What Is Krakow Like? Must See Sights and Experiences in the Beautiful City

Krakow is an amazing and beautiful city, located in the southern part of Poland. It has a rich cultural heritage with a treasure trove of museums, galleries and monuments dotted throughout. Krakow is renowned for its hospitality and compassion, offering an incredible mix of traditional values and modern vibes. Tourists fall in love with the city from the moment they arrive, captivated by its charm and the warmth and friendliness of the locals. Krakow is filled with must-see sights and authentic experiences that will give you memories to last a lifetime.

Magnificent History

Krakow’s long and diverse history is evident all around the city. Established as the Polish capital in 1038, Krakow boasts many impressive historical attractions, from Wawel Royal Castle to the gigantic Rynek Glowny market square, lined with grand Gothic townhouses. For a history lesson in culture, take a stroll through the streets of Kazimierz, which was once a thriving Jewish quarter, or visit Schindler’s Factory – the old Nazi enamelware factory now converted into a museum. Another interesting aspect of Krakow’s past to explore is the city’s underground, including the legendary Salt Mines of Wieliczka and underground museum in the old air-raid shelter beneath the Cloth Hall building.

Delicious Cuisine

Krakow’s gastronomy-scene has exploded in recent years. The city is full of amazing restaurants, cafes and bars where visitors can sample regional foods and drinks. The traditional dish of Pierogi – filled dumplings – will leave you salivating with its juicy fillings of meat, cheese and mashed potato. There are also some fantastic local beers to enjoy – Zywiec is one of Poland’s most popular brands – perfect for cooling off on a summer day, and there’s no better way to start a night out than knocking back some vodka shots with the locals.

Exploring Nature

Discover Krakow’s stunning natural beauty in its many parks, lakes and gardens. The Ojcow National Park stretches around 16km from the city, and is home to many fascinating caves, waterfalls and wildlife, while Kosciuszko Mound is a hill that offers magnificent views of surrounding areas. Escaping daily life is also possible on the banks of Vistula River or at one of the city’s many cooling pools.

City Culture

Krakow’s culture will keep you entranced for hours on end. Theatre performances throughout the city run year-round, along with classical music concerts which take place mostly at the Polish Radio station. The Royal Castle hosts operas and concerts as well as exhibitions and dance events; while in November each year when Krakow film festival takes place around town, showcasing new Polish films. Make sure you attend ‘Kazimierz Night’ – an evening of music and dancing which occurs every first Friday of the month – for an unforgettable night out!

As you can see, there’s plenty to keep you busy during your stay in Krakow. The city has something unique for everyone and its rich blend of culture, nature, attractions and incredible locals make it one of Europe’s most enjoyable destinations. For more information on where to stay and what to do while in Krakow visit TripPlanz, a comprehensive website dedicated to helping planning your perfect trip to the city.

An Insider’s Guide to Krakow: Must-See Sights and Experiences in This Beautiful City

Krakow is a city with a rich history, stunning architecture, delicious food, and vibrant cultural scene. This guide will help you make the most of your visit to Krakow by highlighting its must-see sights and experiences, along with some off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Top 5 Must-See Sights in Krakow

1. Wawel Castle: A former residence of Polish kings and queens, Wawel Castle is a must-see for any visitor to Krakow. It boasts stunning architecture and intricate interior decoration, including the famous Flemish tapestries. It is also home to the Wawel Cathedral, where many Polish kings and queens were crowned and buried.

2. Main Market Square: The Main Market Square is the heart of Krakow’s Old Town, surrounded by beautiful buildings with diverse architectural styles. Here, you can find the famous St. Mary’s Basilica, the Cloth Hall, and plenty of cafes and restaurants to enjoy.

3. Kazimierz: This former Jewish quarter of Krakow is now a vibrant neighborhood with a rich cultural heritage. It is home to many synagogues, including the oldest one in Poland, and a Jewish cemetery that dates back to the 16th century. You’ll find plenty of trendy bars and restaurants here too.

4. Schindler’s Factory Museum: This museum tells the story of the Krakow ghetto during World War II and the efforts of Oskar Schindler to save the lives of more than a thousand Jewish workers. It is a moving and informative experience that sheds light on a dark period in Krakow’s history.

5. Wieliczka Salt Mine: Just outside of Krakow, you’ll find the Wieliczka Salt Mine, one of the oldest and largest in Europe. A tour of the mine will take you through chambers with intricate salt carvings, underground lakes, and even a chapel made entirely of salt.

Where to Eat in Krakow

Krakow is a foodie’s paradise, with plenty of fantastic restaurants and eateries to choose from. Here are some of our favorites:

1. Wesele: This restaurant in the heart of Old Town specializes in traditional Polish cuisine, including pierogi (dumplings), bigos (hunter’s stew), and roasted meats. The decor is rustic and cozy, and the portions are large and hearty.

2. Nowa Prowincja: Located just off the Main Market Square, this cafe is a great spot for breakfast or a coffee break. They serve a variety of pastries, sandwiches, and salads in a cozy, bohemian atmosphere.

3. Starka: This restaurant in Kazimierz specializes in Polish vodka and hearty dishes like roast duck and pork knuckle. The interior is sleek and modern, with a strong focus on wood and leather materials.

Cultural Experiences in Krakow

Krakow has a vibrant cultural scene, with plenty of museums, theaters, and galleries to explore. Here are some must-sees:

1. National Museum: The National Museum in Krakow has a vast collection of Polish art, including works by famous artists like Jan Matejko and Stanisław Wyspiański. It also has an impressive collection of European art from the medieval period to the 20th century.

2. Juliusz Słowacki Theatre: This historic theater in the center of Krakow is a must-visit for theater lovers. It features a beautiful neoclassical facade and an ornate interior with plush seating and a stunning ceiling mural.

3. MOCAK: The Museum of Contemporary Art in Krakow features exciting exhibitions of modern and contemporary art from all over the world. It is housed in a former enamel factory and features a sleek, industrial interior.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

While Krakow’s main sights and attractions are well worth visiting, there are also plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to be had. Here are a few:

1. Plac Nowy Flea Market: Every Sunday morning, Plac Nowy hosts a flea market where you can find all kinds of antiques and curiosities, from vintage vinyl records to Soviet-era propaganda posters.

2. Piękna Gallery: This small gallery in the center of Krakow showcases contemporary art from up-and-coming Polish artists. It’s a great place to discover new talent and support the local art scene.

3. Zakrzówek: This former limestone quarry just outside of Krakow is now a popular spot for swimming and rock climbing. The crystal-clear water is a striking shade of blue-green, and the steep cliffs surrounding the quarry make for a dramatic backdrop.