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Krakow Attractions & Landmarks Guide
One of the oldest cities in Poland, Krakow is a cultural hub, and a fascinating place to visit. From an active nightlife to the historic Jewish quarter, and beautiful architecture, it's a must stop for visitors to Poland. Many who travel here also take advantage of seeing the Auschwitz concentration camp. If you go, be prepared for an emotionally draining experience, but also an important view of history and a chance to pay respects.
Top things to see in Krakow
Famous for its Old World architecture and historic attractions, the culturally rich city of Krakow has numerous things to do and see. Let us have a look at some of the best places that are must during your Krakow trip.
1. Rynek Główny
This Main Market Square is the highlight of every Krakow trip and is famous because of being the biggest medieval market square. The square sits at the center of the Old Town and is also the symbolic center of the town. The lively and bustling atmosphere will make you feel like you are here ever since. Don't miss the St. Mary's Basilica and its unsymmetrical towers.
2. Wawel Cathedral
Poland's most important church hosted Saint Stanislaus, the advocate of Polish independence. Situated in the Wawel Hill neighborhood, this church has a combination of Baroque and Gothic touch to its architecture.
3. Wawel Castle
The mighty castle is the combination of Romanesque Rococo, Renaissance, and Gothic architecture and was used to be the royal residence of Polish Kings and Queens at some time in history. There are great museums and courtrooms that tell about the former glory of the palace. The castle can be seen from far away, towering above the city.
4. Oskar Schindler's Factory
This historical museum tells the story of the generous Nazi German industrialist who saved the lives of his Jewish labor force and their families during the Holocaust. A series of interactive and well-organized exhibits also tells about Krakow's German occupation from 1939 to 1945.
5. Wieliczka Salt Mine
In 2007, the world's oldest salt mine stopped churning out the salt but remained a major attraction point for tourists. St. Kinga's Chapel is an underground temple in the mine that is made out of salt. The adventurous trip will take you on a long walk through the ups and downs of the mine and make you trek at the end to reach the elevator.
6. Polish Aviation Museum
The museum is a delight for aviation enthusiasts and contains various modes of airplanes, helicopters, etc. dating back to World War I and even farther. Also, explore the aircraft engine collection in this aerospace heaven. If you go there on Tuesday, the entry is free.
7. Collegium Maius
The building is Poland's oldest university building that is still intact and gives you the chance to witness the Gothic architecture of the 15th century. Explore the alchemy room, 16ht century astronomical instruments, historic interiors, old rectors and scepters, and the oldest existing globe that has the American continent on the map.
8. Museum of Pharmacy
The name may sound a bit boring to some, but the museum is a masterpiece of its kind. Established in a fascinating townhouse, the Jagiellonian University Medical School’s Museum has about 22,000 pieces collection of rare pharmaceutical instruments, laboratory equipment, heaps of stoneware, glassware, jars, barrels, mortars, documents and medical books.
Cultural activities in Krakow
Known to be the cultural capital of the country, Krakow has multiple cultural related activities that you should try to indulge yourself in.
1. Old Town Trip
To get the real essence of this historically rich city, you must have a detailed tour of the Old Town. Visit the Krakow Barbican, Museum Krakowa, Ulica Florianska, Krakow's Rynek Glowny Central Square, and Muzeum Uniwersytetu Jagiellońskiego Collegium Maius.
2. Kazimierz Neighbourhood
Start your adventure with this beautiful neighborhood in town, which is completely designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site. Historically the Jewish district has a colorful character with creative street art, fascinating art galleries, museums, bars, and coffee shops.
3. Państwowe Muzeum Auschwitz-Birkenau
This devastating concentration camp has a huge and tragic history. Take a guided tour to know all about the history and how more than a million people tragically died here in a two-year duration.
4. Local Cuisine
One of the things representing the culture of a place truly is its cuisine. Taste the typical delicious dishes of Krakow, Poland, and enjoy the taste to its core. The national Pierogi, Bigos, Žurek the Sour Soup, Obwarzanek the chewy bagel, and the traditional Polish candy creamy fudge Krówka are must-trying items.
5. Cultural Events
There are more than 50 cultural events occurring throughout the year in Krakow. No matter which month you choose for your tour, check the dates for the upcoming cultural event, and try to be part of the rich festival.
Interesting facts about Krakow
- The city has been known by various names throughout history, but the present debate is about Krakow or Cracow, how to spell it, right? In the English language, a lot of 'K' things from Greece, Russia, Poland, etc. were replaced with 'C', and the same happened to Krakow. But if you google the city name, you will find more than 20 times more results for the ancient Krakow, than the English Cracow.
- Pigeons, pigeons everywhere around the city. Locals hate them as they are always pooping around in their balconies, and you are not allowed to feed them at all! The pigeons are said to have a legendary association with the city, and it is believed that back in the 13th century, they were enchanted to guard the Duke, who had wanted to reunite Poland but had no funds to reach Rome and have Pope's blessings.
- The University of Krakow is the oldest university in Poland and the second oldest of central Europe, founded in 1364.
- The Old City of Krakow is the one the only city to be entirely listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The Krakow's Market Square, with each side 200m long, is Europe's largest medieval commercial square.
Day trips from Krakow
Though Krakow is one of the most significantly important and culturally and historically rich cities, when in Poland, and have plenty of time, there are some other surrounding regions that you must visit during your trip.
When you are done with Krakow, don’t miss the chance of visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau. Get a guided tour to the historical holocaust site and have a clearer picture of what actually happened.
2. Wieliczka Salt Mine
The other most popular place for a day trip from Krakow is this UNESCO World Heritage Site. This mine is the oldest in the world, being operated for more than 700 years, and has a long history and heritage.
3. Tatra Mountain National Park
Though smaller in size, this beautiful park is a very popular destination, with a huge variety of interesting activities like skiing, hiking, cycling, paragliding, mountain climbing, etc. The park is home to some unique species like lynx, marmot, chamois, wildcat, wolf, and bear.
4. Dunajec River Gorge
Another fascinating and one of the most picturesque attractions, this river gorge runs along the border of Slovakia and Poland. Take a day tour to enjoy this remote site properly with all it has to offer.
5. Warsaw
The capital city is not a place to be missed when you come to Poland. Plan a complete day trip to explore all the highlights, including Castle Square, Old Town Market Place, Barbican, city walls, Taras Widokowy Tower, Polin Museum, Palace of Culture and Science, and the Lazienki Palace.
Where is Krakow?
Krakow is the second-largest city in Poland, dating back to the 7th century. The ancient city is located in central Europe, in southern Poland, in the Lesser Poland province, along the sides of Vistula River. The city lies 100km south of Tatra Mountains, in the foot of the Carpathian Mountains sharing a border with the Czech Republic and Slovakia.
What is the weather like?
The city has a temperate climate like all other European cities where summers are hot and wet, and winters are freezing cold. Summer is the peak tourist season, and most of the city festivals are also scheduled between June to August. Temperatures are high, and there is a higher probability of a thunderstorm.
By early September, the approaching footsteps of autumn bring some comfort in the weather, with fewer chances of rainfall. However, you might need a coat or a jacket in the evenings. By December, everything is covered with the winter snow, and the snow-covered Main Square becomes the best Christmas destination.
Stepping into early March, Krakow breaks out of the winter spelling, with the hint of blooming springtime. Temperatures are moderate, with pleasant weather inviting everyone to enjoy the colorful spring. By the end of May, rain becomes more prevalent, so you would like to keep an umbrella with you.
Is Krakow safe?
Karkow, like other Poland cities, is a safe tourist destination, but like any other crowded tourist spot, there is some danger that you can avoid only through precautions. Avoid wandering alone, especially late at night, and also stay away from noisy and drunk people groups. Pickpockets are found everywhere, so keep your luggage in sight, whether you are sitting for lunch or standing at a metro stand.
Taxi scams are very common, and drivers have different rates for locals and foreigners. Better book a ride through transport companies with dedicated smartphone apps where you order a taxi ride with the pre-decided fare. If you have to take a regular cab, check the map on your phone to keep an eye if the driver is taking you through a regular or long way.
Krakow Reviews & Ratings
B
Bruce
Oct 2024
Written on
Highlights of Eastern Europe
Great time super leader
S
Susan
May 2024
Written on
Highlights of Eastern Europe
Our tour Leader was fantastic she made the trip superb!
B
Belinda
Aug 2023
Written on
Highlights of Eastern Europe
All the planned locations, activities, hotels excellent merited 5 stars in terms of my expectations for an Explore trip. However, the arrangements for internal trans...
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