What to Know Before Visiting Krakow, Poland

Krakow is a stunning city in Poland, steeped in history and with plenty of bustling modern energy. It is located at the southern tip of the country, on the Vistula River. The city itself is rich in cultural heritage, such as a centuries-old university, a castle district, numerous churches, a plant-covered marketplace, and countless other attractions. Plus, it is a major tourist destination and due to its location in the middle of the Karst region of southern Poland, it is filled with natural wonders.

There is something for everyone to enjoy in Krakow, no matter what type of traveler you are. From budget travelers to luxury thrill seekers, Krakow provides an atmosphere that will make you never want to leave. However, before visiting this charming city there are some important things that visitors should know.

Language Barrier

One of the most important things to be aware of before you visit Krakow is the language barrier. Although there are many Polish tourists visiting the city, most locals speak their native language exclusively. This can make things complicated when trying to communicate with locals. It might be a good idea to bring a phrase book or use a translation app to make sure communication stays clear. Also, English is not as widely spoken as other languages such as German or French, so it is best to know some basic words in Polish before arriving.

Weather

The weather in Krakow tends to be fairly mild year-round, with temperatures rarely going below freezing in winter and rarely exceeding 25 degrees celsius in summer. In the winter months, it can be very cold and the snow often falls until late February or early March. Rainfall usually peaks in May and the summers tend to be sunny and warm. Springtime is usually the best time to visit Krakow, as it makes walking around the city a pleasant experience.

Getting Around

Krakow has an extensive public transportation network. The city has trams, buses and streetcars that run 24 hours a day and provide an economical way to get around the city. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks at all stops or online via the GoKrakow app. Additionally, Taxis are available if you need to travel further distances or if you don’t have time to wait for public transportation.

Where to Stay

Krakow is full of great accommodation options that offer a wide range of amenities and prices. For those looking for budget options there are plenty of hostels located throughout the city. There are also mid-range and luxury hotels that cater to everyone’s needs. If you’re looking for something romantic or family-friendly, there’s something for everyone in Krakow!

Dining Out

Krakow’s culinary scene is vibrant and full of local and international flavors. The city is known for its hearty Polish food such as pierogi, bigos stew and potato pancakes. Additionally, you can find plenty of restaurants with international cuisine such as Italian, Mexican, Chinese and more. Fresh local produce is also popular among many restaurants as well as freshly brewed craft beers.

Secret Gems

Although Krakow is a major tourist destination, it still has hidden gems tucked away among its attractions that can only be found if you take the time to explore. These gems range from small art galleries to cozy cafes and unique shops with unique products. Taking the time to wander through the streets of Krakow is an amazing way to gain insight into local life and see something new.

If you’re looking for an activity that combines sightseeing, beer tasting and learning about local history – all while taking a leisurely walk – then our favorite tourist activity is Krakow: Beer Tasting City Walking Tour by GetYourGuide https://www.getyourguide.com/krakow-l40/krakow-beer-tasting-city-walking-tour-t415460/?partner_id=UWJ1LS2. This walking tour lets visitors taste 6 delicious craft beers from local Krakow breweries while exploring the city’s cobbled streets. You’ll learn about the city’s unique beer history in pubs such as Browarmia Rakowicka and enjoy a drink over conversation with your local guide. A great add on to this tour is a traditional Polish lunch or dinner at one of the city’s well-known restaurants such as Kazimierz Brewery & Restaurant for even more delicious traditional Polish grub.

Overall, Krakow is an amazing place to visit full of culture and entertainment for everyone. The city has something for every type of traveler from budget backpackers to luxury thrill seekers so if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience with plenty of history and modern pleasures to explore then Krakow should definitely be added to your bucket list!