Kraków

Introducing Kraków

A city steeped in history and culture that captivates visitors with its charm and timeless beauty. Nestled in the heart of Poland, Kraków is one of the country's oldest and most significant cities, boasting a legacy that stretches back to the 7^th century.

As you wander through the cobbled streets of the historic center, you'll find yourself immersed in the city's architectural wonders. The Main Market Square, Rynek Główny, is a bustling hub surrounded by magnificent buildings, including the iconic St. Mary's Basilica. The square is home to the Kraków Cloth Hall, a historic marketplace where you can explore stalls offering traditional Polish goods and souvenirs.

Perched on Wawel Hill, overlooking the city, is Wawel Castle — a symbol of national pride and a treasure trove of Polish history. Its regal presence and stunning architecture make it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.

Kraków's cultural scene is vibrant and diverse. The city hosts a myriad of events, festivals, and concerts throughout the year, showcasing its rich artistic heritage. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the Jagiellonian University, where renowned figures like Copernicus and Pope John Paul II once walked the halls.

For a poignant and reflective experience, consider a visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration and extermination camp, located in the nearby suburb of Oświęcim. This sobering site serves as a stark reminder of the dark chapters of World War II and the Holocaust.

Indulge your taste buds in Kraków's diverse culinary offerings. From savory pierogi and hearty kielbasa to traditional Polish soups, the city's cuisine is a delightful journey for food enthusiasts. Kraków's café culture is also worth exploring, with charming coffee shops scattered throughout the city.

Throughout the year, Kraków hosts various festivals that add to its lively atmosphere. The Kraków Film Festival, the Jewish Culture Festival, and the enchanting Kraków Christmas Market are just a few examples of the events that draw both locals and tourists alike.

The Jewish quarter in Kraków is called Kazimierz. Kazimierz has a rich history and was the center of Jewish life in Kraków for centuries. The district is known for its historic synagogues, narrow streets, and vibrant atmosphere. Before World War II, Kazimierz was a thriving Jewish community, but much of it was devastated during the war, with the population mostly murdered. In recent years, efforts have been made to restore and preserve the Jewish heritage of Kazimierz, and it has become a popular area for both locals and tourists to explore.

As you explore Kraków, consider venturing beyond the city limits to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO-listed site famous for its underground chambers and intricate salt sculptures.

In Kraków, history comes alive, culture thrives, and every corner tells a story. Whether you're strolling through the historic streets or savoring the local flavors, Kraków welcomes you with open arms to experience the richness of Poland's past and present.

Beautiful Kraków Architecture

Horse Carriage in Kraków Old Town

Some History of Kraków

Kraków's roots reach back to the 7^th century, evolving into a bustling center for trade and craftsmanship by the 10^th century. It later became Poland's capital in 1038, reigning until 1596. The city's iconic Wawel Castle housed Polish kings, witnessing centuries of prosperity and cultural richness.

The 15^th and 16^th centuries marked Kraków's Golden Age, characterized by economic and cultural flourishing. The Jagiellonian University, founded in 1364, solidified Kraków's status as an intellectual hub.

The Renaissance era brought architectural wonders like the Cloth Hall, contributing to Kraków's cultural renaissance. The subsequent 17^th century, however, saw challenges with the Swedish Deluge and Kraków's diminishing political influence.

The late 18^th century witnessed the partitions of Poland, erasing the nation from the European map. Kraków, under Austrian protection, retained a semblance of autonomy as a Free City.

World War II left an indelible mark, with Nazi occupation and the tragic events of the Holocaust, notably at Auschwitz-Birkenau. The post-war period saw Kraków integrated into the People's Republic of Poland, undergoing efforts to rebuild and preserve its historical character.

The fall of communism in 1989 ushered in a new chapter. Kraków emerged as a cultural and tourist destination, with its historic sites, festivals, and vibrant arts scene attracting global visitors. Today, Kraków stands as a testament to Poland's resilience and enduring cultural heritage.

About The Area

Lesser Poland stretches from the Carpathian Mountains in the south to Pilica and Liwiec rivers in the north. The region borders Mazovia to the north, Podlaskie to the northeast, Red Ruthenia to the east, Slovakia to the south, Silesia to the west, and Greater Poland to the northwest.

The historical region of Małopolska (or Lesser Poland) is a distinct region within the wider Polish cultural region, and has developed different customs, costumes and, to a lesser extent, language. Sitting in the southeast of the current Polish state and bordering Czechia, Solvakia and Ukraine, the region has long attracted many minorities including Vilamovians, Halcnovians, Gorals, Lemkos and Polish Jews and Walddeutsche Germans. Prior to the 20^th century, the region had been a bastion of tolerance.

The events of the Second World War and its aftermath impacted this cultural millieu significantly, with the Jewish polpulation mostly murdered, and many ethnic Germans were either expelled from Poland or also murdered. At the outbreak of World War II the Jewish population was estimated to be about 70,000 people, or about 5 percent of the population. Today there are less than 100 Jews living in the city. Unfortunately, it was not just the Nazis who persecuted the Jews of Kraków, as returning Jews after the World War II were also persecuted by Poles and Soviet forces, including the forced expulsion of more than 15,000 Jews in 1968. Unfortunately, the Jews were scapegoated in 1968 as they had been on many previous occasions.

The city of Kraków escaped relatively unscathed from World War II, at least as far as the physical structures and architecture are concerned. The city was not substantially bombed by the Allies, and the Germans appreciated the European high culture of the city, and therefore spared its destruction. The advancing Soviet army was commanded by a Pole and there is a theory that the city was also spared for that reason.

Eastern Europe Map

Kraków Map

What To See

Kraków is the second largest city in Poland, and was arguably the first Polish capital. The city has been the seat of the Polish kings although during some periods, the city was the formal capital though power rested in Warsaw. The city still retains a place as a bastion of Polish culture and is regarded as being the cultural heart of Poland. Although Warsaw has been the official national capital since the early 17^th century when King Sigismund III Vasa moved his capital there, Kraków retains some moral authority as the cultural repository of everything Polish.

Founded in the 7^th century and retaining the mantle of capital for over 800 years, Kraków has no shortage of medieval history to draw on. From Wawel Castle and Wawel Cathedral (Archcathedral Basilica of Saint Stanislaus and Saint Wenceslaus), to St. Mary's Church, to the Jewish Quarter and the Old Town, Kraków has a huge range of historical areas of interest. The city of Kraków is a UNESCO listed World Heritage site

The Main Sights

• Wawel Castle and Wawel Cathedral: The Wawel Castle complex, perched on a hill overlooking the Vistula River, is a symbol of Polish royalty. It includes the stunning Wawel Cathedral, where many Polish kings and queens were crowned and buried.
• Main Market Square (Rynek Główny): The Main Market Square is one of the largest medieval town squares in Europe. It is surrounded by colorful townhouses and features the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) at its center, where you can find traditional Polish crafts and souvenirs.
• St. Mary's Basilica (Kościół Mariacki): Located on the Main Market Square, St. Mary's Basilica is known for its Gothic architecture and the hourly trumpet call from the tower. The interior is adorned with beautiful stained glass windows and artwork.
• Jagiellonian University: Founded in 1364, Jagiellonian University is one of the oldest universities in Europe. The Collegium Maius, the university's main building, is open to visitors and offers a glimpse into the academic history of the city.
• Kazimierz (Jewish Quarter): Kazimierz is a historic district with a rich Jewish heritage. Explore its narrow streets, visit historic synagogues like the Old Synagogue and Remuh Synagogue, and discover the unique atmosphere of this culturally significant area.
• Schindler's Factory (Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory): The former enamel factory, made famous by Steven Spielberg's film "Schindler's List," now houses a museum that provides insights into Kraków's history during World War II.
• Planty Park: This green belt surrounds the Old Town and was created on the site of the city's medieval defensive walls. It's a pleasant place for a stroll and provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets.
• Kościuszko Mound: Offering panoramic views of the city, the Kościuszko Mound is a man-made mound honoring Tadeusz Kościuszko, a Polish national hero. Did you know the highest mountain in mainland Australia is named after this mound and the hero it represents?

The following 2 destinations are outside the city, and require your own transport or a tour of some sort

• Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp: While not in Kraków, Auschwitz-Birkenau is an essential historical site located nearby. Guided tours are available to explore the museum and memorial dedicated to the victims of the Holocaust.
• Wieliczka Salt Mine: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Wieliczka Salt Mine features an underground world of chambers, tunnels, and sculptures, all carved from salt. It's a unique and fascinating excursion just outside Kraków.

Kraków Main Square with St Mary's

Kazimierz Street Scene

When To Go

Any time of year can be a good time to visit Kraków if you want to soak up the city's history, culture and atmosphere. Summer brings long days and warm weather, but it is also the busiest time of year, particularly around the Old Town and the Main Market Square. If you prefer fewer crowds and more comfortable temperatures for walking around the city, spring and autumn can be particularly pleasant, with plenty of activity while generally avoiding the peak summer crowds.

Kraków is also a wonderful place to visit during the Christmas season. The Main Market Square fills with Christmas market stalls, lights and seasonal decorations, giving the historic center an especially festive atmosphere. Winter is cold, but if you're lucky, a blanket of snow can transform the Old Town into an almost storybook setting. Christmas is our favorite time to visit Kraków—the cold weather is part of the experience, and the markets and festive atmosphere make it a very different experience from visiting during the warmer months.

Weather in Krakow

Getting There & Getting Away

Air

Kraków is served by John Paul II Kraków-Balice International Airport (KRK), located approximately 11 kilometers west of the city center. It is Poland's second-largest airport and has an extensive network of domestic and international flights throughout Europe, together with nonstop service to the Middle East, North Africa and the United States.

Airlines operating scheduled passenger flights from Kraków include:

• Aegean Airlines: Operates international service between Kraków and Athens, providing onward connections throughout Greece and the eastern Mediterranean.
• Air Arabia: Operates international service between Kraków and Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates, with onward connections throughout the Middle East, Asia and Africa.
• airBaltic: Operates international service linking Kraków with Riga and the wider Baltic region.
• Air Dolomiti: Operates international service between Kraków and Munich as part of the Lufthansa Group network.
• Air France: Operates international service between Kraków and Paris Charles de Gaulle, with extensive onward connections.
• Air Serbia: Operates international service between Kraków and Belgrade.
• Austrian Airlines: Operates international service between Kraków and Vienna, with onward connections throughout the Austrian and Lufthansa Group networks.
• British Airways: Operates international service between Kraków and London.
• Brussels Airlines: Operates international service between Kraków and Brussels.
• easyJet: Operates an extensive international network from Kraków, including routes to the United Kingdom, France, Switzerland, Italy and the Netherlands.
• EL AL: Operates international service between Kraków and Tel Aviv.
• Etihad Airways: Operates seasonal international service between Kraków and Abu Dhabi, with onward connections throughout the Etihad network.
• Eurowings: Operates international service between Kraków and Germany, including Düsseldorf and Stuttgart.
• Finnair: Operates international service between Kraków and Helsinki, providing onward connections throughout Finland and northern Europe.
• flydubai: Operates international service between Kraków and Dubai, with onward connectivity through the flydubai and Emirates networks.
• flynas: Operates international service between Kraków and Riyadh in Saudi Arabia.
• Jazeera Airways: Operates international service between Kraków and Kuwait, providing useful connections to destinations across the Gulf and South Asia.
• Jet2: Operates an extensive international network between Kraków and regional airports throughout the United Kingdom.
• KLM: Operates international service between Kraków and Amsterdam, with extensive onward connections through Schiphol.
• LOT Polish Airlines: Operates domestic and international routes, including Warsaw and selected European destinations. LOT also operates Kraków's nonstop long-haul service to Chicago.
• Lufthansa: Operates international service to Frankfurt and Munich, providing extensive onward connections throughout the Lufthansa network.
• Luxair: Operates international service between Kraków and Luxembourg.
• Norwegian: Operates international routes between Kraków and Scandinavia, including destinations in Norway.
• Norwegian Air Sweden: Operates selected international services between Kraków and Scandinavia under the Norwegian brand.
• Pegasus Airlines: Operates international service from Kraków to Türkiye, including Ankara and Antalya.
• Ryanair: The largest airline at Kraków Airport, operating an extensive domestic and international network to destinations throughout Europe and North Africa.
• Ryanair UK: Operates selected international routes between Kraków and the United Kingdom under the Ryanair group.
• SAS Scandinavian Airlines: Operates international service between Kraków and Copenhagen.
• SunExpress: Operates international service between Kraków and Antalya in Türkiye.
• SWISS: Operates international service between Kraków and Zürich, with onward connections throughout the SWISS and Lufthansa Group networks.
• Turkish Airlines: Operates international service between Kraków and Istanbul, providing extensive onward connections across Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East.
• Wizz Air: Operates a large international network from Kraków to destinations across Europe and the Middle East.
• Wizz Air Malta: Operates selected international routes from Kraków under the Wizz Air group, including services to Italy.

Kraków's route network changes seasonally, particularly on leisure routes, and some services operate only on selected days of the week. Travelers should check current schedules directly with the airline before booking.

Rail

The main rail station in Kraków is Kraków Głowny station, which serves as a multi-modal transit hub for trams, buses and trains. Kraków Głowny also has an attached shopping mall, Galeria Krakówska.

The station serves Eurocity (EC/IC) services to Berlin and Przemysl and intermediate stations, Express Intercity Premium (EIP) to Warsaw and other northern stations on the Baltic, Express Intercity (EIC) to Warsaw and Zakopane and a wide range of Intercity (IC) and Regional (PR) services to other nearby cities.

Long-Distance Buses

There are a wide range of inter-city bus routes in Poland serviced by a number of different companies. Tickets may be purchsed online or at a bus station. The Kraków bus station is located conveniently next to the main train station

High Speed PKP Intercity Train

Getting Around The City

Trams

Kraków has a well-developed, cheap and efficient public tram system. It is a great way of getting around the city. Trams are frequent, and will take you most places you need to go. They connect to other forrms of transport such as rail and bus networks.

Local Buses

To go slightly further afield, use the buses. A good eample would be a visit t Auschwitz or the Salt Mines, as these are beyond the metropolitan tram network

Taxis and Rideshare

Taxis are readily available, as are ride hailing services such as Uber and Bolt. Taxis are more expensive than ride hailing services, however the drivers are often more knowledgeable, and the industry appears to be well regulated. There is an app FreeNow that can be used to book taxis

River Tram

The River Tram runs a single route along the Vistula River, and only during the months of June to September, however it is a nice way to soak in views of Wawel Castle and other river sights

Kraków Trams

Eating & Drinking

Local Specialties

Kielbasa is any type of meat sausage from Poland and is a staple of Polish cuisine. It comes in dozens of varieties, smoked or fresh, made with pork, beef, turkey, lamb, chicken or veal with every region having its own speciality. There are official Polish government guides and classifications of sausages based on size, meat, ready-to-eat or uncooked varieties.

Pierogi are filled dumplings, made by wrapping unleavened dough around a filling, and occasionally flavored with a savory or sweet garnish and cooking in boiling water. Typical fillings include potato, cheese, quark, sauerkraut, ground meat, mushrooms, fruits, and/or berries. Savory pierogi are often served with a topping of sour cream, fried onions, or both.

Obwarzanek are a pastry dough cross between a bagel and a doughnut. They are usually covered in sesame seeds. They are a specialty of Kraków and you can buy them for 2 Zlotty from the little blue carts all over the city.

Zapiekankaare toasted open-face sandwiches made of a sliced baguette or other bread roll topped with sautéed mushrooms, cheese and other ingredients. They are a throwback to the Communist era, and although popular here, are really nothing to g out of your way for.

Kremówka is custard and cream dessert served as a slice between puff pastry. They are almost identical to an Australian Vanilla Slice and are delicious.

Grilled Keilbasa Wiejska (Farmhouse Sausage), served with Rye Bread and Mustard

Black Duck Restaurant

Places To Stay

Top-End Hotels

Kraków has an excellent selection of luxury hotels, ranging from historic palace properties in the Old Town to modern five-star hotels near Wawel Castle and the Vistula River. Some of the best options include:

• Hotel Copernicus : One of Kraków's most distinctive luxury hotels, located on historic Kanonicza Street just below Wawel Castle. The hotel combines medieval architecture with elegant rooms, a spa and indoor pool.
• H15 Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel : A beautifully restored 17th-century palace in the Old Town, just a short walk from the Main Market Square. The hotel combines original frescoes and period details with contemporary luxury, and includes a spa, indoor pool and several dining options.
• Stradom House, Autograph Collection : A five-star hotel between Wawel Castle and Kazimierz, housed in a historic complex dating back to the 14th century. It has one of the strongest wellness offerings in central Kraków, with a large spa, indoor pool, multiple restaurants and an atmospheric bar in a former chapel.
• Hotel Saski Krakow, Curio Collection by Hilton : A historic luxury hotel only a block from the Main Market Square. The property has around 200 years of hotel history, a strong musical theme, an indoor pool, spa and an exceptionally convenient location for exploring the Old Town on foot.
• Bachleda Luxury Hotel Kraków - MGallery : An elegant boutique-style five-star hotel near Wawel Castle and the Vistula River. It offers richly decorated interiors, a quiet atmosphere, a wellness area and easy walking access to both the Old Town and the riverfront.
• Sheraton Grand Krakow : A large full-service five-star hotel beside the Vistula River and close to Wawel Castle. It offers spacious rooms, several restaurants and bars, wellness facilities and a rooftop terrace with excellent views.
• Hotel Stary : A stylish five-star hotel in the heart of the Old Town, only steps from the Main Market Square. Historic architecture is combined with modern design, while the atmospheric medieval cellars contain the hotel's spa and swimming pools.
• Wyndham Grand Krakow Old Town : A luxury hotel on Floriańska Street, one of the principal pedestrian streets leading to the Main Market Square. The historic building contains a relatively small number of rooms and suites, along with an indoor pool, spa, sauna and steam room.
• Hotel Pod Różą : One of Kraków's historic hotels, located on Floriańska Street close to the Main Market Square. Following an extensive renovation, it combines traditional architecture with modern luxury accommodation, a spa and several large suites.

These are only some of Kraków's top luxury hotels. The Old Town has an unusually strong selection of historic five-star properties, so travelers can choose between large international brands and smaller independent hotels while still remaining within walking distance of the city's main attractions.

Mid-Range Hotels

Kraków has a particularly strong selection of mid-range hotels, many within easy walking distance of the Old Town, Wawel Castle and Kazimierz. These properties generally offer a good balance between location, comfort and price:

• Hyatt Place Krakow : A modern hotel beside Błonia Park, offering a quieter setting than the Old Town while remaining only a few tram stops from the city center. The hotel has 216 contemporary rooms, a fitness center and on-site dining, and is a good option for travelers who want Hyatt facilities at a mid-range price point.
• Mercure Kraków Stare Miasto : A modern four-star hotel directly opposite Galeria Krakowska and close to Kraków Główny railway station. The Old Town is within easy walking distance, making this a particularly convenient choice for travelers arriving by train or airport rail service.
• Vienna House by Wyndham Andel's Cracow : A contemporary hotel beside the main railway station and Galeria Krakowska. It combines a very convenient location with stylish rooms, a restaurant, bar, fitness facilities and sauna, while remaining within walking distance of the Main Market Square.
• PURO Kraków Kazimierz : A design-focused hotel in the Kazimierz district with modern rooms, restaurant and bar facilities, a spa and fitness area. It is a good choice for travelers who prefer the restaurants and nightlife of Kazimierz while still being within walking distance of the Old Town.
• Leonardo Boutique Hotel Krakow Old Town : A comfortable boutique-style hotel on the southern edge of the Old Town, well positioned for walking to the Main Market Square, Wawel Castle and Kazimierz. It offers modern rooms together with an on-site restaurant, bar and courtyard.
• Holiday Inn Krakow City Centre : A full-service hotel approximately five minutes on foot from the Main Market Square. It offers larger-hotel facilities including restaurants, a bar, fitness facilities and on-site parking, while retaining an excellent central location.
• Hotel Wielopole : A well-regarded three-star independent hotel between the Old Town and Kazimierz. Its central location and straightforward accommodation make it a good-value base for travelers who expect to spend most of their time exploring the city.
• Hotel Wawel : A characterful three-star hotel in a historic building in the Old Town, close to both the Main Market Square and Wawel Castle. It offers a quieter, more traditional alternative to the larger international hotels.
• ibis Styles Kraków Centrum : A modern three-star hotel slightly outside the historic center, with good tram connections to the Old Town, Kazimierz and other parts of Kraków. It can offer particularly good value for travelers who do not need to stay directly beside the Main Market Square.

Hotel prices in Kraków vary considerably with season and major events. Travelers who are prepared to stay a short walk or tram ride outside the immediate Old Town can often find significantly better value without sacrificing easy access to the city's main attractions.

Our Take

Kraków is one of the easiest historic cities in Central Europe to enjoy at street level. The Old Town is compact, walkable and full of churches, cafés, museums and architecture, while Wawel Castle and the Vistula River add another layer to the city beyond the main square.

What makes Kraków particularly rewarding is the combination of beauty and depth. The city has a strong medieval and royal identity, but its history also includes the Jewish heritage of Kazimierz, the impact of the Second World War and the communist period. Those different layers make it much more than a picturesque old city.

Kraków also works well as a base for exploring southern Poland. Popular excursions include the Wieliczka Salt Mine, the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, and the mountain areas to the south, although each offers a very different experience and deserves enough time of its own.

If you enjoy walkable cities, architecture, history and good-value food, Kraków is an easy place to spend several days. It has enough major sights to justify a dedicated visit, but some of its appeal comes simply from wandering the streets, stopping in cafés and experiencing the city at a slower pace.