Living in Krakow can be an affordable option for those looking for an international experience with a more affordable cost of living and small-town charm. Krakow is Poland’s third-largest city and its most culturally prominent and historically significant. Known as the “City of Kings,” the city is a top destination for tourists, students, expats, and immigrants alike.

The cost of living in Krakow depends on one’s lifestyle and expectations. The average monthly expenses, excluding rent, range from 500 to 3000PLN (US$130-785). The lowest expenditure is for basic necessities such as food, hygiene items and transport (the public bus system and street cars are both economical) while the highest costs come from more expensive lifestyle options such as expensive restaurants, cinema tickets and nights out on the town.

Average rent prices in Krakow vary depending on the location of the apartment. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center will cost approximately 2000PLN (US$520), while a one-bedroom apartment in a more remote area can be obtained for as low as 800PLN (US$210). Prices may be even lower when renting directly from a landlord instead of through an agency or broker.

Utilities (electricity, gas, water) can cost anywhere between 100-300PLN (US$26-78) a month depending on the size of the apartment and how often it’s used. Wi-fi internet comes to around 30-50PLN (US$8-13) per month.

In terms of food, a large range of supermarket chains offer everyday groceries at very reasonable prices. For example, at the budget supermarket Biedronka the average price of 1 kg of apples is 3.40PLN (US$0.89), 1 kg of carrots is 2.20PLN (US$0.58) and 1 litre of milk costs 2.50PLN (US$0.66). Eating at restaurants is quite affordable as well, with most full meals costing no more than 40PLN (US$10) for two people.

In terms of entertainment, Krakow offers something for everyone and at reasonable prices. One of the best ways to experience the culture is by attending the weekly “klubowa” events which are normally no more than 10PLN (US$2.65) entry price. Movie tickets are 16-20PLN (US$4.20-5.20) while a beer in a pub or bar can be as low as 5PLN (US$1.30).

All in all, if you plan your expenses carefully you should be able to live comfortably in Krakow on a budget of around 1000-1500PLN (US$260-390) per month, excluding rent. It should be noted that prices may vary significantly depending on your lifestyle and budget, so it’s always important to do your research beforehand and plan accordingly.

For detailed cost of living information including rent and utility prices as well as food and transportation costs, visit Expats In Poland, a website for expats providing detailed information about everything you need to know about living in Krakow or other cities in Poland.

Overall, living in Krakow has a lot of advantages including an affordable cost of living and great cultural activities such as nightlife, festivals and museums. With proper planning and budgeting, it’s possible to lead a comfortable life while exploring all that this beautiful city has to offer.

Insider’s Guide to Krakow, Poland

Krakow is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It is a city with a rich history, a vibrant culture, and a fantastic food scene. Krakow is also an affordable destination, making it a popular spot for budget travelers. To help you make the most of your trip to Krakow, we have put together an ultimate insider’s guide that covers everything you need to know about the city.

Attractions

Krakow is a city that is full of history and culture, making it a fantastic place to explore. Here are some of the top attractions in Krakow:

– Wawel Castle: This castle is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and serves as the symbol of Poland’s independence. It is located on a hill overlooking the Vistula River and is a must-see attraction in Krakow.

– Main Market Square: This is the central square in Krakow and is one of the largest medieval town squares in Europe. It is surrounded by beautiful restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a great place to relax and people-watch.

– St. Mary’s Basilica: This is a beautiful church located in the heart of Krakow. It is famous for its two towers that are different heights and its hourly trumpet signal.

Dining Spots

Krakow has a fantastic food scene, offering everything from traditional Polish dishes to international cuisine. Here are some of the top dining spots in Krakow:

– Wierzynek: This is one of the oldest and most distinguished restaurants in Europe. It has been serving traditional Polish cuisine for over 650 years and is a must-visit spot in Krakow.

– Starka: This restaurant serves traditional Polish dishes with a modern twist. The décor is rustic and cozy, making it a great place to enjoy a meal.

– Chimera: This is a vegan and vegetarian restaurant that serves delicious and healthy food. The dishes are colorful and creative, making it a perfect spot for foodies.

Cultural Experiences

Krakow is a city that is steeped in culture and history. Here are some of the must-see cultural experiences in Krakow:

– Kazimierz District: This is the Jewish quarter of Krakow and is now a trendy neighborhood filled with art galleries, cafes, and restaurants. It is a great spot to explore the city’s Jewish heritage.

– Polish Folk Show: This is a traditional Polish dance and music show that is a must-see cultural experience in Krakow. It is an excellent way to learn about Poland’s culture and heritage.

– Wieliczka Salt Mine: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is located 10 km from Krakow. It is an underground salt mine that has been in operation for over 700 years. The tour of the mine includes stunning underground lakes and chapels carved out of salt.

Local History

Krakow is a city with a rich and complex history. Here are some of the top places to learn about Krakow’s local history:

– Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum: This is the former Nazi concentration and extermination camp that now serves as a memorial and museum. It is a harrowing but important site to visit to learn about the atrocities of the Holocaust.

– Schindler’s Factory Museum: This museum is located in the factory where Oskar Schindler saved the lives of over 1,000 Jews during World War II. It is an excellent place to learn about Krakow’s history during the war.

– Royal Castle on Wawel Hill: This castle has served as the residence of the Polish kings throughout the centuries, making it a great place to learn about Poland’s royal history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Krakow is a city that has plenty of hidden gems. Here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions to explore:

– Nowa Huta: This is a planned socialist city from the 1950s that is a fascinating example of communist architecture. It is an excellent place to explore the city’s communist past.

– Zakrzowek Lake: This is a former limestone quarry that is now a beautiful lake. It is a great spot for swimming, diving, and enjoying the outdoors.

– Podgorze: This is a vibrant neighborhood that was destroyed during World War II. It is now a trendy neighborhood filled with street art, cafes, and restaurants. It is a great spot to explore Krakow’s modern culture.

Conclusion

Krakow is a city that has something for everyone. It is an affordable destination, making it a great spot for budget travelers. The city is full of history, culture, and delicious food, making it a must-visit destination in Europe. We hope our insider’s guide will help you explore the best of Krakow and make the most of your trip.