With all the unique tourist attractions in Poland, it’s sometimes not easy to find the right itinerary for your trip. However, Krakow is a great option to spend a few days. For this reason, this guide will go through the best things to do in Krakow, Poland.
Krakow is a beautiful city in the south of Poland, attracting thousands of visitors every year with its charming old streets, history oozing from every building, delicious Polish restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.
There’s so much to see in Krakow that it’s easy to get overwhelmed with choices. But in this, we’ll focus only on the best options when traveling to Krakow.
Now, without further ado, here is the list of some of the best things to do in Krakow, Poland.
Best Things to Do in Krakow – Overview
Before getting started, let’s discuss some essentials that first-timers want to know and that you may find useful too.
How to Get to Krakow?
If you’re flying in, the John Paul II International Airport Krakow-Balice is your gateway, offering flights from various locations in Europe. It’s just a short bus or train ride to the city center, so getting to Krakow Old Town is fast, cheap, and easy.
If you’re coming from within Poland or neighboring countries, trains are a great choice. Krakow’s main railway station, Krakow Glowny, is centrally located and well-connected to major cities, and that is convenient too.
How to Get Around Krakow?
Once in Krakow, getting around is easy and straightforward. The city boasts an efficient public transport system with trams and buses covering most areas. Tickets are affordable and can be bought at kiosks or directly on the vehicles.
For a more intimate view of the city, walking is a great option, especially in the compact Old Town. Biking is also popular, with many bike rental shops around. And of course, you can also walk, which is a nice way to discover the best things to do in Krakow.
Also, if you fly into town, renting a car at Krakow Airport is possible and is another affordable option that you can consider to get around.
Best Time to Visit Krakow
The best time to visit is from May to September. These months offer warm weather and lots of sunny days, perfect for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions and enjoying its vibrant street life.
On the other hand, late spring and early autumn are particularly lovely for those who prefer fewer crowds and milder temperatures.
Winters are cold but have their own charm, especially around Christmas when the city is lit up and the famous Christmas market in the Main Square comes to life.
Best-Rated Tour
Auschwitz-Birkenau Tour from Krakow
- Visit the concentration camps
- Learn about Polish history with a guide
- Endless positive reviews for a great tour
Includes
- Skip-the-line tickets
- Transportation from Krakow
- Lunchbox and an expert guide
15 Best Things to Do in Krakow, Poland
There are plenty of things to see and do in Krakow, whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a fun day out. Here are some of the best options in the city.
It’s worth noting that, while there are unique things to do in Krakow Old Town, many famous attractions are out of town, and those are must-do activities. So for this reason, I’ll be discussing the best tour options you can join to make the most of your time in town.
Take a Stroll Around Krakow’s Main Market Square
Once you make your way to the Old Town, head straight for the very heart of Krakow – Market Square, the first of the things to do in Krakow.
It has been the center of Krakow ever since its humble beginnings in the 13th century and watched the city around it develop and grow, becoming the modern metropolis it is today. It’s now the symbol of Krakow and the first thing you’ll discover in the city.
There isn’t a thing you won’t find at the Main Square. Whether you’re hungry, or want to look at some souvenirs, there is a plethora of places to satisfy your cravings.
Come after sunset to watch the old cobblestones, and the Cloth Hall illuminated at night. Moreover, visiting Market Square is certainly one of the best things to do in Krakow at night.
Check Out St Mary’s Basilica
Towering over Krakow’s main square, St. Mary’s Basilica is a gothic marvel in red and black. The construction lasted until the 14th century and it’s been standing tall ever since. The whole city can hear the basilica’s call every hour, which gives Krakow another unique Northern European touch.
The magnificent exterior of the basilica still can hardly prepare you for what’s inside. Sky-blue ceilings and peachy-pink arcs, brightly lit chandeliers, and shiny wooden pews.
You don’t have to be a Catholic to appreciate the beauty of St. Mary’s Basilica. Whether you want to take great shots of Krakow or enjoy the central part of the city, St Mary’s Basilica is one of the best things to do in Krakow.
Go on an Electric Car Tour in Krakow Old Town
Krakow is a beautiful city with a rich history and plenty of things to see and do. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly way to explore the city, consider taking an electric car tour.
You’ll be able to zip around town without having to worry about emissions, and you’ll get a unique perspective on some of Krakow’s most iconic sights.
The tour will take you past the Wawel Castle, the Main Square, and the Kazimierz district. Of course, you’ll also have the opportunity to stop and take photos along the way.
For a fun and environmentally-friendly way to see Krakow, an electric car tour is the perfect option – And it’s cheap!
Join a Day Tour to Auschwitz Birkenau
Some parts of Polish history are darker than others, but it just makes them more important to remember.
The Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp is a gruesome reminder of the crimes against humanity committed by Nazis during World War II, and you can take one of the many Auschwitz tours from Krakow to Oświęcim to have a professional guide highlight the importance of knowing your history.
If you’re planning to stay a few days in Krakow, these are the most popular Auschwitz tours you can join.
You will be exposed to the everyday concentration camp reality as you step through the iron gate, visiting barracks and prison blocks and seeing the gas chambers that took the lives of millions of Jews.
A visit to Auschwitz Birkenau will not be a cheerful one, but it will leave an impression on life.
Tour the Oskar Schindler’s Factory
Oskar Schindler’s Factory is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of World War II, and it’s just one of the main things to do in Poland when visiting. Located in the city of Krakow, Poland, the factory was used by Schindler to produce enamelware and other goods during the war.
Today, the site has been transformed into a museum that tells the story of Schindler and his workers. Visitors can see exhibits on the factory floor, as well as view artifacts from the war.
The museum also features a collection of interviews with survivors of the Holocaust. With its moving testimony and powerful lessons, Oskar Schindler’s Factory is an unforgettable experience.
The best way to visit is to join a tour of the factory, which is not only affordable but you’ll also get to learn everything about the site, and that is (in my opinion) a must-do in Krakow. Check it out below.
Visit Krakow’s Wawel Castle
When visiting Krakow, be sure to check out the Wawel Royal Castle. This beautiful castle has been the seat of Polish kings for centuries, and it’s now one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.
The castle complex includes a number of different buildings and courtyards, as well as the famed Dragon’s Den – a cave that is said to be home to a dragon that terrorized the city in medieval times.
You will be able to explore the castle grounds on your own and take a guided tour, as well as climb all the way to Wawel Hill for spectacular views over Krakow. Either way, a visit to the Wawel royal Castle is a must-do when in Krakow.
Last but not least, don’t forget to go to the Wawel Cathedral. The Wawel Cathedral is stunning and its main altar in the apse of the cathedral was created in 1650 by Bishop Piotr Gembicki and is decorated with an altar painting of Crucified Christ.
See Krakow Cloth Hall
Krakow’s Cloth Hall is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, located right next Mary’s Basilica, only 10 minutes from the Jewish Quarter and Wawel Castle.
Originally built in the 14th century, it was once the center of Krakow’s thriving textile trade. Today, it houses a branch of the National Museum, as well as a number of shops and restaurants.
You can wander around the museum’s exhibits on the history of Krakow and the Polish textile industry or enjoy the view from the top of the hall’s grand main staircase.
Either way, a visit to Krakow’s Cloth Hall is sure to be a highlight of any trip to the city, and it’s even included in the Krakow Pass Card, which is great to enter for free!
See the Ghetto Heroes Square
The Ghetto Heroes Square is a monument commemorating the victims of the Holocaust. The square is named after the Zgierska Street ghetto, which was one of the largest ghettos in Poland during World War II.
The ghetto was established in 1941 and was eventually liquidated in 1943. During its liquidation, the ghetto was burned to the ground and all of its residents were killed.
The Ghetto Heroes Square is a tribute to those who perished in the ghetto and serves as a reminder of the human capacity for cruelty and intolerance. The square is also a reminder of the importance of fighting for justice and against prejudice.
Wander Around the Jewish Quarter
Krakow’s Jewish District is one of the most atmospheric and historic parts of the city. Visitors can wander through the narrow streets and take in the centuries-old architecture, or visit some of the many museums and synagogues that are located here.
The Jewish Quarter is also home to a number of traditional restaurants, making it the perfect place to sample some of Krakow’s famous Jewish cuisine. Of course, you’ll have a unique feel of the city of the Jewish community living here – what an experience!
Whether you’re interested in history or just looking for a unique place to explore, the Jewish Quarter Krakow is definitely worth a visit.
Go on an Evening Cruise on the Vistula River
As the sun sets over Krakow, the city comes alive with new energy, and what better way to see Krakow old town transform than aboard an evening cruise on the Vistula River?
With live, elegant music playing, you can enjoy the views of the illuminated Wawel Castle and Main Market Square while sipping on a glass of Polish Vodka or a drink of your choice.
As the boat makes its way down the river, you’ll get a unique perspective of some of Krakow’s most famous landmarks, including the home of Pope John Paul II, the Town Hall Tower, and the city center from the Vistula River.
In short, this is one of the best activities in Krakow at night that you can’t skip, and you’ll easily understand why as soon as you step on board!
Visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine
The Wieliczka Salt Mine is one of the most popular tourist spots in Poland. Located just outside the city of Krakow, the mine was used for over 700 years. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.
The mine consists of a network of tunnels and chambers, some of which are 327 meters underground. You can explore the tunnels on a guided tour, which includes a stop at the salt chapel, an underground lake, and a museum.
The tours are conducted in several languages, and you can also rent audio guides in English, German, or Polish. That being said, many tours to Auschwitz include a stop at the Wieliczka Salt Mine, and I recommend booking those for the ultimate experience.
The Wieliczka Salt Mine is open all year round, and tours typically last between two and three hours. Check out the tour below, which is cheap and includes both the salt mine and the concentration camps.
Visit Krakow’s Museums
Krakow is home to many world-renowned museums, making it a must-visit destination for art and history lovers alike. The most popular museum in the city is the Wawel Royal Castle, which houses an impressive collection of art from the Renaissance period.
Other notable museums include the Museum of Contemporary Art, the National Museum, and the Czartoryski Museum. For those interested in exploring Krakow’s rich history, the city’s Old Town district is home to numerous museums chronicling its past, including the Warsaw Uprising Museum and the Wieliczka Salt Mine Museum.
No matter what your interests are, Krakow’s museums offer something for everyone.
To make the most of it, make sure to get your hands on the Krakow Card, which allows you to visit 38 museums in 1, 2, or 3 for a very affordable price.
Best Museums in Krakow
- Wawel Castle Museum
- Galicia Jewish Museum
- Krakil Museum of Illusions
- National Museum of Krakow
- Rynek Underground Museum
- Oskar Schindler’s Factory Museum
Discover Zakopane and the Thermal Baths
Zakopane is a charming mountain town located in southern Poland, and going on a 12-hour day trip is one of the best things to do in Krakow. It is well-known for its winter sports facilities, but it is also an ideal destination for a summer day trip.
You will explore the picturesque streets and learn about the local culture, and take a cable car up to Mount Gubalowka for stunning views of the Tatras Mountains.
There are also several thermal baths in Zakopane, which offer a relaxing way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The town is easily accessible by car or bus from Krakow, making it an ideal excursion for the day.
That being said, the most convenient way to get here is to sign up for a 11-hour day tour from Krakow, which includes hotel transfers, a guidebook, a stop at the Chocholow Village and Chocholow Thermal Baths, and even a Vodka tasting session!
Relax at the Chocholow Thermal Baths
If you’re interesting in the Chocholow Thermal Baths but don’t feel like getting into the mountains that I suggested here above, hear me out – This is what you’re after.
After a long day of exploring the whole city, there is nothing better than soaking your tired muscles in the warm waters of the Chocholow Thermal Baths.
These stunning baths are open until 10 pm and 11 pm during the weekend, so you can enjoy a leisurely evening dip under the stars. The water temperature is a perfect 37 degrees Celsius, and the views of the surrounding mountains are simply breathtaking.
Whether you want to relax in the sauna or take a dip in the Jacuzzi, the Chocholow Thermal Baths are the perfect way to unwind after a long day of adventuring.
Discover the Polish Aviation Museum
When visiting Krakow, Poland, be sure to add the Polish Aviation Museum to your list of must-see attractions. The museum is located just outside the city center, and it houses an impressive collection of aircraft and aviation artifacts.
The museum traces the history of aviation in Poland, from early experimental planes to modern military jets. Visitors can also learn about the courageous pilots who fought for Poland during World War II.
In addition to the indoor exhibits, the museum grounds feature a number of restored historic aircraft. The Polish Aviation Museum is a great place to learn about the history of aviation and see some amazing airplanes up close.
Best Things to Do in Krakow – FAQ
Now that you know all the best things to do in Krakow Old Town and around, let’s cover some more questions that first-time visitors often ask and I’m sure will be helpful to you too.
Is Krakow Worth Visiting?
Krakow is a beautiful city with a rich history and plenty of things to see and do. The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is full of medieval buildings, churches, and squares. There is also a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to keep you entertained.
And if you’re a fan of museums, then Krakow is definitely worth visiting! The city is home to a number of interesting, historical sites, including Oskar Schindler’s Factory museum, the memorial and museum under the Cloth Hall, and even the Museum of Illusions.
So whether you’re looking to explore a beautiful city or learn more about idiom, Krakow is definitely worth a visit.
Is Krakow Expensive?
Krakow is relatively affordable compared to many other European cities. Hotel rooms and meals are reasonably priced, and there are plenty of free attractions to keep you entertained. Granted, some of the souvenirs can be a bit pricey, but overall, Krakow is an excellent value for the money and it’s a great destination for travelers on a budget.
Is Krakow Safe?
When it comes to personal safety, there’s no such thing as a sure thing. However, Krakow is generally considered to be a safe city. violent crime is relatively rare, and most visitors report feeling safe while walking around during the day.
That said, just in case, keep an eye on your belongings, and be aware of your surroundings. If you’re planning on going out at night, try to stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking alone.
Where to Stay in Krakow?
The old city and the Jewish quarter are both great places to stay in Krakow. The old city is full of historic landmarks, while the Jewish quarter has a more vibrant atmosphere. And both are near Wawel Castle and Wawel Hill, which is excellent.
Both areas are close to the city center, so you’ll be able to walk to all the main attractions. When it comes to deciding where to stay in Krakow, it really comes down to personal preference. Whichever area you choose, you’re sure to have a memorable trip.
Conclusion
Krakow is a city with an immense amount of history and culture. There really is something for everyone in Krakow, whether you’re interested in exploring the past or indulging in the present – from Mary’s Basilica to the Cloth Hall to Wawel Castle and the incredible tours.
With so many things to see and do, it can be tough to narrow it down to just a few activities. But whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or want to explore one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, these are some of the best things to do in Krakow.
