Exploring Krakow: What to See and Do

Krakow, the cultural and business capital of southern Poland, is now one of Europe’s most popular destinations for travelers of all ages. Founded in the 7th century, the city has been through its fair share of turbulent times, but it has come through it all and is still a buzzing and vibrant hub of activity. With its centuries-old architecture, cobbled streets, and unique international mix of people and customs, there is something for everyone to enjoy here.

In this guide, you’ll find out what sightseeing opportunities and activities await you in Krakow, from the must-see sights to the more off-the-beaten-track activities. Here’s an overview of the essential information and tips for planning a visit to Krakow.

Must-See Attractions in Krakow

Krakow has more than its fair share of attractions and sightseeing opportunities for visitors. Here are some of the best places to visit in Krakow.

1. Wawel Castle – Perched atop a limestone hill on the banks of the Vistula River, Wawel Castle is the ultimate symbol of Krakow’s past as the seat of Polish kings. Today, it’s a historical museum with some of the city’s finest art, sculpture, and furnishings.

2. Czartoryski Museum – This museum displays some of Poland’s most treasured artworks and objects from collections gathered over centuries by Poland’s noble families. Highlights include Da Vinci’s Lady with an Ermine painting, icon paintings from the Czartoryski collection, Napoleon’s travelling study, and the only original portrait of Copernicus in existence.

3. Malta – This neighborhood, in the southwest part of the city, is home to some of Krakow’s best-preserved remnants of its medieval past. It was once a free town, outside the walls of the city, but it was eventually annexed by Krakow in 1457.

4. Jagiellonian University Museum – This university museum offers visitors a journey through over 600 years of history, tracing Krakow’s academic excellence back to 1364 when it was founded. It includes galleries full of artwork, manuscripts, historic scientific instruments, photographs, and more.

5. Rynek Główny (Main Market Square) – This main square is the heart of the city, where locals and visitors alike come together to do business, catch up with friends over coffee or beer, enjoy street performances and more. It’s also home to charming buildings like St Mary’s Church, St Adalbert’s Church, and the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice).

Popular Activities in Krakow

In addition to its array of sightseeing attractions, Krakow has some great activities for families and individuals alike to enjoy. Here are some ideas:

1. Urban Caveman – This urban adventure park takes visitors on a unique journey into the depths of an underground cave system. You’ll crawl through tunnels, rappel down an underground waterfalls, and jump into natural pools as experienced guides teach you about cave formations and the history of Krakow’s underground waterways.

2. Lost Weekend Tours – If you’re looking for an entertaining and informative way to learn about Krakow’s diverse culture and history then look no further than Lost Weekend Tours. Tours range from walking tours around Jewish District, to private heritage tours uncovering the story of Kazimierz alleys and courtyards, to pub crawls through old town properties with live music performances all included in the price!

3. Sungazer Bike Tours – From journeys along peaceful woodland trails to tours of the former Ost Karring German industrial complex and the nearby Wieliczka salt mine, Sungazer Bike Tours offers something for every taste. It’s also a great opportunity to take in some of Krakow’s stunning natural beauty– from lush forests to vast open fields–all while having fun in your private group!

4.Krakow: Pub Crawl and Christmas Market Walking Tour – This popular guided tour takes you on a night out with friendly locals who will show you some of Krakow’s top bars and pubs, while giving you a unique insight into local life in this vibrant city. The tour also includes a walking tour of Krakow’s Christmas Markets–where you can meander through stands selling festive decorations, handmade jewelry and traditional polish food before heading into another round at one of the pubs on offer!

Shopping & Nightlife in Krakow

Krakow has plenty to offer when it comes to shopping and nightlife–with both large shopping malls and one-of-a-kind boutiques offering something different for every taste and budget. Here are some ideas for enjoying your time in the city:

1. Shopping Malls – Krakow has two large shopping malls–Galeria Kazimierz and Galeria Brono–and both are excellent choices for picking up everything from fashion items to electronics or souvenirs during your trip here.

2. Barbakan Cloth Hall (Suvenirnic Twojej Starej)–This independent cloth hall has been trading here since 1900, and offers a unique selection of goods ranging from Russian caviar to local beers or souvenirs like pottery, wooden boxes and more that you won’t find elsewhere!

3. Nightlife – Krakow is known for its lively nightlife scene–from cozy pubs tucked away in cobblestoned alleys to buzzing rooftop bars with stunning views over the city skyline; there’s something for every taste here after dark!

4.Nowy Orleans Club–If you’re looking for an exciting night out, then this is your spot! New Orleans Club has music ranging from DJ sets to rock concerts as well as a delicious menu featuring classic Polish dishes like pierogi (dumplings).

When planning your visit to Krakow you’re sure to discover something new every day–from exploring its historical sights to discovering hidden bars or enjoying a day at a shopping mall. In one day you can experience centuries’ worth of culture, cuisine, art and entertainment; making it one of Europe’s top cities for travelers!

And if you’re looking for an even more unique activity during your visit then why not book a tour such as Krakow: Pub Crawl and Christmas Market Walking Tour? On this guided tour you will explore Krakows nightlife in the best possible way–by discovering local pubs accompanied by friendly locals who know all about this city’s vibrant history! As well as taking in some of Krakows best sights such as Wawel Castle, Main Market Square and more–the tour also stops at Krakows incredible Christmas Markets where you can try traditional polish food or pick up decorations or handmade jewelry! So book now for an unforgettable journey that’ll give you a unique insight into life here in Krakow!