{"id":51863,"date":"2024-01-09T15:39:34","date_gmt":"2024-01-09T14:39:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.surfingtheplanet.com\/?p=51863"},"modified":"2024-04-17T10:46:17","modified_gmt":"2024-04-17T08:46:17","slug":"things-do-krakow","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.surfingtheplanet.com\/en\/things-do-krakow\/","title":{"rendered":"Krakow Uncovered: 30 Unforgettable Stops in the Heart of Poland"},"content":{"rendered":"

Krak\u00f3w<\/strong>, a cultural treasure in the heart of Eastern Europe<\/strong>, reveals itself as the most captivating and picturesque city in Poland<\/strong>. Picture a UNESCO-listed old town<\/strong>, a living history book, and a Jewish quarter<\/strong> whispering with melancholy, echoing past events. But Krakow goes beyond ancient history and medieval architecture. It’s a city pulsating with its own energy, filled with cozy bars and breweries.<\/p>\n

And that’s not all, because Krakow is the gateway<\/strong> to must-visit destinations likethe Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp<\/strong>, the impressive Wieliczka Salt Mines<\/strong>, and other magical corners of Poland. After exploring this Polish gem on several occasions, we’ve prepared a comprehensive guide<\/strong> for you with 30 things to do in Krakow.<\/strong><\/p>\n

Things to See and Do in Krak\u00f3w – The Historic Center<\/h2>\n

1. Main Square<\/h3>\n

The ideal starting point to explore Krakow is the bustling Main Square<\/strong>, the heart of the UNESCO-listed historic center. This square, one of the largest and most picturesque medieval squares in Europe<\/strong>, is surrounded by palaces and bourgeois houses<\/strong> dazzling in colors reminiscent of the Middle Ages. Here, various city landmarks, such as the majestic St. Mary’s Basilica<\/strong> and the imposing Old Town Hall Tower<\/strong>, bear witness to Krakow’s historical grandeur.<\/p>\n

But the square is not just an architectural marvel; it has witnessed crucial events throughout history, from bustling medieval markets<\/strong> to more contemporary festivities. During the Christmas season, it transforms into a charming stage with its traditional Christmas market<\/strong>.
\n\"Main<\/p>\n

2. St. Mary’s Basilica<\/h3>\n

One of the most prominent symbols Krakow offers is the imposing St. Mary’s Basilica<\/strong>, which majestically presides over the Main Square<\/strong>. Erected in Gothic style<\/strong>, this architectural gem is distinguished by its two towers of disparate heights<\/strong>. The tallest, known as “Hejnalica,” used to announce crucial events (today it also delights with a trumpet melody every hour). As you step inside<\/strong>, you’ll be marveling at an exquisite 15th-century wooden altarpiece<\/strong>, meticulously crafted. For a unique experience, don’t hesitate to ascend the Hejnalica tower<\/strong>, where you can delight in panoramic views<\/strong> of the city.
\n\"St.<\/p>\n

3. Take a Free Walking Tour of Krakow<\/h3>\n

To immerse yourself<\/strong> fully in the fascinating history of the city<\/strong>, of Poland<\/strong>, and of Eastern Europe<\/strong> in general, we recommend participating in one of the free tours of Krakow<\/strong>. Although we already knew the city, we decided to experience\u00a0this free walking tour of the historic center of Krakow<\/a><\/strong>. This tour took us on a fascinating itinerary<\/strong>, offering captivating stories about Poland’s turbulent history<\/strong>, the impact<\/strong> of World War II<\/strong> on the city, and the lives of its Jewish inhabitants. They also provided us with an intimate perspective of contemporary Poland<\/strong> that we were unaware of.<\/p>\n

4. Church of Saint Adalbert<\/h3>\n

In the midst of the vastness of Krakow’s Main Square, due to its size, the Church of Saint Adalbert<\/strong> could easily go unnoticed. However, this structure is one of the oldest churches in the city<\/strong>. Although not much remains of the original Romanesque construction, it has evolved over time and presents itself today as a small Baroque gem<\/strong>. The dome, added in the 17th century, contributes to its unique charm. Moreover, this place regularly offers classical music concerts at affordable prices.
\n\"Church<\/p>\n

5. Town Hall Tower<\/h3>\n

Right on the Main Square stands another imposing building: the Town Hall Tower<\/strong>, rising to 75 meters in height. Built in Gothic style with brick and stone<\/strong>, this monument represents the city’s old town hall. To enjoy panoramic views, you’ll need to climb over 100 steps to reach the top of the tower. Surprisingly, the Gothic-style interiors prove more fascinating than the views themselves, which are somewhat limited from above.
\n\"Old<\/p>\n

6. Florian’s Gate – remnants of the walls<\/h3>\n

One of the main attractions<\/strong> you shouldn’t miss when exploring Krakow is the remnant of its ancient walls. Unfortunately, only a 200-meter fragment of the city wall remains, as eight gates and numerous towers have been destroyed over time. However, you can still marvel at the Carpenters’ Tower<\/strong> and the Cabinetmakers’ Tower<\/strong>. One of the most picturesque corners that has withstood the test of time is Florian’s Gate<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

We were enchanted by this place, especially early in the morning when the influx of visitors is lower. It’s worth stopping and imagining how it was during the monarchy, serving as the starting point for Polish kings on their way<\/strong> to the Wawel Castle<\/strong> on the day of their coronation.
\n\"Florian's<\/p>\n

7. Barbican<\/h3>\n

Next to Florian’s Gate, you’ll discover the imposing Barbican<\/strong>, one of the few buildings that still exist from Krakow’s medieval fortifications<\/strong>. Built at the end of the 15th century, in a period when the Ottoman Empire threatened Polish dominance, this circular-shaped structure<\/strong> has a diameter of 25 meters<\/strong> and features a robust brick wall surrounded by a moat.
\n\"Barbican,<\/p>\n

8. Planty<\/h3>\n

We mentioned earlier that the major part of the defensive wall<\/strong> and its medieval city towers have disappeared<\/strong> over time, mainly because they hindered the city’s growth. After the demolition of the walls, a beautiful park known as Planty<\/strong> emerged in the early 20th century. This expansive green space<\/strong> of 21 hectares surrounds the entire old town, acting as a green lung for the city. Strolling in the shade of its leafy trees is one of the most pleasant experiences in Krakow, especially during the warmer months.
\n\"Planty,<\/p>\n

9. Wawel Castle<\/h3>\n

After exploring the Main Square and its surroundings, the next must-see experience in Krakow<\/strong> is to ascend the Wawel Hill<\/strong>. Strategically located on the banks of the Vistula River<\/strong> (Wisla in Polish), this hill holds a tumultuous history dating back thousands of years. Its significance was solidified with the construction of a Gothic castle<\/strong>, later renovated in Renaissance style in the early 16th century. Although it lost its relevance with the capital moving to Warsaw<\/strong> and fell into disuse, today it serves as the National Museum<\/strong>, allowing you to explore royal chambers and exhibits that include crown treasures, jewels, and an impressive collection of weapons.
\n\"Wawel<\/p>\n

10. Wawel Dragon<\/h3>\n

For lovers of legends, the Wawel Dragon’s Cave<\/strong> remains one of the most peculiar attractions in Krakow. According to the legend, this cave, accessible through an ancient well, was home to a fierce dragon<\/strong>. This creature, feared by locals, was said to devour people, and no one could defeat it. According to the story, a cobbler filled a lamb’s skin with sulfur, causing an insatiable thirst in the dragon. After drinking all the water from the nearby Vistula River, Krakow’s river, the dragon exploded, freeing the city from its threat.<\/p>\n

11. Wawel Cathedral<\/h3>\n

Another of the highlighted icons<\/strong> on Wawel Hill is the Krakow Cathedral<\/strong>. Built in the early 14th century, replacing an earlier church on the same site<\/strong>, the cathedral has been the coronation site of Polish kings<\/strong>. This building is a national symbol, and in addition to its impressive facade<\/strong> that blends multiple styles<\/strong>, the Sigismund Chapel<\/strong> stands out, a Renaissance masterpiece.
\n\"Wawel<\/p>\n

Things to do and see in Krakow – The Jewish Heritage<\/h2>\n

12. Exploring the Jewish Quarter<\/h3>\n

Immersing yourself in Krakow’s rich heritage involves visiting Kazimierz<\/strong>, the vibrant Jewish quarter<\/strong>. This place was a fundamental part of Jewish culture<\/strong>, but it suffered devastation during the Nazi occupation. Although it spent decades in a decadent state, events like the filming of “Schindler’s List” marked its revival<\/strong>. Today, the post-war atmosphere has given way to a lively district with numerous options for dining<\/strong>, drinks<\/strong>, and a youthful atmosphere<\/strong> that makes it unique in the city.
\n\"Jewish<\/p>\n

13. The Synagogues of the Jewish Quarter<\/h3>\n

The 7 synagogues<\/strong> of Kazimierz are must-see gems. Highlighting the Old Synagogue<\/strong>, built by Czech Jews in the 15th century, although sadly almost entirely destroyed after World War II. No less picturesque is the small Remuh Synagogue<\/strong> in Renaissance style. The Tempel Synagogue<\/strong>, more recent, combines neo-Renaissance and Moorish elements<\/strong>, offering a spectacle of shapes and colors inside.
\n\"Sinagoga<\/p>\n

14. Schindler Factory<\/h3>\n

One of Krakow’s most recognized places is the Schindler Factory<\/strong>, famous thanks to the Oscar-winning film “Schindler’s List.” Oskar Schindler, a German businessman and Nazi party member, was horrified to discover the atrocities in concentration camps and courageously saved more than a thousand people. Today, his former factory houses a fascinating museum: “Krakow under Nazi Occupation between 1939 and 1945<\/strong>.” The shocking images and sounds will immerse you in the heartbreaking history of those years. We recommend booking a Oskar Schindler’s Factory Guided Tour<\/strong><\/a> for a more complete experience.
\n\"Schindler<\/p>\n

15. Former Krakow Ghetto<\/h3>\n

From the Jewish quarter, cross the Vistula River to Podgorze<\/strong>, the former Jewish ghetto created by the Nazis in 1941. The Bohater\u00f3w Square<\/strong>, with its monument of chairs<\/strong> symbolizing the suffering of Jews who left their homes, will move you. In the ghetto, you can see remnants of the wall on Lwowska Street (number 25) and Limanowskiego Street (number 62).
\n\"Ghetto<\/p>\n

16. Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp<\/h3>\n

The visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp<\/strong>, about 70 km from Krakow, is a must, even if you only have 2 days<\/strong>. Prepare for an emotionally intense experience, but it’s essential to confront what may be the greatest shame in history.
\n\"Auschwitz<\/p>\n

Auschwitz I<\/strong>, the original concentration camp built in 1940, showcases exhibitions of objects carried by prisoners. The gas chambers<\/strong> are particularly impactful. Auschwitz-Birkenau<\/strong>, the larger concentration camp built in 1941, was created for the “final solution<\/strong>.” Visiting these ruins is overwhelming. We recommend this Auschwitz Tour from Krakow<\/strong><\/a> for a better understanding of the history.<\/p>\n

17. P\u0142asz\u00f3w Concentration Camp<\/h3>\n

Although the Auschwitz concentration camps<\/strong> are globally known, they are not the only<\/strong> such horrific camps<\/strong> you can explore in Krakow. On the outskirts of the city lies the P\u0142asz\u00f3w Concentration Camp<\/strong>, established by the Nazis in 1943.\u00a0You’ll even have the opportunity to explore the house of Commander Amon Goeth<\/strong>, responsible for the executions. By the way, the nearby open-air quarries<\/strong> were used by Steven Spielberg<\/strong> to recreate scenes for the movie Schindler’s List<\/em>.<\/p>\n

Things to See and Do in Krakow – Other Interesting Sights in the City<\/h2>\n

18. St. Andrew’s Church<\/h3>\n

One of the architectural gems in Krakow<\/strong> is St. Andrew’s Church. Originally built as a Romanesque church<\/strong> in the late 11th century, it features a modest exterior<\/strong> that contrasts with the grandiosity of its neighbor, the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul. During the Tartar invasion in the 13th century, its towers and thick walls played a defensive role<\/strong>. Later renovated in the Baroque style, its interior houses the famous Foucault Pendulum.
\n\"St.<\/p>\n

19. Szczepanski Square<\/h3>\n

Among the numerous picturesque squares in the center of Krakow<\/strong>, Szczepanski Square stands out as our favorite spot. Once congested, it is now a haven of peace<\/strong> with a charming fountain<\/strong> where children play during the summer. The square hosts important monuments such as the Old Theater<\/strong>, Poland’s oldest theater, and the Society of Fine Arts building<\/strong>, which often features fascinating exhibitions.
\n\"Szczepanski<\/p>\n

20. Saints Peter and Paul Church<\/h3>\n

Adjacent to St. Andrew’s Church, you’ll find another architectural gem: the Saints Peter and Paul Church<\/strong>, in early Baroque style. Its impressive facade<\/strong> contrasts with the modesty of the rest of the church, as the Jesuits in charge overspent on this part during construction. However, the austere interior<\/strong> reflects a more subdued beauty.
\n\"Saints<\/p>\n

Limited time in Krak\u00f3w? Fear not! Dive into the highlights with our exclusive guide for a one-day adventure<\/a>.<\/div>\n

21. Collegium Maius<\/h3>\n

Within Krakow’s rich academic heritage stands the Collegium Maius<\/strong>, one of the oldest university buildings in Poland<\/strong> and a gem of Central Europe. With a history dating back to the 15th century, this majestic building housed the prestigious Jagiellonian University<\/strong>. Among its illustrious alumni is the renowned Nicolas Copernicus<\/strong>, whose contributions revolutionized the understanding of the cosmos. The college, representative of Gothic architecture<\/strong>, boasts a charming courtyard<\/strong> where an ancient clock plays melodies and a parade of wooden figures every two hours.<\/p>\n

22. Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi<\/h3>\n

A witness to Franciscan devotion, the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi<\/strong>, built by Czech monks in brick, stands as one of the oldest churches in Krakow<\/strong>. Throughout its tumultuous history, it has undergone various renovations, blending Gothic and Neogothic elements<\/strong>. Beyond its architectural beauty, the basilica has a close connection to Karol Wojty\u0142a<\/strong>, globally known as Pope John Paul II<\/strong>.
\n\"Church<\/p>\n

23. Stroll through Kanonicza Street<\/h3>\n

Kanonicza Street<\/strong>, one of the most picturesque streets in Krakow<\/strong>. Its name refers to cannons, and many of its medieval houses<\/strong> have witnessed centuries. Despite later reconstructions in Renaissance and Baroque styles, walking down this street is like immersing yourself in a living piece of the past.
\n\"Kanonicza<\/p>\n

24. Corpus Christi Basilica<\/h3>\n

In the heart of the Jewish quarter of Kazimierz<\/strong>, the Corpus Christi Basilica<\/strong>\u00a0stands as a fascinating blend of Gothic and Baroque styles<\/strong>. In addition to its stunning exterior, the church’s interior houses the mausoleum of Vladislav II, an impressive boat-shaped pulpit, and the city’s largest organ<\/strong>.
\n\"Basilica<\/p>\n

25. Nowa Huta, the Communist District of Krakow<\/h3>\n

The district of Nowa Huta<\/strong> is a model of an ideal communist city<\/strong> built after World War II. Characterized by its monumental style<\/strong> with broad avenues<\/strong> converging in a central star-shaped square<\/strong>, this place allows you to discover an old bunker<\/strong> used as an air-raid shelter and the Ark of the Lord Church<\/strong>, a symbol of resistance against the totalitarian regime<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

26. Krakus Mound – The Best Views of Krakow<\/h3>\n

If you’re like us and are always seeking breathtaking panoramas<\/strong>, you’ll love the Krakus Mound<\/strong>, an elevated spot near the old ghetto with captivating panoramic views of Krakow. This ancient mound, dating back to the 8th century, not only offers a unique perspective but is also wrapped in legends that add a mystical touch. For view enthusiasts, climbing this mound becomes an unforgettable experience in Krakow<\/strong>.
\n\"Views<\/p>\n

What to See and Do in Krakow – More Excursions<\/h2>\n

27. Wieliczka Salt Mines<\/h3>\n

In the surroundings of Krakow, the Wieliczka Salt Mines<\/strong> present themselves as an underground gem. Considered the oldest salt mines in Europe<\/strong>, you’ll immerse yourself in over 3 kilometers of route at a depth of 300 meters<\/strong>. Descend more than 700 steps to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site<\/strong>, highlighting the impressive Saint Kinga’s Chapel<\/strong>, a gigantic room adorned with religious monuments. Remember that entry to the mines is through a guided tour<\/strong>, and we recommend you\u00a0this tour that includes a visit to both the Wieliczka Salt Mine and the Auschwitz Concentration Camp<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

28. Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains<\/h3>\n

The majestic Tatra Mountains<\/strong>, a must-see natural spectacle in Poland<\/strong>, are easily accessible from Krakow on an organized excursion<\/strong>. In the Tatra National Park<\/strong>, the city of Zakopane<\/strong> stands out with the Tatra Museum<\/strong>, the old cemetery, the Jaszczur\u00f3wka Chapel<\/strong>, and the lively Krup\u00f3wki street<\/strong>. You can also enjoy a funicular ride that takes you to the Guba\u0142\u00f3wka and Butorowy Wierch mountains, offering spectacular views of the city.<\/p>\n

29. Dunajec River<\/h3>\n

The Dunajec River<\/strong>, an emblematic corner of Poland<\/strong> within the Pieniny National Park<\/strong>, is a natural jewel. If you want, you can experience the scenic beauty descending in a traditional raft<\/strong> along the river stretch that serves as a natural border<\/strong> between Poland<\/strong> and Slovakia<\/strong>. Marvel at rock formations full of legends<\/strong> and make a stop at Niedzica Castle<\/strong>, where, astonishingly, every year crowds try to find a lost treasure of the Incas.<\/p>\n

30. Wroclaw<\/h3>\n

We conclude the best excursions from Krakow<\/strong> with Wroclaw<\/strong>, one of the most picturesque cities in Poland<\/strong>. Beyond the charm of its historic center<\/strong>, the tiny gnome sculptures<\/strong> scattered throughout the city are a unique attraction. Places of interest such as the Plaza de la Picota<\/strong>, the Astronomical Clock<\/strong>, the Bridge of Lovers<\/strong>, the Leopoldina Hall<\/strong> at the University, the Centennial Pavilion<\/strong>, and the serene Japanese Garden<\/strong> await you.<\/p>\n

Map of the Main Sights in Kakow and Surroundings<\/h2>\n