The Ultimate Guide to Krakow for First Time Visitors
There are several options to get from Krakow airport to city center. You can take a train, a bus, a taxi or a shuttle service. The train is the fastest and cheapest option, taking about 20 minutes. The bus is also convenient and affordable, taking about 30 minutes. The taxi and the shuttle service are more expensive and depend on the traffic. You can find them outside the terminal building.
The train is faster and more comfortable because it runs every half hour and reaches the main railway station in Krakow in 17 minutes. The railway station is located next to the passenger terminal and is connected to it by a footbridge. The ticket costs 17 zlotys and can be purchased at the station vending machine.
Where to Stay
Krakow has a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. If you want to be close to the main attractions, you might want to choose a hotel near the the lively Old Town. However, if you prefer a quieter and more authentic experience, you can also find some charming guesthouses and B&Bs in the surrounding neighborhoods.
Old Town (Stare Miasto): Old Town is the historical heart of Krakow, featuring charming cobbled streets, historic architecture, and the iconic Main Market Square. Staying in this area puts you within walking distance of major attractions like Wawel Castle, St. Mary's Basilica, and Cloth Hall. It's a lively area with numerous restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Kazimierz (Jewish Quarter): Kazimierz is known for its rich Jewish history and vibrant atmosphere. It offers a mix of historical sites, including synagogues and museums, along with trendy bars, art galleries, and unique boutiques. This district has a bohemian feel and is a great choice if you appreciate a lively cultural scene.
Podgórze: Located across the Vistula River from Old Town, Podgórze has a more laid-back atmosphere. It's known for attractions such as Schindler's Factory Museum and the remnants of the Jewish Ghetto. This area provides a different perspective on Krakow's history and offers a quieter environment.
Salwator: Salwator is a peaceful residential area near Wawel Castle and the Vistula River. It provides a more tranquil atmosphere while still being within reach of the city center. If you prefer a quieter stay but with easy access to the main sights, Salwator could be a good choice.
Krakow City Center: Beyond Old Town, there are other central areas with convenient access to attractions. Choosing a hotel in the broader city center still puts you within walking distance or a short commute to major landmarks.
Getting Around
One of the best ways to explore Krakow is by walking. The city is compact and easy to navigate, and you can admire the stunning architecture and monuments along the way. Some of the must-see sights include the Wawel Castle, the former residence of the Polish kings; the Main Market Square, the largest medieval square in Europe; and the Cloth Hall, a Renaissance building that houses a souvenir market and a museum. You should also visit the Kazimierz district, the former Jewish quarter that is now a vibrant cultural and artistic hub.
Another option to discover Krakow is by taking a guided tour. There are many tours available, depending on your interests and preferences. You can join a free walking tour that covers the main highlights of the city; a bike tour that lets you see more of the hidden gems; a food tour that introduces you to the delicious Polish cuisine; or a history tour that takes you to the sites related to World War II and the Holocaust. You can also take a day trip to some of the nearby attractions, such as the Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; or Auschwitz-Birkenau, the former Nazi concentration camp.
Public Transport
Krakow's transportation system is one of the best in Poland, offering various options for locals and tourists alike. Whether you want to explore the city by tram, bus, bike, or scooter, you will find it easy, convenient, and affordable to get around.
Trams are the most popular and iconic way of transport in Krakow. They have been operating since 1882 and cover 90 km of routes with 22 daytime lines, 3 nighttime lines, and 2 fast lines. The best way to get tickets is to download the local "Jakdojade" app. You can buy tickets for trams and buses with one click just before you board, and enter the unique vehicle reference number to validate the ticket once you are on the vehicle.
Buses are another option for moving around the city, especially if you want to reach the outskirts or the airport. Krakow has a large urban bus network with modern and electric vehicles. You can use the same tickets as for trams, which are valid for different time periods.
If you prefer a more active and eco-friendly way of transport, you can rent a bike or a scooter from one of the many stations around the city. You can use an app to locate and unlock them, and pay per minute or hour. This is a great way to enjoy the scenery and exercise at the same time.
Finally, if you want to travel to other cities or regions, you can take a train from Krakow's main station, which is located in the heart of the city and connected to a shopping center and a bus station. Trains are comfortable and fast, and you can buy tickets online or at the station.
Must-see attractions in Krakow
Wawel Castle: This majestic castle was the residence of Polish kings for centuries, and it is now a museum that showcases the rich history and culture of Poland. You can admire the architecture, art, and treasures of the castle, as well as the stunning views of the Vistula river and the city.
Main Market Square: This is the largest medieval square in Europe, and it is the heart of Krakow's Old Town. You can find many landmarks here, such as the Cloth Hall, the Town Hall Tower, and the St. Mary's Basilica. You can also enjoy the lively atmosphere, with street performers, cafes, and souvenir shops.
Kazimierz: This is the former Jewish quarter of Krakow, and it is a place of great historical and cultural significance. You can visit the synagogues, museums, and monuments that tell the story of the Jewish community in Krakow, as well as the tragedy of the Holocaust. You can also explore the vibrant nightlife, with bars, restaurants, and clubs.
Auschwitz-Birkenau: This is not a pleasant place to visit, but it is an important one. This is the largest and most notorious Nazi concentration and extermination camp, where more than a million people were killed during World War II. You can learn about the horrors of the Holocaust, and pay your respects to the victims.
Wieliczka Salt Mine: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the oldest salt mines in the world. You can take a guided tour through the underground chambers, where you can see amazing sculptures, chapels, and lakes made of salt. You can also experience the health benefits of the saline microclimate.
Church of Saint Francis of Assisi: A Gothic-style basilica that was built in the 13th century. One of its most remarkable features is the glass painting that covers the entire apse. The glass painting was created by Stanisław Wyspiański, a prominent Polish artist and architect, in 1895. The painting is considered a masterpiece of Polish modernism and a symbol of national identity.
Food In Krakow
Krakow is a city rich in history and culture, but also in gastronomy. If you are visiting this beautiful Polish city, you should not miss the opportunity to taste some of its traditional dishes and specialties. Here are some of the food to try in Krakow:
- Pierogi: These are dumplings filled with various ingredients, such as cheese, meat, mushrooms, cabbage or fruits. They can be boiled, fried or baked, and served with sour cream, butter or onions. Pierogi are one of the most popular and versatile dishes in Polish cuisine, and you can find them in many restaurants and street stalls in Krakow.
- Zurek: This is a sour soup made with fermented rye flour, sausage, bacon, potatoes and boiled eggs. It is often served in a bread bowl, which makes it even more filling and satisfying. Zurek is a hearty and warming dish that is perfect for cold days.
- Zapiekanka: This is a long baguette topped with cheese, mushrooms, ham, ketchup and other ingredients of your choice. It is baked in an oven until the cheese melts and the bread becomes crispy. Zapiekanka is a popular street food in Krakow, especially in the Kazimierz district, where you can find many stalls selling it.
- Oscypek: This is a smoked cheese made from sheep's milk that has a distinctive shape and flavor. It is usually grilled and served with cranberry sauce or jam. Oscypek is a regional specialty of the Podhale region, where Krakow is located.
- Sernik: This is a cheesecake made with quark cheese, eggs, sugar and raisins. It can have various toppings, such as chocolate, nuts or fruits. Sernik is a classic Polish dessert that you can enjoy in many cafes and bakeries in Krakow.
Nightlife and Entertainment
Krakow is also known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene. You can find many bars, pubs, clubs, and restaurants in the Old Town and Kazimierz districts, where you can enjoy a drink, listen to live music, or dance until dawn. Try the Harry Potter themed Leaky Cauldron bar, or if you are a Witcher fan, check out the Witcher bar where they serve fantastic and refreshing dark beer.
You can also catch a show at one of the theaters or cinemas in the city, or visit one of the museums or galleries that showcase local and international art.
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Krakow is a city that will enchant you with its beauty, history, culture, and charm. It is a place that you will want to return to again and again. I hope this guide will help you plan your trip and make it an unforgettable experience.
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