Which are the best places to visit in Krakow?

Krakow is a city located in southern Poland. It is one of the oldest cities in Europe and has a rich history, cultural heritage and vibrant culture. It is also the second largest city in Poland and the seventh most populous in the entire European Union. This makes it a great destination for tourists who are looking for a vibrant city to explore and experience something unique.

Krakow is known for its historic old town, which was founded in 1257. The old town includes the famous Main Market Square with its numerous churches, old buildings, monuments and monuments. Other highlights include the Gothic Wawel Castle, Strzelecki Avenue and the Old Synagogue. On top of all that, you can find spectacular museums, galleries, restaurants and bars all over the city.

If you’re planning to visit Krakow, here are some places you should definitely not miss!

The Main Market Square

The Main Market Square is the most popular place in Krakow. This square is over 200 years old and it is full of cobblestone streets, colorful neoclassical buildings, churches, galleries and market stalls. At the center of the square, you will find the Cloth Hall and the Town Hall tower which are great places to take amazing views of the medieval city.

St Mary’s Basilica

St Mary’s Basilica is one of the most important churches in Krakow and is located in the Main Market Square. This church has extraordinary Gothic architecture and it includes an altar with a beautifully decorated ceiling and a 17th century silver altar. One of the most popular features of the Basilica is its two tall towers from which you can see remarkable views of the city.

Wawel Castle and Wawel Cathedral

A great place to visit in Krakow is Wawel Castle and Wawel Cathedral. Wawel Castle was built between the 11th and 14th centuries and it was home to many Polish kings and queens. Inside the castle, you can check out its galleries, courtyards, terraces and gardens. The castle was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1978 and it’s a great place to explore Polish history and culture.

Wawel Cathedral is also worth visiting. It is considered one of Poland’s national pantheons, where many distinguished Polish personages are buried. This cathedral contains works of art from as early as 16th century, including sculptures and paintings by Italian, German and Flemish artists.

Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial

The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial is a very important site located near Krakow. This memorial was built in memory of all those who suffered and died during WWII in Auschwitz concentration & extermination camp played by Nazi Germany. Though it is a difficult experience to be at this site, it is essential to remember its victims as a way to ensure that what happened here never happens again.

Old Synagogue

The Old Synagogue is one of Krakow’s oldest surviving buildings. This synagogue dates back from mid-16th century and it mixes Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles together. It is one of the only remaining examples of a pre-WWII Jewish house of worship in Krakow and it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980.

All these amazing places show why Krakow is a great destination for tourists. If you plan to visit this beautiful city, make sure to add all these places to your list!

For more information about Krakow’s sights and attractions, check out this guide from Krakow-Info which will provide you with more detailed information about what you can experience while visiting this wonderful city.

An Insider’s Guide to Visiting Krakow

Krakow is a beautiful and historic city located in southern Poland. Its cobblestone streets, picturesque architecture, and rich cultural heritage make it a popular travel destination for tourists from all over the world. Here’s a comprehensive guide of what you should explore in Krakow to make the most of your trip.

Local Attractions

Krakow is home to many attractions that showcase the city’s unique culture and history. One of the most famous landmarks of the city, is the Wawel Royal Castle, which served as the residence of Polish kings in the Middle Ages. Today, visitors can explore the castle’s halls, learn about its history, and enjoy stunning views of the city from its towers.

Another must-visit attraction is the Main Market Square, which is one of the largest medieval squares in Europe. The square is surrounded by beautiful buildings, cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops and is the perfect place for relaxing and soaking up the city’s charming atmosphere.

When visiting Krakow, it’s also recommended to check out the Kazimierz district, which is the old Jewish quarter of the city. Here you’ll find synagogues, museums and atmospheric street art.

Cultural Experiences

Krakow is also renowned for its cultural experiences, foremost of which is the vibrant city’s music scene. Locals here tend to pride themselves on their love of classical music, choral singing, and even traditional Jewish music. There are many concerts and events taking place throughout the city throughout the year, ranging from casual jam sessions to prestigious opera performances. The Chopin Concerts in the Royal Łazienki park are particularly popular among visitors.

Additionally, Poland is known for its love of film, and Krakow is no exception. The city is home to several film festivals throughout the year, the most famous of which is the Krakow Film Festival, one of the most important film festivals in the world.

Local History and Heritage

Krakow’s rich history and heritage are evident in its many museums and monuments. The best-known museum is the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum, a World War II concentration camp site that has become one of the most moving and sobering memorials to the Holocaust.

The Schindler Factory Museum is also worth a visit, it is a multimedia exhibition that tells the story of Oskar Schindler, a factory owner who saved the lives of over a thousand Jewish workers during the Holocaust.

In addition, the Jagiellonian University Museum and the National Museum in Krakow both offer a fascinating insight into the history, art, and culture of the city and of Poland.

Dining Spots

Krakow’s bustling culinary scene offers a wealth of choices for dining spots. Traditional Polish cuisine is the most popular, and you can find many restaurants and cafes that serve classic dishes such as pierogi, potato pancakes, and kielbasa sausage.

Try ‘Milkbar Tomasza’ for authentic, affordable and tasty Polish dishes. It’s famous for its pierogies and traditional milk bar ambiance; a reminder of communism in the former Eastern bloc.

Cafes are also a focal point of the city’s dining scene. There are several places throughout Krakow where you can sample the region’s famous coffee and cakes; Szara cafe being one of the more picturesque, overlooking the medieval square.

Off the Beaten Path Suggestions

Krakow is a city that rewards exploration and discovery, and there are many lesser-known sights and activities that are well worth seeking out. The Nowa Huta district, built during the communist era, offers a unique insight into Poland’s history and a chance to experience life in a socialist utopia. You can go on a tour in the Fiat 125p vintage car or explore by bike.

Another out-of-the-ordinary activity is a visit to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, an UNESCO-listed site located just outside of Krakow. The mine is hundreds of years old and extends over 1000 feet deep, today it is possible to go underground on tours where you will find underground lakes, chapels made from salt, and impressive underground tennis courts

If you want to experience Krakow’s nightlife, skip the crowded clubs on the main square and instead head to Kazimierz or Tytano in the nearby Podgorze district. Here you’ll find plenty of fashionable bars, local drinking games and authentic local atmosphere.

Krakow has something to offer everyone; whether you’re interested in history, art, architecture, food, or just seeking adventure. It’s a city with a deep cultural heritage and a vibrant atmosphere, and a wonderful place to explore at leisure.