What are the best sights to see in Krakow?

Krakow, Poland is renowned for its historic sights and vibrant culture, making it an ideal destination for tourists who wish to experience a different side of Europe. Whether you’re an amateur historian, culture vulture, or just looking for an exciting city break, Krakow has an array of attractions to suit all tastes. We’ve created this guide to showcase some of the best sights to see while you’re visiting Krakow.

Krakow Old Town

Krakow Old Town is the oldest district in the city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, meaning that it should be atop any tourist’s list of attractions to visit. You can spend at least a day exploring Old Town’s winding streets, which are lined with centuries-old buildings that have withstood the ravages of time and remain steeped in history. Here you will find buildings such as the Barbican of Krakow, which is the only preserved part of the old fortifications.

You can also find the equally impressive St Mary’s Basilica in Old Town along with numerous statues, galleries, and museums. The Rynek Główny – or Main Square – is also located in Old Town, and it is the largest such area in Europe. It serves as the center of activities in the city and houses some of Krakow’s most iconic attractions.

Wawel Castle

The Royal Wawel Castle was one of the most significant residences of Polish kings and queens between the 15th and 17th centuries. Located on the banks of the Vistula River, the castle complex boasts an array of breathtaking architecture, from breath-taking towers to gargoyles and intricate works of stone. Today, the grand castle houses a selection of museums, such as the Royal Tombs, that display objects from as early as the 16th century and shed light on the region’s past rulers.

Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum

The Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum is one of the most emotionally laden sites in all of Europe and is a harsh reminder of what happened during World War II. The museum is set within these camp sites, which provided a powerful insight into the atrocities that took place here, as well as what could be done to prevent a recurrence. It is a potent reminder of man’s capacity for inhumanity and inspires an understanding that further atrocities must never be repeated.

Schindler’s Factory Museum

One of the more uplifting attractions in Krakow is Schindler’s Factory Museum, named after Oscar Schindler, a businessman who saved about 1,200 Jews from Nazi forces by providing them employment in his enamelware factory. Today, the factory runs as a museum documenting both Schindler’s life as well as his significant contribution to WWII history. It provides visitors with a fascinating look back at Krakow’s turbulent past and how Schindler’s work helped secure the future of hundreds of people.

Kazimierz Jewish District

Kazimierz is Krakow’s Jewish quarter and it has been revitalized over recent years, with numerous restaurants, bars, galleries and theaters blooming amongst its winding streets. Here visitors can explore centuries-old synagogues such as Old Synagogue and Remuh Synagogue, which are considered some of the most important religious monuments in Poland. Additionally, the area is celebrated for its vibrant nightlife and has become a popular destination for those looking for a cultural experience that veers away from Krakow’s main attractions.

Conclusion

Krakow has a wealth of attractions for tourists who are looking for an entirely different cultural experience from a typical European city break. From awe-inspiring castles and churches to some of the most emotionally-charged sites in all of Poland, there’s something here to suit all tastes, no matter how deep your interest in history may lie. Obviously only our list is just scraping the surface in terms of what Krakow can offer in terms of attractions so don’t forget to check out Krakow Tourist Information website. for more information about what this Polish gem can offer.

An Insider’s Guide to Krakow: Explore the Hidden Gems of this Beautiful City

If you’re planning a trip to Krakow, chances are you know about the famous tourist attractions like Wawel Castle, the Main Market Square, and the Kazimierz district. But what about the lesser-known spots that only the locals know about? After living in Krakow for years, I’ve discovered some places that offer a unique and authentic experience. Here is an insider’s guide to Krakow that will make your trip unforgettable.

Explore the Hidden Sights of Krakow

In addition to Wawel Castle and the Main Market Square, Krakow has several lesser-known but equally stunning places. If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the bustling city center, head to the Wolski Forest. It’s the largest urban park in Krakow, covering an area of over 400 hectares. The forest has numerous hiking and biking trails, and it also has a zoo.

Another hidden gem is the Zakrzowek Quarry. It’s an abandoned limestone quarry that has now been transformed into a stunning lake. It’s ideal for rock climbing, diving, or just sunbathing on the beach.

Try the Local Cuisine

If you’re a foodie, Krakow won’t disappoint you. The local cuisine is known for its hearty and filling dishes, with influences from Central Europe. One of the must-try dishes is pierogi, the classic Polish dumplings filled with savory or sweet stuffing. You can find excellent pierogi at several places, including Pierogarnia Krakowiacy, Przystanek Pierogarnia, and Gospoda Koko.

Looking for something sweet? Try the obwarzanek krakowski, a traditional bread baked with sesame seeds. It’s a popular snack in Krakow, and you can find it at street vendors in the city center.

Experience the City’s Traditions and Culture

Krakow has a rich cultural heritage, with numerous festivals, traditions, and customs. If you’re in Krakow in June, don’t miss the annual Wianki Festival, where locals float wreaths with candles on the Vistula River to celebrate midsummer. Another must-visit place is the St. Mary’s Basilica, located in the Main Market Square. Every hour, a trumpeter plays the Hejnal Mariacki, a traditional tune that commemorates a legendary trumpeter who alerted the city of an invasion in the 13th century.

If you’re interested in art, cultural, and scientific exhibitions, the ICE Kraków Congress Centre is the place for you. The centre hosts several prestigious events throughout the year, including the Photomonth Festival, the Jazz Festival, and the Krakow Film Festival.

Explore the Fascinating History of Krakow

Krakow has a turbulent and fascinating history, and it’s evident in the city’s architecture and monuments. One excellent example is the Schindler’s Factory Museum, which tells the story of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saved over a thousand Jewish lives during the Holocaust. The museum is located in the actual factory that Schindler owned.

Another place to visit is the Nowa Huta district, built in the 1950s as a model communist city. It has several landmarks, including the Central Square and the Steelworks Museum. The district is an excellent example of Poland’s recent history and a testament to the resilience of the people of Krakow.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path suggestions, consider visiting the Podgórze district, located across the Vistula River. It’s a charming and quiet area with several parks, cafés, and historic monuments. You can visit the remnants of the Jewish Ghetto and the Plaszow Concentration Camp Memorial. You can take a guided tour of the district or explore it by yourself.

Another suggestion is to take a day trip to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, located just outside Krakow. It’s one of the oldest salt mines in the world, with a labyrinth of tunnels, chapels, and sculptures carved out of salt. The mine attracts millions of tourists every year and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In conclusion, Krakow is a beautiful and fascinating city that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or adventure, Krakow won’t disappoint you. By exploring the hidden gems of Krakow, trying the local cuisine, and immersing yourself in the city’s traditions and culture, you can experience Krakow like a local.