Not sure where to stay in Krakow? Worry not. We are here to help.
As the former royal capital of Poland (before the capital became Warsaw), Krakow (or Cracow) is arguably the core of Polish heritage and culture. Over a thousand years of history can be seen in the medieval Old Town where a lineage of European architectural styles and historical landmarks dot the charming streets.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is also the perfect base to explore the nearby Auschwitz concentration camp and the Wieliczka Salt Mine.
With so many incredible things to do in Krakow, it is no surprise that there is an abundance of accommodations.
That is why we have written this guide to give you an idea of the best places to stay in Krakow. This guide will include hostels, hotels and Airbnbs in Krakow, Poland!
Enjoy!
Planning A Trip To Krakow Last Minute?
Make sure you book your tours, places to stay, and airport transfers ahead of time to ensure availability!
Our recommended airport transfer in Krakow:
- Electric Car Transfer between Krakow and the Airport (SUPER cheap!)
Our recommended tours in Krakow:
- Auschwitz-Birkenau Tour with Pickup & Lunch Options (Must-do!)
- Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour (SUPER unique experience!!)
- Zakopane and Thermal Springs Tour with Hotel Pickup (Best day trip from Krakow!)
Our recommended places to stay in Krakow:
- Hotel Wawel Queen (Luxurious and affordable!)
- Hotel Estera (Amazing value-for-money!)
- Mundo Hostel (Our favorite hostel in Krakow!!)
Want A Quick Tip On Where To Stay In Krakow, Poland?
In a hurry to decide on where to stay in Krakow, Poland?
If you are looking for the overall best neighborhood to stay in Krakow, you won’t go wrong with Krakow Old Town (or Stare Miasto). Located in the center of Krakow, Krakow Old Town is home to most of the historical attractions of Krakow.
Its central location in Krakow makes it easy for visitors to explore other areas in Krakow.
Looking for the best places to stay in Krakow? Here are our quick recommendations!
Best Areas To Stay In Krakow, Poland
If you are visiting Krakow as a tourist, you are probably interested in its rich history, gorgeous architecture, and vibrant nightlife. Consequently, the best area to stay in Krakow for tourists is usually Krakow Old Town, the historic center of Krakow.
However, there are cons of staying in the Krakow Old Town. Because of its popularity and historical significance, many of the accommodations in Krakow Old Town are more expensive. There is also a (low) chance that the nightlife in Krakow Old Town might interfere with a good night’s rest.
Another popular neighborhood to stay in Krakow is Kazimierz, Krakow’s historic jew quarter. Once one of the most dangerous areas in Krakow, Kazimierz is now one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Krakow. Its trendy and artsy scene attracts a young crowd who want the most out of their Krakow trip.
Here guests will find indie galleries, quirky shops, vintage clothing stores, and hip bars and clubs, as well as historic buildings such as the Old Synagogue and Tempel Synagogue. Kazimierz is located adjacent to Krakow Old Town, so visitors are within walking distance away from the best things Krakow has to offer.
If you prefer peace but don’t want to be too far from the action, there are multiple small neighborhoods outside of Krakow Old Town. These neighborhoods are Nowy Swiat, Piasek Poludnie, Piasek Polnoc, Kleparz, and Wesola Zachod.
These neighborhoods are home to some of the best places to stay in Krakow for families.
These neighborhoods are located right outside the Krakow Planty, a lush green park that surrounds Krakow Old Town and defines its boundaries. Strolling through this idyllic park is an activity on its own!
The places mentioned above are the best areas to stay in Krakow, you will be fine staying at any one of them. Even the neighborhoods located outside of Krakow Old Town are only 10 to 15 minutes away from the heart of the Old Town.
Best Places To Stay In Krakow, Poland
Best Hotels In Krakow
Hotel Unicus Palace is one of the few 5-star hotels in Krakow Old Town. A 4-minute walk away from St. Mary’s Basilica, The Cloth Hall, and the main square, guests are within close proximity to the best Krakow has to offer.
While most visitors will find the most beautiful part of their trip to be the historic center of Krakow, guests staying at Hotel Unicus Palace might think otherwise. That is because this 5-star hotel oozes charm and luxury unlike anything else.
The immaculately clean rooms with modern and stylish decor allow guests to indulge in some of the finest things in life comfortably.
When you are not enjoying your personal paradise, check out the wellness center. Featuring an indoor pool, a hammam, and a hot tub, it is the perfect place to soothe your aching limbs after a long day of walking around Krakow or exploring Auschwitz.
The hotel also offers an incredibly diverse buffet breakfast that is sure to get you ready for your day!
- Location: Krakow Old Town
Located a 1-minute walk from the main square of Krakow, the Aparthotel Stare Miasto is perfect for anyone looking for hotels in Krakow main square. Its central location allows guests to effortlessly explore some of the best of Krakow.
When you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Krakow, guests can find solace in their cozy hotel. Situated inside a historical building, the hotel is designed with rustic bricks and wood, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere unlike many traditional hotels.
No matter which type of room you decide to select, you will find a spacious living area and a comfortable bed. Guests that select a more deluxe room will even have an elegant hot tub to relax in!
Location: Krakow Old Town (Stare Miasto)
Situated in the Kazimierz Jewish historic quarters, Hotel Perfect is one of the best hotels in Krakow. Unlike the charm of Krakow Old Town that comes from elegant architecture and charming streets, Kazimierz’s charm comes from the hipster vibes and artsy community.
The Kazimierz is the perfect place to stay for young (or young at heart) travelers who are interested in finding cool hidden gems in the city. Kazimierz is also one of the cheaper neighborhoods to stay in Krakow, especially when compared to the famed Old Town.
In Hotel Perfect, guests will find clean and spacious rooms, soft dreamy beds, and a friendly staff that will answer any questions you might have about Krakow. The modern and stylish decor will make you feel at home.
Location: Kazimierz (Historic Jewish Quarter)
Best Hostels In Krakow
Located on the perimeter of the Krakow Planty, One World Hostel offers guests serenity and affordability while keeping guests close to the best things to do in Krakow, Poland. The hostel spans a total of two floors in a historical building and features shared dormitory rooms and private rooms.
If you are traveling solo in Krakow, you will appreciate the cozy common area on the main floor. Its inviting atmosphere creates a social environment where you can meet other travelers from around the world!
One of the best features of this cheap hostel in Krakow is the free buffet breakfast! Usually, breakfast in a hostel means toast, jam, and butter (if you wake up early), but One World Hostel breakfast is exceptional. Cold cut meats, eggs, salad, cereal, juice, milk, and more are served for breakfast.
The dormitory rooms are spacious and each guest is provided his or her own locker. Safety and comfort are not concerns here unless you have disrespectful roommates!
Location: Wesola Zachod (Perimeter of Krakow Planty)
2. Greg & Tom Beer House Hostel
No guide on the best places to stay in Krakow would be complete without including at least one party hostel. After all, the nightlife in Krakow is arguably the best in Poland, and it doesn’t cost a fortune! Greg & Tom Beer House Hostel is one of the best hostels in Krakow if you want to party hard!
If you can’t tell by the name already, this hostel is big on beer. In fact, it is so big that free beer is offered to every guest during happy hour, followed by a free dinner buffet!
After dinner, it is time for an evening activity. Whether that is a club crawl, a Polish vodka fest, or a cocktail night, guests will never find a dull moment in this hostel!
Wake up in the morning for a free breakfast followed by a free walking tour! This hostel surely likes the word “free” and so do we!
Location: Krakow Old Town
Best Airbnbs in Krakow
Staying in an Airbnb is one of the best ways to support local residents. It also offers travelers a more cozy and homey accommodation, often at a very affordable price. Airbnb hosts might also offer you valuable information about the city you are staying in, making sure you have the best visit possible.
That is why we will be recommending Airbnbs in Krakow, Poland. Here are some of the Krakow Airbnbs we recommend.
(Images Courtesy of Airbnb)
Located in the heart of Kazimierz (historic Jew’s quarter), this 1-bedroom Airbnb in Krakow is the perfect base for your exploration. On your doorstep is the old Jewish district, filled with some of the best night clubs, bars, and restaurants in Krakow.
Visitors wanting to see more of Krakow will not be disappointed. This Krakow Airbnb is located 15 minutes from the main square (Rynek Główny) and train/bus station, and 10 minutes from the famous Wawel Castle and Vistula River.
When you are not exploring what Krakow has to offer, find comfort and peace in your stylish Airbnb. The brick walls ooze charm from every inch of your apartment, telling stories of the history they have endured.
Want to make your own meals? Utilize the well-stocked kitchen for all your cooking needs!
- Location: Kazimierz
- Maximum Guests: 4 Guests
2. Main Square Apartment @ Krakow Old Town
(Images Courtesy of Airbnb)
Located on Florianska Street, this 1-bed apartment resides on one of the most vibrant streets in Krakow Old Town. This makes it an excellent choice for tourists who would like to stay as close to the action as possible, and this Airbnb in Krakow Old Town lets you do that affordably.
When you walk into this Airbnb, you will immediately notice the high ceiling, which is a feature of most apartments in Krakow Old Town. Combined with the spacious living room, rustic touches, and a massive bed, guests will find nothing but elegance and comfort in this Airbnb.
The kitchen provides the essentials for cooking if you ever get tired of the delicious pierogies and zurek. If you are traveling as a family or a group of friends, the sofa bed in the living room will give you extra sleeping space!
Travelers with mobility issues must be are that this apartment is located on the second floor. Because of the age of the building, there is no elevator.
- Location: Krakow Old Town
- Maximum Guests: 4 Guests
3. 1-Bedroom Apartment w/ Krakow Planty Views
(Images Courtesy of Airbnb)
If you prefer a little extra tranquility, then this 1-bedroom apartment located right outside the Krakow Planty (the park that surrounds Krakow Old Town) is perfect for you. Though not located inside the historic center of Krakow, guests are only a 5-minute walk away from the main square!
As you walk to Krakow Old Town everyday, you will be blessed with the lush Krakow Planty, a popular spot for locals to just hang out, relax on one of the benches, drink a coffee, or people watch!
If it is too cold or hot to enjoy the outdoors, visitors can still admire the beautiful park from inside this Airbnb. With tall windows that nearly span the entire height of the walls, the views from the apartment are incredible.
This stylish apartment also boasts a fully-equipped kitchen, perfect for cooking your favorite homemade meal. Though only featuring 1 bedroom, the sofa couch in the living is comfortable and big enough for additional guests!
- Location: Piasek Poludnie (5-min walk from main square)
- Maximum Guests: 4 Guests
Like this post? Don’t forget to save it on Pinterest!
There is no single best place to stay in Krakow as it all depends on your needs and preferences. We hope our guide on where to stay in Krakow has helped you pick the perfect accommodation!
Any questions? Leave a comment below!
Disclaimer: Some of the links above are affiliate links. That means if you book or make a purchase through the links, we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you! The money will help run this site! Thank you!
