If you are planning a trip to Poland and wondering if Krakow is worth visiting or not, then you’ve come to the right place. I’ve been to Poland twice now, and Krakow remains one of my favorite cities in the country.
Matter of fact, it’s a little embarrassing to admit, but I’ve been to Krakow 5 times in total now, and it is probably one of the cities I’ll continue to visit.
The city has a lot to offer, from historic landmarks to delicious food and drink. That’s why I’ve written this article on why Krakow is worth visiting. We’ll also include some reasons why Krakow might not be your cup of tea.
Why Is Krakow Worth Visiting?
1. Old Town and Its Medieval Architecture
The heart of Krakow is its Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site that astounds us with its historic charm. We absolutely adore strolling through the cobbled streets, surrounded by medieval architecture, feeling transported back in time.
Don’t miss out on the Rynek Underground Museum. It’s a museum dedicated to uncovering the city’s past beneath the market square.
2. Royal Wawel Castle
Perched on Wawel Hill, the Royal Wawel Castle symbolizes Polish identity and resilience through centuries. This must-visit historical site features a stunning mix of architectural styles, and we can’t help but be in awe of its royal grandeur.
Many tourists miss this, but there is a fire-breathing dragon next to the Wawl Castle. Its history is deeply rooted in the heritage of Krakow. Even if you are not into the history, it is a pretty cool sight.
3. Kazimierz (Jewish Quarter)
Exploring the Jewish Quarter, known as Kazimierz, offers us a poignant look into Krakow’s Jewish heritage as it was the site of significant Jewish suffering during the Holocaust.
However, Kazimierz has undergone significant revitalization in recent years and has become a vibrant and trendy neighborhood, known for its artistic and bohemian vibe.
We loved walking down the streets, exploring its numerous art galleries, cafes, restaurants, and bars.
4. Wieliczka Salt Mine
No Krakow itinerary is complete without a visit to Wieliczka Salt Mine. It is one of the oldest salt mines in the world and has been in continuous operation since the 13th century, making it a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The mine is famous for its intricate underground tunnels, chambers, and chapels, all carved out of rock salt by the miners over centuries. It was one of the most beautiful things we’ve ever seen.
5. Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum
The most famous attraction in Krakow is definitely the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum, a museum dedicated to the largest and most notorious of the Nazi concentration camp during WWII.
Visiting the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum is a sobering and emotional experience, but it is an important pilgrimage for many people seeking to pay their respects to the victims and to ensure that the atrocities of the Holocaust are never forgotten.
Since this is one of the most popular things to do in Krakow, we recommend getting your Auschwitz Birkenau tours early in advance. They have tours in many different languages, and the English one is usually the first to sell out.
6. Polish Cuisine
If you are visiting Krakow, you are in for a treat with Polish cuisine! As a big city, Krakow’s Polish food is one of the best in the world. The city also has plenty of traditional Milk Bars that are left over from the USSR.
Our favorite Polish dishes are pierogi (duh!), bigos, and zurek!
7. Rich History
Krakow is one of the oldest and most significant cities in Poland and has a rich and storied history that dates back over a thousand years.
As the former capital of Poland, Krakow has been a center of political, cultural, and artistic activity, leaving behind a wealth of historical landmarks and traditions.
From the city’s Old Town to the Kazimierz district, history lovers will absolutely love this city!
8. Amazing Nightlife
For those who love a good party, Krakow is the place for you.
From the lively streets of the Old Town to the artistic and bohemian atmosphere of Kazimierz, there’s always something happening after dark.
Whether we are in the mood for a trendy cocktail bar, a traditional Polish pub, or a high-energy dance club, there is a place in Krakow for us.
9. Affordable Destination
As savvy travelers, we appreciate how Krakow is an affordable destination. From accommodation to attractions, our money definitely goes further here compared to other European cities.
We averaged about 50 dollars a day in Krakow, which would’ve been impossible in most places.
10. Plenty of Day Trip Opportunities
When in Krakow, there are several fantastic day trip options to explore. Besides the famous Wieliczka Salt Mines and Auschwitz museum, you can also head into the Tatras Mountain near Zakopane.
The town offers breathtaking views, hiking opportunities, and a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions. It is one of our favorite places in Poland!
📚 Read More: Things To Do In Zakopane: Summer and Winter Activities
Why Krakow Might Not Be Worth Visiting?
If you have read this far, then you’ll know that we absolutely love Krakow. However, we can also see this with an objective eye.
Krakow might not be the destination for everyone. One of the reasons why you shouldn’t visit Krakow is its weather. If you are planning a visit in the winter, then pick somewhere else. Krakow is quite miserable in the winter, speaking from experience. It’s just too cold to do anything.
Another reason why you might not want to visit Krakow is even though Krakow is one of Poland’s biggest cities, it is still quite small. If you are seeking a modern, cosmopolitan city with towering skyscrapers and a fast-paced urban environment, then Krakow might not be for you.
Practical Tips for Krakow Visitors
Before we dive into the specifics, let’s remember that exploring Krakow is about smart planning and knowing what to expect from the city in terms of transport and the various seasons. We’ve got you covered with some hands-on advice to make your visit as smooth as possible.
Navigating the City
Krakow may seem daunting at first, but it’s actually quite traveler-friendly. Most of the attractions in Krakow are situated in or near the Old Town. So as long as you have a place to stay in Krakow near that area, everything you want to see should be within walking distance.
The touristy part of Krakow is a very walkable, and trams and buses also connect the entire city if you don’t feel like walking. Make sure you download the Jakdojade app to not only find out which tram or bus to take, but when they arrive as well. You can also purchase a ticket via the app.
Seasonal Considerations
As we briefly mentioned above, Krakow is not the best place to visit in winter. Winter in Poland is brutal, and it is not unusual for the temperatures to drop to -30C. This means that all the beautiful parks, historic architecture, and landmarks will be covered with snow, diminishing their beauty.
So we don’t recommend visiting Krakow in the winter, but if you do decide to visit Poland, Zakopane and the nearby region are great for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.
Is Krakow Worth Visiting FAQs
How Many Days To Spend In Krakow?
Spending around 3 to 4 days in Krakow would allow you to explore the city’s major attractions, experience its rich history and culture, and take a day trip to nearby sites such as the Wieliczka Salt Mine or the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum.
Is Krakow Safe?
Krakow is generally considered a safe city for visitors. Like any major city, it’s important to remain aware of your surroundings and take standard precautions to ensure personal safety and the security of your belongings.
Final Thoughts
As someone who has been to over 30 countries, Krakow remains one of my favorite places! So, is Krakow worth visiting? 100 percent! It’s a beautiful city with a rich history, amazing entertainment options, affordable prices, and more. There is just so much to love about Krakow.
So what are you waiting for, time to plan that trip to Krakow!
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