Krakow: What are the must see sights?

Krakow is a stunning city full of fascinating historical, cultural, and architectural sights. Every year, countless visitors flock to this glorious metropolis to see the iconic attractions of this Polish city. With such an abundance of sights, choosing which ones to visit can be a dizzying task. This guide explores some of the must-see Krakow sights for visitors to the city.

Wawel Castle and Wawel Cathedral

One of Krakow’s most famous historic attractions is the majestic Wawel Castle and its nearby Wawel Cathedral. The castle is an iconic symbol of Krakow, featuring both a number of gorgeous open spaces and the Royal House museum. Inside the castle, you can explore the stately chambers, armouries, and the collection of artwork and tapestries. Wawel cathedral, built in the late 14th century, is one of Poland’s proudest pieces of architecture and features a beautiful interior decorated with magnificent stained glass windows. Both these attractions are situated in Krakow’s historic old town and are must-sees for any visitor to Krakow.

Main Square and Cloth Hall

Situated in the quaint old town of Krakow is the Main Square, framed with picturesque buildings, quaint cafes serving tasty coffee, and historic cobblestone streets. The center boasts the splendid St Mary’s Basilica, which dates back to the 14th century and is home to one of the most believable sounding wooden trumpets, playing a traditional Polish song every hour. On the opposite end of the square stands the Cloth Hall, a 14th century gothic monument that was once a bustling marketplace and now holds an array of traditional souvenir stalls selling artwork and handcrafted items.

Museums & Galleries

Krakow is also home to numerous museums and galleries offering even more sights for visitors to enjoy. Among these is the Muzeum Narodowe, located near the Main Square in the old town. Inside, this stunning 16th century building displays a large collection of artwork from provincial art to Polish masterpieces. The museum houses delightful interiors including paintings and sculptures from across Europe, making it a must-visit attraction for art aficionados visiting Krakow.

Other nearby attractions include the Schindler Museum, devoted to the life of Oskar Schindler who saved more than a thousand Jews during World War II by employing them in his factory. The Museum of Contemporary Art is also worth visiting for its collection of post-war artwork from regional and international artists.

Kazimierz District

Located just outside of Krakow’s old town is the vibrant district of Kazimierz – known formerly as the Jewish Quarter or “Jewish City’ of Krakow. This district was once home to a flourishing Jewish community until it was decimated during World War II. Now Kazimierz is known as a Jewish cultural district with a number of museums and monuments dedicated to Jewish life in Poland before World War II. In addition, this charming area is even home to some of Europe’s best cafes and restaurants – both traditional Polish and international cuisines can be enjoyed here.

What else?

For a city flush with history, culture, and entertainment, Krakow offers an incredible range of attractions for visitors to explore. Whether it’s its many art galleries, grand castles, historic Jewish quarter, or plentiful bars – it’s easy to see why Krakow continues to be one of Europe’s leading tourist destinations. To learn more about Krakow’s rich history and culture, make sure to consult our website Krakow Guide Service – offering a range of tours exploring the best sights that Krakow has to offer.

Krakow: Insider’s Guide to Must-See Sights

Krakow, located in southern Poland, has a rich history and culture that draws visitors from around the world. From architectural masterpieces to bustling markets and vibrant nightlife, there’s something for everyone in this city. Here’s an insider’s guide to the must-see sights in Krakow:

Top Attractions

1. Wawel Castle – This magnificent castle, perched atop Wawel Hill, is one of the city’s iconic landmarks. Be sure to explore the castle’s interior, which includes numerous rooms and halls showcasing the opulence of the Polish royals.

2. Main Market Square – This bustling square is the heart of Krakow, and features the stunning Cloth Hall and St. Mary’s Basilica. Stop by for amazing traditional food from local vendors, browse handicrafts and souvenirs, or simply people-watch.

3. Kazimierz – This former Jewish district has undergone a renaissance in recent years, with trendy bars and restaurants popping up alongside historic synagogues and museums.

Dining Spots

1. Pod Aniolami – This restaurant, located in a 13th-century cellar, offers traditional Polish cuisine in an enchanting medieval setting.

2. Miod Malina – Featuring modern Polish cuisine with a hint of Italian influence, Miod Malina specializes in fresh, high-quality ingredients, and offers a great wine selection.

3. Cyrano de Bergerac – One of Krakow’s top fine dining spots, Cyrano de Bergerac offers a cozy, romantic atmosphere and meticulously crafted French cuisine.

Cultural Experiences

1. Wieliczka Salt Mine – Take a tour of this fascinating mine, which has been active for over 700 years. See magnificent underground chapels and sculptures carved from salt, as well as witness the miners polishing the walls of the mine.

2. Wawel Cathedral – Besides having a stunning exterior, Wawel Cathedral has a rich interior loaded with extraordinary art and artifacts that date back to the 14th century.

3. The National Museum – Take a break from your sightseeing to explore Polish art from the medieval period to the modern-day at the National Museum.

Local History

1. Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum – A visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau memorial is a moving and sobering experience, and a must-see for anyone interested in World War II and the atrocities committed by the Nazis.

2. Schindler’s Factory – Journey back in time at this historical museum, which tells the story of Krakow during World War II, including the city’s Jewish population and Oskar Schindler and his factory.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

1. Nowa Huta – This neighborhood was created as a model socialist city and offers a unique representation of historical Polish character due to its huge concrete buildings and urban planning.

2. Zakrzowek – a former quarry, it has been transformed into a lake, surrounded by high rocky cliffs.

3. Kościuszko Mound – Hike up Kościuszko mound for a fantastic panoramic view of Krakow.

Krakow has something unique to offer every type of traveler, whether you’re interested in history, art, gastronomy, or simply exploring a new city. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in this magical destination.