Day One
What to See
Begin your first day in Cracow with a visit to the Rynek Główny, the city’s central square and one of the largest medieval town squares in Europe. Admire the colorful buildings, street performers, and souvenir stalls. Don’t miss the Cloth Hall, a UNESCO-listed Renaissance landmark that has been a market hall since the 14th century. From here, take a short walk to the Wawel Royal Castle, a hilltop fortress that has been the seat of Polish kings for centuries. The castle complex includes a cathedral, a treasury, and a museum, so plan to spend a few hours here.
Where to Eat
For lunch, head to the charming neighborhood of Kazimierz, Cracow’s former Jewish quarter. Try Alchemia, a popular café/bar that serves traditional Polish dishes, including pierogi (dumplings) and żurek (sour rye soup). After lunch, explore Kazimierz’s narrow streets and vibrant street art.
Free Tour
In the afternoon, join a free walking tour to get a local’s perspective on Cracow’s history and culture. The official Cracow tourism website offers several options, including a tour of the Old Town, Kazimierz, and the Jewish Ghetto.
Where to Sleep
For your first night in Cracow, consider staying at the Hotel Wentzl, a boutique hotel located in a historic building overlooking the Rynek Główny. The hotel’s elegant rooms are decorated with antique furnishings and offer stunning views of the city.
Day Two
What to See
On your second day in Cracow, explore the city’s artistic side by visiting the Cricoteka, a museum dedicated to the avant-garde theater director Tadeusz Kantor. The museum’s collection includes paintings, photographs, and
sculptures, as well as interactive exhibits that showcase Kantor’s innovative approach to theater. After the Cricoteka, head to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO-listed site located just outside Cracow. The salt mine has been in operation since the 13th century and includes underground chapels, sculptures, and even a lake.
Where to Eat
For lunch, try Pod Wawelem, a cozy restaurant located near the Wawel Royal Castle. The restaurant serves traditional Polish cuisine, including bigos (a hearty stew made with sauerkraut and meat) and kiełbasa (sausage).
Where to Sleep
For your second night in Cracow, consider staying at the Sheraton Grand Cracow, a luxurious hotel located near the Vistula River. The hotel’s spacious rooms offer modern amenities and stunning views of the city and the river.
Day Three
What to See
On your last day in Cracow, visit the Kazimierz District to learn about the city’s Jewish heritage. Start with a visit to the Galicia Jewish Museum, which showcases Jewish life in Poland before and after World War II. From there, head to the Oskar Schindler Factory, which now houses a museum dedicated to the history of the Holocaust in Cracow.
Where to Eat
For your last lunch in Cracow, try Chlopskie Jadlo, a rustic restaurant located in the Old Town. The restaurant serves traditional Polish dishes, including żurek (sour rye soup) and karkówka (pork neck).
Where to Sleep
If you have an early flight, consider staying at the Hampton by Hilton Cracow, a modern hotel located near the Krakow-Balice International Airport. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and a complimentary breakfast.
FAQ
What is the best time of year to visit Cracow?
The best time to visit Cracow is from May to September, when the weather is mild and the city is alive with festivals and events. However, keep in mind that these months are also the busiest and most expensive. If you’re looking for a quieter and cheaper visit, consider traveling in the shoulder season (April, October, or November) or in the winter (December to February).
Do I need a visa to visit Poland?
If you’re a citizen of the European Union, the United States, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand, you do not need a visa to visit Poland for up to 90 days. If you’re a citizen of a different country, check with the Polish embassy or consulate in your home country for visa requirements.
What is the currency in Poland?
The currency in Poland is the Polish złoty (PLN). ATMs are widely available in Cracow, and most hotels and restaurants accept credit cards.
For more information about traveling to Cracow, visit the official Cracow tourism website.
