How to Plan Your Krakow Old Town Guided Walking Tour

Krakow has one of the largest and most beautiful medieval town centers in Europe. The best way to explore its UNESCO-listed Old Town district is on foot, and a guided walking tour would be an ideal way to see all the key highlights. This 3-hour Krakow Old Town Guided Walking Tour is a highly recommended tour, and this post will guide you on how to plan for it.

Booking the Tour

Booking the Krakow Old Town Guided Walking Tour can be done easily online. Viator, the leading company in tourism and travel now offers the tour as part of their collection. You can head to this link book the tour here, and follow the prompts to complete your booking. The website accepts payments and provides detailed information on tour dates, pricing, and inclusions.

Meeting and Pick up Point

You will meet your guide at the KrakowTIP- Tourist Information Point. This is located at Grodzka 18, 30-001 Kraków, Poland. The tour departs at 2 PM daily, so you are advised to arrive at least 15 minutes early. At the end of the tour, you will be dropped off at the Wawel Royal Castle located at Wawel 5, 31-001 Kraków, Poland.

Highlights of the Tour

The tour will start at the Main Market Square, where you will meet your local guide. The guide will then take you on a 3-hour walk in Krakow’s Old Town district. Here are some highlights you can expect:

The Royal Route and Wawel Castle Complex

The Royal Route is a medieval road that leads you to the Wawel Castle Complex. The route has been used since the 15th century for royal coronations, weddings, and processions. The Wawel Castle is one of the most prominent landmarks of the city, and one of its primary tourist attractions. It was the home of Polish kings and princes from the 11th century to the 17th century. Today, it’s one of the largest and most important castles in Poland. The tour will take you through the castle’s courtyards, palace rooms, and private chambers.

St Mary’s Basilica and St Peter and Paul’s Church

St Mary’s Basilica is one of the most important religious sites in Krakow. It’s a Gothic church built in the 14th century and is known for its impressive twin towers. St Peter and Paul’s Church, on the other hand, is a Baroque church built in the 17th century. The church is notable for its striking white and green exterior and has many historical and artistic treasures in its interior.

The Cloth Hall

The Cloth Hall is a historic building located in the Main Market Square. It was a central point of trade for textiles during the Renaissance period. Nowadays, it hosts numerous souvenir shops and small cafes.

Tour Inclusions

Your tour of Krakow’s Old Town district will be accompanied by a professional local guide, who will provide you with detailed commentary on the city’s architecture, history, and heritage. The food and drinks are not included in the tour package, so you can bring your snacks or make stops along the way. You are welcome to tip the guide at the end of the tour.

What to Expect

The Krakow Old Town Guided Walking Tour is a walking tour, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. The distance covered during the tour is approximately 3 kilometers, and the route will have several stops along the way. It’s essential to carry a bottle of water and dress appropriately for the weather. Camera enthusiasts are likely to find many photo opportunities during the tour.

Conclusion

Taking the Krakow Old Town Guided Walking Tour is an excellent way to explore and learn about the history and marvels of the city. With a professional local guide, you can discover the best of Krakow’s Old Town district within 3 hours. By following the steps in this post, you can plan for the tour easily and have an unforgettable experience.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Krakow

Krakow is a beautiful Polish city that attracts numerous tourists throughout the year. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and charming streets, Krakow has a lot to offer to its visitors. However, before you plan your travel to Krakow, you might have some questions. In this blog post, we will answer the most frequently asked questions about Krakow to help you plan your trip.

What is the Best Time to Visit Krakow?

Krakow is beautiful all year round. However, the best time to visit Krakow is during the spring and autumn seasons when the weather is mild, and the crowds are fewer. During these seasons, you can enjoy outdoor activities without having to face the scorching heat or freezing cold. Besides, there are some exciting festivals and events that you can attend during these seasons, such as the Jewish Culture Festival or the Divine Mercy Sunday celebration.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Krakow?

Krakow is a part of the Schengen Area, which means that EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens can visit the city without a visa for up to 90 days. However, if you are not from a Schengen country, then you might need a visa to visit Krakow. You can check the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs website to see if you need a visa.

What are the Must-See Attractions in Krakow?

Krakow has a lot of tourist attractions that you should not miss, such as:

• Wawel Castle – a stunning royal palace that dates back to the 14th century
• The Main Market Square – the heart of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• The Kazimierz district – the former Jewish quarter that has a rich history and charming streets
• The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum – a sobering reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust

There are many other attractions to see in Krakow, but these ones are the must-visit spots that you should include in your itinerary.

What is the Best Way to Get Around Krakow?

Krakow has an excellent public transport system that includes buses and trams. You can buy tickets at the newsagents, vending machines, or directly from the driver. You can also use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt to get around the city. However, if you want to explore the city at your own pace, then renting a bike or walking might be the best options. Krakow is a relatively small city, and most of the tourist attractions are located within walking distance from each other.

What is the Local Currency in Krakow?

The local currency in Krakow (and in Poland) is the Polish Zloty (PLN). You can exchange your currency at the airport, banks, or exchange offices. You can also withdraw cash from ATMs, which are widely available in the city center.

What is the Local Language in Krakow?

The local language in Krakow (and in Poland) is Polish. However, many locals speak English, especially in the tourist areas. It is always useful to learn some basic phrases in Polish, such as “dziękuję” (thank you), “proszę” (please), or “cześć” (hello).

What is the Cuisine Like in Krakow?

Krakow has a diverse and delicious cuisine that reflects the city’s rich history and traditions. Some of the must-try dishes include:

• Pierogi – traditional Polish dumplings filled with meat, cheese, potatoes, or mushrooms
• Zapiekanka – a street food dish that consists of a baguette filled with cheese, mushrooms, and other toppings
• Bigos – a hearty stew made of sauerkraut, meat, and vegetables
• Kiełbasa – traditional Polish sausages that come in different varieties
• Sernik – a Polish-style cheesecake that is creamy and delicious

In Krakow, you can find many restaurants that serve traditional Polish dishes, as well as international cuisine.

Is Krakow Safe for Travelers?

Krakow is a relatively safe city for travelers. However, as with any other tourist destination, you should take some precautions to avoid pickpocketing or other petty crimes. For example, you should avoid carrying large sums of money or valuable items with you and keep an eye on your belongings at all times. Also, it is best to avoid isolated areas, especially at night.

Conclusion

Krakow is a beautiful city that has a lot to offer to its visitors. By answering these frequently asked questions, we hope that we have helped you plan your trip to Krakow. Remember to book your accommodation and tickets in advance, and don’t forget to pack comfortable shoes for all the walking you will do in this charming city.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Krakow

Krakow is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, attracting millions of visitors every year. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and stunning landscapes, Krakow has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore what you can do in this beautiful city and how to make the most of your time here.

Getting around Krakow

Krakow is a fairly compact city, and many of its main attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, if you prefer not to walk, public transportation is cheap and reliable. The main modes of transportation in Krakow include buses, trams, and taxis.

Buses and Trams

Buses and trams are the most common forms of public transportation in Krakow. They run from early in the morning until late at night and can take you to most parts of the city. You can purchase a ticket on the bus or tram, but it’s cheaper to buy them in advance from a newsstand or a ticket machine.

Taxis

Taxis are readily available in Krakow, and they’re relatively cheap. You can hail a taxi on the street, or you can call a taxi company to book one. Make sure that you only use licensed taxis with official signage and metered fares.

Best things to do in Krakow

Wawel Castle

Wawel Castle is a must-see attraction in Krakow. It has been the residence of the Polish kings for centuries and is now a museum. Visitors can explore the castle’s many halls, royal apartments, and museums, featuring priceless art and artifacts from Polish history.

Main Market Square

Main Market Square in Krakow is one of the largest and most beautiful squares in Europe. It’s surrounded by historic buildings, such as the Cloth Hall and St. Mary’s Basilica. You can take a horse-drawn carriage ride or grab a coffee and people-watch.

Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum

The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is a solemn reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust. Visitors can tour the former Nazi concentration camp, where over a million people were killed during World War II. The experience is haunting but important to understand the atrocities of the past.

Kazimierz

Kazimierz is the historic Jewish district of Krakow. It has undergone significant changes since World War II, but it’s still a vibrant and interesting neighborhood to explore. Visitors can see historic synagogues, Jewish heritage museums, and a lively art and restaurant scene.

Wieliczka Salt Mine

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the oldest salt mines in the world. Visitors can explore the underground tunnels and chambers, which are filled with sculptures, chapels, and even a salt lake.

Where to eat in Krakow

Krakow has no shortage of fantastic restaurants and cafes. Polish cuisine is hearty and delicious, and there are plenty of other cuisines available to suit all tastes. Here are a few suggestions:

Pierogarnia Krakowiacy

Pierogarnia Krakowiacy is a restaurant specializing in pierogi, traditional Polish dumplings filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. The pierogi here are delicious and affordable, and the portions are generous.

Szara Gęś

Szara Gęś is a cozy and atmospheric restaurant in the heart of the Old Town. They serve modern Polish cuisine and have an extensive wine list. The service is excellent, and the prices are reasonable.

Chimera

Chimera is a popular cafe and restaurant, known for its homemade cakes and pastries. The interior is cozy and eclectic, and the menu offers plenty of vegetarian and vegan options.

Where to stay in Krakow

Krakow has plenty of options for accommodation, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Here are a few recommendations:

Hotel Copernicus

Hotel Copernicus is a luxurious hotel located in a historic building in the center of Krakow. The interior is elegant and refined, and the rooms are spacious and comfortable. There’s a spa, restaurant, and bar on site.

Greg&Tom Beer House Hostel

Greg&Tom Beer House Hostel is a fun and friendly hostel located in the heart of the Old Town. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and there’s a lively bar on the ground floor. The staff is knowledgeable and helpful.

Hotel Jan

Hotel Jan is a charming hotel located in Kazimierz, the historic Jewish district of Krakow. The rooms are cozy and comfortable, and the staff is friendly and welcoming.

Conclusion

Krakow is a beautiful and fascinating city, with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or food, you’ll find plenty to do here. Follow this guide to make the most of your time in Krakow, and you’re sure to have a memorable trip.