What is the Best Way to See Krakow?

Krakow is an enchanting city, filled with rich culture and history, making it a perfect destination to visit for holidaymakers and locals alike. From its charming old town, castles and churches, to its green parks and entertainment establishments, Krakow is an amazing city to explore. So, what is the best way to see Krakow?

The best way to see Krakow depends on the type of experience you want to have – whether you want to take in the city’s main attractions on a guided tour, explore the city at your own pace, or simply explore the best areas on the city’s unique hop-on buses. Whichever option you choose, you are sure to experience a great holiday in Krakow.

1. Best Guided Tours in Krakow

One of the best ways to experience Krakow is on a guided tour. Many companies offer a range of different tours that are tailored to different types of visitors; for those who want to learn more about the city’s history, there are historical and cultural tours, while there are tours that focus on the city’s most popular attractions.

• Guided tours in Krakow can take you from the Old Town Square to Auschwitz-Birkenau, Kazimierz and Podgórze.
• You can book tickets for Krakow bus tours, walking tours, day trips and more.
• Popular guided tours include: Kazimierz Jewish District Tour, Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour or Auschwitz-Birkenau Tour.

A great option for getting around is the official Kraków sightseeing bus. This hop-on hop-off bus lets you explore the city at your own pace and provides access to more than 15 popular attractions – including Old Town Square and the Main Market Square – with audio commentary in 11 languages. Alternately, you can book tickets for Krakow bus tours like A Guide in Kraków Offer, Run-Kraków Tour, or A.D. Tours.

2. Explore Krakow At Your Own Pace

If you’d rather explore the city at your own pace, then you can easily rent a bike or take an Uber around the city. You can also take advantage of the many walking and hiking trails throughout the city, or take a horse-drawn carriage ride.

When it comes to exploring beautiful Krakow on your own, it all depends on what interests you. From its architectural wonder such as Wawel Castle and St. Mary’s Basilica to its musical and theatrical shows, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city.

3. Enjoy Unique Experiences

Kraków is also a great place to experience some of its unique attractions, like John Paul II’s window walk which takes you through secret tunnels, dungeons and graffiti art corridors. You can also experience traditional Polish food such as pierogis, kielbasa and makowiec cookies at local restaurants.

In addition, one way to truly get a sense of Kraków’s atmosphere is to take a VIP limo tour where you’ll be chauffeured around the city in a luxury limousine while sipping on vodka shooters while taking in all the sights and sounds of Kraków as if you were a star. The Krakow VIP Limo Party Tour with GetYourGuide is a fun way to tour the city and experience everything it has to offer from a unique perspective.

Overall, no matter what type of experience you are looking for in Kraków, there is sure to be something for everyone. From guided tours and exploring the city by bike or coach, to experiencing unique attractions, you are sure to find some amazing things when visiting Kraków.

The Insider’s Guide to Exploring Krakow

Krakow is a city steeped in a rich and vibrant history, filled with Gothic architecture, a bustling market square, and several hidden gems waiting to be discovered by travelers. Whether you are visiting Poland’s former capital for the first time or seeking to rediscover its charm, there are endless things to do in this treasure trove of culture and history. With this insider’s guide, you’ll learn about the best ways to see Krakow, including its famous landmarks, cultural experiences, local history, dining spots, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Famous Landmarks to see in Krakow

Krakow has a rich cultural heritage, and no visit to the city is complete without exploring its famous landmarks. Start your sightseeing journey in the city’s main market square, Rynek Główny, which dates back to the 13th century. The square retains much of its original medieval architecture and is a great spot for people watching. Walk a few blocks from the market square, and you’ll find the city’s most famous landmark, the Wawel Castle. This imposing fortress dates back to the 11th century and was home to Polish kings and queens for centuries. No trip to Krakow is complete without a tour of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Make sure to explore the castle’s premium attraction, the State Rooms, to witness the royal splendors of Poland’s past. Another must-see in the city is the Kazimierz district, the heart of Krakow’s Jewish heritage. This neighborhood has been revitalized and is filled with vibrant cafes, restaurants, synagogues, and museums that you can visit.

Cultural Experiences to Have in Krakow

Krakow’s cultural tapestry is an eclectic mix of Jewish, Polish, and European influences, which makes it an exciting city to explore. Start by visiting the National Museum, which houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts from Polish history. Next, head over to the Krakow Seweryn Udziela Ethnographic Museum to learn about Poland’s unique regional cultures. For a more immersive experience, attend a show at the Juliusz Słowacki Theatre, one of the city’s oldest and most ornate theaters, known for its classic Polish plays.

Delicious Dining Spots in Krakow

No trip to Krakow is complete without sampling its local cuisine. Start with the pierogi, a Polish dumpling that comes in different fillings, including cheese, meat, and vegetables. Also, try the popular Kielbasa or Polish sausage, and the Bigos, a hearty cabbage stew made with pork and sausage. For excellent traditional Polish cuisine, visit Pod Aniolami, a restaurant renowned for its homemade meals and an extensive wine list. Wierzynek, also known as the oldest restaurant in Krakow, is another fabulous choice for traditional Polish cuisine, located in the heart of the market square. And lastly, if you’re a vegetarian, make sure to try out Vega Vegan, serving one of the best vegan burgers in town.

Learn About Krakow’s Rich History

Krakow has a fascinating history that reflects Poland’s rich heritage. Take a stroll down the memory lane by visiting the Schindler’s Factory Museum, which tells the story of Krakow’s Jewish community during World War II. The museum is located in the historic enamel factory established by Oscar Schindler, the German businessman made famous in the film Schindler’s List. Next, visit the underground Rynek Museum to explore the city’s medieval and Renaissance structures through glass floors and interactive exhibits. You can also take a trip to the Wieliczka Salt Mine located a few miles from the city center, where you’ll discover Polish artisans and mining techniques that date back centuries.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

While it’s essential to visit Krakow’s most famous landmarks, you should also explore some unknown locations that make the city special. Start with a visit to the Nowa Huta district, a planned socialist town built-in 1949 in the Soviet style of urban planning. Another fantastic suggestion is exploring the city’s numerous parks, as several of them allow you to see Krakow from a different perspective. Lastly, if you’re interested in architecture, hike up to Bonarka City Centre Rooftop Garden, a green space on top of one of Krakow’s largest shopping malls, that offers panoramic views of the city skyline.

In conclusion, Krakow is a city that’s a perfect blend of modern and ancient, with a deep history and contemporary culture. With this insider’s guide, you’ll be able to explore some of the city’s famous landmarks, cultural experiences, history, dining spots, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions. Remember to bring your camera, an appetite, and comfortable shoes to make the most out of your visit to this beautiful city!