Kraków, Poland-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Old Town

  • Morning: Arrive in Kraków, a city with a rich history dating back to the 13th century. Start your day at Wawel Castle (9 AM - 4 PM), a stunning complex that served as the residence of Polish kings.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with cobblestone streets, picturesque squares, and historic buildings. Visit the iconic Main Market Square (Rynek Glowny) to see the Cloth Hall, St. Mary’s Basilica, and other notable landmarks.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Wesele, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Polish cuisine in an intimate setting.

Accommodation:

For your first night, consider staying at the stylish Hotel Polonia, located near the Main Market Square.

Transportation:

Kraków has a well-connected public transportation system. Use buses or trams to get around ( tickets can be purchased on the tram/bus or from newsagents).

Things to Know:

  • Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular attractions.
  • Kraków is generally safe, but take normal precautions with your belongings.

Day 2: History and Culture

  • Morning: Visit Wieliczka Salt Mine, a fascinating underground complex that’s been in operation for over 700 years. Explore the mine’s tunnels, learn about its history, and see the salt carvings.
  • Afternoon: Head to Nowa Huta, a district built during communism as a model of socialist living. Visit the Church of Divine Providence, a symbol of resistance against communist rule.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Pod Baranem, a traditional Polish restaurant with a cozy atmosphere.

Accommodation:

For your second night, consider staying at the modern and comfortable Hotel Forum.

Day 3: Kazimierz and the Jewish Quarter

  • Morning: Explore the charming Kazimierz District, a historic neighborhood that was once home to Kraków’s Jewish community. Visit the Remuh Synagogue, one of the few synagogues in Poland that has been preserved.
  • Afternoon: Walk along Forsythia Street (Ulica Ujazdowska), lined with beautiful buildings and cafes. Stop by the Kazimierz Jewish Museum to learn about the history of Kraków’s Jewish community.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Meat Me!, a modern restaurant serving high-quality meat dishes.

Accommodation:

For your third night, consider staying at the stylish and centrally-located Hotel Stary.

Day 4: Day Trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, the site of one of the most tragic moments in human history. Learn about the camp’s history, see the memorials, and pay your respects.
  • Evening: Return to Kraków and enjoy dinner at Dworek pod Rózami, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Polish cuisine.

Accommodation:

For your fourth night, consider staying at the modern and comfortable Hotel Novotel Krakow Centrum.

Day 5: More of Old Town

  • Morning: Continue exploring the Old Town by visiting the iconic St. Mary’s Basilica and seeing its intricate stone carvings.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), a beautiful Renaissance building that now houses a shopping mall and an art gallery.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Mleczarnia, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Polish cuisine.

Accommodation:

For your fifth night, consider staying at the stylish and centrally-located Hotel Bonerowski’s Palace.

Day 6: Last Day in Kraków

  • Morning: Spend your last morning in Kraków visiting any attractions you missed earlier in the trip or revisiting favorite spots.
  • Afternoon: Depart for the airport and head back home, bringing memories of your time in this beautiful city.

Tips:

  • Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular attractions.
  • Kraków is generally safe, but take normal precautions with your belongings.
  • Don’t miss trying traditional Polish cuisine, such as pierogi or bigos.
  • Explore the many parks and gardens in Kraków, such as Planty Park.

Additional Information:

  • Weather: Kraków has a temperate climate, with warm summers and cold winters. Be prepared for rain and cooler temperatures during the spring and autumn months.
  • Language: Polish is the official language of Kraków, but many locals speak English. Don’t hesitate to ask for help or directions if you need them.

Travel Resources:

  • Airports: Kraków has two airports: John Paul II International Airport (KRK) and Balice Airport.
  • Public Transportation: Use buses or trams to get around Kraków.
  • Taxis: Taxis are widely available, but be sure to agree on the price before you start your journey.