How to Plan Your Wawel Castle & Cathedral Guided Tour in Krakow

If you are planning a trip to Krakow, then one of the must-visit places is the Wawel Castle and Cathedral. The former residence of Polish kings, Wawel Castle is a symbol of statehood and tells the story of Poland’s rich history and culture. A Wawel Castle & Cathedral Guided Tour will give you the opportunity to explore the castle and admire its vast collection of paintings, graphics, sculptures, fabrics, military items, porcelain, and furniture. Not sure how to plan your tour? Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit.

Experience

This tour will take you on a journey through time as you discover the Wawel Castle’s permanent exhibitions. Explore the chambers that display the famous tapestries of Zygmunt August and magnificent Renaissance Italian paintings from the Lanckoronski collection. Admire the Wawel collection of eastern art, which is one of the largest and most important collections of tents in Europe. The tour also provides you with the opportunity to skip the long lines, and your local guide will share anecdotes that will add to your tour experience.

Highlights

The Wawel Castle & Cathedral Guided Tour includes the following highlights:

• Visit the former residence of Polish kings
• Admire collections of paintings, prints, sculptures, fabrics, goldsmiths, military items, porcelain, and furniture
• Skip the long lines
• Enjoy anecdotes from your local guide

Full Description

The Wawel Castle served as the residence of Polish kings for centuries and gained its current appearance during the Renaissance. In 1930, it became a museum, and today it hosts an extensive collection of artworks. Step into history and discover the Castle’s permanent exhibitions, which are decorated the way they would have been during the Renaissance. Admire the famous tapestries of Zygmunt August or magnificent Renaissance Italian paintings from the Lanckoronski collection. Explore the Wawel collections of eastern art, which is one of the largest and most important collections of tents in Europe. Learn all about how the Castle is an important center for the conservation of art. Discover the collection of historical weapons and see how each piece of art tells a story about Poland’s rich history and culture. This tour is led by a local guide who will provide anecdotes and historical background during the tour. Your local guide will also provide answers to any questions you might have about Polish history or Krakow’s rich cultural heritage.

Booking Your Tour

Booking your Wawel Castle & Cathedral Guided Tour is easy. Visit the tour booking page, choose your preferred date, and make your payment.

Book Your Tour Now

The Wawel Castle & Cathedral Guided Tour is a must-visit attraction in Krakow if you are interested in history and culture. The tour offers you the opportunity to explore the Castle and admire its vast collection of artworks. The tour is led by a local guide who will provide you with anecdotes to make your tour experience more enjoyable. So, plan your visit today and discover the rich culture and history of Krakow.

Frequently Asked Questions About Krakow

Krakow, a city in southern Poland, is a popular tourist destination with a rich history and vibrant culture. Whether you’re planning a trip or simply interested in learning more about this fascinating city, our comprehensive FAQ guide will provide you with all the essential information you need.

1. What is the history of Krakow?

Krakow was founded in the 7th century and became the capital of Poland in the 11th century. It served as the royal seat of the Polish kingdom for over 500 years and was considered the cultural and intellectual capital of Poland. During World War II, Krakow was occupied by Nazi Germany, and it is home to numerous historical sites related to the Holocaust, including the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp.

2. What are the top tourist attractions in Krakow?

Krakow is home to numerous tourist attractions, including:

Rynek Glowny

Rynek Glowny, the main square in Krakow, is one of the largest medieval town squares in Europe. It is surrounded by impressive architecture and is home to numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops.

Wawel Castle

Wawel Castle is a stunning medieval castle located on a hill above the Vistula River. It is the symbol of the city and is home to numerous museums and exhibitions.

Kazimierz

Kazimierz, the Jewish Quarter of Krakow, is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood with a fascinating history. It is home to numerous historical sites, including synagogues and Jewish cemeteries.

Auschwitz-Birkenau

Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi concentration and extermination camp during World War II, is located about 70 km from Krakow. It is a sobering and important historical site to visit.

Salt Mine

Wieliczka Salt Mine is located about 14 km from Krakow and is one of the oldest salt mines in the world. It features an awe-inspiring underground cathedral carved entirely out of salt.

3. What is the weather like in Krakow?

Krakow has a temperate continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. The average temperature in January is -3°C (27°F) and the average temperature in July is 19°C (66°F). It is also a city with a high humidity level, particularly in the summer months.

4. What is the best time to visit Krakow?

The best time to visit Krakow is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. The summer months (June to August) can be crowded and humid, and the winter months (December to February) can be very cold.

5. How do I get to Krakow?

Krakow has an international airport, John Paul II International Airport Krakow-Balice, located about 11 km from the city center. It is also easily accessible by train or bus from other major Polish cities.

6. What is the currency used in Krakow?

The official currency of Krakow is the Polish zloty (PLN). ATMs are widely available throughout the city, and most shops and restaurants also accept credit and debit cards.

7. What is the food like in Krakow?

Krakow has a vibrant food scene with a mix of traditional Polish cuisine and international options. Popular Polish dishes include pierogi (dumplings filled with either cheese, meat, or potatoes), kielbasa (Polish sausage), and bigos (a stew made with sauerkraut, meat, and spices).

8. Is English widely spoken in Krakow?

English is widely spoken in Krakow, especially in tourist areas. However, it’s always a good idea to learn a few basic Polish phrases to show respect for the local culture.

9. Is Krakow safe?

Krakow is generally a safe city, with a low crime rate. However, it’s always a good idea to take basic precautions, such as keeping your valuables safe and avoiding areas that are known for pickpocketing.

10. What should I pack for a trip to Krakow?

What you should pack for a trip to Krakow will depend on the time of year you’re visiting. In general, it’s a good idea to pack comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets, a rain jacket or umbrella, and warm clothing in the winter months. It’s also a good idea to pack a reusable water bottle as tap water in Poland is safe to drink.

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We hope this FAQ guide has provided you with all the essential information you need to plan a trip to Krakow or simply learn more about this fascinating city. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and impressive tourist attractions, Krakow is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Poland.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Krakow

Krakow is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in Europe, with a rich history that dates back to the 7th century. The city is located in southern Poland and is famous for its stunning architecture, beautiful parks, and vibrant culture. If you’re planning a visit to Krakow and wondering how to spend your time, here’s a detailed guide on everything you should know about.

1. Visit Wawel Castle

Wawel Castle is a must-see attraction in Krakow. Its history dates back to the 11th century and it is located on a hill overlooking the Vistula River. The castle has been the center of political life in Poland for centuries and is now a museum. The entrance fee is around 15 PLN (approx. $4) and includes access to the castle’s four museums, the Crown Treasury, and the Armory.

2. Tour the Old Town

Krakow’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful architecture and a vibrant culture. Take a walking tour of the town to see the stunning historic buildings, such as the Cloth Hall and St. Mary’s Basilica. You can also visit the Market Square and try some local food and drink in one of the many cafes and restaurants.

3. Explore Kazimierz

Kazimierz is the Jewish Quarter of Krakow and has a rich history and culture. Take a walking tour of the area to learn about the Jewish history of Krakow, visit the historic synagogues and the Jewish Cemetery, and try some Jewish food in one of the local restaurants.

4. Visit Auschwitz-Birkenau

Auschwitz-Birkenau is a former Nazi concentration camp located around 1 hour from Krakow. It is a sobering reminder of the atrocities of the Holocaust and is a must-visit if you’re in Krakow. You can book a tour of the camp from Krakow, which usually takes around 6-7 hours and costs around 150 PLN (approx. $40).

5. Take a Day Trip to Wieliczka Salt Mine

Wieliczka Salt Mine is another famous attraction near Krakow. The mine was operational for over 700 years and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can take a guided tour of the mine and learn about its history and culture. The tour takes around 2-3 hours and costs around 100 PLN (approx. $27).

6. Visit the National Museum

The National Museum in Krakow is one of the largest and most important museums in Poland. It has a collection of over 780,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and ceramics. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday and the entrance fee is around 15 PLN (approx. $4).

7. Enjoy a River Cruise

A river cruise on the Vistula River is a great way to see Krakow from a different perspective. You can enjoy beautiful views of the city and its historic buildings while relaxing on a boat. The cruise usually takes around 1 hour and costs around 40 PLN (approx. $11).

8. Take a Beer Tasting Tour

Poland is famous for its beer, and Krakow has some great breweries and beer bars. Take a beer tasting tour to try some of the best local beers and learn about the brewing process. The tour usually takes around 2-3 hours and costs around 150 PLN (approx. $40).

9. Visit the Planty Park

Planty Park is a beautiful park located in the heart of Krakow’s Old Town. The park was created in the 19th century and surrounds the Old Town with its beautiful greenery and gardens. You can enjoy a relaxing walk in the park, have a picnic or just enjoy the beautiful views.

10. Try Some Local Food

Krakow has some delicious local food, such as pierogi, oscypek, and kielbasa. Pierogi are dumplings filled with different fillings such as meat, cheese, and vegetables. Oscypek is a smoked cheese made from sheep’s milk and kielbasa is a type of sausage. You can try these and other local dishes in one of the many restaurants in the city.

Book Your Tour Now

Krakow is a beautiful and historic city with plenty to see and do. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just want to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery, Krakow has something for everyone. Make sure to plan ahead and book your tours and activities in advance to make the most of your time in this beautiful city.