Krakow, Poland: 26 Best Things to Do and See

Krakow (Polish: Kraków), Poland’s second-largest city, attracts over 14 million visitors every year, and it’s no wonder. This city offers everything, from the majestic Wawel Castle, where you can meet the famous Wawel Dragon, to the Main Market Square (Rynek Główny), the largest medieval square in Europe, which is always full of not only people but also pigeons. 😃

If you want to enjoy an authentic atmosphere, don’t forget the historic Kazimierz district, which is now a hipster paradise or enjoy the legendary zapiekanka at Plac Nowy.

Unlike many other Polish cities, Krakow was fortunate to escape devastating destruction during World War II, and therefore today we can admire its medieval squares, castles, and fascinating Jewish history.

In this guide I will share with you Krakow, Poland: 26 Best Things to Do and See – everything from must-visit attractions to hidden gems that make this medieval city truly special.

In December, there are absolutely amazing Christmas markets.

How Long to Spend in Krakow?

Have we piqued your interest, and now you’re wondering how long to spend in Krakow? We recommend spending at least 3 days in Krakow, but if you really want to enjoy it to the fullest, then even 5 days. This way you’ll manage not only to visit the best places but also to soak up the atmosphere in local establishments.

Where to Stay in Krakow?

We prefer to stay right in the center, because in the end it saves a lot of time (and time is money, right?). You’ll find the best apartments, including breakfast, at K4 APARTHOTEL KRAKÓW. Avium Old Town Apartments are also great. If you don’t mind staying in hostels, you’ll find affordable accommodation right in the center at Greg&Tom Beer House Hostel.

Krakow, Poland: 26 Best Things to Do and See

Krakow (Kraków) is truly a very pleasant city for walks and exploration. Let’s take a look together at the most interesting activities, sights, and places you shouldn’t miss during your visit.

1. Sukiennice Underground

Beneath the famous Sukiennice on the Main Market Square (Rynek Główny), you’ll find the Rynek Underground museum. This multimedia museum takes you back to medieval times when Sukiennice served as a trade center.

If you don’t like waiting in line for tickets and want to go on a guided tour, check out GetYourGuide.

You’ll walk through reconstructed medieval market stalls and workshops, where you’ll learn how trade was conducted in Krakow hundreds of years ago. The museum also features original cobblestones and other artifacts discovered during archaeological excavations in 2005.

The presentation is quite modern and entertaining, and there are even holograms.

2. St. Mary’s Basilica

St. Mary’s Basilica (Kościół Mariacki) is one of the most significant Gothic buildings in Krakow. Its interior is literally filled with artistic treasures. We were most impressed by its blue ceiling dotted with golden stars.

Every day at 11:50 AM, the main altar opens before your eyes, which is the work of German sculptor Veit Stoss and is one of the largest medieval artworks in Poland.

3. Wawel Castle

Wawel Castle is a symbol of Polish national identity – Polish kings were crowned here and are also buried here. It is located on Wawel Hill above the Vistula River, and its history dates back to the 16th century.

During World War II, the Nazi administration had its headquarters here, and it’s a miracle that it wasn’t destroyed at the end of the war. Today, the castle houses five separate museums. If you don’t have time to visit all of them, definitely don’t miss the State Rooms and the Royal Private Apartments.

Tip: If you don’t want to stand in lines, you can use GetYourGuide like we did to purchase tickets.

4. Wawel Cathedral

Wawel Cathedral is one of the most important buildings in Poland. Kings and other important figures are buried there, including Polish President Lech Kaczyński, who died in a plane crash in 2010.

You definitely won’t miss Sigismund’s Chapel, which is a true celebration of Renaissance art. The cathedral ticket includes entry to the Royal Crypt and the tower, from where you have a great view.

5. Ethnographic Museum

The Ethnographic Museum, housed in the former 16th-century Kazimierz Town Hall, will take you into the world of various cultures in the Krakow, Podhale, and Silesia regions. It has three floors, where you’ll find reconstructed 19th-century Polish village houses, so you can see what life was like in the countryside back then. Admission is free on Sundays.

6. Schindler’s Factory

Schindler’s Enamel Factory, where Oskar Schindler employed many of the 1,200 Jews he saved from the Nazis, is now a museum.

Not only will you learn about Schindler’s actions and the stories of the people he saved, but also about life in Krakow during the Nazi occupation. Admission is free on Mondays.

7. The Leaky Cauldron – for Harry Potter Fans

It seems Poles love Harry Potter almost as much as I do. 😃 Not only in Wrocław is there a pub inspired by the wizarding world, but in Krakow you’ll also find one where you can have butterbeer. It’s called The Leaky Cauldron DZIÓRAWY KOCIOŁ.

8. Wieliczka Salt Mine

Just outside the city (12 km) is a huge underground complex, where mining took place for over 700 years; today it houses galleries, a chapel, restaurants, and labyrinthine chambers. It’s an extremely popular excursion not only for foreign tourists but also for Poles.

That’s why it’s a good idea to book your ticket in advance via GetYourGuide. And I recommend setting aside half a day for it.

9. Taste at Least one of the 100 Types of Vodka

Not afraid of hard liquor? Krakow is famous for its vodka. Vodka here is very cheap, and you can taste various flavors – from classic to different fruit variants. We recommend visiting Wodka Café Bar, where you can choose from over 100 types of vodka. Along with that, try traditional Polish appetizers – steak tartare or smalec (lard spread).

10. Vistula River Cruise

See Krakow from a different perspective during a Vistula River cruise. Cruises usually take place from April to September, and you can choose whether you want just 30 minutes or several hours.

Some will take you to the Benedictine Abbey in Tyniec, located about 12 km west of Krakow. If you prefer more active experiences, you can rent a kayak and explore the river yourself.

Tip: If you’re traveling as a couple, I recommend booking an evening cruise via GetYourGuide – super romantic.

11. Visit the MOCAK Museum of Contemporary Art

Next to Schindler’s Factory, you’ll find the absolutely perfect MOCAK Museum of Contemporary Art, where you’ll find works by contemporary artists from Poland and around the world. In addition to regularly changing temporary exhibitions, you can also see a permanent exhibition here, which contains over 300 works of art . Additionally, you can view the permanent exhibition for free on Thursdays.

12. Planty Park

Planty Park is a green park that surrounds Krakow’s historic center, on the site where the city walls once stood. In summer, it’s a nice place if you want to escape the heat. You can start or end at the 14th-century St. Florian’s Gate and the 15th-century Barbican fortress. Along the way, you’ll also see a statue of Pope John Paul II, who was born in Poland.

13. Street Art in Kazimierz

Kazimierz, Krakow’s historic Jewish quarter, is now full of street art. This district is home to many amazing murals and artworks that give this part of the city a unique character.

You can explore Kazimierz on your own or join an organized walk that will take you to the most interesting pieces of street art. Kazimierz is also a great place to discover local cafes, restaurants, and bars.

14. Kościuszko Mound

Kościuszko Mound is an artificial hill that was built in honor of the Polish national hero Tadeusz Kościuszko in 1823.

From here, there’s a beautiful view of Krakow and the Vistula. If you’re lucky with clear weather, you can even spot the Tatra Mountains, which are more than 100 km away. Near the mound, there’s a fortress with an exhibition dedicated to Kościuszko and his life.

15. Go for a Hike in Wolski Forest

Just a few kilometers west of Kościuszko Mound is Wolski Forest, a protected area full of hiking and cycling trails. When it snows, people also come here for cross-country skiing.

At the top of the forest is Piłsudski’s Mound, from where there’s a magnificent view of the surroundings. In the vicinity of the forest, you’ll also find Krakow Zoo and Przegorzały Castle, which, although it looks like it was built in the Middle Ages, actually dates back to the 20th century.

16. Old Synagogue in Kazimierz

The Old Synagogue in Kazimierz is the oldest preserved synagogue in Poland and today serves as a museum of Jewish culture. Be sure to visit to see the beautiful vaults and the exhibition that introduces the life and traditions of Krakow’s Jewish community. The synagogue is open every day, and admission is free on Mondays.

17. Zakrzówek Park

If you visit Krakow in the summer, head to Zakrzówek Park to cool off, where you’ll find a beautiful water reservoir created in a former quarry.

18. Main Market Square (Rynek Główny)

Rynek Główny, Krakow’s Main Market Square, is one of the largest medieval squares in Europe. It is surrounded by magnificent Baroque, Gothic, and Renaissance buildings. Every hour, a trumpet fanfare sounds from the tower of St. Mary’s Basilica – a tradition dating back to the 14th century.

In December, there are also wonderful Christmas markets here.

19. Sukiennice – Krakow Cloth Hall

Krakow’s Sukiennice (Cloth Hall) is one of the iconic buildings on the Main Market Square. This Renaissance building originally served as a center for cloth trade, but today you’ll find various stalls inside selling souvenirs, jewelry, and handicrafts. On the upper floor, there’s a gallery of 19th-century Polish art, where you can admire paintings and sculptures by renowned Polish artists.

20. Climb the Town Hall Tower

The only preserved part of Krakow’s medieval town hall is its 70-meter-high tower. Definitely don’t miss it and enjoy the view from the top of the Main Market Square and the roofs of the historic center. On the way up, you can visit a small museum with historical photographs and a model of the original town hall.

21. Taste Zapiekanka

What exactly is it? It’s a halved baguette, always topped with mushrooms (pieczarki) and cheese as a base. And then you can add whatever you like: bacon, sausage, tomatoes, corn, pickled cucumbers, onions, or even ham. And finally? Dressing! Usually, you can choose garlic, ketchup, or something spicier.

Zapiekanka originated in the 1970s as a cheap and quick street food. Today, it’s an indispensable part of Polish gastronomy. And where to taste it? The most famous zapiekanki in Krakow are found at New Square (Plac Nowy) in the Jewish quarter of Kazimierz.

Zapiekanki are available almost everywhere, from small stalls to larger bistros. Sizes usually range between 25 cm and 50 cm, so you can have something small as a snack, or a proper lunch.

22. Visit the Apteka Pod Orłem Pharmacy

On the other side of the Vistula River in Podgórze, you’ll find the Apteka pod Orłem (Pharmacy Under the Eagle). This pharmacy isn’t just any ordinary apothecary, but a place that played a crucial role during World War II.

During the Nazi occupation, it was the only pharmacy in the Krakow Ghetto, and its owner, Tadeusz Pankiewicz, did what he could to help the Jews who were imprisoned there. The Pharmacy Under the Eagle became a symbol of courage, and people remember it as a place where humanity was fought for.

Today, within the premises of this pharmacy, you’ll find a museum that shows you what the daily reality of the ghetto was like and everything Pankiewicz did to help those who had it truly difficult. The exhibition is full of photos, items from the occupation period, and documents that tell stories full of pain, but also courage.

23. Ghetto Heroes Square (Plac Bohaterów Getta)

Ghetto Heroes Square in Krakow is one of the most powerful memorials to the tragic history of World War II. It is located in the former Krakow Ghetto in the Podgórze district, where Jewish residents of the city were imprisoned and persecuted during the Nazi occupation.

Today, the square commemorates their fates through 70 metal chairs placed throughout the area. Each of these empty chairs symbolizes the fate of the people who were deported from the ghetto and murdered in concentration camps.

The square was the place in the ghetto where residents gathered, often before transport to their deaths. Nearby, you’ll find the Pharmacy Under the Eagle (Apteka Pod Orłem).

24. Barbican

Krakow’s Barbican is one of the most significant medieval fortress structures in Central Europe and a unique one in Poland. This massive Gothic circular bastion was built at the end of the 15th century as part of the city walls to protect the main entrance to the city, St. Florian’s Gate. Its seven towers, thick brick walls, and 130 loopholes made it an almost impregnable fortress that even withstood Ottoman attacks.

Today, the Barbican serves as a historical monument and a popular venue for cultural events and exhibitions. During your visit, you can walk through the original corridors, admire the defensive features, and imagine the role the fortress played in Krakow’s history.

25. Collegium Maius

Collegium Maius, the oldest building of Jagiellonian University in Krakow, is a true gem of Polish academic history. Built in the 14th century, this Gothic masterpiece served as the university’s main building and educated students, including figures such as Nicolaus Copernicus.

Today, Collegium Maius is home to the university museum, which exhibits rare collections of historical books, globes, and scientific artifacts. It also features a replica of Copernicus’s observatory. One of the main attractions is the astronomical clock in the courtyard.

26. Auschwitz

From Krakow, it’s just a short distance to Auschwitz, which is an emotionally challenging but very important trip for understanding history. Auschwitz, one of the first concentration camps, commemorates all the horrors that prisoners had to endure here.

Nearby is also Birkenau, a place that was created with the aim of genocide of the Jewish people. Buses and trains regularly run here from Krakow, and you can also book a trip via GetYourGuide.

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