Plan Your Trip to Krakow: Best of Krakow Tourism
Krakow, Poland
Essential Krakow
Things to do
Food & drink
8 places to take in Jewish life in Krakow
Kazmierz The Former Jewish District9,521When I was searching for Krakow’s Jewish heritage, my first stop was the neighborhood of Kazimierz. Once the heart of Jewish life in Krakow, it’s thriving again. Centuries-old synagogues still stand on its cobblestone streets, joined by hip cafes and vintage shops. The neighborhood is home to the Jewish Culture Festival—which some people call the “Jewish Woodstock”—a blend of traditional and modern Jewish culture that draws tens of thousands of people every summer.
Old Synagogue16Standing in front of the Old Synagogue’s humble red brick exterior made me catch my breath. This is a place that’s seen it all, triumphs and tragedies, since its construction in the 15th century. Poland’s oldest synagogue has been transformed into a museum memorializing those lost during the Holocaust, welcoming you into its restored interior with high-arched ceilings and a wrought-iron canopy surrounding the bima, the raised platform where the Torah is read aloud.
Cheder278These days it seems like every community has a hip coffee shop. This one in Kazimierz is different because it’s inspired by the concept of a cheder––an elementary school where students learn about Judaism. It's a cozy hangout with lectures, discussions, and film screenings on Jewish issues. I camped out for hours in an old folding chair, noshing on a sabich––a classic Israeli street food with flavors from across the Jewish culinary canon.
Schindler's Factory Museum27The legacy of Oskar Schindler, immortalized by Steven Spielberg’s film Schindler’s List, is kept alive in this factory-turned-museum. The photographs, documents, and artifacts you’ll see focus on the lives of the local population during the Holocaust and the story of Oskar Schindler himself, a German industrialist credited with saving more than 1,000 Jewish workers. He employed them in his enamelware and ammunition factory, thus protecting them from deportation by the Nazis.
Klezmer Hois572Some knock this eatery in Kazimierz for being too kitschy. But after spending a day learning about some darker chapters of Jewish history, I was happy to retreat to a happy, homey place that looks like it was designed by a committee of grandmothers. I devoured the cholent, a stew of meat and vegetables usually made for the sabbath, with glee while a klezmer band filled the dimly lit room with the music of my ancestors.
Galicia Jewish Museum618Galicia was a region in Central and Eastern Europe that stretched across much of modern-day Poland and Ukraine, home to a sizable Jewish population. Through a series of striking exhibits, this museum transports you back in time to the high point of life in the Polish Jewish shtetl, or village. The museum also serves as a cultural and educational center, hosting various events related to Jewish life.
Plac Bohaterów Getta1,569Filled with sculptures of empty chairs, Ghetto Heroes Square stands as a haunting memorial to those lost during the Holocaust. The name refers to the Krakow Ghetto, an enclosed area where the city’s Jews were forcibly relocated before they were deported to concentration camps. For me, it was a place to reflect on the void left by a community that once made up a quarter of Krakow’s population.
Remuh Synagogue (Synagoga Remuh)322Walking between centuries-old gravestones that lean like tired travelers is what touched me most about my visit to Kazmierz's second-oldest synagogue. Despite being damaged by the Nazis, who used tombstones to pave roads, the cemetery beside this small synagogue retains a sense of solemn beauty and remains a place of pilgrimage for religious Jews. Built during the 16th century, the synagogue is still in use today.
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Krakow Travel Guide
Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Krakow
Małgorzata K
Eating out and attraction entrance fees are quite cheap in Krakow. You usually get great value for money. If you feel that prices in the Main Market Square are too high, try wandering into one of the adjacent streets and look for a bargain there.
Sasha H
Krakow is a sophisticated city and not a seaside resort, so don't dress as though you're bound for the beach! (And always dress respectfully when visiting the many churches. The Krakow Tourist Card offers two- or three-day packages of free travel on all public transport as well as free entry into up to 30 museums in the city.
Małgorzata K
You can get around the city center and the Kazimierz District easily on foot but I recommend taking public transport — it's cheap, easy, and you'll save time.
Sasha H
For its stature, Krakow certainly packs a sightseeing punch, with landmark architecture, medieval palaces and hard-hitting museums. It’s also blessed with a well-priced shopping scene, a buzzing nightlife and the best of world cuisines.
Małgorzata K
Krakow is known as the city of culture. Not only is it brimming with cultural events, from concerts to plays to lectures, but it also boasts renowned museum collections and fascinating temporary exhibitions.
Sasha H
Outside the lanes and cobbled squares of its historic Stare Miasto (Old Town), Krakow is a surprisingly green city. There are parks to laze around in, gardens to hide away in and forests to hike — all within the city limits. Plus, if you choose to travel further afield, you’ll encounter caves to explore, mountains to ski down and rivers to navigate.
What is the best way to get there?
flying
Krakow is served by the Krakow John Paul II International Airport. Trains run regularly from Krakow Airport to the centre of town and take around 20 minutes.
train
Trains from major Polish cities such as Katowice, Gdansk and Warsaw run regularly from Krakow Glowny train station.
Do I need a visa?
If you’re visiting Poland from overseas, see if you need a visa using the following website.
When is the best time to visit?
Locals say that May and June are the best times to visit Krakow, when temperatures range between highs of 20-24° C (69-75° F) and lows of 9-13° C (49-55° F). Early October is another good option because between mid-October to March, “air pollution is a serious problem in addition to cold and often dreadful weather,” one said.
For more information on Krakow’s weather and when to go, check out some tips here.
Get around
bus and trams
taxis and ride share
Uber is readily available in Krakow on your smartphone. Download the app here.
On the ground
What is the timezone?
Central European Standard Time.
What are the voltage/plug types?
The standard voltage is 230V and the standard frequency is 50Hz. The two associated plug types are C, which has two round pins, and E, which has two round pins and a hole for the earthing pin. For plug types, you can reference this international guide.
What is the currency?
Polish zloty (PLN).
Are ATMs readily accessible?
Yes.
Are credit cards widely accepted?
Yes.
Is it easy to find a bank?
Yes.
How much do I tip?
Restaurants
Around 10% is expected in Krakow restaurants; leave it in cash rather than adding the amount to your credit card bill.
Are there local customs I should know?
Drinking
The federal legal age for buying and drinking alcohol is 18 years old. Drinking alcohol in public places is illegal.
Public transport
Though you buy your public transport ticket at the bus or tram stops, tickets need to be validated using the machines onboard the vehicles.
Crossing the road
It is illegal to cross the road at anywhere except at designated pedestrian crossings, which are identifiable by with white stripes on the road.
For more information on the customs and culture of Krakow, check out the following link.
Krakow travel advice
Bus Travel
According to forum posts, the Lajkonik bus service is a popular choice for traveling from Krakow to Auschwitz. It departs regularly from the main station and drops passengers off directly at the museum entrance. The cost is approximately 15 PLN, and the journey can be booked online via the Lajkonik website.
Train and Walking
Some travelers mentioned that taking a train from Krakow to the nearest station to Auschwitz and then walking about 2 km to the museum is feasible. The area has good pavements, making it pedestrian-friendly.
Private Transportation
For those preferring a more personalized service, private tours like those offered by KRK Krakow Tours provide door-to-door service from Krakow to Auschwitz. This option is noted for its convenience but tends to be pricier than public transportation.
Alternative Public Transport
Travelers also discussed using other public bus services or even arranging for a taxi or rideshare from Krakow to reach Auschwitz, providing flexibility in terms of travel timing and comfort.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?Booking Online
According to forum posts, it is strongly recommended to book Auschwitz-Birkenau tours in advance due to high demand and limited availability. Travelers can reserve tickets through the official Auschwitz.org website, where options for both guided and unguided tours are available. It's advisable to book as early as three months ahead of your visit.
Choosing Guided Tours
Some travelers shared that guided tours are available in various languages and typically include a visit to both Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau. Only certified Auschwitz museum guides are allowed to conduct these tours, ensuring an informative experience. Booking directly through the museum's website is often seen as a reliable option.
Alternative Booking Options
For those who prefer not to use the official site, other travelers have mentioned using tour operators that include transport and guide services. These operators often pick up tourists from local hotels or designated points in Krakow. However, booking through tour operators might involve additional costs compared to direct bookings.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?Onsite Food Availability
According to forum posts, there are a few options for purchasing food at Auschwitz. There is a cafe on-site where visitors can buy sandwiches, and a restaurant by the museum offers more extensive meal options. Additionally, a small shop at the entrance sells snacks such as pizza slices, sausage rolls, pastries, chocolates, and drinks.
Food Regulations
Travelers have noted that while you can purchase food at these locations, consuming food on the grounds of Auschwitz is prohibited. Visitors are allowed to bring water bottles but no other food items inside. This regulation is strictly enforced to maintain the solemnity and respect of the site.
Packed Food Alternatives
For those needing food during their visit, forum users suggest eating before entering or planning to eat immediately after leaving. There are benches and grassy areas outside the museum where visitors can consume packed lunches if they choose to bring their own.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?Recommended Duration
According to forum posts, four full days in Krakow are suggested to explore the city thoroughly, especially if you plan to include day trips to nearby attractions like the Wieliczka Salt Mine or Auschwitz.
Itinerary Highlights
Some travelers recommend starting with a walking tour of the Old Town, visiting Wawel Castle, and exploring the historical sites and museums. The Jewish Quarter, Kazimierz, is also highlighted as a must-visit for its rich history and vibrant streets.
Day Trips
For those interested in day trips, besides the popular Auschwitz and Salt Mine tours, Zakopane for mountain views and Tarnow for its charm are also recommended by users. These can typically be reached by bus or train within a few hours from Krakow.
Cultural and Nightlife
Travelers have called out the importance of experiencing local Polish cuisine and enjoying Krakow's lively nightlife, which includes bars, clubs, and live music venues, as integral parts of the visit.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?Popular Areas
According to forum posts, the best areas in Krakow for bars and pubs include Stare Miasto (Old Town), Kazimierz, and Dolne Młyny. These areas are highly recommended by travelers for their vibrant nightlife and variety of options.
Specific Recommendations
Some travelers said specific bars like Duffys Irish Bar, The Bulldog, and Banialuka are popular, particularly among younger crowds. For cheap drinks, Pijalnia beer and vodka bars are noted for their affordability. Movida is known for offering two for one cocktails during certain hours.
Local Favorites
Travelers have called out local favorites such as Alchemia, Eszeweria, and Singer in Kazimierz, which are appreciated for their unique atmospheres. Wodka Cafe Bar is highlighted for its variety of vodkas, including chocolate vodka, which was a favorite among visitors.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?Tour Options
According to forum posts, many travelers recommend booking tickets online for the Krakow Salt Mines and then using public transport such as the city bus or suburban train to reach the mines. Tickets can be directly purchased at the mine, but advance online booking is advised to avoid long lines, especially during peak times.
Public Transport Details
Some users have mentioned that bus #304 from Krakow's main train station takes about 20 minutes to reach the Salt Mines and is considered the best option due to its convenience and proximity to the mine entrance. The cost of the bus is around 5 zloty, and it offers a direct route to the mines.
Tour Flexibility
A few travelers have suggested that visiting the Salt Mines independently allows for more flexibility compared to organized tours, especially if combining the visit with other attractions like Auschwitz. For those preferring organized tours, local companies such as Discover Krakow and Krakow Tours have been recommended for their reliable service and comprehensive tour packages that often include both the Salt Mines and Auschwitz.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?Popular Breakfast Spots
According to forum posts, Milkbar Tomasza is frequently recommended for its Irish breakfast and overall popularity among tourists and locals. It's noted for good quality food, albeit not a typical Polish Milk Bar experience.
Traditional Polish Breakfast
For those interested in a traditional Polish breakfast, Domowe Przysmaki and Kolanko Nº 6 are praised by travelers. Domowe Przysmaki is enjoyed for its local cuisine, while Kolanko Nº 6 offers an extensive buffet featuring a variety of traditional dishes, including Polish sausages, scrambled eggs, and more.
Variety and Early Hours
Travelers have called out that many bakeries and cafes, such as Lajkonik Piekarnia i Kawiarnia and Piekarnia Pawlak, open early around 7:00 AM, catering to early risers and providing a variety of breakfast options.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?Taxi Booking Options
According to forum posts, Krakow Airport offers several taxi services that can be booked directly at the airport. Travelers have mentioned the Krakow Airport Taxi service, which is available at the official taxi rank. This service offers a fixed price to different destinations in the city.
Alternative Taxi Services
For many users, alternative taxi options such as iCar, EcoCab, and Mega are recommended due to their lower costs compared to the official airport taxis. These services require either a call or being caught at the departures area instead of the arrivals area.
Ride-Sharing Apps
Some travelers said that ride-sharing apps like Uber, FreeNow, and Bolt are also viable options for getting a taxi from Krakow Airport. These apps often provide competitive rates and can be easily accessed upon arrival.
This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?
- We recommend staying at one of the most popular hotels in Krakow, which include:
- Some of the most popular restaurants in Krakow include:
- Krakow is known for some of its popular attractions, which include:
- We recommend checking out these popular tours when looking for something to do in Krakow:
- Krakow to Zakopane and Thermal Hot Bath Day Trip with Transfer
- Auschwitz-Birkenau Guided Tour with Ticket & Transfer from Krakow
- Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum Guided Tour with Ticket and Transfer
- Day Trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine from Krakow including Lunch
- Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour from Krakow with Ticket & Pickup Options
- If you're a more budget-conscious traveler, then you may want to consider traveling to Krakow between December and February, when hotel prices are generally the lowest. Peak hotel prices generally start between September and November.