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Krakow Travel Guide | Top Attractions, Travel Essentials, Tips & More

Why visit Krakow?

Krakow, a city steeped in history and culture, offers a captivating blend of medieval charm and vibrant modernity. With its well-preserved architecture, the city's Old Town is like stepping into a fairy tale, boasting a stunning market square, centuries-old churches, and the iconic Wawel Castle. The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, a short drive away from Krakow, serves as a powerful reminder of humanity's past.

Krakow also offers a dynamic arts and music scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and live music venues to explore. The city comes alive with festivals celebrating everything from jazz and classical music to film and street art. Moreover, Krakow is a paradise for food enthusiasts. From hearty pierogis to flavorful local sausages, you can sample a variety of delicacies through the city's markets, cafes, and restaurants.

Krakow travel essentials - This is a Photograph of Krakow

Travel Essentials in Krakow

Language: Polish Language
Currency: Polish zloty | zł
Time Zone: Central European Standard Time | CET
Country Code: +48
Socket Type: Type C & E
Emergency Numbers: 112 for all emergency services

Getting Around in Krakow

Public Transport: Krakow has an efficient public transportation system consisting of buses and trams that cover the entire city and its suburbs. You can purchase single-ride tickets or multi-ride passes to get around the city. You can find more information about routes and schedules at transportation kiosks or online.
Walking: The historic center of Krakow, including the Old Town and Kazimierz district, is best explored on foot. The city's compact size makes it easy to navigate, and walking allows you to fully appreciate its charming streets, architecture, and hidden gems.
Biking: Krakow is becoming increasingly bike-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing programs. Renting a bike is a great way to explore the city at your own pace and cover more ground than walking.
Trains: If you plan to explore nearby cities or attractions, Krakow's main train station, Kraków Główny, is a hub for domestic and international train connections. The extensive rail network makes it easy to travel to places like Warsaw, Wrocław, and even other European countries.

Top 10 things to do in Krakow

Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum - This is a Photograph of Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum

1. Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum

Historic Landmark | Learning Experience

from €19.40

Schindler's Factory Krakow - This is a Photograph of Schindler's Factory Krakow

2. Oskar Schindler's Factory

Museum | Historic Landmark | Learning Experience

from €11.50

Wieliczka Salt Mine Krakow - This is a Photograph of Wieliczka Salt Mine Krakow

3. Wieliczka Salt Mine

Heritage Museum | Unique Historic Attraction

from €28.25

Wavel Castle Krakow - This is a Photograph of Wavel Castle Krakow

4. Royal Wawel Castle

Landmark | Historic Attraction

from €8.67

Rynek Underground Museum Krakow - This is a Photograph of Rynek Underground Museum

5. Rynek Underground Museum

Architectural Preserve | Learning Experience

from €18.50

Plaszow Concentration Camp Krakow - This is a Photograph of Plaszow Concentration Camp

6. Plaszow Concentration Camp

Memorial | Historic Landmark

from €20

St Mary's Basilica Krakow - This is a Photograph of St Mary's Basilica Krakow

7. St. Mary's Basilica

Gothic Church | Famous Landmark

from €22.50

Energylandia Krakow - This is a Photograph of Energylandia

8. Energylandia

Theme Park | Recreational Activity

from €53

Krakow Shooting Range - This is a Photograph of Krakow Shooting Range

9. Krakow Shooting Range

Shooting Arena | Thrilling Experience

from €47.50

Zakopane Tour from Krakow - This is a Photograph of Zakopane

10. Zakopane

Resort Town | Relaxing Experience

from €60

Top 5 Krakow travel tips

Walk or ride a bike: Walking and biking are among the favorite activities for locals and tourists alike. It will also give you a chance to explore Krakow better. You can easily find places where you can rent bikes.
Stay closer to the tourist spots: Find a hotel that is close to the most visited places in Krakow. This will not only save you travel time and money but also make it possible to just walk to places on your itinerary.
Make reservations beforehand: Clubs and restaurants in Krakow are generally crowded, especially during the peak season. If you have shortlisted places for your visit, call and make reservations in advance.
Visit Churches as places of worship: Unlike many churches in Europe, Poland’s churches are not museums. They are places of worship by Catholics in the city. Dress accordingly and be respectful of the customs.
Keep cash in handy: While Krakow accepts digital payments at most places, you might need to pay in cash sometimes. Public toilets, traditional restaurants, and local flea markets only accept cash payments.

Frequently asked questions about traveling to Krakow

What are the best things to do and see in Krakow?

When in Krakow, you must visit local restaurants that offer traditional Polish food. Visiting important landmarks in Krakow is a must. And of course, head to the clubs during the night.

How much does it cost to visit Krakow?

In Krakow, you will spend about €24 to €44 per day. This depends on your accommodation, choice of restaurants and clubs, and your preferred mode of commute.

What are the must-visit places in Krakow?

Rynek Glowny Central Square, Kazimierz, St Mary's Basilica, Wawel Castle, Planty Park, Barbican, St Florian's Gate, Historical Museum of Krakow, Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, Kościuszko Mound and Florianska Street are some must-visit places in Krakow.

What is the best time to visit Krakow?

March to May and September to November are the best months to visit Krakow. The weather is pleasant during these months, with fewer people visiting the city.

What should I avoid in Krakow?

Smoking in public places is illegal in Krakow. You should also avoid taking unlicensed taxis in the city as they will charge you extra.