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TOP 10 REASONS
TOP 10 REASONS
TOP 10 REASONS
Why travel to Krakow: Find out the top 10 reasons to visit
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01
A SNEAK PEAK
A SNEAK PEAK
A SNEAK PEAK
A Sneak Peek into Krakow
- Krakow is a city that is easy to fall in love with.
- It has a long and illustrious history, both glorious and infamous.
- All in one location, you can relax and blend in, enjoy roaring nightlife, visit sights and museums, and seek outdoor adventure.
- A walk around Krakow is an adventure in and of itself, with its quaint streets and historical buildings.
- With the towering Wawel Castle and people-watching meccas like Florianska Street and the Market Square, Krakow, Poland's second-largest city, offers fairytale views.
- The Jewish ghetto memorial and Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp are both reminders of the city's recent history, while green spaces like Planty Park provide plenty of breathing room.
- During the 14th century, Kraków was Poland's economic and political capital and a central trading hub between England and Hungary.
- At the same time, it developed into the nation's intellectual and cultural centre, as evidenced by the Jagiellonian University, one of the city's main surviving medieval structures.
- Capital- Krakow
- International Airport – John Paul II Kraków-Balice International Airport (KRK)
- Population- 769,000
- Currency- Kraków złoty
- Time - GMT+1
- Driving side- Right
- Main electricity- 230 V
- Official Language- Polish
- Religion- Roman Catholicism
02
HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS
Top Tourist Attractions in Krakow
- Since the Middle Ages, the Market Square, the buzzing heart of the Unesco-listed Krakow Old Town, has been the centre of all the action.
- With its medley of gothic, renaissance, rococo, and Romanesque architecture, the great Wawel Castle is a must-see for anyone visiting Krakow.
- Planty Park is a green belt that surrounds Krakow's historic Old Town.
- The Barbican is the last of the medieval fortifications that once encircled the entire city.
- With its beautiful Polish gothic shell, St Florian's Gate marks the start of the so-called Royal Route.
- Florianska Street, which runs through the heart of the Old Town district's northern half, is lined with craft beer bars, souvenir shops, and vodka tasting establishments.
03
SEASONS TO TRAVEL
SEASONS TO TRAVEL
SEASONS TO TRAVEL
Best Months to Visit Krakow
- March to May and September to November are best for visiting Kraków.
- Weather in Krakow is pleasant, and the summer's swarms of tourists have vanished.
- The average high in July and August is in the mid-70s, while the average low in January is in the low 20s.
- There is, however, no wrong time to visit Kraków. Summer brings with it some of the most vibrant festivals.
- From March-May, Kraków is still recovering from its winter hibernation, so don't expect an aggressive city.
- However, walking has become much more pleasant with daytime temperatures in the mid-40s to high 60s.
- From June to August, it's easy to see why this is the busiest tourist season of the year.
- Warm temperatures in the low 50s to mid-70s allow you to stay out late in the Main Market Square, and the city's best festivals take place during this time.
- Higher hotel room prices, more rainstorms, and larger crowds at the top attractions are all-natural tradeoffs.
- The weather in the peak season is mild compared to other European cities such as Paris and Rome.
- The average temperature ranges from the low 20s to the mid-40s from December to February, but the cheap rooms may make the chilly temperatures worthwhile.
- Furthermore, a snow-covered Main Market Square is a sight to behold during the Christmas season.
04
WORTH A VISIT
WORTH A VISIT
WORTH A VISIT
The Best Places to Visit in Krakow
Wawel Royal Castle
- Wawel Royal Castle, a historical and cultural treasure for Poland, deserves at least half a day on your Krakow itinerary.
- The castle from the sixteenth century has been transformed into a museum with some ongoing exhibits, each with a separate admission cost.
- Among the most impressive exhibits are the State Rooms and the Royal Private Apartments, which contain rare furniture and exquisite antique tapestries.
- The Wawel Cathedral is situated on the grounds of the castle, albeit it is a different organisation.
- The crypts of revolutionaries, royal figures, and national heroes are located within the Gothic church, which is brimming with the artwork.
- Additionally, the Sandomierska Tower's wooden stairs to the summit are worthwhile for their breathtaking Vistula River views.
- Pay attention to the surrounding Dragon's Den. According to legend, a vicious dragon who devoured maidens previously resided in this dark cave beneath Wawel Hill.
- You will be greeted by a 50-year-old statue of a dragon that breathes actual fire as soon as you leave the underground rooms.
Marvel at St. Mary's Basilica
- One of Krakow's most recognisable icons, St. Mary's Basilica, is located on the eastern corner of Rynek Glowny.
- Although the current building has undergone numerous reconstructions and renovations over the years, the attraction has been a part of Krakow since the 1220s.
- The Gothic-style brick church is capped by a 1666 golden crown and two bell towers.
- In the past, the taller bell tower would ring to announce the opening and closing of the city as well as to warn citizens of a fire or an invading force.
- Today, tourists can appreciate the bell when the bell sounds "Hejnal Mariacki" (St. Mary's Trumpet Call) every hour on the hour.
- The church's interiors, which include beautiful stained-glass windows and a nave covered in gold stars, are worth exploring.
- A large, beautifully carved altarpiece is considered one of Poland's most significant works of mediaeval art.
- The Rynek Underground Museum has more information about the renovation.
Descend into the Rynek Underground Museum
- Rynek Glowny's highlights extend above ground as well. Enter the Rynek Underground Museum, a well-liked attraction devoted to conserving and imparting Krakow's history, by going down the stairs from the Cloth Hall.
- High-tech innovations abound in the museum, including a movie projected onto a cloud of smoke, touchscreen displays that shed light on centuries-old objects, and even a kid's programme with an animatronic crow as the narrator.
- The relics of the mediaeval city, which include merchants' stalls discovered around 20 years ago and an alleged vampire's cemetery from the 11th century, are, nevertheless, among the fascinating exhibits.
- At the end of your tour of the museum, give the museum's brief documentaries, which take you some more time through various eras of Krakow's history.
05
DISCOVER MORE
DISCOVER MORE
DISCOVER MORE
Krakow Off the Beaten Track
Old Town
- Kraków's Old Town is the city's tourism hub, and for a good reason.
- Rynek Glowny, Central Europe's largest medieval market square, is at its heart.
- Flowers, souvenirs, and amber jewellery, all popular in Poland, can be purchased here.
- Take in the spectacular view of St. Mary's Basilica while sipping a drink at one of the many outdoor restaurants.
- Also, on Tuesdays, visit the high-tech underground museum, which offers free admission.
- Many of the restaurants and bars in this area cater to tourists, and as a result, they are pretty expensive compared to similar establishments elsewhere.
- However, I can recommend two gems: Trattoria La Famiglia, an Italian restaurant, and Albriche, an authentic Mexican restaurant.
- In Krakow, there are two of my absolute favourite restaurants.
- The majestic Wawel Castle is located just west of Rynek Glowny, perched on a hill overlooking the Wisa river.
- The castle grounds are free to enter; you can also explore the "Dragon's Den," which is quite entertaining for a small fee.
- Galeria Krakowska, Kraków's largest shopping mall, is located just east of the city's historic district. It is incredibly crowded and can be pretty exhausting to visit, but it is a good stop if you need something.
- If you don't like crowds, I recommend taking a taxi to Bonarka City Center, only 10 minutes away. It's another large mall, but it's much quieter.
Kazimierz
- During WWII, Kazimierz was targeted and systemically destroyed as the home of one of the world's most significant Jewish communities.
- However, Kazimierz has established itself as Kraków's most excellent and exciting neighbourhood since its rediscovery.
- It is historically significant and teems with bohemian bars, restaurants, boutiques, and galleries. It also houses the impressive Corpus Christi Church, which you should visit.
- With the colourful Jewish square and numerous synagogues throughout the city, the Jewish community has also recovered and is now flourishing.
- Plac Nowy is a market during the day and the centre of Kazimierz's nightlife at night.
- A perfect evening out includes dinner at Plac Nowy 1, followed by drinks at Alchemia, a bar inspired by a traditional Polish living room.
- Visit Le Scandale, which is right next door, for some dancing.
Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory
- Oskar Schindler, the Jews' employer, claimed they were necessary employees at his enamelware factory, preventing more than 1,200 Jews from being transferred to concentration camps during the Holocaust.
- A museum that examines the turbulent history of World War II and the German occupation of Krakow is presently located in that location.
- Numerous rooms in the museum attempted to reenact various facets of life at that time.
- These include basements where Jews hid from the Nazis, a train station lobby flanked by troop mobilisation posters and prison cells where members of the resistance and academics were held.
- There are also small alleyways in the ghetto with the sounds of dogs barking and Nazi officers shouting.
06
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
Krakow Culture and Traditions
- Every year, Krakow hosts over fifty cultural events. Some have been held for decades, while others are new additions to the calendar.
- The Festival of Polish Music, the 'Music in Old Krakow International Festival, the Krakow Film Festival, and the International Print Triennial are among the most prestigious of these events.
- Krakow is well-represented on the European theatre map.
- Its legendary National Stary Theater boasts one of the best casts on the continent.
- It operates several playhouses of varying capacities, as do the rest of the city's repertory theatres.
- The Krakow region has always been rich in vibrant folk traditions passed down from generation to generation, with nearly every village cultivating its own set of time-honoured customs.
- Some ancient practices have died out as new lifestyles have spread, but others have thrived.
07
FOOD FUN FASHION
FOOD FUN FASHION
FOOD FUN FASHION
Krakow: Food, Fun & Fashion Guide
Dumplings
#Food
- The national dish of Poland, pierogi or pieroki, is one of the most well-known dishes in the country (diminutive).
- All are filled with various ingredients, including sweet sauces, fruit, boiled potatoes and cottage cheese.
- On the other hand, meat with sauerkraut and mushrooms is the most popular filling.
- Pierogi is a traditional Polish Christmas dish.
Bigos / Hunter's stew
#Food
- Traditional Polish holidays would not be complete without a bowl of homemade bigos.
- It's a must-try for any tourist. Sauerkraut is the main ingredient, stewed with chopped sausage, mushrooms, and onion.
- When white cabbage is substituted for sauerkraut, a new flavour emerges. Served with rye bread or potatoes as a side dish.
Žurek / Sour Soup
#Food
- The most traditional soup in Poland.
- The sour flavour of this dish distinguishes it from others.
- But it isn't as strong as lemon, with a more delicate flavour.
- It's also delicious. Hard-boiled eggs, raw sausage, potatoes, and occasionally mushrooms and bacon are included in the soup, which is thick and lavish.
- It is traditionally served at Easter.
- Ureks are frequently served in a loaf of bread when ordered in a restaurant.
Pasaż 13
#Fashion
- It is the most opulent shopping mall in the city, located on Main Market Square.
- A Renaissance staircase, Gothic vaults, glass and concrete, and a bold construction of steel escalators and elevators coexist harmoniously in the spacious interior, designed in the spirit of minimalism.
- The Passage is home to fashionable boutiques that sell well-known international and Polish brands.
- Maniewski, a stylish hair salon, and the Likus Concept Store are located there.
- LCS is a new shopping formula that includes elegant stores with branded clothing, a wine cellar with over 200 labels primarily from Italy, a well-stocked Italian deli, and the opportunity to relax.
- At the bar, you can dine while sipping a glass of wine or a cup of authentic espresso.
Galeria Krakowska
#Fashion
- The most famous shopping mall in Krakow is located in the city's heart, close to the Main Market Square.
- This is a fashion, style, and elegance determinant in Krakow.
- It is a tourist entrance to the city because of its convenient connection to the Main Railway Station and the bus station and public transportation lines, the Balice airport, and its most significant car park.
- There are approximately 250 stores on three levels, including Massimo Dutti, H&M, Zara, Guess, Michael Kors, Tommy Hilfiger, and other well-known stores and a large electronics store, Media Markt supermarkets, and, of course, a food court area.
- Galeria attracts visitors for its shops and unique architecture that blends history and modernity.
Galeria Kazimierz
#Fashion
- This shopping centre is located in the Kazimierz neighbourhood. You'll find not only a diverse selection of over 160 stores but also a distinct atmosphere.
- Customers of the gallery can shop at well-known Polish and international brands like ZARA, Kazar, Reserved, H&M, Guess, Intimissimi, United Colors of Benetton, and many others.
- Those seeking entertainment will find Cinema City in Galeria Kazimierz, where they can watch new films.
- They also have an indoor food court and a lovely square in front of the Galeria Kazimierz with lots of greenery, a fountain, a kid's play zone, and a place to rest.
- It all ensures a successful shopping experience and a pleasurable time.
Mateczny Trampoline Park
#Fun
- GOjump Krakow-Mateczny is Krakow's largest trampoline park.
- On 2000 square meters, over 15 unique attractions are waiting to be conquered. This is completely enjoyable!
- Whether you're a novice or a seasoned jumper! Have a good time by riding one of our crazy attractions.
- Our instructors will teach you your first jumps and big tricks and ensure your safety and enjoyment.
- They have also set up a cosy JumpBar and Mezzanine with delicious coffee for you.
- GOjump Mateczny is located near the city centre and provides free parking and comfortable locker rooms.
GOair
#Fun
- GOair is the place to be! Start having fun in the Air City!
- You will be able to change, put on socks, and leave your belongings in our locker rooms without rushing.
- Then you'll be able to try out all 20 of our attractions, including obstacle courses, the Eliminator, the Jumping Tower, the Huge Slides, the Basketball Zone, and the Arcade Games Zone, to name a few.
- After all that fun, you'll need to refuel, so stop by our GOcafe for some refreshments and snacks!
Energylandia Amusement Park
#Fun
- Take the bus from Krakow to Energylandia (approximately 1 hour) and spend 6 hours having fun. This tour was designed specifically for families to enjoy quality time together.
- Please note that the child ticket is only valid for children under the height of 140 cm.
- Participants who are taller than 140 cm must pay the standard fee.
- At 9:00 p.m., the bus leaves Krakow. 14 Straszewskiego Street is where you'll be picked up.
08
NATURE & SAFARI
NATURE & SAFARI
NATURE & SAFARI
Krakow: Natural Beauty & Safari Adventures
- It is a geographical area that has been designated as a protected area due to its unique natural values or highly appealing aesthetic, landscape, cultural, historical, or tourist attractions.
- Declaring an area a landscape park aims to preserve, promote, and provide access to these appealing features without halting economic activity in the area.
- The Jurassic Landscape Parks Group, a protected area established for nature conservation covering the most valuable sites in the Krakow-Czestochowa Jurassic upland, includes small places within the city limits.
- These are fragments of the Landscape Parks of Bielasko-Tyniecki, Tenczyski, and Dolinek Krakowskich and the buffer zones surrounding them.
- It is an area protected by law to preserve natural or semi-natural ecosystems vital to science, nature conservation, culture (heritage), or landscape preservation.
- These areas are divided into strict reserves and partially protected reserves.
09
EVENTS & FIESTAS
EVENTS & FIESTAS
EVENTS & FIESTAS
Krakow Must-Attend Festivals and Events
- It is an annual student festival in May, just before the summer exams begin.
- Juwenalia is a Polish tradition that dates back to the 15th century, when it was first observed in Krakow.
- Juwenalia may have a different name depending on the city and university.
- Every year, there are organised parades in which students dress up in amusing costumes, open-air concerts (the majority of which are accessible for student cardholders), performances, and plenty of drinking.
- It's students' last chance to party like there's no tomorrow before hitting the books and taking a ton of notes.
- That's likely their only chance to take over the city and have as much fun as possible, which means nonstop partying, barbecues, and concerts.
- Every year, the city mayor gives the ruby-nosed revellers symbolic keys to the city.
- Wianki, which takes place in June, is one of Krakow's most popular festivals.
- The festival was primarily a pagan religious gathering around the time of the summer solstice.
- The legend of Wanda, who threw herself into the Vistula River because she didn't want to marry a German boy, is linked to the tradition of throwing floral wreaths in Krakow.
- Nowadays, on Wianki night, there are organised concerts on the riverbank, right next to the Wawel castle, and at midnight, people, especially girls, throw their floral wreaths into the water.
- You will be treated to spectacular fireworks if you stay until the end of the party. In the meantime, smaller concerts and medieval markets are held in the city's heart.
- One of Poland's and Europe's oldest film festivals, showcasing documentary, animated, and short feature films.
- Over eight days, you will have the opportunity to see over 250 films worldwide competing in a competition.
- Aside from that, there are scheduled exhibitions, concerts, and artist meetings.
- The Krakow Film Festival has been running since 1961, and its winners are now automatically nominated for the European Film Academy, one of the industry's most prestigious awards.
- The Krakow Christmas market is a yearly tradition of the city's holiday season. It usually begins in the final week of November and continues at least through December 26. The Christmas market may occasionally be extended into the Epiphany feast on January 6.
FAQs to Plan Your Best Krakow Holiday
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Places similar to Krakow to visit
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