An article about the Best Things to Do and See in Krakow, Poland including the Wawel Cathedral, Main Market Square, the Historical Jewish Quarter, and much more.
Hello, my wonder friends. How have you been? Are you planning a trip to Poland? If you are, then Krakow is surely on your list.
Krakow is Poland’s most visited city and it is easy to see why. It showcases a beautiful medieval aesthetic and has plenty of cultural attractions for those wanting to learn more about Poland’s rich and diverse history.
Here are some of the Top 5 Most Wonderful Things to Do and See in Krakow, enjoy my wonder friends!
Discover Wawel Castle, the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in the World
Your first stop on your list will be Wawel Royal Castle, the most impressive sight in Krakow’s historical center. Founded in the 13th Century under orders of King Casimir III the Great, Wawel Castle is one of Poland’s oldest castles and is the first designated UNESCO World Heritage Site in the World.
Inside Wawel Castle, you will find the Gothic-styled Wawel Cathedral and a museum where you can visit the castle’s many rooms. You will also enjoy unparalleled views of Krakow’s old town and the Vistula River. Exploring Wawel Castle just before sunset was one of my favorite experiences in Krakow!
Many cultural events and temporal expositions take place at Wawel Castle so be sure to check its official website to see what’s happening at any moment.
Enter the Mysterious Wieliczka Salt Mine
The Wieliczka (one free pierogi to those who can pronounce it correctly!) Salt Mine is one of the most popular tours in Krakow and the reason is simple: imagine a world of underground temples, lakes, and salt sculptures.
Sounds pretty neat, right? This salt mine has been in operation since the 13th Century and has become a tourist attraction in modern times. The trip’s highlight is Saint Kinga’s Chappel with its salt sculptures and crystal chandelliers.
It also has a unique spa that focuses on treating respiratory diseases thanks to the salt mine’s air which is free of pollution and rich in minerals. Whether your visit is for health or pleasure, the Wieliczka Salt Mine will amaze you!
You can book a tour of the Wieliczka Salt Mine and many other Krakow tours at Krakow Booking my wonder friends! Get ready for some amazing adventures in Krakow!
Go on a Food Tour: Pierogi, Zapiekanka, Kielbasa, and More!
Poland is a paradise for foodies with many different soups, meats, and vegetable dishes that will make every traveler salivate with hungerlust.
Here are my Top 3 Polish dishes that you must try during your next visit to Krakow:
Pierogi:
Pierogi is THE most popular and well-known Polish dish and a staple of Poland’s cuisine. They are dumplings filled with a variety of ingredients. Some of the most requested pierogi are those of potato and cheese. You can also find sweet pierogi fillings such as strawberries making this a perfect choice for vegetarians and vegans.
Kielbasa:
Known as the traditional Polish sausage, these sausages are very savory and are often accompanied by potatoes and sauerkraut (fermented cabbage) or served with bread and mustard. If you’re a meat eater, you can never go wrong with a couple of kielbasa for dinner.
Bigos:
Bigos is the most well-known Polish soup and it is traditionally known as the hunter’s stew. If you love fermented food, this one is for you. Its ingredients include sauerkraut, sausages, mushrooms, onions, and many spices creating a unique savory mix. It is usually accompanied by rye bread.
Embarking on a food tour is the best way to enjoy them all. That being said, nothing beats going to a traditional Polish restaurant with your friends and ordering 1 of each dish to share.
Bon apetit mis amigos!
Witness the Largest Medieval Square in Europe: Main Market Square
Main Markey Square dates back to the 13th Century, is considered the largest Medieval Square in Europe, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Rynek Główny is the official name of Krakow’s Main Market Square and it is a glorious sight to behold: beautiful architecture all around, shops selling Polish artisanal souvenirs, and the stunning Saint Mary Basilica.
The best thing to do in Main Market Square? Climb the towers of Saint Mary Basilica and enjoy a wonderful view of Krakow’s historical old town. I recommend bringing a lot of water since that climb will make you super tired after a while! Good luck my wonder friends!
Take a Day Tour to the Auschwitz Memorial and Museum
Finally, I recommend a day trip from Krakow to the Auschwitz Memorial and Museum, located a 1-hour drive away from Krakow.
A crucial aspect of cultural travel is to be aware of the history of the places you visit and a visit to Poland feels incomplete without visiting Auschwitz.
I recommend dedicating a full day to your visit to fully being able to reflect on the horrors of WW2. It is, without a doubt, one of the darkest periods in human history and that’s why a visit to Auschwitz is a must next time you’re in Krakow.
You can read more about my visit here: Why Should Anyone Visit Auschwitz?
I hope you have enjoyed this article about the best things to do and see in Krakow. Don’t forget to subscribe and get more awesome updates and tips in your e-mail!
Have you ever been to Krakow? Would you like to? What were some of your favorite activities? Share your thoughts and let me know what you think!
Until next time, my friends!