Kraków, Poland: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2026

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.

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.

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.