Kraków: The Complete Guide

Krakow Wawel Castle

Visiting Kraków, the cultural capital of the Lesser Poland region, is an experience that blends historic charm with modern energy. The city’s well-preserved Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers one of the most beautiful medieval squares in Europe, surrounded by colorful townhouses, elegant churches, and lively cafes. Walking through its cobbled streets feels like stepping into a storybook, with landmarks like St. Mary’s Basilica and the Cloth Hall creating a perfect backdrop for both sightseeing and relaxation.

Beyond the historic center, Kraków pulses with creative spirit and student energy. The Kazimierz district, once the heart of Jewish life in the city, now thrives with art galleries, vintage shops, quirky bars, and restaurants serving both traditional Polish and international cuisine. Whether you’re exploring street art, attending an intimate jazz concert, or enjoying a riverside walk near Wawel Castle, there’s no shortage of things to do both day and night.

Nature lovers and active travelers will also find plenty to enjoy around Kraków. The surrounding area of Lesser Poland offers easy day trips to sites like the Wieliczka Salt Mine, Ojcowski National Park, or even the Tatra Mountains further south. With excellent public transport and a compact city layout, Kraków makes a convenient and inspiring base for discovering the best of southern Poland.

Table of Contents

History of Kraków

Kraków in the Early Origins

Kraków’s history dates back to prehistoric times, with settlement evidence found on Wawel Hill as early as the Stone Age. By the 7th century, it had developed into a fortified trading center. According to legend, the city was founded by the mythical ruler Krakus, who defeated a dragon and established his stronghold atop the hill. This blend of myth and archaeology shaped the city’s symbolic importance from its earliest days.

Kraków in the Piast and Medieval Period

By the 10th century, Kraków had become a significant political and religious hub. It was incorporated into the early Polish state and quickly grew in prominence. In 1038, it became the capital of the Kingdom of Poland. The 13th century saw devastation from Mongol invasions, but the city was rebuilt using a grid pattern that still defines its layout. In 1364, King Casimir III the Great founded the University of Kraków, one of the oldest in Europe, cementing the city’s role as an intellectual center.

Kraków in the Renaissance and Golden Age

The 15th and 16th centuries marked Kraków’s golden era under the Jagiellonian dynasty. The city flourished as a cultural, artistic, and academic beacon, with strong connections to the rest of Europe. Royal coronations and burials took place at Wawel Cathedral, and the Renaissance left a lasting mark on Kraków’s architecture. This period also saw the expansion of trade and the development of influential guilds and a thriving urban elite.

Kraków during the Partitions and 19th Century

With the fall of the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth in the late 18th century, Kraków was absorbed into the Austrian Empire as part of Galicia. It briefly became the Free City of Kraków (1815–1846), a semi-autonomous republic, before being reabsorbed by Austria. Despite foreign rule, Kraków remained a cultural stronghold and a center for Polish nationalism. The city preserved its language, traditions, and academic life, becoming a symbol of resistance and identity.

Kraków in the 20th Century

Kraków rejoined an independent Poland in 1918. During World War II, the city was occupied by Nazi Germany and served as the capital of the General Government. While spared large-scale destruction, Kraków witnessed the horrors of the Holocaust, with its Jewish population decimated. After the war, under communist rule, the city saw industrial growth and the creation of Nowa Huta. Despite state control, Kraków maintained its cultural influence and was central to the opposition movement.

Kraków in the Modern Era

Since the fall of communism in 1989, Kraków has re-emerged as one of Poland’s leading cities. Its historic core was among the first sites inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1978. The city has become a hub for tourism, education, and business, attracting millions of visitors each year. Today, Kraków is celebrated not only for its heritage but also for its dynamic cultural life, festivals, and youthful energy that continues to evolve.

Visiting Kraków for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Kraków on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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23 Best places to See in Kraków

This complete guide to Kraków not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.

This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Kraków and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!

Juliusz Słowacki Theatre

Juliusz Słowacki Theatre, Kraków, Poland
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Chris Olszewski
The Juliusz Słowacki Theatre, located in the heart of Kraków’s Old Town, is one of Poland’s most historic and architecturally striking performance venues. Opened in 1893, the theatre was inspired by the grand Parisian theatres of the 19th century, blending elements of Baroque, Rococo, and Classical architecture. Named after the revered Polish Romantic poet Juliusz Słowacki, it has become a…
Location: Juliusz Słowacki Theatre, plac Świętego Ducha, Kraków, Poland | Distance: 0.2km
Visiting Juliusz Słowacki Theatre

We recommend to rent a car in Poland through Discover Cars, they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies. Book your rental car here.

Muzeum Książąt Czartoryskich

Interior Of The Czartoryski Museum,
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Chris Olszewski
The Muzeum Książąt Czartoryskich is one of Kraków’s most prestigious cultural institutions, renowned for its exceptional art collections and historical significance. Established in 1796 by Princess Izabela Czartoryska, the museum was originally created to preserve Poland’s national heritage during a time of political upheaval and partition. Today, it houses masterpieces of European and Polish art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative…
Location: Muzeum Książąt Czartoryskich, Pijarska, Kraków, Poland | Hours: Monday: Closed Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 – 18:00 | Price: 25 PLN | Website | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Muzeum Książąt Czartoryskich

Here is a complete selection of hotel options in Kraków . Feel free to review each one and choose the stay that best suits your needs.

Barbakan in Kraków

Barbakan In Kraków
The Barbican, or Barbakan, is one of Kraków’s most impressive medieval fortifications and a must-see for anyone interested in the city’s history. Located just a short walk from St. Florian’s Gate, this circular Gothic-style fortress once served as a crucial defensive outpost, protecting the northern approach to the Old Town. Its imposing structure, complete with thick walls and multiple turrets,…
Location: Barbakan w Krakowie, Basztowa, Kraków, Poland | Hours: Tuesday - Sunday: 10:00 and 18:00 | Price: 20 PLN | Website | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Barbakan in Kraków

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St. Florian’s Gate Tower

St. Florian’s Gate, Pijarska Street, Old Town, Krakow, Poland
St. Florian’s Gate Tower is one of Kraków’s most iconic medieval landmarks, giving visitors a vivid sense of the city’s fortified past. Originally mentioned in records in 1307, the tower was constructed as part of the city’s defensive walls following the devastating Tatar invasion of 1241, which destroyed much of Kraków. The new fortifications included stone watchtowers, fortified gates, and…
Location: St. Florian's Gate, Kraków, Poland | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting St. Florian’s Gate Tower

Explore Kraków yourself with our self-guided walking tour!

Floriańska Street

Floriańska, Kraków, Poland
CC BY-SA 32.0 / Francisco Anzola
Floriańska Street is one of Kraków’s most famous and lively thoroughfares, offering visitors an intimate glimpse into the city’s heartbeat. Running from the iconic Florian Gate in the north down to the Main Market Square, this historic street has been a central artery of urban life since the 13th century. Walking along Floriańska, you immediately feel the pulse of the…
Location: Floriańska, Kraków, Poland | Distance: 0.3km
Visiting Floriańska Street

Muzeum Farmacji Collegium Medicum Uniwersytetu Jagiellońskiego

Pharmacy Museum In Kraków
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Maksym Kozlenko
The Muzeum Farmacji, part of the Jagiellonian University’s Collegium Medicum, is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in the history of medicine and pharmacy. Located in the heart of Kraków’s Old Town, the museum traces the development of pharmaceutical practices from the Middle Ages to modern times. Housed in a historic building that once served as an apothecary, the museum…
Location: Muzeum Farmacji Collegium Medicum Uniwersytetu Jagiellońskiego, Floriańska, Kraków, Poland | Hours: Monday to Friday: 10:00 – 16:00 Saturday: 10:00 – 14:00 Sunday: Closed | Price: 10 PLN | Website | Distance: 0.4km
Visiting Muzeum Farmacji Collegium Medicum Uniwersytetu Jagiellońskiego

Basilica of St. Mary, Kraków

Basilica Of St. Mary Krakow
The Basilica of St. Mary, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, is one of Kraków’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see when visiting the Old Town. Located adjacent to the Main Market Square, it stands as a stunning example of architectural evolution, blending Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements into a singular, timeless masterpiece. Its presence dominates the square, reflecting Kraków’s historical…
Location: St. Mary's Basilica, plac Mariacki, Kraków, Poland | Hours: Monday to Saturday: 11:30 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday and public holidays: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Price: PLN 18 | Website | Distance: 0.5km
Visiting Basilica of St. Mary, Kraków

Adam Mickiewicz Monument

Adam Mickiewicz, Kraków, Poland
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Igor123121
The Adam Mickiewicz Monument, located in the heart of Kraków’s Main Market Square, stands as one of the city’s most beloved landmarks and a central meeting point for locals and visitors alike. Unveiled in 1898 to mark the 100th anniversary of the poet’s birth, the monument honors Adam Mickiewicz, Poland’s national bard and one of the most important figures of…
Location: Adam Mickiewicz Monument, Main Square, Kraków, Poland | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Adam Mickiewicz Monument

Underground Main Square Museum, Krakow

Podziemia Rynku W Krakowie Kramy Bogate
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Pudelek (Marcin Szala)
The Underground Main Square Museum, or Rynek Underground, is one of Kraków’s most remarkable and must-see attractions. Situated directly beneath the bustling Main Market Square, it offers visitors a chance to explore the city’s rich history in a unique subterranean setting. Covering around 4,000 square metres, the museum opened to the public in September 2010, following a major project that…
Location: Rynek Underground Museum Rynek Główny 1 31-042 Kraków Poland | Hours: Monday: 10:00 – 19:00; Tuesday: 10:00 – 15:00; Wednesday – Thursday: 10:00 – 19:00; Friday – Saturday: 10:00 – 20:00 | Price: PLN 20 | Website | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Underground Main Square Museum, Krakow
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Cloth Hall (Sukiennice)

Sukiennice, Main Square, Krakow
Sukiennice, or the Cloth Hall, is one of Kraków’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see for anyone visiting the Old Town. Situated in the centre of the Main Market Square, this magnificent Renaissance-style arcade has stood as a symbol of the city’s wealth, trade, and cultural importance since the 14th century. Originally built as a hub for merchants to meet,…
Location: MNK Sukiennice, Main Square, Kraków, Poland | Distance: 0.6km
Visiting Cloth Hall (Sukiennice)

Basilica of the Holy Trinity

Basilica Of The Holy Trinity Kraków
The Basilica of the Holy Trinity, also known as the Dominican Church, is one of Kraków’s most impressive Gothic landmarks. Founded in the mid-13th century, it has long served as the spiritual stronghold of the Dominican Order, whose friars were often referred to as the Black Friars. The church originally stood as a model of Gothic architecture in the city,…
Location: Holy Trinity Church, Stolarska, Kraków, Poland | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Basilica of the Holy Trinity

St Adalbert’s Church

Church Of St. Adalbert, Kraków
St Adalbert’s Church, also known as the Church of St Wojciech, is one of the oldest and most distinctive landmarks in Kraków’s Main Market Square. Its origins date back over 1,000 years, with the first stone structure believed to have been built in the late 10th century, making it older than the square itself. The church was named in honor…
Location: Church of St. Adalbert, Main Square, Kraków, Poland | Hours: Monday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Price: Free | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting St Adalbert’s Church

Kraków's Main Market Square (Rynek Główny)

Kraków’s Main Market Square
The Main Market Square, popularly known as the Rynek Główny, is the beating heart of Kraków and one of the most iconic landmarks in Poland. Measuring around 40,000 square metres, it is the largest medieval square in Europe and has been the centre of the city’s public life for centuries. Encircled by elegant townhouses, palaces, and churches, the square is…
Location: Rynek Główny, Main Square, Kraków, Poland | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Kraków's Main Market Square (Rynek Główny)

Krakow's Town Hall Tower

Krakows Town Hall Tower
Krakow's Town Hall Tower is one of the most striking landmarks on Kraków’s Main Market Square, standing as the last surviving remnant of the city’s medieval Town Hall. Constructed in the late 13th century and expanded during the 14th century, the tower originally formed part of a much larger civic complex that symbolised the power and independence of Kraków’s city…
Location: Town Hall Tower, Main Square, Kraków, Poland | Hours: Monday: 10:00 – 15:00 (free admission) Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 – 18:00 (last admission shortly before closing) | Price: 20 PLN | Website | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Krakow's Town Hall Tower

Main Square (Rynek Główny)

Rynek Główny
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Marmontel
Rynek Główny, the Main Square of Kraków, stands as one of Europe’s most iconic and expansive medieval urban spaces. Laid out in 1257 following the city’s refounding after a Mongol invasion, it spans nearly 40,000 square meters, making it the largest of its kind in Europe. Surrounded by elegant townhouses, historic landmarks, and bustling cafés, the square has remained the…
Location: Rynek Główny, Main Square, Kraków, Poland | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Main Square (Rynek Główny)

Town Hall Tower

Town Hall Tower In Kraków
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Suicasmo
The Town Hall Tower in Kraków stands proudly on the western edge of the Main Market Square, a striking remnant of the city’s once-grand medieval Town Hall complex. Rising over 70 meters tall, the Gothic tower is clad in dark stone and crowned with a Baroque roof added after a 17th-century storm destroyed the original. Despite the Town Hall itself…
Location: Town Hall Tower, Main Square, Kraków, Poland | Hours: March to October: Tuesday–Sunday 10:30 AM–6:00 PM; Monday 10:30 AM–2:00 PM (closed Mondays in summer beyond 2 PM) November to December: Tuesday–Sunday 11:00 AM–5:00 PM; Monday 11:00 AM–2:00 PM | Price: 20 PLN | Distance: 0.7km
Visiting Town Hall Tower

Planty Park

Planty Park, Autumn, Old Town, Krakow, Poland
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Zygmunt Put Zetpe0202
Encircling Kraków’s Old Town like a verdant ring, Planty Park is a serene escape from the bustling streets of the city. Created in the early 19th century on the site of the city’s demolished medieval walls, the park stretches almost 4 kilometers and forms a continuous green belt around the historic center. Its tree-lined paths, manicured flowerbeds, and shady benches…
Location: Planty Park, Kraków, Poland | Distance: 0.8km
Visiting Planty Park

Basilica of St. Francis

Basilica Of St. Francis Of Assisi
CC BY-SA 4.0 / BugWarp
The Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi in Kraków is one of the city’s most significant religious and architectural landmarks. Established in the 13th century by the Franciscan Order, the church has played a central role in Kraków’s spiritual life for over seven centuries. Originally constructed in the Gothic style, the basilica has undergone multiple renovations and expansions, incorporating elements…
Location: Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, plac Wszystkich Świętych, Kraków, Poland | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting Basilica of St. Francis

Collegium Maius

Collegium Maius
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Krakow 161
Collegium Maius, located just a short walk from Kraków’s Main Square, is the oldest surviving building of the Jagiellonian University, founded in 1364 by King Casimir III the Great. The university is one of the oldest in Europe, and Collegium Maius has long stood at the heart of academic life in Poland. Originally serving as a place for lectures, studies,…
Location: Collegium Maius, Jagiellońska, Kraków, Poland | Hours: Monday: 10:00–16:00 (last admission at 16:30) Tuesday–Friday: 13:30–17:00 (last admission at 16:30) Saturday: 10:00–15:00 (last admission at 14:30) | Price: 17 PLN | Website | Distance: 0.9km
Visiting Collegium Maius

Wawel Cathedral

Wawel Cathedral
Wawel Cathedral, formally known as the Royal Archcathedral Basilica of Saints Stanislaus and Wenceslaus, stands as one of Poland’s most important religious and historical landmarks. Located atop Wawel Hill in Kraków, this Roman Catholic cathedral has served as the spiritual heart of the nation for over 900 years. Beyond its religious function, it has traditionally been the coronation site for…
Location: Wawel Cathedral, Wawel, Kraków, Poland | Hours: Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Sunday: 12:30 PM – 4:00 PM | Price: 25 PLN | Website | Distance: 1.3km
Visiting Wawel Cathedral
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Wawel Royal Castle

Wawel Royal Castle
Wawel Royal Castle, perched majestically at the heart of Kraków, is one of Poland’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see destination for anyone visiting the city. Commissioned by King Casimir III the Great, the castle has been a symbol of Polish sovereignty for centuries and played a central role in the country’s political and cultural life. As one of the…
Location: Wawel Royal Castle, Wawel, Kraków, Poland | Hours: Tuesday to Sunday (exhibitions): 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Mondays: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Castle grounds: 6:00 AM until dusk | Price: Castle I: 49 PLN | Website | Distance: 1.4km
Visiting Wawel Royal Castle

Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory

Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory is one of the most poignant and significant museums in Kraków, offering a powerful insight into the history of the city under Nazi occupation during World War II. The factory originally belonged to Oskar Schindler, a German industrialist and member of the Nazi Party, who arrived in Kraków in 1939. While at first his aim was…
Location: Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory, Lipowa, Kraków, Poland | Hours: Tuesday–Sunday: 9 am – 8 pm (last entry 6 pm) Monday: 10 am – 4 pm (last entry 2 pm) Closed: first Tuesday of each month and major public holidays | Price: 32 PLN | Website | Distance: 2.3km
Visiting Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory

Kosciuszko's Mound

Kosciuszkos Mound
Kościuszko’s Mound is one of Kraków’s most distinctive landmarks, a man-made hill that rises above the city as a symbol of Polish pride and independence. Built in the early 19th century, the mound was dedicated to Tadeusz Kościuszko, a national hero celebrated for his role in Poland’s fight for freedom as well as his involvement in the American Revolutionary War.…
Location: Kościuszko Mound, al. Waszyngtona, Kraków, Poland | Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM | Price: 28 PLN | Distance: 3.9km
Visiting Kosciuszko's Mound

Best Day Trips from Kraków

A day trip from Kraków offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Kraków provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in Poland I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Wieliczka Salt Mine

Wieliczka Salt Mine
The Wieliczka Salt Mine, located just outside Kraków, Poland, is one of the oldest and most famous salt mines in the world. Operational from the 13th century until 1996, the mine has a rich history of continuous salt extraction and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stretching over 300 kilometers in total, only a small but remarkable portion is…
Location: Wieliczka Salt Mine, Daniłowicza, Wieliczka, Poland | Hours: Tourist Route: April 1 – October 31: daily 07:30 – 19:30 November 1 – March 31: daily 08:00 – 17:00 Closed on: January 1, Easter Sunday, November 1, December 24–25; Dec 31 early closure: 08:00–16:00Miner’s Route: open 09:00 – 18:00 (Apr–Oct), or 09:00–17:00 (Nov–Mar) | Price: Low season: ~128–139 PLN; High season (Apr–Oct): ~146 PLN | Website | Skip the Line Tickets | Distance: 12.0km
Visiting Wieliczka Salt Mine
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Ojców Castle

Ojcow Castle
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Jakub Hałun
Ojców Castle is a captivating medieval ruin nestled in the heart of Ojców National Park, just 25 kilometers north of Kraków, Poland. Built in the 14th century by King Casimir III the Great, it was part of a strategic network of fortresses known as the Eagles’ Nests, designed to defend the southern borders of the Kingdom of Poland. The castle’s…
Location: Zamek w Ojcowie, Ojców, Poland | Hours: April to October 9:00 - 4:00 Winter open weekends only | Price: 22 PLN | Distance: 18.3km
Visiting Ojców Castle

Ogrodzieniec Castle

Ogrodzieniec Castle
Ogrodzieniec Castle, perched atop Castle Mountain in the village of Podzamcze, is one of the most iconic ruins along Poland’s famed Eagles’ Nests Trail. Rising 515 meters above sea level, it dominates the surrounding landscape of the Kraków-Częstochowa Upland with its dramatic limestone cliffs and sprawling remnants. Originally built in the 14th century during the reign of King Casimir III…
Location: Zamek Ogrodzieniec, Zamkowa, Podzamcze, Poland | Hours: Spring to Autumn: 9:00–18:00 Winter: Closed | Price: 29 zł | Distance: 51.4km
Visiting Ogrodzieniec Castle

Auschwitz-Birkenau

AUSCHWITZ BIRKENAU
Auschwitz-Birkenau was the largest and most notorious of the Nazi concentration and extermination camps during World War II. Located in occupied Poland, it was originally established in 1940 as a concentration camp for political prisoners. By 1942, it expanded into a complex of camps, including Auschwitz I (the main camp), Auschwitz II-Birkenau (the extermination camp), and Auschwitz III-Monowitz (a labor…
Location: Auschwitz-Birkenau, Ofiar Faszyzmu, Brzezinka, Poland | Hours: December – entry from 07:30, final admission 14:00–14:30 January, November – entry until 15:00 February – entry until 16:00 March, October – entry until 17:00 April, May, September – entry until 18:00 June, July, August – entry until 19:00, | Price: Free (you must get pass from website) | Website | Distance: 55.1km
Visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau
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Bielsko-Biała

Bielsko Biala
Visiting Bielsko-Biała, located in the foothills of the Silesian Beskids in southern Poland, offers a charming mix of natural beauty and urban culture. The city, known for its stunning mountain backdrop, provides visitors with plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, whether it’s hiking, cycling, or simply enjoying the breathtaking landscapes. The nearby mountain range, part of the Carpathian Mountains, is…
Visiting Bielsko-Biała

Katowice

Katowice
Visiting Katowice offers a dynamic blend of modern urban life and cultural attractions in the heart of the Silesian region. Known for its impressive architectural landmarks and vibrant arts scene, the city is a hub for music, theater, and contemporary exhibitions. Visitors can explore numerous galleries and concert halls that showcase both local talent and international acts, making it a…
Visiting Katowice
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Chochołów Thermal Hot Springs

Chochołów Thermal Hot Springs
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Chochołów Thermal Hot Springs (Chochołowskie Termy) are among the largest and most modern thermal bath complexes in southern Poland. Located in the village of Chochołów, near Zakopane in the Tatra Mountains, the springs draw mineral-rich thermal water from a depth of nearly 3,600 meters. These waters are known for their healing properties and are rich in elements such as sulfur,…
| Website | Distance: 79.7km
Visiting Chochołów Thermal Hot Springs
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Zakopane

Zakopane
Zakopane, located in the southern region of Poland in the Tatra Mountains, is renowned as the country’s winter sports capital and a gateway to stunning alpine landscapes. The town is a hub for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities, attracting visitors from across Poland and Europe. Beyond winter sports, Zakopane offers scenic trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding…
Visiting Zakopane

Gliwice

Gliwice
Visiting Gliwice offers a unique experience, especially for those looking to explore the charming blend of modernity and tradition. Located in the Silesian Voivodeship, in southern Poland, Gliwice is part of the larger Upper Silesian metropolitan area. The city is often seen as a more relaxed alternative to the hustle and bustle of nearby cities like Katowice, while still offering…
Visiting Gliwice

Częstochowa

Częstochowa
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Jceel
Visiting Częstochowa, located in the southern part of Poland, offers a blend of spiritual significance and serene beauty. Nestled in the Silesian Voivodeship, this charming city is known for its peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a moment of reflection. The landscape around Częstochowa is a mix of rolling hills and lush greenery, which creates a…
Visiting Częstochowa
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Piotrków Trybunalski

Market Square In Piotrkow
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Witia
Visiting Piotrków Trybunalski offers a delightful experience in the heart of Central Poland, where traditional Polish architecture and a relaxed urban atmosphere meet. The town’s compact historic center is ideal for walking, with cobbled streets, charming tenement houses, and old churches providing a picturesque backdrop. The main square is a great place to start exploring, offering a blend of local…
Visiting Piotrków Trybunalski

Where to Stay in Kraków

When staying in Kraków, the Old Town is one of the most popular areas due to its proximity to major attractions like the Main Market Square and Wawel Castle. Here, you’ll find elegant hotels such as Hotel Wentzl, which offers historic charm with stunning views over the square. Another great option in this area is Hotel Unicus Palace, known for its luxurious rooms and modern amenities within a beautifully restored building.

For those seeking a more bohemian vibe, the Kazimierz district is ideal, blending history with a lively nightlife scene. Aparthotel Rubinstein provides stylish, apartment-style accommodation perfect for longer stays. Another choice in Kazimierz is Hotel Rubinstein, which offers a boutique experience in a quieter part of the district while still being close to cafes and cultural sites.

Near the train station, in the Dębniki district, you’ll find convenient access to transport and quieter streets. IBB Hotel Długi Targ is a comfortable option here with modern facilities and easy links to the city center. For travelers wanting a blend of comfort and business amenities, Metropolitan Boutique Hotel provides a welcoming atmosphere with excellent transport connections.

Finally, for a more tranquil stay near the green spaces of Kraków, the Zwierzyniec area offers peaceful surroundings while still being only a short tram ride from the city center. The charming Hotel Stary stands out with its combination of historic architecture and contemporary luxury, making it a favorite for visitors seeking comfort close to nature and culture.

Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Kraków. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.

Kraków Accommodation Map

Best Time to Visit Kraków

Visiting Kraków in Winter

Winter in Kraków (December to February) offers a magical, festive atmosphere with temperatures ranging from -6°C to 2°C. The city transforms with snow-dusted rooftops, cozy cafes, and one of Poland’s best Christmas markets in the Main Square. In January, Kraków hosts New Year celebrations with outdoor concerts and fireworks, while nearby ski destinations like Zakopane attract winter sports enthusiasts. It’s a quieter time for sightseeing, ideal for those who enjoy a more peaceful, atmospheric city experience.

Visiting Kraków in Spring

Spring (March to May) in Kraków brings milder weather, blooming parks, and the reawakening of cultural life. Temperatures rise steadily from around 5°C in March to 18°C by May. The city becomes more colorful, especially in Planty Park and along the Vistula boulevards. Festivals such as Emaus and Rękawka take place in April, blending folk traditions and local legend. Spring is great for exploring the city on foot before the busy summer months arrive.

Visiting Kraków in Summer (Best)

Summer (June to August) is the best time to visit Kraków, with warm temperatures ranging between 20°C and 28°C and the city buzzing with festivals and outdoor life. Major events like the Wianki Festival, the Jewish Culture Festival, and Kraków Live Festival draw international crowds and fill the streets with music, art, and performance. Cafes spill out onto the squares, and the long days are perfect for sightseeing or day trips to places like Wieliczka Salt Mine or Ojcowski National Park.

Visiting Kraków in Autumn

Autumn (September to November) brings crisp air, vibrant foliage, and a calmer pace to Kraków. Early autumn remains mild, with temperatures from 18°C in September dropping to 5°C by November. It’s a great time for cultural events, including literary festivals and classical music concerts. The historic streets take on a golden hue, and it’s an ideal season for photography, museum visits, and enjoying the city without the crowds of summer.

Annual Weather Overview

  • January 3°C
  • February 7°C
  • March 10°C
  • April 18°C
  • May 20°C
  • June 25°C
  • July 25°C
  • August 27°C
  • September 22°C
  • October 15°C
  • November 9°C
  • December 5°C

How to get to Kraków

Getting to Kraków by Air

Nearest airports: The main airport serving Kraków is John Paul II Kraków-Balice International Airport (KRK). It’s located around 11 km from the city center and is Poland’s second-busiest airport. The airport handles frequent flights from major European cities including London, Paris, Rome, Amsterdam, and Frankfurt, as well as domestic routes from Warsaw and Gdańsk.

The airport is well connected to the city by train, taking about 20 minutes to reach Kraków Główny (main station). Alternatively, city buses and taxis are available directly outside the terminal.

Getting to Kraków by Train

Kraków is a key stop on Poland’s national rail network and sits on several major east-west and north-south lines. Kraków Główny is the city’s central station and one of the most modern in the country. It offers frequent direct trains to Warsaw (about 2.5–3 hours), Wrocław, Katowice, Gdańsk, Poznań, and Rzeszów.

High-speed and InterCity services run daily, and international routes connect Kraków with cities such as Vienna, Prague, and Budapest. The station is located next to the main bus terminal and is integrated with tram and bus networks. [trains]

Getting to Kraków by Car

Kraków is accessible via the A4 motorway, which links the city to Katowice, Wrocław, and the German border to the west, and Rzeszów to the east. From Warsaw, drivers can take the S7 expressway, with ongoing upgrades shortening the journey. Traffic in and around the city can be busy, especially during peak hours and holiday periods.

Driving allows access to nearby destinations such as Wieliczka Salt Mine, Ojcowski National Park, and the Tatra Mountains. However, parking in the city center is limited and mostly paid, so accommodations with on-site parking are recommended. If you are looking to rent a car in Poland I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Travelling around Kraków

Getting around Kraków is easy thanks to its well-developed public transport system. The city operates an extensive network of trams and buses, covering all major districts and tourist areas. Tickets are inexpensive and can be purchased at machines, kiosks, or via mobile apps.

Taxis and ride-hailing services like Bolt and Uber are widely available. For short distances within the Old Town or Kazimierz, walking is convenient and enjoyable. Bikes and electric scooters are also popular, especially in warmer months.

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