Krakow is a beautiful city with so much to offer and there are so many reasons you will love exploring this city.
Krakow is historically a very important place in Poland. It is the second largest city in the country and there is a lot of interesting things to see and do.
Here is why you should make Krakow your next European destination.
Getting to Krakow is Easy
You can reach Krakow direct from lots of European cities and several low cost airlines fly here daily to the two main airports here. Flights are great value for money all year round and can be booked with companies like Ryanair and Easyjet. Some journeys are as low as £10 return with special offers.
Getting to the city centre from the main airports is also very simple. Krakow airport is 7 miles from the city whilst Katowice is 47 miles away. From both airports there are several options for all budgets for how to go from Krakow airport to city centre. There are airport buses and taxis which are fast and cheap.
From other Polish cities you can easily reach Krakow via car, bus and train.
Krakow is Affordable
Poland is a very affordable destination. in Europe and you can get great value for money on flights, accommodation, sightseeing, food and drink. For a weekend break you will spend the fraction of the money than visiting somewhere like Paris, London or Madrid. For a weekend budget you can easily get by with around £200, or even less if you choose to stay in hostels and avoid eating at restaurants.
Krakow is Beautiful
Cities like Prague get all the attention, and in our opinion, Krakow is really underrated.
Krakow has a historical Old Town that is often described as one of the most spectacular in Europe in terms of architecture. You can see ancient medieval squares, huge imposing cathedrals and wander old cobbled streets to soak up the atmosphere, culture and charm of the city.
There are so many historical buildings, cafes, restaurants with outdoor eating. Most places in the city centre can also be seen on foot, allowing you to save money and discover more locations you might not normally see.
People are Friendly
Local people are very friendly and in the city centre and tourism hotspots most people can speak English which makes the experience of visiting easier and more enjoyable. You might like to also learn some basic Polish before arriving, even just words like hello, please and thank are a great start and will impress the local people.
All Year Round Destination
Krakow is a great city to visit any month of the year. In summer you can go sightseeing and enjoy the warm temperatures whilst in winter you can explore the famous local Christmas markets to buy bargain souvenirs.
So Many Things to Do
There are sightseeing attractions and activities for every type of traveller, from budget backpackers to culture vultures to families. But what is worth seeing when you come to Krakow? We have put together a guide with recommendations to add to your Krakow itinerary.
This list includes the more obvious attractions in Krakow to places that only locals know about - all based on what best suits your travel style. You can easily visit these places on a short weekend break.
1. The Main Market Square
This is the starting point for a tour of Krakow's Old Town. You will get there by walking down Florianska Street all the way to the Main Square, which hides many attractions and places worth seeing! Perhaps your first impression upon entering this touristy city will be St Mary's Church - one of our finest works of art from the Arts and Crafts era in Poland, famous because it houses some truly amazing art day.
2. Cloth Hall
The Cloth Hall is a sight worth seeing in itself. It's not just a historic building, but also has many interesting museums and collections that will take you on a journey into Polish history through works of art from as far back as the 19th century!
3. Wawel Castle
The royal cathedral has been the site of many coronations, funerals and burials of Polish monarchs. Not only is it located in Krakow, but it also functions as one of the most historic churches in the country due to its proximity to several former rulers of Poland.
This Cathedral is an extremely important place in the history of Poland and is of great historical significance. It was here that many rulers were crowned over time, and its impressive architecture is made up of layers of different styles from across Polish culture, combined into one building that still stands tall today as one spectacular sight to behold!
Additionally, this sacred building houses treasures that include works by artists like Jan Matejko.
4. The Dragon's Den
According to legend, the Wawel Dragon was a terrifying creature that burned and devoured people if they did not sacrifice enough cattle. It lived deep in a cave that is now part of Poland's most famous attraction associated with its legend - Wawel Castle. This cave, called the dragon's den, is great for tours.
5. St Mary's Church
St Mary's Church in Krakow hides a masterpiece from medieval sacred art - the altarpiece by Wit Stwosz. Finally, after centuries of restoration work it is ready for public viewing again!
Plan a Trip to Krakow
Perhaps you have been planning to go to Krakow for a weekend break but don't know where to start, well hopefully our guide has helped you to decide to go and given you ideas for what to do.
If you are looking for a city break, perfect for all year round, it really is worth going to Krakow. Even just for a short weekend you'll really get to know the city better and discover some really special locations.
