General Information
Kraków is one of Poland’s most beautiful and historic cities, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, royal heritage, and vibrant culture. As Poland’s former capital, Kraków boasts a rich history dating back over 1,000 years. Today, it’s a major tourist destination, home to Wawel Castle, the historic Old Town, and the tragic yet important Auschwitz-Birkenau site. With its lively student scene, excellent food, and thriving arts culture, Kraków offers something for every traveler.
Location
Kraków is located in southern Poland, near the Carpathian Mountains and the Vistula River. It’s:
- 300 km from Warsaw
- 110 km from Zakopane (Tatra Mountains)
- 230 km from Wrocław
- 390 km from Prague
Its proximity to the Tatra Mountains makes it a great base for exploring Poland’s natural beauty and ski resorts.
How to Get There
- By Air:
- Kraków John Paul II Airport (KRK) – Located 11 km from the city center, with flights from across Europe.
- By Train:
- Kraków Główny Railway Station connects the city to Warsaw, Wrocław, Prague, and Vienna.
- By Bus:
- FlixBus and PolskiBus offer affordable long-distance options.
- By Car:
- The A4 highway connects Kraków to Wrocław and Germany.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April – June): Pleasant temperatures, blooming gardens, and fewer tourists.
- Summer (July – August): Peak season with festivals and warm weather.
- Autumn (September – October): Golden landscapes and a calmer atmosphere.
- Winter (November – February): Perfect for Christmas markets and nearby ski resorts.
Key Events & Festivals:
- Kraków Christmas Market (December): A magical festive experience in the Main Square.
- Wianki Festival (June): Traditional summer solstice celebrations.
- Jewish Culture Festival (July): A major event in the historic Kazimierz district.
Where to Stay
- Luxury:
- Hotel Stary: A stunning 5-star hotel in a historic building.
- Sheraton Grand Kraków: Overlooks the Wawel Castle and Vistula River.
- Mid-range:
- PURO Kraków Kazimierz: Trendy and modern in the Jewish Quarter.
- Hotel Copernicus: A charming boutique hotel with history.
- Budget:
- Greg & Tom Hostel: A social and fun atmosphere for backpackers.
- The Little Havana Party Hostel: Perfect for nightlife lovers.
Top Attractions
- Main Market Square (Rynek Główny): Europe’s largest medieval square, surrounded by cafés and landmarks.
- Wawel Castle & Cathedral: A symbol of Poland’s royal history.
- St. Mary’s Basilica: Famous for its hourly trumpet call.
- Kazimierz (Jewish Quarter): A historic district filled with synagogues, street art, and trendy bars.
- Schindler’s Factory Museum: A moving exhibit on WWII history.
- Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial: A must-visit historical site (1.5 hours away).
- Wieliczka Salt Mine: An underground wonderland with stunning salt carvings.
- Planty Park: A green belt around the Old Town, perfect for walks.
- Cloth Hall (Sukiennice): A historic market with Polish souvenirs.
- Kościuszko Mound: Offers panoramic views over Kraków.
Getting Around
- Public Transport:
- Trams and buses are efficient and affordable.
- A 24-hour ticket costs about 5 EUR.
- Bike Rentals: Kraków City Bike stations are available.
- Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Uber, Bolt, and local taxis operate in the city.
- Walking: The Old Town is best explored on foot.
Local Cuisine
- Pierogi: Traditional Polish dumplings with various fillings.
- Obwarzanek Krakowski: A bagel-like street snack, unique to Kraków.
- Żurek: A sour rye soup with sausage and egg.
- Bigos: A hearty hunter’s stew with cabbage and meat.
- Zapiekanka: A Polish-style baguette pizza, popular in Kazimierz.
Best Restaurants:
- Pod Aniołami: Serves traditional Polish food in a medieval setting.
- Starka: A cozy place for authentic Polish cuisine.
- Szara Gęś: Fine dining in the Main Square.
Shopping
- Cloth Hall (Sukiennice): Traditional handicrafts, amber jewelry, and souvenirs.
- Galeria Krakowska: A modern shopping mall near the train station.
- Plac Nowy Market: A great spot for vintage finds and street food.
Nightlife
- Alchemia: A bohemian bar in Kazimierz with live music.
- Forum Przestrzenie: A trendy riverside bar in an old hotel.
- Harris Piano Jazz Bar: Perfect for jazz lovers.
- Szpitalna 1: A top club for electronic music fans.
Day Trips from Kraków
- Auschwitz-Birkenau (70 km): A sobering but essential historical visit.
- Wieliczka Salt Mine (15 km): An underground labyrinth of salt carvings.
- Zakopane (110 km): A charming mountain town for skiing and hiking.
- Ojców National Park (25 km): Perfect for nature lovers and castle ruins.
