Just back from a birthday trip to Krakow. We booked this hotel on the strength of having stayed at Andel’s in Prague, and we weren’t disappointed. Everything about our stay was simply great. The transfer from Krakow airport to the hotel is probably the easiest and cheapest that I have had anywhere in the world. Follow the claret and blue signs on the floor of the airport, hop on the bus which takes you to the train – pay your £1:20, hop off the train at Krakow, walk out of the station and Andel’s is right in front of you, or a short walk along the side of the shopping centre, depending on which station exit you use. It truly couldn’t be easier.
Even though we were early, having taken the first ryanair flight out of Stansted, our room was ready which, considering we had been awake since 2.30 am was a real bonus.
Reception was friendly, welcoming and kind. The room was just as others have described, they are a bit on the small side, but so comfortable. A bit more space for clothes would be a bonus – there a v few hangers and no drawers. I kept a load of stuff in my suitcase. The shower is hot and powerful and nice toiletries and a hairdryer are provided. There are tea and coffee making facilities in the room.
The room was also very quiet; you could not hear any noise from outside or within the hotel, so you are practically guaranteed a lie in if you want one.
The location of this hotel is also incredible. Just a quick walk through the underpass, past the bread, shoe and second hand book sellers – (which, incidentally I found fascinating. I was really tempted to buy a copy of Winnie the Pooh in Polish, but what would I have done with it?!!) And hey presto! You are close to the Barbican, a theatre and only a few minutes walk from everything else. The castle is about a brisk 10 minutes walk away, but it didn’t seem far at all.
Also nearby is the traditional local market, really worth a look. (I never knew there were so many kinds of mushrooms in the entire universe)
Breakfast is fine, and lasts till 11 o’clock, which is great if you have a late night, or, like me, are a bit slow to start in the mornings. The buffet has something for everyone, and is kept topped up, so there are no worries about anything running out.
The bar is comfortable to sit in, and I thought the margaritas were more than fine! It is also excellent for peopel watching, as people come up out of the underpass towards the station and teh shopping centre.
Look out for the trendy over sized burnt match sticks at the entrance!
A couple of other things worth mentioning:
Pawel, on reception, organised a days car hire for us. We went up to Ojcow National park. It was well worth it, especially if you like waking or hiking. Beautiful woods and some lovely old buildings to see. Nice to be able to see it under our own steam, rather than on an organised trip. We had a great day seeing the Polish country side.
We tried a few restaurants, including the Orient Ekspres and Paese. Our favourite by far was Farina, lovely ambience and great food. The Crème Brulee was, frankly, every sugar lovers dream.
Buy your vodka in the supermarket in the nearby glitzy shopping centre, but watch out for being charged for excess luggage on the way home! (Speaking from experience, sadly)
If this hotel suits your budget then don’t hesitate – it’s amazing! Here’s to more Andel’s hotels opening across Europe!!









