What is the Best Street Food in Krakow?

Krakow is a beautiful city, located in the South of Poland, offering its visitors plenty of sightseeing opportunities and amazing local food specialties. Especially Italian and Polish cuisine are popular in the city and many restaurants are offering their best dishes. But what could be better than to enjoy delicious street food from local vendors? Street food is a great way to save some money and to get a feeling for the local culture. In this article, I’m going to explain what the best street food in Krakow is and why you should definitely try it when visiting the city.

What is Street Food?

Street food is defined as ready-to-eat dishes, snacks or drinks which are sold by vendors at public places, such as markets, festivals or just in the street. It is an important part of many cultures and has been existing for centuries. Street food has recently gained more and more popularity, as people are looking for convenient, tasty and cost-efficient meals while they are on the move.

What are the Types of Street Food in Krakow?

Krakow is known for its’ delicious traditional cuisine, but there is also plenty of street food to find throughout the city. Let’s check out some of the most popular and tasty street foods that Krakow has to offer:

• Zapiekanki – A wonderful street snack made of a piece of baguette, which is split lengthways and topped with mushrooms, cheese and ketchup. This type of snack has become so popular in Poland over the last few years that there are dedicated Zapiekanki venues throughout Krakow.
• Pączki – Deep-fried pastries, filled with jam or rose-based cream and covered with icing sugar. Most often, these treats can be found at the local markets or at the stands near the famous Renaissance market.
• Oscypek – An interesting cheese made of sheep’s milk, which is commonly sold in Krakow in markets, stands or carts. It is usually smoked with conifer needles, giving it a unique flavor.
• Kiełbasa – Kiełbasa is a type of sausage made from pork or beef, mixed with spices and herbs. It is one of the most popular street foods in Krakow and can be found anywhere in the city.
• Żurek – This soup is served with boiled eggs, beetroot and pickles, making it both flavorful and nutritious. It’s usually served in a bowl or a cup.

Which are the Best Areas to Find Street Food in Krakow?

There are a few areas in Krakow which are known for their delicious street food:

• Lubicz Market Square. Here you can find several street food vendors selling Zapiekanki, Kiełbasa and other local delicacies.
• Cloth Hall (Sukiennice). This is one of the most popular places for street food in Krakow. Here you can find Oscypek and Żurek, as well as some other regional foods.
• Rynek Główny (Main Market Square). Here you can find different kinds of street food vendors, ranging from kabobs to milkshakes. There are also a few restaurants offering traditional Polish dishes.
• Kazimierz district. This area is known for its vibrant nightlife, but there are also plenty of street food options to be found here. You can find a wide variety of dishes here, ranging from pizzas to kebabs.
• Nowy Kleparz Market. This market is popular for its fresh produce, with some vendors selling their own honey, jams and preserves. But there is also plenty of street food stalls here too.

Final Thoughts On The Best Street Food in Krakow

Krakow offers its visitors plenty of delicious food options to choose from, no matter what your preference is. Traditional Polish cuisine, Italian dishes, even sweet treats like Pączki – there is something for everyone. When it comes to street food in particular, however, Zapiekanki is definitely one of the top choices. With its hearty combination of bread, mushrooms, ketchup and cheese – it’s no wonder it has become so popular amongst both locals and tourists alike. So if you’re looking for the best street food in Krakow – make sure to try some Zapiekanki!

For more information about this wonderful street snack, you should check out Taste of Poland’s website. Apart from Zapiekanki recipes and tips on where to find this delicious snack in Krakow – you can also find some great photos and videos about this local delicacy.

The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Krakow

Krakow is a city with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a vibrant food and arts scene. Although the city is filled with popular tourist attractions, Krakow offers many hidden treasures that are often missed by visitors, and we’re here to share them with you.

Local Attractions

While most tourists head straight to the Wawel Castle and the Main Market Square, don’t miss out on some of Krakow’s lesser-known attractions. Visit the Nowa Huta district, a socialist-era neighborhood built in the 1950s. Its streets and architecture reflect Poland’s communist past, and you can even take a guided tour in an authentic East German Trabant car. Another hidden gem is the Ojcow National Park, just a short train ride away from Krakow, where you can hike through stunning natural landscapes and medieval castles.

Dining Spots

Krakow’s food scene is filled with delicious cuisine that reflects the city’s history and cultural mix. Traditional pierogi dumplings are a must-try, and you can find them at spots like Pierogarnia Krakowiacy or Przystanek Pierogarnia. For those with a sweet tooth, head over to the iconic local pastry shop, Noworolski, and try their famous creamy cakes and tarts. Krakow also has a thriving street food culture, and you can explore it at food markets like Hala Targowa or Plac Nowy, where you’ll find everything from the famous Polish sausage “kielbasa” to delicious zapiekanki, a tasty Polish version of pizza.

Cultural Experiences

Krakow is a city of culture, and there’s no shortage of festivals, art exhibitions, and music events to experience. The city’s biggest event is the annual Jewish Culture Festival in Kazimierz, celebrating the Jewish legacy and cultural heritage of the city. For a unique art experience, visit MOCAK, Poland’s leading modern art museum, where you’ll find exhibits that reflect the social and political changes of the 21st century. Another unique attraction is the underground Salt Mines, where you’ll descend into the depths of Krakow and see the history of salt mining brought to life.

Local History

Krakow has a fascinating history that spans over a thousand years, from its royal past to the tragic events of World War II. One captivating story is that of the “Wawel Dragon,” a mythical creature that used to terrorize the city. The legend tells of a young shoemaker who outsmarted the beast and saved the city, and you can see a statue of the dragon at the foot of Wawel Hill. Another haunting place is the former Jewish ghetto, where the horrific events of the Holocaust took place. There you’ll find the Oscar Schindler Factory Museum, which tells the story of one man who saved thousands of Jewish lives during the war.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a truly unique experience, head over to the district of Zablocie, where you’ll find Kazimierz’s industrial little brother. The area is now a hub for art and innovation, with galleries, creative spaces, and even a local craft brewery. Another unusual attraction is the Wieliczka Saltworks Castle, where you can stay in a medieval castle built right into the salt mines. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a bike ride to Tyniec, a Benedictine Abbey located on a scenic hill overlooking the Vistula River.

Krakow is a city that has something for everyone, from its rich history to its vibrant food and arts scene. Take some time to explore both the tourist spots and its hidden treasures, prepare to be wowed, and enjoy all that this magnificent city has to offer.