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Krakow is a Southern Polish city located close to the border of the Czech Republic. The city is a fascinating place to visit, and its troubled past and resilient spirit have laid the foundations for a modern and friendly tourist destination to develop.
Here, you’ll find an eclectic food and cultural scene, vibrant nightlife, poignant historical sites, and lots of tempting day trip options for those who want to see more of Poland’s beauty and charm.
If you’re planning on visiting Krakow, keep reading to discover the 16 best things to do in this historic city.
1. Visit Auschwitz-Birkenau
This former German Nazi concentration camp is where more than 1.1 million men, women, and children lost their lives during World War II.
Although Auschwitz-Birkenau isn’t located right in Krakow, it’s a relatively short drive away and most tours arrange pick-up and drop-off in the city.
The site has two parts, Auschwitz and Birkenau, and knowledgeable tour guides give visitors a chance to gain a better understanding of the atrocities that happened there. The site can be reached via public transport, or you can join a guided tour which includes return transfers.
2. Tour Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory
Photo Credit: agsaz
Oskar Schindler was a German industrialist and member of the Nazi Party who saved the lives of 1,200 Jews during the Holocaust by employing them in his factories.
Steven Spielberg’s film Schindler’s List is based on the inspiring story of Schindler’s courage and commitment to saving the lives of his Jewish employees during the Nazi occupation of Poland. Today, it’s possible to tour Schindler’s factory to see where these extraordinary events took place.
3. Get to Know Krakow’s Jewish Quarter
Before WWII, an estimated 64,000 Jews lived, worked, and operated businesses in Krakow. Then, in 1941, they were forced from their homes and moved to Podgórze, which became a segregated ghetto.
Today, Krakow’s historic Jewish quarter of Kazimierz is one of the most fascinating parts of the city. Here’s what to do here:
- The Old Synagogue – the oldest synagogue in Krakow. Visit for the atmosphere and to admire the 500-year-old architecture.
- Jewish Galicia Museum – a museum and gallery telling the stories of Polish Jews through thought-provoking photography and first-hand accounts.
- Ghetto Heroes Square – journey over the Vistula River to see the poignant memorial dedicated to the Jewish residents who lost their lives during the Holocaust.
4. Head Underground to Wieliczka Salt Mine
Photo Credit: Gelia
The Wieliczka Salt Mine is an underground wonderland dating back to Neolithic times. Sodium chloride (salt) is still produced here, and some sections are now open for tourists to explore. Expect to see saline lakes and grand chambers constructed solely from salt.
English-speaking guides are available, and a safety briefing is provided. It’s worth noting that there are 800 steps to tackle during a visit to Wieliczka Salt Mine, so a good level of fitness is required.
5. Take a Day Trip to Warsaw
Poland’s capital city is just over two hours away by train and makes a great spot for a weekend adventure or a quick day trip.
There’s so much to do in Warsaw, but if you only have a day to spare, we recommend prioritizing these top things to do:
- Old Town – dating back to the 13th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the main market square of the city. Spend a while admiring the colorful townhouses before stopping off at one of the many cafes for a caffeine boost.
- Bar Mleczny Lindleya 14 Milk Bar – Milk bars were established during Poland’s communist era to provide government-subsidized meals. Expect traditional dishes such as pierogi dumplings, potato pancakes, and hearty soups and stews.
- Palace of Culture and Science – this building was the eighth-tallest in the world when it was built and is now a cultural hub. Head to the 30th-floor terrace for panoramic views of Warsaw.
6. Escape to the Tatra Mountains
For a relaxing escape from the city, add a couple of days in Zakopane to your itinerary. This resort town in Southern Poland is a year-round destination for outdoor pursuits. Explore hiking trails during the summer and show off your skiing skills when winter rolls around, or simply relax and absorb Zakopane’s charming atmosphere.
7. Take a Walking Tour of Krakow Old Town
Krakow’s town square, otherwise known as Rynek Główny, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit area of the city. There are several operators offering tours of the area, and the local guides will show you the most famous sites as well as the hidden gems that other tourists miss.
Highlights in and around the Renaissance-style main square include:
- Wawel Castle and Wawel Cathedral – Perched on Wawel Hill is the Wawel Royal Castle complex. Its oldest buildings can be dated back to 970 AD and others are some of the earliest examples of Gothic and Romanesque architecture in Poland.
- Sukiennice Museum (Cloth Hall) – this grand market hall dates back to the 13th century but was remodeled in the 14th century and restored once again in the 19th century. Today, the site is home to a fascinating art museum.
- St Mary’s Basilica – take a guided tour of this brick Gothic church to fully appreciate its splendor. Don’t miss the main altar and its intricate carvings.
8. Discover Medieval Krakow
Photo Credit: Tupungato
For a taste of what life was like in Medieval Krakow, spend a few hours at Rynek Underground Museum. This fascinating attraction is hidden several meters under the Main Market Square, and permanent exhibitions trace the origins of European identity over the course of hundreds of years.
This is a must-see museum for anyone with an interest in history.
9. Feast on Krakow’s Best Polish Food
Poland may not be as well-known for its food as other countries in Europe, but if you come with an open mind and an appetite, we’re certain you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
Here are three of the most popular places for authentic Polish food in Krakow:
- Bar Smak – this small eatery serves great food at affordable prices. Join locals at the large wooden tables to feast on generous portions of pierogis and bigos (stewed sauerkraut, cabbage, meat, and spices).
- Piwnica Pałacu Pokutynskich – a top pick for an upscale yet authentic Polish meal. The traditional underground area is a cool hideaway in which to escape the summer heat, and there’s also a pretty garden outside for al fresco dining.
- Kluska na Placu – Located just off the main square, this charming spot serves great Polish food alongside delicious Polish wines — and for a great price!
10. Stroll in Planty Park
Photo Credit: CoinUp
Planty Park is one of the biggest city parks in Krakow. It encircles the Old Town, tracing where the Medieval city walls once stood. There are eight separate gardens to explore, and there’s a walking route which makes it easy to see them all.
You’ll see lots of locals here sipping coffee, walking their dogs, or simply sitting on benches watching the world go by.
11. Immerse Yourself in Polish Culture at Nowa Huta
Nowa Huta is a haven for Krakow’s creatives, and the diverse program showcases Polish talent in a range of fields. From dance and theater to photography and art, you’re certain to find a performance, concert, or festival taking place during your visit.
Check the website for the up-to-date schedule.
12. Experience Krakow’s Legendary Nightlife
Krakow is fascinating by day, but it’s after dark that the city really gets interesting. Poles know how to have fun, and there are dozens of nightlife venues throughout the city, but the biggest concentration is around Kazimierz. Here are three venues to check out during your next visit:
- Lindo Bar – this lively gay bar is located in the Old Town and is a friendly place to drink and dance the night away.
- Harris Piano Jazz Bar – for a more low-key night out, this jazz bar is an excellent choice. Expect live jazz musicians as well as artists from other genres, including blues, soul, funk, and hip-hop.
- Choice Club – have a night out to remember at this exclusive club with two dance floors, four bars, and an impressive VIP area.
13. Learn How To Make Obwarzanek
Obwarzanki are parboiled dough rings that have been enjoyed in Krakow for more than 600 years. It’s said that kings and knights feasted on them, and visiting the Obwarzanek Museum is your chance to follow in their footsteps.
During your visit, you’ll learn more about the history of this tasty snack before learning how to make them yourself. You’ll leave with your very own obwarzanek, which will fuel the rest of the day’s sightseeing itinerary.
14. Make a Splash At Zakrzówek Reservoir
Photo Credit: EricBery
If you’ve ever visited Poland during the summer months, you’ll know that it can get extremely hot between May and September. The best way to cool off when the temperature soars is to spend the day at Zakrzówek Park.
Swimming in Zakrzówek was originally limited to the natural reservoir, but after several fatal accidents, the decision was taken to improve safety measures with dedicated swimming areas.
Now, there are five enclosed pools to cool off in, including one shallow pool for children to splash around in. The pools are connected by floating docks that are ideal for sunbathing sessions, and there are also several benches and tables where you can enjoy a picnic in the sun.
15. Visit Pope John Paul II’s Family Home
The late Pope John Paul II is beloved by the Polish people, and his life and work gave hope for the future in the midst of ongoing struggles for freedom.
John Paul II grew up in a small town called Wadowice which is just 1.5 hours away by car or public transport. His family home is now a museum, which makes an interesting half-day activity for those who want to learn more about the former Pope’s life.
16. Take a Cruise Along the Vistula River
Photo Credit: Longfin Media
For a unique perspective of Krakow, join a boat tour to explore the Vistula River. Tours typically run during the warmer months from April until September and can last anywhere between 30 minutes to a full afternoon, depending on what you’d like to see.
If a sightseeing cruise sounds too subdued for your tastes, there’s also the option of hiring a kayak and heading off on a self-guided adventure or joining a spirited ‘booze cruise’ to sample a measure or two of Poland’s famously delicious vodka.
Explore the Many Things to Do in Krakow
So, there you have it — our 16 top things to do in Krakow. As you can see, there’s something for everyone to get excited about in this historic city. What will be first on your agenda when you pay a visit to this Polish gem of a destination?
