Krakow, the cultural capital of Poland, is a city that offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and vibrant energy. While the city itself is full of must-see attractions, some of the most spectacular sights can be found just outside the city limits. Whether you’re an architecture buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, Krakow has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the five best day trips you can take from Krakow to see some of the most breath-taking sights in the surrounding areas.

The 5 Best Day Trips in Krakow

1. 2-Day Cultural and Historical Krakow and Wieliczka
2. 3-Day Jewish Krakow Guided Sightseeing Tour
3. 3-Day Krakow Guided Tour: Jewish Heritage with Wieliczka and Auschwitz
4. 3-Day Krakow Guided Tour: Jewish Quarter and Ghetto with Wieliczka and Auschwitz
5. 3-Day Krakow Guided Tour: Wawel Hill, Jewish Quarter, Wieliczka and Auschwitz

The 5 Best Day Trips in Krakow

1. 2-Day Cultural and Historical Krakow and Wieliczka

Experience the rich culture and history of Krakow and Wieliczka on this 2-day guided tour. Explore the State Rooms at Wawel Castle, visit the iconic Wawel Cathedral, and descend into the fascinating Rynek Underground museum. Then, continue your journey to one of the city’s synagogues and the cemetery (for an additional fee of approximately 10 PLN per person).

The meeting point for the tour is at the Piotr Skarga Monument on St. Mary Magdalene Square. The tour starts at 11:00 AM and finishes at Powiśle 7.

Please note that confirmation of your booking will be sent upon payment, and that cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Please keep in mind that this tour may not be wheelchair accessible and that travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level. Public transportation is nearby and infants must sit on laps during the tour. This activity is run by excursions.city and has a maximum of 15 travelers.

2. 3-Day Jewish Krakow Guided Sightseeing Tour

Discover the rich cultural heritage of Krakow’s Jewish community with an expert guide on a 3-day sightseeing tour.

Day 1: Begin your journey on the steps of the stunning Old Synagogue and explore the rich historical legacy of Kazimierz. Wander through the picturesque streets past charming cafes, street musicians, and historic landmarks. Your guide will provide fascinating insight into the area’s rich cultural history as you visit notable sites such as the Remuh synagogue and cemetery.

Day 2: Immerse yourself in the stories of WWII and pay your respects at the Schindler Factory Museum. Learn about Krakow’s history during the war and its courageous inhabitants whose stories of heroism and tragedy are an integral part of Krakow’s history. Later on, delve deep into the mysterious underground tunnels of the Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 3: After breakfast, head out for one last round of sightseeing. Stroll along the picturesque streets of Kazimierz and admire the stunning Baroque architecture. Head into a local restaurant for a delicious lunch, accompanied by drinks. Finish the tour at the Krakow riverbanks with an exclusive view of Wawel Castle.

This tour includes local transportation, admission to all sights, and professional guides. It is the perfect way to experience the unique history and beauty of Krakow’s Jewish community.

3. 3-Day Krakow Guided Tour: Jewish Heritage with Wieliczka and Auschwitz

This tour offers a comprehensive three-day exploration of Krakow’s Jewish heritage, in addition to visits to the Wieliczka Salt mine and the Auschwitz Memorial and Museum. The tour commences at the Old Synagogue, where a professional guide waits with an “excursions.city” sign for pickup. On board the tour bus, visitors will be taken on a journey through history, exploring Krakow’s Jewish heritage, including the Remuh synagogue and cemetery, as well as the Schindler Factory museum. The trip also includes a visit to the stunning Wieliczka Salt mine, which has been in operation since the thirteenth century. Finally, the tour concludes at the Auschwitz Memorial and Museum, where the harrowing experiences of those who lived and died there are commemorated, reminding visitors of the horrors of the Holocaust. Along the way, drinks are supplied during meals, and all entrance tickets are included, with the exception of the Remuh synagogue and cemetery, where a small fee of PLN 10 is required. Note that while the tour is not wheelchair accessible, public transportation is conveniently accessible, and an infant is allowed to sit on a parent’s lap. This tour is operated by excursions.city and allows up to 15 travelers.

4. 3-Day Krakow Guided Tour: Jewish Quarter and Ghetto with Wieliczka and Auschwitz

Experience the rich heritage and history of Krakow in just three days with our guided tour. Discover the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, and Wieliczka Salt Mine with our included transport. You’ll also learn about the important Jewish heritage landmarks, including Kazimierz, the Ghetto Wall Fragment, and Oskar Schindler’s Factory Museum. With entry tickets included and professional guides, you’ll have the opportunity to expand your knowledge and deepen your understanding of the city’s history. Don’t miss out on this amazing experience. Meeting point is at Szeroka 24.

5. 3-Day Krakow Guided Tour: Wawel Hill, Jewish Quarter, Wieliczka and Auschwitz

This three-day guided tour is the perfect way to explore Krakow and its surroundings. The tour starts on the St. Mary Magdalene Square at the Piotr Skarga Monument, where you’ll meet your guide with the “excursions.city” sign. From there, you’ll embark on a journey through Krakow’s most iconic landmarks, including Wawel Hill, Jewish Quarter, Wieliczka, and Auschwitz.

During the tour, you’ll enjoy the company of professional guides who will accompany you to each location, and you’ll gain entrance to the State Rooms and Wawel Cathedral. You’ll also be treated to drinks during meals, and have the opportunity to visit the synagogue and cemetery for a small fee of PLN 10 per person.

The tour is perfect for travelers who want to experience the best of Krakow with the expertise of a knowledgeable guide. It’s not wheelchair accessible, so travelers should have a moderate level of physical fitness. Additionally, infants are required to sit on laps, and the tour can accommodate a maximum of 15 travelers.

Operated by “excursions.city”, the tour can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. For those who want to discover the best of Krakow in just three days, this guided tour is the perfect way to do so.

Frequently Asked Questions about Krakow

Krakow is one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Poland. It is a city full of history and culture. Every year, thousands of tourists visit Krakow to explore its rich heritage, architecture, and art. Here, we have compiled a list of some of the most frequently asked questions that tourists have about Krakow.

1. What is the Best Time to Visit Krakow?

The best time to visit Krakow is from April to June or from September to November. During this time, the weather is mild and pleasant, and the crowds are smaller than during the peak tourist season in July and August. The Christmas season is also a popular time to visit Krakow, as the city is beautifully decorated, and there are several fun events and markets to attend.

2. What are the Must-See Attractions in Krakow?

Krakow has many must-see attractions, some of which include:

Wawel Castle:

This castle is one of the most important cultural and historical landmarks in Poland. It was the residence of Polish kings, and it houses many stunning art pieces and architecture.

Main Market Square:

Located in the heart of the city, this is one of the largest medieval town squares in Europe. It is surrounded by beautiful architecture and features the famous St. Mary’s Basilica.

Jewish Quarter:

Also known as Kazimierz, this neighborhood is the cultural center of Krakow’s Jewish community. It features many synagogues, museums, and art galleries.

Auschwitz-Birkenau:

This is the site of the largest Nazi concentration camp during World War II. It is an important historical landmark and a sobering reminder of one of the darkest periods in human history.

3. What is the Currency Used in Krakow?

The currency used in Krakow is the Polish Zloty (PLN). It is recommended to exchange currency at a bank or a currency exchange office in the city. Credit cards are generally accepted at most tourist locations.

4. What is the Local Language in Krakow?

The local language spoken in Krakow is Polish. However, most people in the tourist industry, such as hotel staff, tour guides, and restaurant servers, speak English. It is always a good idea to learn a few Polish phrases before visiting the city, as it can help you in your interactions with locals.

5. What are the Transportation Options in Krakow?

Krakow has a well-developed public transportation system, which includes trams and buses. A single ride ticket costs around 3 PLN, and there are also options for day and week passes. Taxis are also available but can be more expensive than public transportation.

6. What is the Food Like in Krakow?

Polish cuisine is known for its hearty and filling dishes, such as pierogi (dumplings), bigos (cabbage stew), and kielbasa (sausage). Krakow has many restaurants and cafes that serve traditional Polish food, as well as international cuisine. The city also has a vibrant street food scene, where you can try local favorites like zapiekanka (open-faced baguette with toppings) and obwarzanek (a type of round bread).

7. Is Krakow Safe for Tourists?

Krakow is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as with any popular tourist destination, there are pickpockets and scammers to watch out for, especially in crowded areas like the Main Market Square. It is important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

8. What are the Customs and Etiquette in Krakow?

Polish culture places a high value on hospitality and respect. When entering someone’s home or a church, it is customary to remove your shoes. It is also polite to greet people with a handshake and use formal titles. Tipping is expected at restaurants, cafes, and other service industry businesses.

Conclusion

Krakow is a beautiful city with a rich history, culture, and cuisine. By answering some of the most frequently asked questions, we hope to have provided you with useful information to help plan your visit to Krakow. Remember to be respectful of local customs, stay safe, and have fun exploring this amazing city!

The 5 Best Day Trips in Krakow: Frequently Asked Questions

Krakow is a top destination in Europe, known for its rich history, culture, architecture, and food. It’s an ideal place for a day trip as there are many things to do and see within a short distance from the city center. If you’re planning to visit Krakow and you’re looking for the best day trips, you’re in luck! We’ve put together a list of the 5 best day trips in Krakow that you can take to explore the surrounding areas. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about these day trips.

1. What is the Wieliczka Salt Mine, and why is it worth visiting?

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 13th century. It’s located only 10 km away from Krakow, and it’s one of the most popular day trips from the city. The mine is famous for its stunning underground chambers, chapels, and sculptures, made entirely of salt. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mine and learn about its history, mining techniques, and local legends.

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is definitely worth visiting, as it offers a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. It’s a must-see attraction for anyone who loves history, art, and culture.

2. How to get to the Wieliczka Salt Mine?

Getting to the Wieliczka Salt Mine is easy, as you can take a bus, train, or a private tour from Krakow. The mine is located about 10 km southeast of the city, and it takes around 30 minutes to get there by bus or train. Buses run frequently from the city center, and the fare is usually under 5 PLN per person. Trains are also available, and they run every hour from Krakow’s central station.

Alternatively, you can book a private tour that includes transportation, a guided tour of the mine, and admission fees. This is a good option if you want to avoid the hassle of public transportation and have more flexibility in your schedule.

3. What is the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, and why is it important to visit?

The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is a former Nazi concentration camp that has been turned into a memorial and museum. It’s located about 60 km away from Krakow, and it’s one of the most visited attractions in Poland. The museum houses exhibitions and collections that document the history of the camp and the Holocaust, and it provides an important educational opportunity for visitors.

Visiting the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is an emotional and thought-provoking experience that can help you understand the complexities of the Holocaust and the importance of preserving its memory.

4. How to get to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum?

Getting to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is possible by bus, train, or private tour. Buses run daily from Krakow’s central station and take about 1.5 hours to get there. Alternatively, you can take a train to Oświęcim, the nearest town to Auschwitz, and then a local bus or taxi to the museum.

Private tours are also available, and they usually include transportation, a guided tour of the museum, and admission fees. This is a good option if you want to have a more personalized and comprehensive tour of the site.

5. What is the Zakopane and Tatra Mountains, and why is it worth visiting?

Zakopane is a charming mountain town located about 100 km away from Krakow, and it’s known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities. The Tatra Mountains, which are a part of the Carpathian Mountains and the highest range in Poland, surround Zakopane.

Visiting Zakopane is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the fresh air and nature. You can go hiking, skiing, snowboarding, rock climbing, or just admire the mountain views from a cable car or a hot spring.

6. How to get to the Zakopane and Tatra Mountains?

Getting to Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains is possible by bus, train, or private tour. Buses run frequently from Krakow’s central bus station, and the fare is usually around 20 PLN per person. Trains are also available, but they take a bit longer and require a transfer at Nowy Targ.

Alternatively, you can book a private tour that includes transportation, a guided tour of Zakopane, and admission fees to the cable car or hot spring. This is a great option if you want to have a more personalized and comfortable experience.

Conclusion

Krakow is a city that offers many exciting day trip options for visitors who want to explore more of Poland. The Wieliczka Salt Mine, Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, Zakopane, and the Tatra Mountains are some of the most popular and worth-seeing destinations around Krakow. Now that you know more about these day trips, you can plan your itinerary and make the most of your time in this beautiful and historic city.