What Currency is Used in Krakow?

Many people visiting Krakow are confused about the currency used in the city, especially since it is located in Poland, which has a different currency than many other European countries. The currency in Krakow is the official Polish currency – the Polish Zloty.

The Polish Zloty (PLN) is a form of fiat money, which means it is not backed by any physical commodity such as gold or silver. The symbol used to designate the currency is “zł”. One zł is equal to 100 groszy (gr). Coins in circulation are 1gr, 2gr, 5gr, 10gr, 20gr, 50gr and 1zł. Banknotes in circulation are 10zł, 20zł, 50zł, 100zł and 200zł. A single zł can be split into 100 groszy or gr.

Where to Exchange Currency in Krakow?

When travelling to Krakow, it’s important to know where you can exchange your own currency for the local currency. This can be done in a variety of places in Krakow. Krakow has a number of reliable currency exchange programs available.

The first place to consider is at one of the banks located in Krakow. Exchange rates at banks are usually slightly above the current rate but the process is generally very straightforward. You can also find exchange kiosks in quite a few locations around the city and you can often find better exchange rates than at the bank. Another efficient way to get currency is to use an ATM machine which will automatically convert your currency into the local Polish Zloty.

You may also be able to change money at your hotel or guesthouse, although it’s not recommended since they often have some of the highest exchange rates. If you wish to change money before arriving in Krakow, make sure you do it in Poland as most banks charged too high fees for outside exchange.

It’s also important to remember that PayPal and credit/debit cards are accepted in many places so you don’t always have to use the local currency. It can be helpful to check with your bank in advance to make sure your card will be accepted.

Things to Know About the Polish Zloty

There are a few things to keep in mind when using the Polish Zloty. The first thing is that many places accept Euros and US Dollars in addition to Polish Zloty, so it’s worth checking what kind of currency each vendor takes before making your purchase. This can be especially helpful when prices for goods and services are shown in both Euro and Zloty – make sure you know how much you’re spending in Euros or Dollars so that you don’t pay more than you should.

When exchanging your own currency for the local currency, be aware of the exchange rate and find out if there are any fees associated with the transaction before handing over any cash. It’s also important to remember that when cashing out at ATMs, you will be charged a small fee which will depend on the bank you used.

When travelling to Krakow it’s a good idea to bring some cash with you since not all establishments accept card payments. Having some small denominations of local currency handy can be useful when buying small items such as food or drinks. Be sure to check the local currency rates before leaving home and make sure that you don’t pay more than you should for your purchases by double checking with vendors the prices quoted against what kind of currency they accept.

In conclusion, the official Polish currency is the złoty and it comes in both coins and paper notes. Currency can be exchanged at banks, exchange kiosks and from ATMs as well as from other money changers. It’s also possible to use debit cards or credit cards and PayPal in some places. It’s important to remember to check prices against both currencies that are accepted before making a purchase, as some vendors quote higher prices for goods and services in Euros or dollars than for złoty.

More detailed information about Polish money, currency exchange, ATMs and money changers can be found on JustLanded. This website provides valuable information about exchanging money in Poland including fees, rates and tips on where to get the best deals as well as travel advice and tips on spending money while travelling in Poland.

Insider’s Guide to Hidden Gems in Krakow

Krakow is a city rich in history and culture, with locals who are proud of their heritage and eager to share it with visitors. While most tourists flock to the popular attractions like Wawel Castle and the Main Market Square, there are many hidden gems waiting to be discovered by those willing to venture off the beaten path.

Local Attractions

One such gem is the Wolski Forest, a vast woodland area just outside the city that is perfect for hiking or cycling. It offers stunning views of the city and is home to many animal species. Another hidden attraction is the Nowa Huta district, founded as an ideal communist city in the 1950s, but now a popular spot for cycling or visiting its avant-garde housing estate.

Dining Spots

Krakow is known for its hearty cuisine, with dishes like Pierogi and Bigos being local favorites. One of the best places to try these dishes is at the Milk Bar, where traditional Polish food is served cafeteria-style for a reasonable price. Beyond that, Pod Baranem is a restaurant that has been around for decades, with recipes passed down from grandmother to granddaughter.

Cultural Experiences

Krakow is a city filled with bustling festivals and celebrations. The annual Pierogi Festival celebrates all things related to Poland’s national dish, while the Dragon Parade, linked to a famous local legend, is a colorful spectacle that takes place in June. Moreover, for art enthusiasts, the Museum of Contemporary Art in Krakow or MOCAK, is an exemplary modern gallery that houses art exhibitions and cultural events.

Local History

Krakow is bursting with history. Kazimierz, a formerly Jewish district is now a fashionable area of the city, where old buildings and synagogues are transformed into trendy cocktail bars and designer shops. It is a city within a city offering a reflection of the patina of times gone by and a place where visitors can explore the unimaginable struggles of a difficult past.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those willing to venture outside the city center, we suggest a trip to Zakopane, Poland’s winter-cum-summer capital. It offers picturesque landscapes that attract the most adventurous travelers, solace-seeking wanderers, and lovers of hiking. Take a long day trip to the Pieniny Mountains for rafting on the Dunajec River or take the hydrofoil speedboat over Lake Morskie Oko, which is buried in the heart of the Tatras Mountains.

Krakow is a magical city that has retained its authenticity, belonging to those who love all things historical and colorful. From hidden attractions to local traditions, there is so much to see and experience that cannot be found in the mainstream guides.