can be a scenic and relaxing option. The city’s main station, Kraków Główny, is well-connected with major Polish cities like Warsaw, Wroclaw, and Gdansk, as well as international destinations including Vienna, Budapest, and Prague.
By Bus
International bus companies such as FlixBus offer routes to Krakow from various European cities. Buses usually terminate at the Kraków Główny station.
By Car
If you’re driving to Krakow, be aware that the city centre (Stare Miasto) is a paid parking zone. It’s also worth noting that some parts of Krakow have ‘Clean Transport Zones’ where only vehicles meeting certain emission standards can enter.
By Boat
While not a common mode of arrival, it is possible to reach Krakow by river cruise. Some companies offer multi-day cruises on the Vistula River that stop in Krakow.
However you choose to arrive, Krakow’s rich history and culture make the journey worthwhile. Once you’re there, the city’s efficient public transportation and pedestrian-friendly design make it easy to explore.
Essential Krakow Experiences
The Old Town (Stare Miasto)
Wawel Castle
No visit to Krakow is complete without exploring the UNESCO World Heritage site, Wawel Castle. This royal residence of Polish kings is a cornucopia of historical treasures. Feast your eyes on a stunning amalgamation of nearly all European architectural styles from medieval, renaissance to baroque. Here are the details for the latest ticket prices.
St. Mary’s Basilica
Just a stone’s throw from the central market square, St. Mary’s Basilica towers majestically. Inside this gothic church, the medieval altarpiece, a masterpiece by Veit Stoss, will leave you speechless. Its hourly bugle call, broadcast on national radio, adds an air of intrigue.
Jewish Heritage: Kazimierz
Remuh Synagogue
The Remuh Synagogue, nestled in the historic Jewish quarter of Kazimierz, tells tales of a thriving Jewish community that once lived here. The neighbouring Remuh Cemetery, one of the oldest Jewish cemeteries in Europe, is a poignant reminder of the Jewish heritage that Krakow preserves.
Enriching Day Trips from Krakow
Auschwitz-Birkenau
From Krakow, a haunting yet significant day trip takes you to Auschwitz-Birkenau, the infamous Nazi concentration camp. Walk the grounds to pay homage and learn about a dark chapter in human history. Remember, it’s not just a site; it’s a symbol of human resilience in the face of horrors.
Recommended article: Auschwitz Concentration Camp
Recommended tour: Auschwitz-Birkenau
Wieliczka Salt Mine
For a complete change of scenery, visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine, where everything you see, from chapels to chandeliers, is made of salt. A journey into this subterranean wonder makes you feel like Alice in her Wonderland, albeit a salt-encrusted one!
Recommended article: Wieliczka Salt Mine
Recommended tour: Salt Mine guided tour
Savouring Krakow’s Cuisine
Traditional Polish Dishes to Try
In Krakow, the culinary scene is a gastronome’s delight. Dig into pierogi (dumplings), bigos (hunter’s stew), or zapiekanka (open-faced sandwich), and let your taste buds do a happy dance. Oh, and have you heard of a soup served in a bread bowl? Well, you’ve got to try Zurek!
Best Restaurants in Krakow
Whether you’re craving traditional Polish or international cuisine, Krakow’s food scene is brimming with options. For traditional cuisine, visit ‘Hawelka’ or ‘Pod Baranem’. For a modern spin, try ‘Szara Gęś’. Each restaurant is a world in itself, tantalising your palate while narrating Krakow’s culinary tales.
Local Insights: Unveiling Lesser-Known Spots
Apart from mainstream attractions, Krakow hides several gems in its alleyways. Ever heard of the fire-breathing dragon statue at the foot of Wawel Hill? Or the tranquil Planty Park, perfect for a leisurely stroll? These spots may not make it to every guide book, but they truly define Krakow’s unique character.
Other Attractions in Krakow
There’s a plethora of other attractions and activities in Krakow that one can delve into. Here are a few:
Rynek Underground Museum: Journey into Krakow’s past at this innovative museum located beneath the Main Market Square. Interactive displays narrate the city’s history, dating back to the Middle Ages.
Oskar Schindler’s Factory Museum: This museum is a must-visit to learn about Krakow’s WWII history. It’s situated in the former factory of Oskar Schindler, who saved many Jewish lives during the Holocaust.
Podgórze District: Explore the neighbourhood of Podgórze, filled with trendy cafes, artist studios, and remnants of its WWII past, including the Ghetto Heroes Square.
Explore the Vistula River: Stroll along the Vistula River, or better yet, take a river cruise to enjoy the panoramic view of Krakow’s skyline.
Dragon’s Den: Explore the Dragon’s Den, a natural cave in the Wawel Hill. Legend has it, it was home to a dragon in ancient times!
Tyniec Abbey: Visit the Benedictine Abbey in Tyniec. It’s located in a scenic spot by the Vistula River, perfect for a peaceful day out.
Nowa Huta: This district, built during the Communist era, provides a stark contrast to Krakow’s historic centre. Don’t miss the Nowa Huta’s Central Square and the Lord’s Ark Church.
Krakow Pinball Museum: For some light-hearted fun, visit this interactive museum. With vintage pinball machines and arcade games, it’s a nostalgic journey back in time.
Food Tasting Tour: Embark on a food tasting tour and savour local specialities from different regions of Poland.
Shopping at Cloth Hall: Hunt for souvenirs in the Renaissance-era Cloth Hall, located in the Main Market Square. It’s a great place to shop for local handicrafts and amber jewellery.
Nightlife in Kazimierz: Krakow has a buzzing nightlife, especially in the Kazimierz district. From cosy pubs, lively bars to edgy clubs, it’s a haven for night owls.
Remember, Krakow isn’t just about visiting places; it’s about immersing yourself in its culture, savouring its food, and absorbing its rich history and vibrant energy.
Practical Tips for Visiting Krakow
Visiting a new city can sometimes be daunting, so here are some practical tips to make your visit to Krakow as smooth as possible:
Currency: Poland uses the Polish Złoty (PLN), not the Euro. It’s advisable to have some local currency for small purchases, although credit and debit cards are widely accepted.
Language: While English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic Polish phrases can go a long way, especially in more local neighbourhoods.
Public Transport: Krakow has an efficient public transport system with trams and buses connecting most parts of the city. Consider getting a transport card if you plan to use it frequently.
Tipping: In restaurants, a tip of around 10-15% is customary. It’s not generally added to the bill, so you should leave it in cash.
Drinking Water: Tap water in Krakow is safe to drink, so bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and be eco-friendly.
Dress Appropriately: When visiting religious sites like churches or synagogues, remember to dress respectfully, which often means covering your shoulders and knees.
Stay Connected: Free WiFi is widely available in restaurants, cafes, and some public areas. However, consider getting a local SIM card for uninterrupted connectivity.
Avoid Street Money Changers: To avoid scams, use ATMs or official currency exchange offices (called “Kantor”) for converting your money.
Safety: Krakow is generally safe, but like any other city, be aware of your belongings and avoid poorly lit or deserted areas late at night.
Cultural Etiquette: Poles are generally formal and polite. A firm handshake is a standard greeting, and it’s customary to say “Dzień dobry” (Good day) when entering shops or restaurants.
Sunday Trading Laws: Many shops are closed on Sundays due to Poland’s trading laws, except on designated Sundays (usually the last Sunday of the month).
Respect Historical Sites: When visiting historical sites, particularly places like Auschwitz-Birkenau, it’s important to show respect and follow any guidelines given.
Remember, the key to a successful trip is planning, respect for local culture, and a spirit of adventure. Enjoy your visit to Krakow!
Final Thoughts
Stepping into Krakow is like stepping into a beautiful paradox where history and modernity engage in a harmonious ballet. From its awe-inspiring landmarks, poignant historical sites, to its inviting culinary scene, Krakow offers a quintessential Polish experience. So, are you ready to step into the heart of Poland and let Krakow weave its enchanting spell on you?
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Thank you for reading! do widzenia!
Related articles: Best time to visit Poland
Recommended websites: Visit Poland , Poland Government
Author
Nick Harvey
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best time to visit Krakow?
The best time to visit Krakow is during spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is pleasant, and the city is less crowded.
2. What are the local souvenirs to buy from Krakow?
Look for unique Polish handicrafts like Bolesławiec pottery, amber jewellery, and traditional folk dolls.
3. Is Krakow a walkable city?
Yes, Krakow’s city centre is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it perfect for exploring on foot.
4. What are some popular Polish festivals celebrated in Krakow?
Krakow is renowned for its cultural festivals such as the Christmas Market, Pierogi Festival, and the Jewish Culture Festival.
5. Can I use Euros in Krakow?
The official currency of Poland is the Złoty (PLN), not Euro. However, credit cards are widely accepted in most places.
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