Things To Do
in Kraków
Kraków is a picturesque city in southern Poland known for its well-preserved medieval architecture. The city's historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasting landmarks such as Wawel Castle and the Cloth Hall. Kraków is also famous for its vibrant cultural scene, with numerous art galleries, museums, and music festivals.
Additionally, the city is a hub of academic and intellectual activity, with prestigious universities and research institutions.
- "Cześć" - Hello
- "Dziękuję" - Thank you
- "Proszę" - Please
- "Tak" - Yes
- "Nie" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to St. Mary's Basilica, where you can enjoy the stunning altarpiece. Afterward, explore the bustling Market Square and sample local treats from street vendors.
Visit the Wawel Castle and explore its magnificent grounds. Don't miss the chance to see the Dragon's Den and enjoy panoramic views of the Vistula River.
Dine at one of the traditional Polish restaurants in the Old Town. End your evening with a leisurely stroll along the Royal Route, admiring the historic architecture.
Begin your day at Wawel Hill, visiting the Wawel Cathedral and the royal tombs. Take in the historical significance of this iconic site.
Tour the State Rooms in Wawel Castle and discover the history of Polish monarchy. Don't forget to check out the beautiful gardens surrounding the castle.
Enjoy a serene evening by the Vistula River, perhaps with a picnic or a casual walk. Look for local street performers showcasing their talent.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and cultural heritage with numerous historical sites and museums.
- Vibrant arts scene and events, including music festivals and theater productions.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many Western European cities.
- Beautiful architecture, including well-preserved medieval buildings and the Wawel Castle.
- Friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making it easy for tourists and expatriates to feel at home.
- Access to nature with nearby parks and the Vistula River offering outdoor activities.
- Pollution and air quality issues, particularly during the winter months.
- Limited public transportation options outside the city center.
- Overcrowding in popular tourist areas, especially during peak season.
- Economic opportunities can be less lucrative compared to larger cities like Warsaw.
- While English is commonly spoken, language barriers may still exist for some residents.
- Winter weather can be harsh and may not appeal to everyone.
Best Activities in Kraków
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historic Wawel Royal Castle and its beautiful gardens.
Take a leisurely walk or bike ride through the scenic Planty Park surrounding the Old Town.
Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the Vistula River Boulevards and take in the stunning views of the river and city skyline.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kraków with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kraków
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and the Vistula River.
Provides a stunning panoramic view of Kraków and the surrounding area.
The tower balcony offers a beautiful view of the Main Market Square and the city center.
Food in Kraków
Kraków Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pillowy dumplings filled with various savory or sweet fillings, such as cheese and potatoes, mushrooms, or fruit. A must-try dish that can be found at folk restaurants like Pod Wawelem or Milkbar Tomasza.
Must-Try!
A hearty sour rye soup often served in a bowl made of bread, typically with sausage, hard-boiled egg, and potatoes. Enjoy this traditional dish at spots like Stylowa or Chłopskie Jadło for an authentic taste.
A ring-shaped bread that is a beloved local snack and perfect for on-the-go eating. Head to the market square to find vendors selling fresh obwarzanki, especially in the morning.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kraków better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the Rynek Główny to find an array of food stalls and vendors offering local snacks and street food delights, such as oscypek (smoked cheese), grilled sausages, and obwarzanki.
This vibrant market is a great place to explore and taste regional produce, local cheeses, traditional baked goods, and street food specialties, including various pierogi and kiełbasa.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kraków, it is important to show respect for the religious traditions, including being mindful of church customs and etiquette, especially when visiting religious sites and participating in religious ceremonies.
Polish people value politeness and formal greetings, so it is essential to address others with courtesy and use formal titles when meeting someone for the first time, such as 'Pan' for men and 'Pani' for women.
Showing an interest and appreciation for local customs and traditions, such as participating in cultural events and being open to trying traditional Polish dishes, is a sign of respect in Kraków.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kraków with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kraków
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in restaurants, but it is customary to round up the bill or leave a small tip of 10% if the service was exceptional.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Kraków, and it is also common to pay in cash. Some smaller establishments may only accept cash, so it's advisable to have local currency on hand.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kraków.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for mild weather, blooming flowers, and outdoor activities. Expect some rainy days.
Ideal for festivals, outdoor events, and exploring the city. Expect warm weather and larger crowds.
Great for fall foliage, fewer tourists, and lower accommodation prices. Expect cooler temperatures.
Magical with Christmas markets, winter activities, and fewer tourists. Expect cold weather and occasional snow.
Kraków at Night
Hiking in Kraków
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site located just outside Kraków, famous for its underground tunnels and salt sculptures, it offers unique walking tours.
Located around 24 km north of Kraków, it features picturesque landscapes with limestone cliffs, caves, and diverse flora and fauna, perfect for hiking.
This scenic area offers various hiking trails along the Vistula River, with options ranging from easy walks to more challenging routes through beautiful countryside.
A bit further to the southwest, this national park offers stunning mountain hikes with views of the surrounding landscape, especially beautiful during fall.
Located approximately 100 km south of Kraków, it is home to some of Poland's highest peaks and offers a range of challenging hikes for all skill levels.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kraków through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kraków by plane.
The main international airport serving Kraków, located about 11 km west of the city center.
The largest airport in Poland, located approximately 290 km north of Kraków, serving as a major hub for international flights.
Located about 100 km northwest of Kraków, this airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Approximately 140 km southwest of Kraków, this airport serves the Brno area and offers international flights.
Located around 370 km south of Kraków, this major international airport serves as a hub for flights across Europe and beyond.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, comprising the majority of the population in Kraków, traditionally known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance.
A significant minority, with a growing presence due to migration, especially for work and education.
A notable community that has established businesses and contributes to the local economy.
Historically significant, the Jewish community was once one of the largest in Europe and now has a revived presence through cultural and memorial initiatives.
A small but established community, mainly composed of individuals involved in academic and business sectors.
A smaller demographic group, known for their unique culture and community structure.
Including various European and non-European expatriates, studying or working in Kraków.
The Soul of Kraków
Discover the essence of Kraków through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Kraków, with a rich history and passionate fanbase, particularly surrounding the local teams like Wisła Kraków and Cracovia.
Basketball has a strong following in Kraków, with several local clubs and schools promoting the sport, culminating in competitive leagues.
Volleyball is widely played at both recreational and competitive levels in Kraków, with numerous clubs and active participation in local tournaments.
Ice hockey has a dedicated fan base in Kraków, supported by local teams that compete in regional leagues.
Athletics is popular, with numerous events and competitions held throughout the year, encouraging participation from all age groups.
Rugby has been growing in popularity in Kraków, with clubs training and competing in local and national leagues.
Handball is played in various clubs across Kraków, with youth programs helping to develop new talent in the sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kraków.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Kraków offer vegetarian options, with contemporary restaurants like Veganic and Meat & Go providing creative plant-based dishes. Traditional pierogi and hearty soups can also often be found in vegetarian versions.
Vegan-friendly establishments like Nova Krova and Targ Pietruszkowy serve a range of plant-based dishes, showcasing the city's evolving food scene and catering to vegan dietary preferences.
Visitors with gluten intolerances can enjoy gluten-free pierogi at places like Edamame Vegan Sushi & Chinese Restaurant, which offers an array of gluten-free options alongside traditional Polish vegan cuisine.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kraków with these cultural adventures.
