10 Top Things To Do in Krakow, and Where To Stay – Krakow Travel Guide
Discover the top things to do in Krakow, and the best places to stay for an unforgettable trip!
My first trip to Krakow was a few years ago, and it is still fresh in my memory – it’s such a beautiful city to explore. Having travelled to several cities in Poland, I can confidently say that Krakow is my favourite. Whether you’re travelling solo, with friends, or with family, this travel guide will help you discover the top things to do in Krakow and best places to stay.
About Krakow
Krakow is located in southern Poland. It is the capital of the Lesser Poland region and one of the country’s oldest and most historical cities. It has proven to be very popular with holidaymakers over the last few years, as it offers cheap accommodation, food and drink, as well as plenty of things to see and do in Krakow.
Located just 11km from the airport, you can be wandering Krakow’s Old Town in no time. The Main Square, surrounded by colourful townhouses, medieval architecture and the iconic St Mary’s Basilica, feels like a journey back in time. Its walkable size makes it the perfect spot for a city break, while its proximity to the Tatra Mountains and other Polish cities offers plenty of opportunities for further exploration. You can also visit the nearby Auschwitz Concentration Camp.
Top Things to do in Krakow Poland
In this Krakow travel guide, we’ve rounded up the top 10 must see attractions and experiences. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or nightlife, our Krakow travel guide will help you make the most of your visit.
1. Discover Wawel Royal Castle
Situated on Wawel Hill in the city, the Wawel Royal Castle and Wawel Cathedral overlook the Vistula River and have been a symbol of Polish royalty, power, and heritage for many years. The castle was the home of Polish kings from the 11th century until the capital moved to Warsaw in the 16th century.
According to a legend, a dragon once lived in a cave beneath the castle and terrorised Kraków. This is one of the top things to do in Krakow and a must visit!
2. Visit Schindler’s Factory
Oskar Schindler’s Factory is one of the most significant historical sites in Krakow. It was originally a metal goods factory owned by Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saved the lives of over 1,200 Jews during world war II. His story was later made famous by Steven Spielberg’s film Schindler’s List.
The museum offers an interactive and emotional exhibition about Krakow during the war, including life under Nazi occupation and the Holocaust. Visitors can see Schindler’s original office, artifacts from the war, and testimonies from survivors.
3. Take a Food Tour around Krakow’s Jewish Quarter
Krakow is a fantastic destination for food lovers, offering a rich variety of Polish dishes that showcase the country’s culinary traditions. From hearty stews to delicate pastries, there’s something for every taste bud. Tours typically take you around the Jewish quarter, Kazimierz, stopping at local restaurants where you can sample traditional dishes like pierogi, and oscypek, and visit Krakow’s best kept secrets and hidden gems.
4. Have fun at the House of Attractions
The House of Attractions is one of the top things to do in Krakow with kids. This unique venue has something for children of all ages. Dive into virtual reality games, enjoy a 7D cinema experience, navigate a glass and mirrors maze, explore an upside-down house, and visit a living butterfly museum!
This is the perfect place to spend a fun filled evening in the city. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just looking for a quirky, evening activity, this spot has something to offer everyone.
5. Book a Craft Beer Tasting Tour
Krakow is an excellent destination for those looking to enjoy a vibrant nightlife scene, and it’s a popular spot for stag and hen parties. During my visit, I joined a bar tour and had an amazing time meeting new people while being taken to the best bars and clubs in the city.
Krakow is known for its craft beer and local vodkas. Many food tours or bars offer tastings of local brews or vodka varieties paired with traditional Polish snacks, offering an immersive experience into the drink culture of Poland.
Best Excursions and Day Trips from Krakow
While there are many things to see and do in Krakow, you will also find beauty and culture in the surrounding areas. Day trips are excellent value and are a great way to discover Poland’s top attractions.
6. Visit Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp
Whether you’re a history lover or not, Auschwitz-Birkenau is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Krakow. It is a deeply moving and heart breaking piece of history that everyone should experience once in their lifetime. The tour guides are incredible storytellers, bringing the past to life with detailed accounts of what the victims went through.
During the visit, you’ll see the gas chambers, the living quarters, and haunting photographs of those who lost their lives in the concentration camps. Personal belongings, including shoes and bags, are preserved in the museum as a powerful reminder of the past.
A visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau is one of the top things to see in Krakow, however, if you’re highly sensitive, you may want to reconsider visiting, as this tour covers an extremely heavy and emotional subject.
7. Marvel at Wieliczka Salt Mine
I absolutely loved my trip to the salt mines, it was an experience I hadn’t expected to enjoy as much as I did. The details throughout the mine are truly mesmerising, including St. Kinga’s Chapel – a church made entirely of salt, with intricate sculptures and a fascinating history dating back to the 13th century.
Note that this tour would not be suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility issues or wheelchair users, as you need to take 800 stairs down to the underground salt city.
TOP TIP: You can visit the salt mines and Auschwitz concentration camp in one full day tour. I took this tour a few years ago, It is a long day but ideal if your short on time.
8. Spend the day in Zakopane
Zakopane is located only an hour and 40 minutes from Krakow and is a winter wonderland from November to March. You can ski, visit the thermal hot springs of Chochołowskie Termy, the Bukovina Thermal Baths, or enjoy a snow mobile or husky ride. If you are visiting in the summer time, Zakopane is the best place for hiking in Polan. I definitely want to return to Poland and explore Zakopane in the future, it is one of the best day trips from Krakow.
9. Enjoy a Husky Ride
If you happen to be in Krakow during the winter, a husky ride is a must do. Take a tour to a charming mountain village, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet with the friendly huskies. The ride itself takes you through the wilderness of the Tatra Mountains, offering amazing views along the way.
After the ride, spend some time playing with the huskies at the reserve, where you’ll get a chance to learn more about the incredible animals in their natural environment. It’s an unforgettable experience with these beautiful dogs and is one of the top things to do in Krakow for families.
10. See the Tatra Mountains by Cable Car
On the border of Poland and Slovakia you will find Tatra National Park, which offers incredible hiking trails. The most popular hike is Morskie Oko, a scenic lake hike which takes about 2 hours each way.
One of the best ways to experience the Tatra Mountains is through a cable car excursion, which allows visitors to reach the top of Gubałówka Mountain. The upper station is at an altitude of 1,126 m above sea level, offering panoramic views of the High Tatras.
Where to stay in Krakow
Explore the best places to stay in Kraków from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly options perfect for solo travellers, couples, families, or groups of friends.
3 Star Hotels and Apartments in Krakow
Leonardo Boutique Hotel Krakow Old Town
The 3 star Leonardo Boutique Hotel has a great location in Krakow less than 1 km from St. Mary’s Basilica and the Main Square. Nearby attractions include Wawel Royal Castle and Galeria Krakowska shopping centre. When it comes to dining, guests can enjoy meals in the spacious restaurant. There is also a café and bar for drinks and light bites.
The reviews are superb and is ranked number 20 on TripAdvisor out of all hotels in Krakow.
Hotel Lavender
The 3 star Hotel Lavender is an ideal stay for couples or friends on a budget. The hotel has an onsite bar and restaurant. The prime location puts guests just a 15 minute walk from Main Market Square and the Royal Road. The historic Florian’s Gate and Krakow Barbican are just a 10 minute walk away. Bicycle hire is available for those wanting to explore the local area.
Fresh Apartments
I stayed at the Fresh Apartments during my trip to Kraków and it’s great to see they’re still getting positive reviews. The location was spot on, just a 10 minute walk through a lovely park to the Old Town, and only a few minutes from the large Galeria Krakowska shopping mall. The apartment is a great option for families or groups of up to 8 people, especially if you’re looking for a place with cooking facilities.
4 Star Hotels and Apartments in Krakow
Aparthotel Stare Miasto
The 4 star Aparthotel Stare Miasto is perfectly situated in the heart of Kraków’s Old Town, just a 1 minute walk from the iconic Market Square. The aparthotel is surrounded by restaurants, cafés, and shops for the perfect location in Krakow. The aparthotel offers studio apartments, suites, 1 bedroom apartments and 2 bedroom apartments that sleep up to 4 people, so it is the perfect family apartment in Krakow.
The Loft Hotel Adults Only
At the adult only Loft Hotel you can relax at the rooftop hot tub as well as the sauna. Rooms here are romantic providing a bottle of sparkling wine on arrival. Some rooms have jetted bath tubs so if you are visiting Krakow for a special occasion, I suggest booking one of these rooms. Location wise, it is just 1km from the Old Town.
1891 Garni Hotel
The 4 star 1891 Garni Hotel is a popular choice for holidaymakers visiting Krakow as its conveniently located 1km from Old Town Square. The hotel features a fitness centre, garden, restaurant, and bar. It is ideal for solo travellers also as they offer some single rooms. This great hotel receives great reviews on TripAdvisor and was awarded a Certificate of Excellence.
Galaxy Hotel
The 4 star luxurious Galaxy Hotel is located over the Vistula River in Krakow. The walk to the Main Market Square takes only 25 minutes, while the Wawel Castle is a 20 minute walk from the hotel. There is an on site restaurant overlooking the River and serves international cuisine.
The price of all rooms includes access to the hot tub, saunas, swimming pool, and fitness centre. The spa offers a wide range of beauty and relaxation treatments.
5 Star Hotels in Krakow
H15 Luxury Palace
The stunning 5 star H15 Luxury Palace is located in the heart of the historic quarter in Krakow. Guests can explore the famous Market Square within a 5 minute walk. The hotel has an indoor pool, sauna, jacuzzi and wellness centre.
Have a bite to eat on site at Michelin recommended Artesse Restaurant. Highly rated for its spa, attentive staff, and delicious breakfast it is listed number 7 on TripAdvisor out of all hotels in Krakow.
Wyndham Grand Krakow
Boasting number 12 on TripAdvisor, the luxurious 5 star Wyndham Grand Krakow Old Town offers an elegant retreat in a prime location. A 2 minute walk will have you on the main street of Florianska.
The indoor freshwater swimming pool is open all year round, and the spa offers an array of relaxing treatments, including massages and specialist therapies. Guests can also unwind in the sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi.
Hotel Ferreus Modern Art Deco
The 5 star Hotel Ferreus Modern Art Deco in Kraków offers a luxury experience with spa facilities, a sauna, fitness centre, terrace, restaurant, bar, indoor swimming pool and plunge pool for guests to enjoy.
Located in the city centre, the hotel is less than 1 km from the shopping centre Galeria Krakowska, and a 6 minute walk to St. Mary’s Basilica. Single rooms are also available for solo travellers looking for a luxury 5 star spa stay.
You can also book package holidays to Krakow including flights and accommodation, with deposit options available.
Krakow Travel Guide – FAQ
Below are a list of frequently asked questions by those planning a trip to Krakow.
How to get to Krakow?
From Ireland, you can fly to Krakow with Ryanair from Dublin or Shannon Airport. Alternatively, you can fly into Katowice from Dublin and either drive for an hour or take a train to Krakow.
How many days should I spend in Krakow?
Personally, I think a long weekend (3 or 4 nights) is enough to see the main sights. However, if you have more time and want to explore the surrounding areas, it’s definitely worth staying longer.
When is the best time to visit Krakow?
The best time to visit Kraków is in winter when you can enjoy a magical winter wonderland, go ice skating, and even ski. The Christmas markets are a highlight of the season. That said, Kraków is a beautiful city to experience at any time of year.
What is the currency in Krakow?
Poland uses the Polish Złoty. Some places accept Euros, but it’s best to pay in local currency. You can use your bank card to tap or withdraw cash from an ATM, whichever you prefer.
I hope this Krakow travel guide helps you book your next city break to the stunning city. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, prices and experiences are subject to change. Some of the things to visit in Krakow contain affiliate links, where I receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional charge to you.
