The Ultimate Guide to Krakow: Places To Go for Tourists

Krakow is one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Poland, located in Southern Poland on the banks of the Vistula River. It is the second-largest city in Poland and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Krakow has a rich and vibrant history, as it was the royal capital of Poland for many centuries until the 16th century when the royal court moved to Warsaw. The city is filled with incredible sights and attractions, including ancient churches and monasteries, historic squares and buildings, and a bustling market.

Krakow has been called “the cultural capital of Poland” due to its numerous museums, theaters, and galleries. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife and is home to a number of pubs, clubs, and restaurants. Krakow’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city. Visitors can explore the historic streets and squares, visit the many churches and monasteries, and take a walk along the old city walls.

Krakow is also home to some of the best shopping in Poland. The city’s main market square is filled with stalls selling everything from traditional Polish souvenirs to modern fashion items. The nearby Stary Kleparz market offers a wide selection of fresh fruit, vegetables, and other local produce. Visitors can also explore the numerous antique and flea markets in Krakow for unique one-of-a-kind items.

Krakow has long been associated with art and culture and is home to a number of world-famous museums and galleries. The Muzeum Narodowe (National Museum) houses a large collection of Polish art from the Middle Ages to the present day, while the Wawel Royal Castle houses centuries-old works of art and artifacts. The nearby Rynek Underground museum offers visitors an insight into life during World War II, while the Schindler Factory Museum showcases the life of Oskar Schindler, who saved hundreds of Jews during the Nazi occupation of Krakow.

Krakow is also known for its many parks and gardens. The Planty park encircles the old city center and is a great place for a leisurely stroll or a picnic in the sun. The nearby Wolski Forest offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as horse riding, biking, and hiking. The Ojcow National Park is another popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with its stunning limestone cliffs, caves, and forests.

Krakow also has an array of activities to offer visitors looking for a more active holiday. The city is home to numerous sports facilities and stadiums, such as the historic Wisla Stadium and Krakow Arena. For those looking for a more relaxed pastime, Krakow has plenty of spas, thermal baths, and wellness centers. The city also hosts a number of film festivals throughout the year, including the Krakow Film Festival in May.

No visit to Krakow would be complete without sampling some of the local cuisine. Traditional Polish dishes such as pierogi (dumplings), bigos (hunter’s stew), kapusta (cabbage stew), and gołąbki (cabbage rolls) are just some of the dishes that can be found in Krakow. For those with a sweet tooth, there are plenty of delicious desserts including makowiec (almond cake with poppy seeds), pączki (doughnuts with jam), and kremówka (cream cake).

Popular Tours

Krakow Jewish Heritage Tour

The Krakow Jewish Heritage Tour offers visitors an insight into the history of Jewish people in Poland. The 3-hour tour includes visits to sites such as the Remuh Synagogue, Kazimierz District (known as “Little Jerusalem”) and important Jewish cemeteries. Guests will have the chance to visit the Galicia Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts from pre-war Jewish life in Krakow. They will also have the opportunity to explore the streets where famous figures such as Isaac Bashevis Singer and Roman Polanski once lived. This tour is suitable for all ages and provides a unique opportunity to learn about Krakow’s Jewish history from a knowledgeable guide.

Krakow Food Tour

The Krakow Food Tour gives visitors the chance to sample some of the city’s best traditional dishes. This 3-hour tour takes guests on a culinary journey through Krakow’s food markets, restaurants, bars and cafes. Guests will have the opportunity to sample pierogi, kielbasa (Polish sausage), bigos (hunter’s stew), and more while learning about the history and culture that has shaped Krakow’s food scene. This tour is suitable for all ages and provides an unforgettable experience for any foodie looking to explore authentic Polish cuisine.

Krakow Nightlife Tour

The Krakow Nightlife Tour is perfect for those looking to experience Krakow’s vibrant nightlife scene. This 4-hour tour takes guests on a guided tour through some of Krakow’s best bars, clubs, pubs, and other venues. Guests will have the opportunity to sample some local craft beers, enjoy live music performances, explore traditional Polish bars, and more. This tour is suitable for adults only and offers an unbeatable way to experience Krakow’s nightlife scene.

Conclusion

Krakow is one of Poland’s most beautiful cities. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and lively nightlife, it is no surprise that it draws millions of visitors each year. Whether you are looking for a cultural experience or an active holiday, Krakow has something to offer everyone. So if you are looking for an unforgettable experience in Europe, then Krakow should definitely be on your list of places to go!