Top attractions in Krakow
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Top sights in Krakow
Best things to do in Krakow
On the banks of the Vistula River lies one of Europe's most awe-inspiring cities. Historic buildings and monuments abound and create the foundation upon which Poland's capital of culture stands proud. Here are its top attractions!
1. National Museum, Krakow
The main branch of Poland's National Museum boasts around 780,000 art objects that span throughout history. The key draw for tourists, though, is its emphasis on Polish painting.
2. Wieliczka Salt Mine
This 13th-century Wieliczka Salt Mine was in use until 2007. The miners had to spend so much time down there that they carved Catholic statues and chapels out of the rock salt!
3. Wawel Cathedral
For those worshipping above ground, this sightseeing essential has been the center of Krakow's religious life since the 11th century. Pope John Paul II was ordained at the Wawel Cathedral in 1946.
4. Bieszczady Mountains
Keen hikers should allow time for a day trip to the region's scenic Bieszczady Mountains. It's pronounced Bee-esh-chardy, for those unfamiliar with Polish!
5. Tatra Mountains
Significantly higher than the Bieszczady, a far tougher climb is rewarded with breathtaking views. We'd advise against taking Tatras' notoriously dangerous Orla Perć trail though!
6. Main Square, Krakow
Want to cover the main sights of Krakow in a day? Start your tour in the Old Town. The Krakow Main Square alone hosts Cloth Hall, the Town Hall Tower, and the Statue of Adam Mickiewicz.
7. Wawel
The magnificent fortress Wawel was the seat of the medieval Polish monarchy, but its fascinating history predates even then by quite a bit. Its oldest buildings date back to 970AD!
Planning Your Visit
How many days?
Krakow offers plenty to see and do, with some extremely appealing day trip options beyond its borders. Book your stay for at least 4 or 5 days.
Where to stay?
If you're only in town for a couple of days, booking a hotel in the Old Town or nearby Kazimierz will place you conveniently by Krakow's main sights. However, for visitors looking to keep their distance from the tourist district, Zwierzyniec might be the best place to stay. It's certainly the greenest!
How much money to bring?
Krakow is not expensive. Even if you only ate in the Old Town you could do all meals and drinks for as little as $30-40 a day. Match that amount for tours and attraction tickets (more for day trips). It's worth checking to see if you'll get a better exchange rate on your currency there, rather than before you leave. Also, don't be persuaded to start a tab in any bars you're not familiar with and check prices first!
Good to know
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- Language
- Polish
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- Currency
- Polish złoty (zł)
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- Time Zone
- UTC (+01:00)
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- Country Code
- +48
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- Best time to visit
- Spring and fall are the best times to visit, when temperatures are mild and tourist crowds are at a minimum!
Top Attractions in Krakow
Things to Do in Krakow
Other Sightseeing Options in Krakow
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What people are saying about Krakow
Not the best place for an excursion with children. The museum and its history are shocking. But everyone should visit it, it is very important to know our history. The guide in the museum very delicately and tolerantly explained all the information to us. In some places, tears rolled over my eyes.
The tour lasts about 7 hours, but the road takes a lot of time. The buses are very comfortable, you can sleep on the road. There is a shop, cafe and toilets near the museum. But it is better to take food and water with you, because the breaks during the day are 15 minutes.
Organization of excursions at the highest level. The bus arrived on time. Transport inside is clean. The bus was not fully loaded and I could sit next to a friend. The leader of the group was very nice, clearly explained all the information at the beginning of the tour.
I advise you to visit the museum only with a guide. Ours was wonderful, without him I would not have been able to fully feel the atmosphere of this place. There are also several bookstores near the museum, where you can buy books in different languages.
Excellent work of the company. Everything is punctual, no queues, the organization is at the highest level. The driver is professional, the leader of the group has always been with us, it is impossible to get lost.
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