Welcome to Kraków, home to Europe’s largest medieval town square, untouched by time or war as the only major Polish city not destroyed during WWII. Its Old Town was one of the first sites recognized by UNESCO, renowned for its historic gems and stunning architecture. Stroll through its cobbled streets or marvel at its Gothic spires as you’re transported back in time by whispers from centuries past.

Whether you’re staying for a weekend or a while, the city has a lot to offer all travellers, so if you’re ready to kick it around Kraków, here are the best things to do. From art lovers and history buffs to foodies and fantasy fans, you’re sure to be enchanted by Poland’s arguably most iconic city.

Let’s get cracking!

THE HISTORY

As if cloaked by magic, Kraków holds an alluring charm, where secrets and mysteries abound. Here, history doesn’t hide behind glass, instead spilling out into every street, from medieval castles and churches to fire-breathing dragons. Also known as the City of Churches, Kraków has over 100 places of worship around every corner surrounding you with a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.

Established in the 7th century along the Vistula River, legends say that the area was once terrorized by a dragon living under Wawel Hill until the brave Prince Krakus (or some shoemaker in other variations) slayed the beast by feeding it a sulfur-stuffed sheep. Afterwards, the prince founded Kraków upon the hill and was entombed as a hero in Krakus Mound, a popular tourist attraction to this day (though no evidence of his existence has ever been found despite local folklore).

Whether fact or fiction, the settlement continued to grow and flourish throughout the centuries while thwarting several invasions from Germanic to Mongolian forces throughout the medieval period. By the 10th century, it had become an important trading hub and was officially proclaimed as the royal capital in 1038. Its status as the Kingdom of Poland’s seat of power would last until 1596, when the court was moved to Warsaw. Still, Wawel Cathedral would retain its historical significance as the sole place where Polish kings were both crowned and buried.

Even as the country fell under Austrian control in the late 18th-century, Kraków remained a major cultural hub in the region, so much so that, when the Nazis occupied the city during World War II, it was turned into their headquarters, leading to the brutal eradication of the local Jewish community. However, this status also saved the city from being bombed by Axis Powers, allowing its timeless architecture to be unscathed by war, unlike the rest of Europe.

From its perfectly-preserved spired rooftops to its quaint cobbled streets, Kraków’s Old Town boasts a colorful kaleidoscope of architectural influences from Gothic castles and cathedrals to Renaissance-inspired courtyards and Baroque churches. In fact, it was readily included on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites in 1978 as one of the first in the world.

To this day, Kraków stands as possibly the nation’s most iconic city, beloved for its medieval charm, enchanting atmosphere and gastronomic delights. If you’re into good vibes with a touch of magic, you’ve come to the right realm!

1. Soak up the atmosphere in Rynek Główny (Main Market Square)

There’s no better introduction to Kraków than finding a place to settle in Rynek Główny and simply watching the world go by. Established in 1257 as a central market, the square has grown by leaps and bounds despite its humble beginnings, currently spanning 40,000 square meters of Baroque facades – one of the largest in Europe.

Apart from hosting a cornucopia of cafes, bars, nightclubs, souvenir shops, hostels and all other things touristy, Rynek Główny is also home to several notable landmarks such as the Sukiennice Cloth Hall, a 13th-century marketplace renowned for its textiles and emblematic Gothic arches, as well as the Romanesque Church of St. Adalbert, one of Poland’s oldest buildings. Just across the square, you can find the Historical Museum of Krakow, housed in the gorgeous Krzysztofory Palace, while at the center you can pay homage to a statue of Adam Mickiewicz, one of the nation’s most beloved poets.

By day, expect Rynek Główny (pronounced REE-nek GWOOV-nih) to be humming with street performers, horse-drawn carriages, and the steady rhythm of footsteps across cobblestones. By night, it transforms into a lively social hub, where candlelit terraces fill the square and the energy lingers long after sunset. Order an ice-cold Polish beer to cool off during summer at Pub Polski or a hot beverage at E. Wedel to warm up in winter, and then sit back to take in Kraków at its most timeless. For the most immaculate views, head up to Szal Cafe’s rooftop bar, which overlooks St. Mary’s Basilica, the city’s most iconic church.

When you’re ready, wander by Old Town’s other famous landmarks, including Wawel Castle ad Plac Szczepański, or dine in a Michelin-approved bistro, such as Wierzynek (one of Poland’s oldest restaurants founded in the 14th century) and Albertina. If you’re yearning to stay in the lap of luxury, book a suite at either Bonerowski Palace or Hotel Copernicus, renowned for their historical significance, world-class service and grandiose architecture. You’ll never want to leave!

PRO TIP: Kraków has its own leaning tower, the Town Hall Tower, which has the best views of the square.

2. Wander through Wawel Castle and Cathedral

Perched above the city on Wawel Hill, Wawel Royal Castle stands as both a landmark and a symbol of Polish identity. Once home to kings and queens, the castle complex is a medley of architectural styles, featuring grand courtyards and richly decorated chambers. Originally founded as a 10th-century Romanesque fortress, it was eventually transformed into a Gothic and then Renaissance palace while serving as the royal capital from the 11th-17th centuries. Why not venture inside to explore apartments fit for royalty, admire the finest Eastern art collections, or merely wander through the peaceful gardens overlooking the Vistula River?

Next door, Wawel Cathedral (though constructed around the same time as the castle) tells its own unique story as the coronation site and burial grounds for Polish monarchs. It’s also home to the Sigismund Bell – a bell so enormous it requires a dozen men to swing it and can be heard from up to 30 kilometers away. The cathedral has undergone many iterations, beginning as a small, stone structure before being rebuilt with Gothic influences that have stood the test of time. In fact, you can creep down to St. Leonards’ Crypt to tour the only section remaining of its Romanesque roots.

Still, perhaps the most curious highlight lies further below. At the foot of the hill lies the Dragon’s Den, where a fire-breathing dragon statue guards the entrance as a tribute to Kraków’s most famous legend (see here). Today, the dragon still breathes fire every few minutes, enchanting visitors in search of a bit of magic since it’s supposed to bring good luck. Actually, those seeking fortune would do well to hang around Wawel Hill as Wawel Castle sports one of the world's seven holy "chakras" within the walls of St. Gereon’s Chapel although touching the Sigismund Bell with your left hand might also do the trick. Maybe it’s something in the air but I’d visit all three sites just in case!

PRO TIP: Get a combined ticket for Wawel Cathedral and Wawel Castle to save money. There are also plenty of guided tours so you can brush up on the local folklore.

3. Ride the Kraków Eye for the best views in the city

For an eagle-eyed view of the city, why not hop aboard the Kraków Eye? Towering nearly 50 meters, this observation wheel is located just off the Vistula River on Volyn Boulevard and has been providing visitors with a captivating view of the waterfront skylines since its installation in 2021. The Eye quickly became one of the hottest tickets in the city, meaning you should book your rided in advance to avoid long queues or the chance of them selling out.

Its comfy cabins are fully enclosed, ensuring a safe ride for even the tiniest of tots, and the surrounding area is packed with other attractions, including bars, restaurants and shops – enough to keep you entertained as you work up the courage to head up. No matter what time of day you plan to visit, you’re in for a spectacular ride, but I’d definitely recommend going just before sunset for the most scenic experience or just after darkfall when all the city lights blink to life. Either way, you can’t go wrong!

4. Join a walking tour to learn more local legends

For first-time visitors in Kraków, a walking tour is the perfect way to get to know the city’s top sights. Typically lasting two hours or more, these immersive tours are led by local guides who bring history to life, weaving together legend and everyday life as you explore the Old Town. Learn its layout as you pass by popular landmarks like St. Mary's Basilica or the Adam Mickiewicz Monument, since most tours start in Rynek Główny. Tour the city’s hottest attractions before ending at Wawel Castle to face the dragon lurking its pits.

Not only are walking tours the best way to get your bearings, but the guides are full of local knowledge and can provide insight into everything from highly-rated restaurants to hidden gems only known to natives. There are also many free options where you only tip what you want at the end to thank your guide for their hard work (usually 10-20€ per person), though private tours are much more efficient if pressed for time since you can alter your itinerary. Have reduced mobility or traveling with tiny tots? Book a golf cat tour or try the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus to take you around without missing a step.

One of Kraków’s main veins you must stroll down is Floriańska Street, a cobbled promenade lined with enough copious cafes, restaurants and shops to keep you there all day. Leading from Rynek Główny to St. Florian’s Gate, it was once part of a royal road going from the central square to Wawel Castle, along with Grodzka Street, one of the oldest streets in Kraków. Another scenic stop to add to your list is Szczepański Square, a picturesque plaza surrounded by cafes worth visiting for its unique blend of Gothic and Art Nouveau architecture. Whether you book a shared or private tour, you’re sure to be astounded by the beauty hidden around every corner.

5. Catch the sunset from Krakus Mound

If you’re a fan of panoramic views, then one place to add to your itinerary is Krakus Mound, an ancient, man-made hill cloaked in myths and legends. Escape from the crowds at this verdant lookout, which offers an uninterrupted view of Krakow’s skyline at 16 meters high as you gaze upon landmarks such as Wawel Castle. As arguably the best vantage point in the city and completely free to visit, this destination shouldn’t be overlooked even if it’s located a tad south of the Vistula River.

According to local folklore, the site is also rumoured to be the final resting place of King Krakus, the slayer of the Wawel dragon and founder of the city. Head here for a mid-day picnic with an unbeatable view or right around sunset to watch the city be washed in rays of warm, golden light. As the sun dips below the horizon, you’ll be more than happy to stay a while.

6. Taste Polish cuisine so authentic Grandma would be proud

Kraków’s food scene is hearty, comforting, and full of flavour – everything a Polish grandmother could ask for. You’ll never be lacking for choice since eateries take up nearly every corner in Old Town, but as one of Poland’s most popular cities, the gastronomy scene easily ranges between rustic budget eats and luxurious modern bistros. Either way, expect to sample savoury, traditional dishes like pierogi, żurek soup, or slow-cooked meats, often paired with a shot (or two) of local vodka to round off your meal.

So whether you’re a spendthrift or a glutton, here are my top recommendations that are sure to make your mouth water:

Budget-friendly:

Restauracja Smakołyki: Overlooking Planty Park, this chic restaurant serves home-style food created with upmarket regional products.
Wiejskie Jadło Poznan: Located in the heart of Old Town, this traditional bistro specializes in Polish food at affordable prices.

Mid-range:

Starka Restaurant & Vodkas: This cosy 2-room restobar is situated between Planty Park and the Vistula River, catering to foodies and vodka lovers with its extensive menus.
Padre Restaurant: An elegant establishment decorated with exposed-brick walls whose quaint terrace is the best place to savor its high-quality local goods.

Fine dining:

Szara Gęś w Kuchni Restaurant: Set in a restored 13th-century residence adorned with elevated Gothic-styling, this venue’s fare offers traditional fare with a high-class finish.
Kogel Mogel: Named for Polish’s spin on egg nog, this Michelin-starred establishment is where to go for refined takes on classic Polish cuisine while dining in impeccable decor.
Pod Aniołami Restaurant: A venue renowned for its marinated meats, it offers several atmospheric rooms from candlelit cellars to chandelier-adorned lounges.
Moo Moo Steak & Wine Kazimierz: This modern eatery is beloved for its wide selection of succulent steaks, accompanied by heart wines and great vibes.

Cafés and brunch:

The Leaky Cauldron: A Harry Potter-inspired café offering bite-sized snacks along with a range of eclectic hot and cold beverages within its vaulted ceilings.
MO-JA Café All Day Breakfast: A charming brunch spot popular for serving breakfast, soups, pastas and desserts from sun-up to sun-down .
Od Jajka Do Jabłka, Poranki: Placed right near Planty Park, this quaint brunch cafè has everything from breakfast dishes to coffee and cake.

Pressed for time but craving to taste more? You can book a food tour to take you around the most authentic eateries in Old Town. Prefer a dinner with a show? Take in traditional Polish folk music and dances with trying unlimited dishes from all over the country. No matter what you’re craving to chow down on, Krakow doesn’t disappoint. Just make sure to come hungry!

7. Chill out to Chopin at live concerts

After a long day of exploring, slowing things down with an evening of live music might be the ideal way to unwind. All across the city, you can find venues offering intimate concerts where Frédéric Chopin’s classical compositions are still brought to life centuries after their inception. The legendary French-Polish pianist excelled at creating instrumental ballades meant to evoke memories and emotions, transporting audiences to another time and place.

I’d recommend getting tickets for a show at Juliusz Słowacki Theatre, a majestic 19th-century music hall popular for theatrical shows, live concerts and operas. Its Eclectic-inspired architecture and grand interiors add an extra layer of elegance to the entire event, rounded out by rich acoustics near the stage. The theatre is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its own right, so it deserves at least a stopover. Similarly, you can catch a show at the aptly-named Chopin Concert Hall, dedicated to also playing Polish folk music, Jewish melodies and Christmas concerts.

While Chopin’s most famous works might be Nocturne in E-flat Major, Op. 9, No. 2 (which you’ll immediately recognize if you’re ever seen a romance film) or the Minute Waltz, Op. 64, No. 1, my favourite composition has to be Fantaisie-Impromptu, Op. 66 thanks to its complexity alone. Reserve your seat(s) to choose yours and take in a moment of calm that invites you to pause and simply listen.

8. Descend into the Wieliczka Salt Mine

Just outside the city lies one of Poland’s most extraordinary attractions: the Wieliczka Salt Mine. Descend deep underground to find an entire world carved from salt, consisting of chapels, chandeliers, sculptures, and winding corridors that feel almost surreal. Initially excavated in the 13th century, Wieliczka was one of the world’s oldest operating salt mines until stopping production in 1996, but like most things in Kraków, legend says that Wieliczka owes its existence to magic, along with a royal wedding.

According to local folklore, Princess Kinga of Hungary asked for a salt mine as her dowry in place of jewels since salt was once as valuable as gold. Throwing her engagement ring into a Hungarian salt mine as insurance, she then moved to Poland, hoping her new home would strike (white) gold. When she finally had miners begin digging near Kraków, the first lump of salt broken held her ring, leading to the discovery of Poland’s large salt deposit right below their feet.

These days, the UNESCO-listed mine holds nearly 250 kilometers of galleries and corridors, around 2,000 chambers and spans nine levels, reaching a depth of 327 meters. Book a tour to visit the vast labyrinth of underwater lakes, chapels and statues carved purely out of salt, but make sure to stay close to your group so as not to get lost! The absolute highlight is the expansive St. Kinga’s Chapel, where even the walls shimmer with crystalline luster. There, you can stumble upon salt sculptures reenacting Princess Kinga’s story on her journey to becoming Saint Kinga, the patron saint of salt miners. Just make sure to layer up first since temperatures below ground are generally chilly, even in the height of summer. Wieliczka Salt Mine is unlike anything you’ll see above ground, and thus, well worth the trip.

PRO TIP: You can get to Wieliczka Salt Mine via train in about 20 minutes from Kraków Płaszów station (exit at Dworzec PKP Wieliczka-Rynek-Kopalnia and walk five minutes). If you have a car, Bochnia Salt Mine –Poland’s oldest salt mine– is also worth a visit since this lesser-known gem is sure to attract fewer crowds.

9. Stroll along the Vistula River for skyline views

As the largest river in Poland, the Vistula River is both the lifeblood and beating heart of the nation, stretching over 1000 meters all the way to the capital of Warsaw and beyond to the Baltic Sea. In Krakow, life flows gently along its banks with every lapping wave as the massive waterway bisects the city in half. For one of the best ways to experience the city at a slower pace, take a stroll along the walking paths lining the riverside as you drink in stunning landmarks like Wawel Castle and the Krakow Eye. My top picks for the promenades with the best views would be Bulwar Inflancki on the northern shore or Bulwar Wołyński on the southside.

Better yet, you can rent a bike to cycle down dedicated bicycle lanes while exploring the floating boat bars scattered around the riverfront’s embankments. Just make sure to cross Father Bernatek’s Bridge, a striking feat of modern engineering adorned with suspended acrobat sculptures crafted by Polish artist Jerzy Kędziora. Whether you prefer to people-watch or simply sit by the water, there’s no better place to let the world pass by while surrounded by an inviting blend of history and leisure.

10. Say a solemn prayer at Auschwitz-Birkenau

If you’ve ever heard of the Holocaust, then the name Auschwitz is sadly likely to ring a bell. Located just outside Kraków, this former concentration camp was once the largest under the German occupation, but now stands as a powerful memorial to its victims. More than 1.1 million people were brutally exterminated there, making it a place of nightmares for survivors and a solemn resting ground for souls who would never know justice nor see the end of World War II.

Walking through its grounds is a sobering experience that invites reflection, respect, and remembrance for all those needlessly lost due to blind hatred. If you choose to visit, take your time at the museum and venture to both camps, Auschwitz and Birkenau, to pay tribute at their memorials. Why not book a guided tour to fully understand the historical context and approach the experience with the sensitivity it deserves? I won’t blame you for shedding a tear or two :´(

PRO TIP: Since the site can be inconvenient to reach for travellers without a car, solo travellers or large groups can book a half-day guided tour that includes hotel pick-up and transportation.

11. Mosey around Planty Park’s leafy paths

Encircling the Old Town like a green ribbon, Planty Park is the largest in the city and offers a welcome escape from the city’s busier streets. This 4-kilometre chain of gardens was commissioned by the last Holy Roman Emperor, Franz II of Austro-Hungary, to replace Kraków’s former medieval walls once they fell into disrepair. These days, Planty Park traces the outline of these fortifications, swapping in tree-lined paths, shaded benches, and quiet corners perfect for a breather after a hectic day of exploring.

Along its main path, you’ll pass historic remnants like the Florian Gate and the Kraków Barbican – one of only three such structures remaining in Europe and a striking reminder of the city’s defensive past. Ideal place for a slow wander or a quick respite from Old Town’s bustle, make sure to visit after late spring when all the flowers are in full bloom.

12. Get transported back in time at Kraków’s various museums

Kraków’s museums are as diverse as its history, often ranging from deeply moving to delightfully unexpected. For a powerful glimpse into Poland’s occupation during World War II, visit Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory (yes, that Schindler), which houses a museum dedicated to the man who saved over a thousand Jewish lives. Further beneath the surface (quite literally), the Rynek Underground Museum is a subterranean attraction revealing excavated medieval streets and forgotten stories below the main square. To delve further into the past, you should also visit the Archaeological Museum, renowned for its Polish and ancient Egyptian relics as well as interactive treasure hunts for kids.

Likewise, art connoisseurs will be spoilt for choice since the city hosts a plethora of museums, including the MOCAK Museum of Contemporary Art (which offers bold, thought-provoking multimedia exhibitions throughout its three stories), the Czartoryski Museum (one of Poland’s most prestigious institutions and home to many masterpieces, including works by Da Vinci) and the National Museum (encompassing three permanent galleries highlighting Polish and other European artworks). For a taste of the Far East, head to the Manggha Museum of Japanese Art and Technology, a futuristic facility dedicated to ancient Japanese artefacts. There’s even the Palace of Art in Szczepański Square, an Art Nouveau jewel that shines as one of Krakow’s most stunning buildings and often hosts exhibitions featuring Polish and international artists.

My top pick would be the MNK Sukiennice (AKA the Cloth Hall), an arcaded Renaissance-style market originally erected in the 13th century currently enclosing a 19th-century Polish art museum. During medieval times, it was the lifeblood of the city’s trade network and the site where the city obtained its charter, so definitely not a destination to be overlooked. Still, no matter if you’re drawn to history, art, or something in between, there’s bound to be a museum here for you.

Prefer live entertainment to ancient artefacts? Then check out your next stop!

PRO TIP: Many sites have free visiting days, so plan your itinerary accordingly. Oskar Schindler Factory is only free on Mondays, but on Tuesdays, most sites require no extra charge, including the Rynek Underground Museum, the National Museum, Czartoryski Museum, as well as the MNK Sukiennice (for all, tickets must usually be collected in person before selling out). If visiting on a Thursday, you’re still in luck since you can visit the MOCAK Museum of Contemporary Art’s permanent collection. Travelling at the weekend? Get a CityPass to save on all the top attractions.

13. Live life to the fullest at an interactive entertainment center

While history and art museums aren’t for everyone, for travellers seeking more immersive experiences, Kraków has plenty of interactive venues to thrill you. Bend reality at the House of Illusions, a historic mansion containing over 40 optical illusions across 400 square meters) or at the House of Attractions, which features mirror mazes and hands-on exhibitions.

Lose yourself in virtual reality at TomorrowLand, an indoor amusement park where life is what you make it, or leave the planet entirely by venturing to Cosmic Games Pub, a space-themed attraction that’s out of this world. Rather get in touch with nature? The Museum of the Living Butterfly is a magical realm set in a tropical jungle where fantasy takes flight as much as the winged inhabitants.

Whether you’re into flights of fantasy or mindbending visuals, Kraków boasts some of the most unique interactive experiences, so make sure not to miss out!

14. Party like you’re Polish

If you’re still standing after a long day of exploring the sights, Kraków’s nightlife is more than ready to welcome you with open arms come nightfall. From underground bars to rooftop cocktails, the options are endless, especially if you want to drink like a Slav. Are you a fan of craft beers? Pubs like Craftownia, Ulica Krokodyli Pub & Cafe, Weźże Krafta and Szklanki serve a wide selection of local and international brews while Pub Pod Ziemią is the best dive bar for live rock music. For a Celtic twist, there’s also Duffy's Irish Bar just past Planty Park.

If you prefer cocktails, Shot Bar BANG BANG has a range of classic international drinks, whereas venues like Alchemia offer seasonal menus along with live concerts. Other notable cocktail bars that should top your list are Trzcina (a dimly-lit haven), Eszeweria (a rustic local haunt), The Trust (a sultry loungebar), and SIX RoofTop (home to the most elevated drink options in the city). Need something stronger? Absynt Cafe & Bar is beloved for its absinthe shots and atmospheric vibes, whereas vodka-lovers should try a tasting to sample local liquors. You can even join a pub crawl to get a crash course in Krakow’s nightlife while keeping the energy high well into the early hours. Just remember that you might feel it the next day, so pace yourself.

15. Feel the Holy Spirit as you count churches

Brimming with over 120 religious buildings, Kraków has certainly earned its nickname as the “City of Churches.” From Romanesque basilicas to gothic cathedrals, you’ll find that no two churches are created equal yet with so much choice, it might be hard to choose which to visit first. Step inside places like the gothic Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, known for its stained glass, or the baroque Sts. Peter and Paul Church, where science meets spirituality through a Foucault pendulum demonstration.

If you’re pressed for time, my top contenders would be:

St. Andrew’s Church: One of the oldest churches in the city, built in the 11th century with Romanesque influences and adorned by baroque steeples while also housing an 18th-century organ and a convent.
Church of St. Bernardine of Siena: An alabaster, baroque-style 17th-century church famous for its striking dome and lush interior decoration.
Church Of Sts. John the Baptist and John the Evangelist: A crimson-hued baroque beacon of architecture whose foundations stretch back to the 12th century.
St. Joseph’s Church: A brick-laced, neo-gothic Roman Catholic church constructed in the early-20th century which might just be Krakow's prettiest place of worship.

You can expect to stumble across several more during your stay but you can rest certain that each one will tell a different story showcasing its architectural, spiritual, and historical past.

16. Take a hot air balloon to get a thrill with a view

Ready to get sky-high? At Kraków Sightseeing Balloon, you can take to the sky to catch a bird’s-eye view of the cityscape, soaring up to 150 meters above the ground. Scared of heights? Don’t worry, you won’t drift too far since the balloon is tethered to the ground, the nation’s first installation of such kind which can host 30 passengers at a time. For around 15 minutes, marvel in panoramic views of Krakow as you float above Old Town’s most iconic landmarks, including medieval towers and churches.

Find the main office on Wołyński Boulevard on the southside of the Vistula River for a last-minute ride or reserve your spot up to 2 years in advance to make sure you get your desired timeslot come takeoff. I’d suggest timing your flight just before sunset to watch the array of golden hues coloring the evening sky. Since full balloon rides can be quite pricey, Kraków Sightseeing Balloon offers an affordable alternative to travellers who have never enjoyed the experience. Why not treat yourself without having to make money fall from the sky to do so?

17. Catch a sunset cruise to start the night with a splash

Love the water? Then, seeing Kraków’s waterways close up will add a whole new dimension to your visit, so hop aboard a cruise on the Vistula River, Poland’s longest which divides Krakow in two. For the best way to end a day of exploring, watch dusk descend upon the city as you drift by glowing landmarks, illuminated bridges, and the soft hum of nightlife along both sides of the riverbanks.

Many sunset cruises even provide complimentary drinks for passengers, along with an audio-guided tour of the sights. Upgrade to a booze cruise like Krakow Boat Party if you want to get the party started sooner rather than later, with an open bar included as long as the boat’s in motion. Prefer a day cruise? Tour operators such as Aqua Fun offer them around the clock, along with gondola rides for an extra dose of romance. Most options are reasonably priced, meaning you won’t have to splash out to make waves.

18. Dance the night away

Once the sun sets, Kraków doesn’t simply sleep. Instead, the city completely shifts gears, turning a thriving hub for night owls and party-seekers. If you’re looking for energetic nightlife that’s sure to keep you dancing until dawn, the city more than delivers. Whether you’re staying in Old Town or south of the Vistula River, you’ll find plenty of vibrant venues nearby, offering everything from electronic music to Latin vibes. My ultimate picks would be:

Choice Club: A swanky, futuristic dance joint offering VIP booths and music spun by popular DJs right in the heart of Old Town.
Klub30 Krakow: A massive multi-level venue decorated with elegant touches across its 4 stories as well as a variety of music choices.
Prozak 2.0: One of Krakow’s oldest electronic clubs, located underground across 3 dancefloors complimented by 4 bars.
The Legends Music Club: An atmospheric basement club doubling as a karaoke bar where you can sing your heart out to oldies while surrounded by even older decor.
Shine Club Krakow: Situated just outside of Old Town, this popular club is one of the hottest tickets in town, sporting two dance floors playing everything from pop music to Latin beats.
Nova Klubova: This restaurant-by-day turns into a pulsing nightclub after sunset, with two floors offering pop classics and modern tunes (make sure to dine at the downstairs restaurant beforehand to get comped entry to the club).
Teatro Cubano: A Carribean-inspired nightclub adorned with palm trees that specializes in Cuban cocktails and Latin rhythms.

Prefer a quieter night out? Thankfully, Krakow has more laid-back, late-night options, including billiard rooms where you can unwind with a drink over a game of pool. I’d recommend The Stage or Diament Billiard Club, both located a stone’s throw away from Old Town. Whether you’re in the mood to party or just soak up the atmosphere, you won’t leave disappointed.

19. Learn to cook traditional Polish dishes

If you want to take a piece of Kraków home with you, how about learning how to make it? Cooking classes provide the best hands-on introduction to authentic cuisine with guided instruction, from rolling out pierogi (potato dumplings) to mastering family recipes passed down through generations. Polish gastronomy normally leans toward hearty soups and slow-cooked meats, consisting of staples such as beetroot and cabbage. Pierogies might be the country’s most famous dish, but I’d also recommend learning to cook kielbasa, a savoury smoked meat dish, or golabki, cabbage rolls stuffed with rice and meat and drizzled in tomato sauce.

Fun fact: Bagels originated in Poland, so you can’t miss out on the original version! Places like the Live Bagel Museum add a playful twist, letting you explore the history behind Kraków’s iconic street food while making it your own. It’s messy, fun, and deliciously rewarding for both your culinary repertoire and palette.

PRO TIP: Can’t be bothered to cook while on holiday? Upgrade to a food tasting tour to be treated to the best dishes without having to linger in the same place for too long. You can even get a little tipsy with a few shots while you’re at it. Cheers!

20. Walk a mile in a Jewish Pole’s shoes

As home to Europe’s largest Jewish community before 1939, Poland was one of the countries hit hardest during the Nazi’s occupation during the Second World War, particularly after the implementation of concentration camps such as Auschewitz. Since then, local numbers have dwindled from millions to merely thousands as many fled, were exiled or executed, yet their legacy and influence on the nation have endured until this day.

In my opinion, the best way to honor their memories is by embarking on a Jewish heritage walking tour. Step back in time as you're guided through the Krakow Ghetto (a derogatory term originated to denote areas where Jewish people were forced into), retracing the steps of its former inhabitants as you’re taught their traditions. Watch history be brought to life as you tour one of Europe‘s oldest synagogues, visit Holocaust memorials and check out the filming locations for the Oscar-winning Schindler's List. While the majority of Poland’s Jewish locals might be long gone, you can make sure their stories are never forgotten.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Kraków is a city that reveals itself slowly. Whether it’s the hourly lone trumpet call echoing from the tower of St. Mary's Basilica before cutting off mid-note in tribute to a fallen watchman or the quiet corners of a centuries-old church, there are stories woven into every street. The city offers travellers a rare chance to slow down, wander, and feel deeply connected to the past without sacrificing the vibrancy of the present. Once the royal capital of Poland, this southern gem has managed to hold onto its medieval soul in a way few European cities have.

Thus, no matter if you’re here for its history, food, or simply the joy of wandering, it offers a kind of depth that lingers long after you leave as myth and reality intertwine. If you have time, you should also browse or unwind at Galeria Kazimierz, a modern shopping centre that stands in stark contrast to the city’s historic core. Venture beyond Old Town to get a more authentic feel for the city by visiting Jagiellonian University, one of the oldest in Europe whose famous alumni includes Nicolaus Copernicus (the 15th-century astronomer who theorised the sun was the center of the universe). While Kraków may be rooted in the past, it’s very much still alive and thriving in the present.

Write me when you get there!

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