tourist map of krakow

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Krakow map in PDF

Wondering which route to take during your visit in krakow check our free krakow map in pdf with description of the most important krakow attractions..

Download Free Krakow map in PDF

Krakow map with attractions

Learn more about best Krakow attractions and best things to see in Krakow map

See Krakow Old Town Map

Krakow Old Town is one of the most beautiful old towns in Europe. It’s the oldest area of the city, listed on UNESCO World Heritage List in 1987. It’s also a central point of the city.

Its unique architecture, that you can see on Krakow old town map  has remained unchanged since Medieval Times.

Right in the middle of the old town there is Krakow Main square , almost a perfect square (200 x 200) . It’s the very heart of Krakow where the most important objects are located.  It includes St. Mary’s Basilica, Cloth Halls, Town Hall an Mickiewicz Monument. have you seen all of them?

Historic Kazimierz and Podgorze

In the bottom part of of Krakow map you can see other two prominent city’s districts.

Kazimierz is the famous Jewish Quarter of Krakow. You’ll find an incredible Jewish heritage in there. Besides 9 beautiful synagogues, one can sit in a Jewish restaurant and listening to Jewish life music in Kazimierz. Also, it’s a culture, as well as a party centre of the city. You’ll see that the district never sleeps thanks to its numerous local bars and music clubs.

Podgorze is a district that every Krakow tourist should see. First of all, because we can find Schindler’s Factory in Podgorze. It’s an amazing museum with interactive exhibitions that picture World War II period in Krakow.

City for Walks

The river you can see on Krakow Map is of course Vistula. Although it spans all across the country, in Krakow it is located unusually favorably. Its banks are adopted for long picturesque and enjoyable walks, runs or simply for laying on the sun. There are also Vistula boats with climatic restaurants inside. You can go on an amazing Vistula cruise (by Krakow water tram) that features breathtaking landscapes of different parts of the Krakow.

Of course, you can always book a Krakow walking tour and try to localize on a Krakow map all places that you visit with your guide.

Getting around in Krakow with electric car

Krakow Old town map can help you in getting around in Krakow significantly. Whether on foot, by bike or by one of famous Krakow electric cars. In fact, using the last one, you’ll be able to cover all attractions from Krakow Old Town map and see other districts as well! Jewish quarter, Nowa Huta or Podgórze district are definitely wort to see. Each of then is completely different and has something else to show and to amaze with!

Discover every district and make sure that all points from your Krakow map are ticked off.

Take your Krakow map with you and begin amazing journey in this magical city today!

Map of Kraków - Interactive map of Kraków

Information about the map.

Check out the main monuments, museums, squares, churches and attractions in our map of Krakow. Click on each icon to see what it is.

To help you find your way once you get to your destination, the map you print out will have numbers on the various icons that correspond to a list with the most interesting tourist attractions. This way, you’ll be able to see where each attraction is.

Icons on the Krakow interactive map

The map is very easy to use:

• Check out information about the destination: click on the color indicators.
• Move across the map: shift your mouse across the map.
• Zoom in: double click on the left-hand side of the mouse on the map or move the scroll wheel upwards.
• Zoom out: double click on the right-hand side of the mouse on the map or move the scroll wheel downwards.

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Where to eat.

Poland has a strong culinary tradition that combines the best Slavic, Turkish, German, Hungarian, Jewish and Armenian cuisine. The traditional Polish dishes are usually wholesome and very nourishing.

General Information

When you plan a trip to a place you’ve never been to and know little about it, there are always a lot of questions you’ll ask yourself about your destination. Find the answers to the main FAQs about Krakow: 

Krakow Printable Tourist Map

Krakow Map: The Attractions

Main Square

Wawel Castle

St. Mary's Basilica

Saint Florian's Gate

Town Hall Tower

Saints Peter and Paul Church, Kraków

Rynek Underground

Franciscan Church

Schindler's Factory

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Map of Krakow — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

What’s on this map.

We’ve made the ultimate tourist map of Krakow, Poland for travelers! Check out Krakow’s top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs all in one interactive map.

Visiting Krakow? See our Krakow Trip Planner.

How to use the map

Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in Krakow. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our Krakow map:

• Explore the best restaurants, shopping, and things to do in Krakow by categories
• Get directions in Google Maps to each place
• Export all places to save to your Google Maps
• Plan your travels by turning on metro and bus lines
• Create a Wanderlog trip plan (link to create a trip plan for the city) that keep all the places on the map in your phone
• Print a physical map to bring it on your trip

Top 19 attractions in Krakow

Rynek główny, st. mary's basilica.

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Wawel Cathedral

Oskar schindler's enamel factory, wawel royal castle-state art collection, muwi stained glass workshop and museum, polish aviation museum, bazylika franciszkanów św. franciszka z asyżu, national museum in krakow, historical museum of the city of kraków, wieliczka salt mine, rynek underground museum, muzeum farmacji collegium medicum uniwersytetu jagiellońskiego, the princes czartoryski museum, kraków pinball museum, lost souls alley, stare miasto, gojump park trampolin mateczny, top 10 restaurants in krakow, pod aniołami restaurant.

Restauracja Cyrano de Bergerac

Starka | restaurant & vodkas, restauracja pod baranem | rok zal. 1997, art restaurant, restauracja wierzynek, restauracja sąsiedzi, sausages from the blue nysa, zazie bistro, transportation in krakow, nearby airports, john paul ii international airport kraków-balice, katowice airport, highways and major roads.

• A4 - connects Krakow with Wroclaw, Katowice, and Germany
• A1 - connects Krakow with Gdansk, Lodz, and Warsaw
• E77 - connects Krakow with Przemysl and Ukraine
• DK7 - connects Krakow with Warsaw and Brzesko
• DK79 - connects Krakow with Tarnow and Debica
• DK94 - connects Krakow with Rzeszow and Ukraine
• DK79a - connects Krakow with Nowy Sacz and Krynica-Zdroj
• DK75 - connects Krakow with Oswiecim and Bielsko-Biala
• DK52 - connects Krakow with Zator and Sucha Beskidzka
• DK94b - connects Krakow with Tarnow and Ropczyce.

Top searches in Krakow

Popular road trips from krakow, what's the weather like in krakow.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Krakow for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Krakow in January
• Weather in Krakow in February
• Weather in Krakow in March
• Weather in Krakow in April
• Weather in Krakow in May
• Weather in Krakow in June
• Weather in Krakow in July
• Weather in Krakow in August
• Weather in Krakow in September
• Weather in Krakow in October
• Weather in Krakow in November
• Weather in Krakow in December

All road trips from Krakow

• Krakow to London drive
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• Krakow to Paris drive
• Krakow to Vienna drive
• Krakow to Rome drive
• Krakow to Budapest drive
• Krakow to Amsterdam drive
• Krakow to Barcelona drive
• Krakow to Warsaw drive
• Krakow to Florence drive
• Krakow to Venice drive
• Krakow to Milan drive
• Krakow to Munich drive
• Krakow to Copenhagen drive
• Krakow to Madrid drive
• Krakow to Istanbul drive
• Krakow to Edinburgh drive
• Krakow to Dublin drive
• Krakow to St. Petersburg drive
• Krakow to Moscow drive
• Krakow to Brussels drive
• Krakow to Wroclaw drive
• Krakow to Bratislava drive
• Krakow to Hamburg drive
• Krakow to Naples drive
• Krakow to Athens drive
• Krakow to Turin drive
• Krakow to Stockholm drive

Explore nearby places

• Wielka Wies
• Gmina Liszki
• Ojcow National Park
• Krzyszkowice
• Niepolomice
• Jerzmanowice
• Krzeszowice
• Pieskowa Skala

All related maps of Krakow

• Map of Zielonki
• Map of Wegrzce
• Map of Balice
• Map of Zabierzw
• Map of Korzkiew
• Map of Wieliczka
• Map of Wielka Wies
• Map of Gmina Liszki
• Map of Owczary
• Map of Zelkow
• Map of Kocmyrzow
• Map of Siepraw
• Map of Ojcow National Park
• Map of Ojcow
• Map of Glogoczow
• Map of Czernichow
• Map of Krzyszkowice
• Map of Rybna
• Map of Niepolomice
• Map of Jerzmanowice
• Map of Saspow
• Map of Brzezie
• Map of Igolomia
• Map of Dobczyce
• Map of Krzeszowice
• Map of Pieskowa Skala
• Map of Raclawice
• Map of Izdebnik
• Map of Myslenice
• Map of Suloszowa

Krakow throughout the year

• Krakow in January
• Krakow in February
• Krakow in March
• Krakow in April
• Krakow in May
• Krakow in June
• Krakow in July
• Krakow in August
• Krakow in September
• Krakow in October
• Krakow in November
• Krakow in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Krakow?

Get inspired for your trip to Krakow with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Krakow Itinerary
• 2-Day Krakow Itinerary
• 3-Day Krakow Itinerary
• 4-Day Krakow Itinerary
• 5-Day Krakow Itinerary

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Krakow Tourist Attractions Map PDF

Printable Map of Krakow Attractions, Walking Tours Map

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Krakow Tourist Attractions Maps | City Tours Map

Krakow is surrounded with interesting historical sights lying at the banks of Vistula River. It’s a great city for sightseeing and enjoying delicious Polish cuisines. The Old Town center is where most of the historical attractions can be found.

When exploring Krakow, you can greatly benefit from the Krakow metro map. With this map, you’ll be able to discover the city on your own, without having to spend a lot of money on transportation. The Krakow Transport Map will also tell you what bus to take if you’re going to explore the various tourist sights of the city. If you plan on exploring outside the city center, this map will surely be a big help.

For information on where to find the tourist attractions in Krakow, do check out the Krakow Tourist Sightseeing Map. This map will inform you where to find the famous sights like Kraków Old Town, Wawel Royal Castle, The Cloth Hall, Wieliczka Salt Mine, and the Main Town Square. Of course, there are also a number of museums and galleries that are definitely worth a visit so you better check them out.

Most of Krakow’s historic areas are covered with pedestrian zone, which allows you to easily explore the city on foot. When it comes to this, our free printable Krakow Walking Tour Maps would be a big help. These maps will serve as your guide into exploring the city’s famous sights on foot.

If you want a more comfortable way of getting around the city, you might want to join in one of the Hop on Hop off Bus tours. These tours are also ideal for those who are traveling with kids. You’ll find information on where the bus would pass by on the Krakow Hop on Hop off bus map. So get our free printable copy now.

• Interactive Krakow Attractions Map
• Top Rated Krakow Attractions

Krakow Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour Map

Krakow metro map, krakow transport map, krakow tourist map, krakow walking tour map.

Top Krakow Attractions Skip-the-line Tickets & Tours

Krakow Guided Tour to Iconic Polish Royal Residence Wawel Castle

Museum of illusions Entry Ticket

Schindler’s Factory Visit & Skip-the-Line Entry

Schindler's Factory Museum Guided Tour with skip-the-line entry

Zakopane - private tour to the town at foot of Tatra Mountains

Auschwitz - Birkenau Museum and Memorial Private tour

ENERGYLANDIA: Amusement Park (transport + tickets)

From Krakow: Chocholow Thermal Hot Springs (hotel pick up)

Must-see attractions in Kraków

Wieliczka Salt Mine

Some 14km southeast of Kraków, the Wieliczka (vyeh-leech-kah) salt mine has been welcoming tourists since 1722 and today is one of Poland's most popular…

Wawel Royal Castle

As the political and cultural heart of Poland through the 16th century, Wawel Royal Castle is a potent symbol of national identity. It's now a museum…

Schindler's Factory

Despite the name, this museum covers more than the story of Oskar Schindler, the Nazi German industrialist who famously saved the lives of members of his…

Wawel Cathedral

Wawel Cathedral has witnessed many coronations, funerals and burials of Poland’s monarchs and nobles. The present cathedral is basically a Gothic, but…

St Mary's Basilica

This striking brick church, best known simply as St Mary’s, is dominated by two towers of different heights. The first church here was built in the 1220s…

Collegium Maius

The Collegium Maius, part of Jagiellonian University, is the oldest surviving university building in Poland, and one of the finest examples of 15th…

Museum of Pharmacy

The name of this museum doesn’t sound that exciting, but the Jagiellonian University Medical School’s Museum of Pharmacy is one of the largest museums of…

Church of SS Peter & Paul

The Jesuits erected this church, the first baroque building in Kraków, after they had been brought to the city in 1583 to do battle with supporters of the…

Kościuszko Mound

This mound, dedicated to Polish (and American) military hero Tadeusz Kościuszko (1746–1817), was erected between 1820 and 1823. It stands 34m high and…

Rynek Underground

This fascinating attraction beneath the market square consists of an underground route through medieval market stalls and other long-forgotten chambers…

Galicia Jewish Museum

This museum both commemorates Jewish victims of the Holocaust and celebrates the Jewish culture and history of the former Austro-Hungarian region of…

Basilica of St Francis

Duck into the dark basilica on a sunny day to admire the artistry of Stanisław Wyspiański, who designed the fantastic art nouveau stained-glass windows…

Museum of the People's Republic of Poland

This museum and exhibition space, located in the socialist-realist Światowid cinema, focuses on the communist history of Nowa Huta and of Poland in…

Main Market Square

The vast Main Market Square is the focus of the Old Town, and is Europe's largest medieval town square (200m by 200m). Its most prominent features are the…

Czartoryski Museum

The Czartoryski boasts the city's richest art collection, including Leonardo Da Vinci's 15th-century masterpiece, Lady with an Ermine (1489–90). Other…

Old Synagogue

This synagogue, dating from the 15th century, is the oldest surviving Jewish house of worship in Poland. During WWII, it was plundered and partly…

Dominating the centre of the Main Market Square, this building was once the heart of Kraków’s medieval clothing trade. Created in the early 14th century…

Corpus Christi Church

In the northeastern corner of Plac Wolnica and founded in 1340, this was the first church in Kazimierz and for a long time the town’s parish church. Its…

Bishop Erazm Ciołek Palace

Quaint Kanonicza is the perfect street to put a palace and fill it with age-old paintings and sculptures. This newish branch of the National Museum…

Holy Trinity Basilica

Originally built in the 13th century, this massive church was badly damaged by fire in 1850. Note the original 14th-century doorway at the main (western)…

Jordan Park

Named after its founder Henryk Jordan, this park is a favourite for many. You'll find dog-walkers enjoying open fields, kids on climbing frames, outdoor…

State Rooms

The State Rooms constitute the largest and most impressive exhibition in the castle; the entrance is in the southeastern corner of the courtyard, from…

National Museum

Three permanent exhibitions – the Gallery of 20th-Century Polish Painting, the Gallery of Decorative Art, and Polish Arms and National Colours – are…

Plac Bohaterów Getta

Known as Plac Zgody during the German occupation of WWII, this public square marks the beginning of the purpose-built Jewish wartime ghetto that stretched…

Royal Private Apartments

This tour lends insight into how the monarchs and their families once lived. You’ll see plenty of magnificent old tapestries, mostly northern French and…

Remuh Cemetery

This evocative cemetery stands just behind the Remuh Synagogue and dates to the Renaissance period of the 16th century. It was the quarter's main burial…

Pharmacy Under the Eagle

This former pharmacy, on the south side of Plac Bohaterów Getta, tells the story of owner Tadeusz Pankiewicz, who risked life and limb trying to help the…

New Jewish Cemetery

Eastern Kraków

This enormous cemetery dates from 1800 and was the main burial ground for Kazimierz's Jewish population up until WWII. Many of the grave markers were…

Stanisław Lem Science Garden

Science nerds will enjoy a day out at this interactive science park, about 4km east of the Old Town, dedicated to the memory of Polish science fiction…

Planty Park

Tracing the path of the medieval city's moat, wrapping around the Old Town from Wawel Castle, the Planty Park is an everyday piece of people's lives in…

Krakowski Park

Renovated in spring 2018, this park is a lovely place to spend an hour with children, walking a dog or on your own. Added plants bring colour and attract…

Temple Synagogue

One of the quarter's most visually arresting synagogues, the Temple dates from the mid-19th century. It was built in Moorish style and then given a lavish…

Stained Glass Workshop & Museum

This combination museum and workshop highlights the beauty of stained glass and the considerable skill (and artistic talent) it takes to produce it…

Monastery of Camaldolese Monks

The secluded Monastery of Camaldolese Monks sits atop Silver Mountain, overlooking the Vistula, in an outlying area west of the Old Town. It's worth…

Benedictine Abbey of SS Peter & Paul

About 12km southwest of the centre in Tyniec, the Benedictine Abbey of SS Peter and Paul rises dramatically on a cliff above the Vistula. Enter through a…

Płaszów Labour Camp

The former Płaszów forced-labour and concentration camp was built by occupying Germans during WWII to facilitate liquidation of the nearby Podgórze Jewish…

High Synagogue

This former place of worship was built around 1560, in Renaissance style, and is the third-oldest synagogue after the Old and Remuh synagogues. The High…

The most intriguing remnant of Kraków's medieval fortifications, the Barbican is a powerful, circular bastion adorned with seven turrets. There are 130…

Pauline Church of SS Michael & Stanislaus

Skałka, as this functioning monastery and religious shrine is called locally, dates to the early days of the Polish kingdom. In 1079, Bishop Stanisław…

Florian Gate

This attractive stone gateway is the only one of the city’s original eight gates that was not dismantled during the 19th-century modernisation. It was…

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15 Best Things to Do in Krakow & 4 Top Places to Visit Nearby (+ Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 16, 2023

Looking for the best things to do in Kraków, Poland? In this guide, you can read about the VERY BEST sights and TOP tourist attractions in Krakow that are worth your time the most if you are visiting the city for the first time. We also include the most popular places to visit near Krakow that are considered absolute must-sees in the area.

In other words – this guide covers all the top places and experiences that you really shouldn’t miss when visiting Krakow. Find out!

Poland’s second-largest city, Krakow (sometimes also spelled as Cracow) is a welcoming destination that has seen its popularity soar over the last decade. Indeed, Krakow has a lot to offer and there is something here to appeal to every visitor, from a compelling – if troubled – history, to glorious architecture and stunning natural scenery.

In summer, the banks of the River Vistula come alive with locals and tourists enjoying picnics and soaking up the sunshine. Krakow has a fairytale-like appeal in the winter months too, its main square alive with the sights and sounds of the Christmas market and the skeletal trees of Planty Park tipped with snow.

Add to these attractions the incredible Polish cuisine along with some exceptional international eateries, and you have one of the best – and most affordable – European cities for a memorable break.

Read on to discover some of the very best things to do in Krakow if you’re visiting for the first time . For each attraction, we include practical advice to help you plan your visit and insider tips for making the most of your time.

And finally, we also created a  map of the best places in Krakow  that should help you plan your sightseeing itinerary. Take a look!

TIP: If you are planning on doing lots of sightseeing in Krakow, and visiting all the main attractions and museums, you may want to get the Krakow Card . It’s available for 1, 2, or 3 days and includes access to almost 40 museums in Krakow, unlimited free travel on the city’s buses and trams, and a few other perks.

READ ALSO: Krakow Travel Tips for First Visit

These are the very best places to see and things to do in Kraków:

1. Krakow Old Town

Krakow’s historic Old Town (Stare Miasto) is the best place to visit in the city. It’s here that you will find the majority of the most popular sights and tourist attractions in Krakow.

The importance of the city – once Poland’s capital – is evident here in the magnificent architecture and monuments. The Old Town was once completely enclosed by walls, although very little of these remain today and there is a belt of parkland in their place.

Don’t miss the Kraków Barbican , a 15th-century city gateway on the northern side of the old town. You can also visit St. Florian’s Gate and Defensive Walls and walk on the ramparts for an elevated view of the streets below.

The old town has a fun and vibrant atmosphere from morning until late at night. There is so much here to see and do that it is very easy to spend an entire day just in and around the main square.

Below, you can find more information about many highlights of Krakow’s old town.

2. Rynek Główny (Main Market Square)

The cultural, commercial, and historic heart of the city, Rynek Główny is a must-see in Krakow!

Dating back to the mid-13th century, it’s one of the largest medieval squares in Europe. The market square as it is today was laid out following the devastating Mongol invasion that destroyed the original site.

You can see long rows of townhouses on its borders and restaurants surrounding the square on all sides. Despite their Neoclassical facades, some of these are very old and distinguished – particularly The Restauracja Wierzynek. In 1364, a wealthy Krakow merchant named Mikołaj Wierzynek hosted a feast here for the monarchs of Europe on behalf of the Polish King Casimir the Great.

In the summer, the cobbled square regularly hosts street food and flea markets. In the winter, it feels incredibly romantic, the outdoor seating areas of the restaurants covered with glass enclosures and illuminated with fairy lights.

Good to know: No matter in which season you visit, you’ll see horse-drawn carriages lined up in the square. The routes and fares are at the discretion of the individual driver. The most popular route – from Market Square to Wawel Hill – takes around 30 minutes and varies from 200-300 zloty (40-65 euros), depending on the season.

TIP: Don’t miss the smaller square just nearby, Mały Rynek . It’s much quieter and worth a quick look for its colorful architecture.

3. Sukiennice (Cloth Hall)

Krakow’s Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) was built in the 14th century and is one of the most important buildings in the central square. Considered the world’s first shopping mall, it is evidence of Krakow’s importance in medieval European commerce.

In addition to cloth, it once sold exotic items from the east, such as leather, silk, wax, and spices. Though it’s still a market today, you are – sadly – more likely to find mass-produced tourist memorabilia than oriental luxuries.

Nevertheless, the atmosphere is fun and there are some lovely pieces of amber jewelry and handmade lace that you might want to take home as souvenirs.

If you don’t feel like shopping, you may prefer to check out the Sukiennice museum instead. The Gallery of 19th-Century Polish Art in Sukiennice is located on the upper floor of the building and houses Poland’s largest exhibition of 19th-century Polish paintings and sculptures.

Practical info: The Cloth Hall and museum are open from 10 am Tuesday to Sunday (closing times vary). Both are closed on Mondays. The entry to the museum is included with the Krakow Card .

4. St Mary’s Basilica

Located on the square opposite Cloth Hall, St Mary’s Church is another must-see in Krakow.

This impressive basilica was built in the 14th century on the site of an earlier church destroyed during the Mongol invasion.

St Mary’s Basilica is still an active place of worship, so you can’t visit during services. But if you’d like to take a look inside, head to the building opposite the tourist entrance where you can buy tickets to visit at certain times from spring to autumn. The entry is also included with the city museum card .

It’s worth doing so if you get the chance, as the Gothic altarpiece – the largest in the world – is simply stunning! Just as the blue ceiling with its gold stars and the beautiful stained glass windows in the nave.

Good to know: If you’re feeling energetic, you can climb to a viewing platform near the top of the higher tower. There are almost 300 steps to tackle but the views of the square and across the city are worth the effort!

Interesting to know: On the hour every hour, you can hear a bugler perform an hourly trumpet call – the hejnał mariacki – from the top of its northern tower. You should be able to see him, too, as he repeats the call four times in four different directions. But as you listen, you may wonder why the haunting melody cuts off so abruptly!

That’s because the bugle is played in honor of the original church’s bugler, who is said to have been killed by an arrow as he played to warn Krakow’s citizens of the invaders’ approach.

St. Mary’s Trumpet Call has been broadcast daily at noon on Polish radio since 1927. This makes it the longest-running radio broadcast in the world!

5. Rynek Underground Museum

Located to the right of the Cloth Hall you’ll find Rynek Underground Museum . This unique museum is devoted to life in Krakow’s Old Town more than 700 years ago. It’s actually an archaeological site that covers a huge area below the main square and houses ruins of the original market and artifacts discovered during excavations.

These include items that give you a real insight into times gone by, such as leather shoes, clay figurines, dice, and beads. You can also see ancient graves and learn more about the city’s trade relationship with the Hanseatic League.

Good to know: There are information boards in both Polish and English, along with engaging interactive video displays. It takes around an hour to see everything.

Practical information: The museum limits the number of visitors and works with timed-entry tickets. So if you absolutely want to visit, it might be a good idea to reserve your tickets on their site in advance. Tickets are also available from the Visitors’ Centre in the Cloth Hall – on the opposite side of the museum’s entrance. Alternatively, you can also visit here with a guided tour .

6. Florianska Street and St. Florian’s Gate

The bustling Florianska Street is one of the main streets in the old town of Krakow. It runs between Market Square and St. Florian’s Gate, part of the city’s 14th-century fortifications built to keep out Turkish invaders.

This wide promenade is lined with interesting buildings and is part of the ‘Royal Road’ from St. Florian’s church to the foot of Wawel Hill.

Strolling between the square and the Gate you’ll pass an interesting mixture of modern-day fast-food eateries and some of the oldest cafes in the city. This is a good place to stop and enjoy a strong coffee and a traditional Polish meal, whilst soaking up the lively and exciting atmosphere.

When you get to St. Florian’s Gate, you’ll probably be greeted with music from one of the buskers that regularly perform in its echoing tunnel.

If you have time, you might like to pay a small fee to visit ‘The City Defence Walls’ exhibition . This includes both Florian’s Gate and the nearby Barbican, giving you the chance to walk along the ramparts and see the Old Town from a higher angle. These are all included with the Krakow Card as well.

TIP: Avoid using the currency exchange offices along Florianska Street as the rates are not as good as elsewhere in the city.

7. Wawel Royal Castle and Cathedral

Wawel Royal Castle is another must-see in Krakow that should be on every itinerary. This impressive, UNESCO-listed complex holds a lofty position atop Wawel Hill, just about 15 minutes walk from the city center. The sweeping views across the city and the Vistula from the bulwarks are stunning!

The seat of the King of Poland from the 13th to the 17th century, Wavel Castle is exceptionally important to the Polish people. The uniquely mixed architecture gives a hint to its turbulent past and the many rulers that have occupied it.

If your time in Krakow is limited, then you can visit for free and simply take a walk through the gardens and around the grounds, and check out Wavel Cathedral . If you want to explore the area at your own pace and learn about the fascinating history and stories of this place, we highly recommend getting an audio guide . It’s just a few euros and well worth it.

But if you have more time available, it’s well worth seeing all that Wawel Castle has to offer! It has been a museum since the 1940s and is splendid inside, with glorious State Rooms, a Treasury, and extensive art exhibitions.

Highlights include paintings by Veronese, Gobelin tapestries, and Szczerbiec – the ceremonial sword used in the coronations of almost all Polish monarchs from 1320 to 1764. It is also the only preserved part of the medieval Polish crown jewels.

If you are visiting Krakow with children, don’t miss the Wawel Dragon Statue which stands on Wawel Hill, next to the Vistula River. It breathes ‘real’ fire (thanks to a supply of natural gas).

Practical info: You can find more information about visiting the individual attractions at the castle and book tickets here . Alternatively, there is a really good guided tour available .

Good to know: For the best photos of the entire castle complex, stand on the Grunwald Bridge across the Vistula river. If you get time, pop back at night – the scene looks magical with the lights from the castle reflected on the water!

TIP: After visiting the Castle, stop for lunch or dinner at Pod Wawelem , a traditional Polish restaurant that sits at the foot of the Hill. The food is exceptional and you’ll be served by staff dressed in traditional clothing for an authentic experience. The restaurant is as popular with locals as it is with tourists, so reserve your table in advance, especially if visiting during the weekend.

8. Vistula River Cruise

If you are looking for something relaxing to do in Krakow away from the hustle and bustle of the main attractions, consider a short excursion on the Vistula River by boat .

From the water, you can take in breathtaking views of the city including some of Krakow’s most important landmarks such as the Wawel Castle, the Convent of the Norbertine Sisters, or the house of Pope John Paul II, to mention just a few.

In addition, you get an informative but also entertaining audio commentary of all the sights you pass along the way. There is a big variety of boats that you can choose from; some boats also have a bar where you can get a drink.

Good to know: Most Vistula River Cruises start/end at the foot of Wawel Castle and take about 1 hour. They run the whole year. It’s a nice way to see more of the city and at the same time rest your legs a bit after all the walking and sightseeing in the center of Krakow.

TIP: Here you can find all the best options for a Vistula River Cruise . This is the most popular cruise at the moment. If you are looking for a more special experience, you can opt for a private tour on a traditional ‘gondola’ .

9. Vistula Boulevards

Exploring the wide, manmade banks of the Vistula River is a lovely way to spend a sunny afternoon in Krakow and a great opportunity to mingle with the locals.

Developed from 1907 to 1913 for flood management, the Vistula Boulevards are ideal for walking or cycling, giving you a unique perspective on the city. You’ll find barges moored along the banks selling all different types of food, or you can simply turn up with a picnic and watch the world go by!

TIP: The Czerwieński Boulevard – between the Dębnicki and Grunwaldzki bridges – is the most popular section, and here you’ll find the Wawel Dragon and a statue of the dog Dżok. You can also see the handprints of celebrities like Celine Dion on the Avenue of Stars .

Another point of interest is the modern Bernatka Footbridge that links Podgórze with Kazimierz. It is decorated with sculptures that look as if they are floating. It has also gained a reputation as a bridge of love and you’ll see many locks attached to the railings where couples have attached them before throwing away the keys.

10. Jewish Quarter

South of Krakow’s Old Town lies Kazimierz . This neighborhood has been home to the city’s Jewish population since the 15th century.

Just opposite it – on the right bank of the Vistula – sits the Podgórze district , which is where the Krakow ghetto was established by the Nazis in 1941. Here, Polish Jews lived in miserable and cramped conditions until 1943, when the ghetto was ‘liquidated’.

From this point onwards, the entire Jewish district fell into disrepair. But gradual improvements and its later use as a location for the movie ‘Schindler’s List’ transformed the Jewish District. It is now one of the most attractive parts of the city, filled with quaint old buildings, indie galleries, quirky shops, and eateries that look much as they would have done in the past.

Here you can find The Old Synagogue – as its name suggests, the oldest synagogue in Krakow. Unusually, it is a part fortress, too, designed to protect Jewish citizens during a siege. Looted, then converted to a warehouse by the Nazis, it is now a museum where you can learn more about the history and traditions of Polish Jews. The entrance here is also included with the Krakow Card.

A sobering sight when visiting the Jewish district is the Ghetto Heroes Square , where you can see large and small chairs placed in a grid on the cobbles. These symbolize the empty seats left behind, caused by the many deaths that took place here during World War II. This is one of the most moving places to see in Krakow. You can also see a plaque marking the spot where a resistance unit called the ‘Jewish Combat Organization’ used to meet.

Be sure to visit Plac Nowy , referred to for generations by locals as the Jewish Square. It looks far more run down than Rynek Główny but has a much more authentic feel, with stalls selling everything from antiques to pigeons, depending on when you visit.

Good to know: You can find excellent food at Plac Nowy, particularly the ‘zapiekanki’ – a sort of French bread pizza sold from a hatch in the rotunda. We also recommend stopping at Cytat Cafe, a unique venue piled with books that serves an inspirational quote with every cup of coffee!

TIP: One of the best ways to visit the Jewish ghetto (and learn the stories behind the buildings and the streets) is with a local guide. There are really good walking tours , or you can opt for this highly-rated bike tour . In about 4 hours, you cover all the main sights of Krakow including the Old Town, Kazimierz, the Ghetto, and many sites featured in the movie ‘Schindler’s List’ .

11. Schindler’s Factory

Within a 30-minute walk of the Old Town, the Schindler’s Factory Museum is another place that is well worth seeing in Krakow.

If you have seen the movie or read the book , then you will be familiar with the story of Oskar Schindler, the German industrialist credited with saving the lives of more than 1,000 Jews in World War II. Although a visit to the museum will reveal a somewhat different character to that depicted by Hollywood.

This museum is housed in the former enamelware factory that he took over after the occupation. Despite its name, this attraction isn’t just devoted to Schindler. Instead, the museum looks in detail at the occupation of Krakow by the German army at that time and the effects it had on ordinary citizens.

Some of the exhibits relate directly to Schindler, including a desk believed to be his, along with accounts of how he helped save lives and details of his famous ‘list’. But the wider exhibition contains reconstructions of ghetto dwellings and artifacts, helping you understand how everyday life was in Krakow at that time for both Poles and Jews.

Good to know: There are few interactive exhibits and the subject matter is geared toward a mature audience, so it’s not recommended for children under the age of 14.

Practical info: Visitor numbers are limited, so be sure to book your ticket in advance . The entry here is also included with the Krakow Card . Although you can visit the factory independently, we recommend considering a guided tour to get the most out of your visit. Private tours are also very affordable.

12. Saints Peter & Paul Church

The Jesuit Church of Saints Peter and Paul  is one of the most beautiful churches in Krakow. It’s located on Grodzka Street, between the Old Town and the Jewish Quarter, so you’ll likely pass here anyway when sightseeing in Krakow; so be sure to take a look.

Built early in the 1600s, it was Krakow’s first baroque building and features statues of the twelve apostles outside (although these are contemporary replicas of the originals, which you can now see in the side yard).

Finished in Italian marble and with striking iron railings, its exterior is stunning. It’s also quite unique in a city filled with churches.

The inside – whilst beautiful – isn’t quite as impressive. Apparently, this is because the Jesuits spent so much money on the façade that there was little left for the interior. But it still has some interesting details, with a magnificent baroque altarpiece, ornate organ, and stucco decorations depicting scenes in the lives of St. Peter and St. Paul.

TIP: The best way to appreciate The Church of SS Peter & Paul is to attend one of the classical concerts held there. The acoustics are outstanding, creating a wonderful experience you won’t forget. You can find details of upcoming concerts here . Usually, you can just book the tickets for the same day. Also, sometimes, you can hear live organ music simply when visiting the church.

13. Jagiellonian University

Jagiellonian University is also worth a quick visit when exploring Krakow’s old town. Founded in 1364 by King Casimir III the Great, it is one of the oldest universities in Europe, with a rich history.

Visiting the university museum (Muzeum Uniwersytetu Jagiellońskiego Collegium Maius) is a great way to learn about the history and culture of Poland. Plus, the interior is very impressive as well.

But even if you have no time to go inside, it’s well worth coming here for the stunning Gothic architecture of the main building of the university, Collegium Maius, where the museum is located. It has a beautiful courtyard and pretty much all the walking- and biking tours of the old town pass here as well. The courtyard is open daily from 9 am to 5.30 pm.

TIP: Don’t miss the statue of Nicolaus Copernicus ( Mikołaj Kopernik ), the famous 15-16th century astronomer who formulated a model of the universe that for the first time placed the Sun at its center and not the Earth. He’s one of the most famous alumni of Jagiellonian University.

Good to know: The museum offers guided tours on weekdays, every 30 minutes between 10 am and 1 pm. At 1 pm, they also run extended guided tours of the main exhibition in English, including the collection of scientific instruments. Free (unguided) entry on Wednesday afternoons. For more info, see their website .

14. Planty Park

Early in the 19th century, Krakow underwent quite a drastic transformation when Franz I, Emperor of Austro-Hungary, ordered that the medieval fortifications surrounding the Old Town were dismantled.

Following this, the moat was leveled off and Planty Park – a 4-kilometer (2.5 miles) green belt of English landscaped gardens – was established in its place. An oasis of calm and spotlessly clean, the park is lush in the summer and Christmas card perfect in the winter.

Planty Park encircles the entire old town and is the ideal place to take a break from all the sightseeing and enjoy a small slice of local life. This green space is an integral part of life in the city and you’ll see lots of locals walking their dogs among the sculptures and fountains.

15. Traditional Food & Folk Shows

No visit to Krakow would be complete without experiencing traditional Polish cuisine . You’ll find lots of really nice restaurants in the city, and there are also markets and street food stalls where you can try all kinds of local specialties.

You can also find a variety of food-tasting tours, cooking classes, pub crawls, etc. See here for a complete selection. This is one of the best-rated Polish food tours , and a pierogi cooking class .

Be sure to try Oscypek , a regional specialty! It’s a type of smoked cheese made from sheep’s milk and is usually served grilled with cranberry sauce. Another dish you really have to try is Pierogi . These are traditional Polish dumplings filled with various ingredients such as meat, cheese, potatoes, or sauerkraut. They can be boiled, fried, or baked and are usually served with sour cream.

Other traditional Polish dishes include Kielbasa , which is any type of meat sausage – served grilled or boiled – and a staple of Polish cuisine. Be sure to also try Bigos , a hearty stew made with sauerkraut and kielbasa.

TIP: A popular tourist attraction in Krakow is a traditional dinner with a folk show . These typically include a hearty meal accompanied by dancing and singing in regional costumes. The most popular place for this in the center of town is Jama Michalika Café, on Florianka Street (reserve here ). Alternatively, you can opt for a similar experience at a restaurant just outside of Krakow overlooking the beautiful Lake Kryspinów (they offer great value for your money, including a comfortable bus transfer from the city center – reserve here ).

Now that we covered the main sights and attractions in the city, let’s take a look at some of the most popular places to visit near Krakow:

16. Wieliczka Salt Mine

Located around a 30-minute drive from Krakow, the Wieliczka Salt Mine is one of Poland’s most popular tourist attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage site. While a mine may not sound like the most exciting place to visit, this one is unlike any you will have encountered before. It’s an absolute must-see when visiting Krakow!

Built in the 13th century, the mine reaches a depth of 327 meters (1,072 ft) below ground and has 9 levels. It covers an incredible 245 km (152 miles), but only about 2% of the labyrinth is accessible to the public.

As you can imagine, you can only see the mines as part of a tour, as it would be very easy to get lost in this vast labyrinth of hollowed-out corridors and chambers.

Inside, you can see the truly incredible statues carved out of the rock salt by the original miners. It is difficult to believe that everything you see is made from salt! You will hear stories from your guide about the many visitors who have even licked the walls to make sure.

At certain points, music and strategic lighting are used to highlight the beauty of the sculptures, crystal grottoes, and saline lakes you encounter. But nothing can prepare you for the beauty of the St Kinga’s Chapel, where even the massive chandeliers are made from salt!

The most popular is the ‘Tourist Route’ which brings you to the most impressive galleries and sculptures. If you prefer a more ‘hands-on’ experience, you can opt for the Miners’ Route. This includes activities like testing the air, searching for salt, and working out which paths to follow.

Interesting to know: The air in the mines is considered incredibly healthy. So healthy, in fact, that the horses who used to live and work in the mines lived several years longer than those from above ground.

The incredible preservative effect of the salt air is also evidenced by the effigies of Jesus and Mary in one of the chambers. They have been there for hundreds of years and have never been restored, yet their colors remain incredibly vivid.

Good to know: The 3.5 km Tourist Route involves a descend a total of 800 steps. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes! The good news is that there is a lift waiting at the end of the route to return you to the surface. The temperatures below ground can be surprisingly warm, so dress in layers to remain comfortable throughout the experience.

Practical info: You can book a tour with or without transfers from Krakow here . If you choose to go it alone, the journey by Uber is relatively inexpensive, or you can take a public bus. There is a restaurant at the end of the route serving excellent Polish food at very affordable prices.

LEARN MORE: How to Visit Wielczka Salt Mine

TIP: If you want to see some of the best places near Krakow but have limited time, consider this popular 2-in-1 tour that visits Wieliczka Salt Mine and Auschwitz in a day. It’s one of the best day trips from Krakow!

17. Auschwitz

Few tourists come to Krakow without visiting the Auschwitz Concentration Camp Memorial . It commemorates victims of Nazi atrocities during World War II and ensures the Holocaust is never forgotten. This is an absolute must-see in the area!

The site is located in Oświęcim (the Polish name for ‘Auschwitz’), a small city about 70 km to the west of Krakow. It is divided into two parts: Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau.

At the camps, you will have the opportunity to see many of the original roads, fences, and accommodation blocks, along with personal items like clothing, suitcases, shoes, and glasses. It is a very moving experience.

To enter the original Auschwitz concentration camp you will need a ticket. The Auschwitz 2-Birkenau camp – located around 3km away – is free to visit. It is best to see both, however, particularly since the museum is housed in the original camp. A free shuttle runs between them throughout the day.

Good to know: You may be asked for ID when entering the camp, so bring your passport. Large bags are not permitted. Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes – particularly in winter when the camps can be very muddy. Please also note that it’s not recommended for kids under the age of 14.

Practical info: We highly recommend booking a tour to the Auschwitz Concentration Camp Memorial that includes transportation from Krakow. It’s possible to travel independently but you will need to be sure to book your tickets in advance, as the site is so busy that you could otherwise be refused entry.

Tours last around 3.5 hours and your travel time is around 3 to 4 hours in total, so you will need to set aside most of the day for your visit.

TIP: This is the best-rated day tour from Krakow. As already mentioned before, you can also opt for a 2-in-1 tour that includes a visit here and also visits Wieliczka Salt Mine on the same day.

LEARN MORE: Visiting Auschwitz Concentration Camp

18. Zakopane

Zakopane is a beautiful town at the foot of the Tatra mountains and one of the most popular nature destinations near Krakow. It’s a 2-hour drive just to get there, so you’ll need to set aside a full day for a quick visit. Or even stay in the area for a few days, especially if traveling in the summer.

But if you have the time, then it’s a trip we strongly recommend you take! In the summer, Zakopane is wonderful for hiking, its lush valleys filled with crocuses and the crystal-clear lakes sparkling in the sunshine.

In the colder months, it transforms into a winter wonderland, the slopes of the mountains deep in snow, and a range of pursuits to enjoy from sledding to skiing!

Good to know: The area is also well-known for its geothermal hot springs. Most tours will include these in their itinerary, so pack a swimsuit and a towel!

TIP: One of the best ways to experience Zakopane on a quick visit is with a day tour from Krakow .

LEARN MORE: Zakopane Day Trip from Krakow (tour review)

19. Energylandia

Energylandia is a large amusement park located in Zator, about 1-hour drive east of Krakow (on the way to Auschwitz).

This is the largest theme park in Poland, featuring roller coasters, water rides, live shows, and countless fun attractions for the whole family. In the summer, you can also enjoy water slides, so pack your swimwear! There are lots of good places to eat here too and you could easily spend several days here.

If you are traveling with a family and are looking for something fun to do in Krakow with kids, then definitely plan a day trip to Energylandia!

Good to know: The park is open daily between May and September and also on some weekends and holidays during the lower season.

If you are renting a car, you can easily drive there on your own. But there are also private or shared transfers available. You can find all the best options for tickets and/or transfers here .

More places to visit in Krakow if you have time

Here are a few additional recommendations for things to do and places to see in Krakow if you have more time:

• Chopin Concert. Experience the wonderful piano music by Poland’s most famous composer in a music hall in the old town. See here for more info and tickets .
• Botanical Garden of Jagiellonian University . This is one of the best botanical gardens in Poland and is especially beautiful in the warmer months. More info here .
• Kościuszko Mound . This artificial mound was erected in 1823 to honor Tadeusz Kościuszko, a Polish hero, and is quite a unique place to see in Krakow. From the top of the hill, you have a great view of the city. There is also a museum at the bottom and you will need to pay a fee in order to access the hill, but the views are worth it.
• The Princes Czartoryski Museum. This is an art museum in the old town of Krakow. The main highlight here is the Lady with Ermine painting by Leonardo da Vinci (without the crowds of the Louvre in Paris ;)). You can find more info and tickets here . This museum is also included with the Krakow City Card .
• Lost Souls Alley. This an interactive ‘haunted’ house, popular with young people and suitable for bachelor/ette parties. It’s located on Florianska street in the old town.
• WOMAI. This is a relatively new attraction located close to the railway station. Essentially, it is two exhibitions in one. The first is a journey through darkness using only your 4 senses, designed to help you see the world from the perspective of someone who is blind. The second is a unique maze of lights, colors, and games that teaches scientific concepts in a fun way.
• Polish Aviation Museum. Located on an old airfield a bit outside of the city, this is an interesting museum for all aviation enthusiasts and a great place to visit in Krakow with kids. You can see lots of planes and helicopters, and the museum has an indoor and outdoor section. You can find more info and book tickets here . This museum is also included with the Krakow City Card .
• …. As you can imagine, a big city like Krakow has a lot more museums and tourist attractions than mentioned in this guide. But if you are visiting the city for the first time, you’ll need several days in order to visit just the main sights, not even to mention the additional recommendations. If you have even more time or are looking to get a bit off the beaten path, check out several other museums that are included with the city card (there are almost 40!).

Where to stay

Since Krakow’s old town is very walkable, we recommend staying close to the main tourist attractions in the historic city center. If you are planning on doing day trips, stay in the northern part of the old town, closer to the railway station.

Here are some of the most popular highly-rated hotels for different budgets (even luxury hotels are very affordable in Krakow):

• 5*  Hotel Unicus Palace .
• 4*  Sky Hotel Krakow .
• 3* Hotel Wyspiański or Matejko Hotel .

TIP: If you are arriving in Krakow by plane, you can reserve a private airport transfer here .

Map of the main tourist attractions in Krakow

To help you plan your time in Krakow, we created a map indicating all the sights mentioned in this article. As you can see, most attractions are located very close to each other.

TIP: If you only have a few days in Krakow and are wondering how to best plan your time, take a look at our suggested itinerary in the link below. In that article, you will also find more practical information for visiting Krakow, getting around the city, airport transfers, tipping, places to stay, etc. Check it out!

READ ALSO: Krakow Itinerary for 2-3 Days

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

So, this is our guide to Krakow’s main attractions. We hope that you find it helpful and that you enjoy exploring every facet of this remarkable and unforgettable city.

Have a great trip!

READ ALSO: Tips & Info for Visiting Krakow

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Tuesday 5th of March 2024

well informed,thank you,more in my bucket list

Glad to help, Mark. Have a great trip!

Krakow   Travel Guide

Courtesy of spooh | Getty Images

Krakow Neighborhoods

Tourists can best orient themselves in Kraków by breaking the city into three main sections: the Old Town, Kazimierz and everything else. Notable excursions out of town include the "Wieliczka" Salt Mine and the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum . The "Wieliczka" Salt Mine lies southeast of Kraków, while the concentration camps are to the west.

Old Town (Stare Miasto)

Accessible via tram Nos. 1, 4, 6, 8, 13, 14, 18, 20, 24 and 72 and train Nos. S1, S2 and S3 at Kraków Glówny station.

The vibrant and beautiful Old Town lies at the center of Kraków and at the heart of any vacation to the area. People from all over wander here for an atmosphere unlike any found elsewhere. The Old Town's core is its Main Market Square , where stunning medieval architecture rub elbows with cafes, shops and nightclubs. You'll also find several hotels in this historic neighborhood, plus Old World churches like St. Mary's Basilica and Wawel Cathedral .

Accessible via tram Nos. 3, 6, 8, 10, 13, 19, 22, 24 and 52.

A neighborhood that must be experienced to be understood, no trip to Kraków is complete without spending some time in Kazimierz, the historic Jewish quarter. Just south of the Old Town, it is a neighborhood that is a study in contrasts. Part of it is a crumbling yet haunting reminder of the atrocities the area's residents faced during World War II. The other part is a neighborhood alive with boutique restaurants, art galleries and some of the best nightlife Poland has to offer. A few accommodation options can be found here as well.

Accessible via tram Nos. 9, 20 and 50 and train Nos. S1 and S3 at Kraków Zablocie station.

Situated southeast of central Kraków along the Vistula River's south bank, Zablocie once served as the industrial hub of the city. Now, the neighborhood's abandoned factories have been transformed into modern loft-style apartments, clubs, cafes and shops. You won't find many places to bed down in Zablocie, but one of the Kraków's top attractions, Oskar Schindler's Factory , is located by the area's train station.

Accessible via tram Nos. 1, 4, 9, 10, 14, 22 and 52.

Known for its communist-style architecture, the Nowa Huta region – which sits 9 miles east of the city center – draws travelers looking for something a little different. It was a planned community, envisioned to be a perfect urban environment and to reflect socialist ideals. Largely residential, it is now mostly an attraction to tourists with an interest in Kraków's history and socialist architecture.

Kraków has a reputation for being a rather safe city in a rather safe country. However, as its popularity as a travel destination has grown, so has its pickpocketing community. Keep an extra eye on your valuables when you're hanging around popular tourist sites like the Main Market Square, and try to stick to well-lit areas at night. You'll also want to avoid public demonstrations and rely on ATMs or legitimate exchange kiosks for changing money. Additional safety tips for Poland are provided on the U.S. State Department's website .

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15 Top Tourist Attractions in Krakow, Poland

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 8, 2024

Widely considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in the whole of Europe, Krakow is the second-largest city in Poland after Warsaw. Located on the banks of the Vistula River, the former capital has long been an important center of art, commerce, and culture in the country, and is still a vibrant and bustling place to this day.

As it has been invaded, destroyed, and rebuilt numerous times over the centuries, Krakow boasts lots of different architectural styles, with Renaissance and Baroque churches lying next to Gothic and Art Nouveau buildings.

The one-time home of the Polish kings and queens of yore also has a wealth of fantastic bars and restaurants for you to check out, and lots of cultural events and festivals take place here over the year. Due to the many things to do in Krakow and its enticing tourist attractions, the city is a popular draw among tourists. Many people use it as a base from which to visit Auschwitz and the Wieliczka Salt Mine, both of which lie nearby.

Map of Krakow

15. Barbican

Located just outside of the Old Town, the distinctive red-brick Barbican building is remarkably one of only three surviving such outposts in the whole of Europe. Built all the way back in 1498, it was once part of a chain of formidable fortifications that surrounded and protected Krakow.

Now, however, it is the only gatehouse still standing. Inside, there are some interesting exhibitions for you to check out; these tell you all about the Gothic-style Barbican and the role it played protecting the city from the Austrians, Russians, and Swedes.

14. Historical Museum of Krakow

While the main part of this captivating museum is found in Krzysztofory Palace, other collections and exhibitions can be found in places such as the Barbican, Schindler’s Factory, and the Old Synagogue. This is because the Historical Museum of Krakow actually protects and preserves 14 major historical and cultural sites around the city.

The delightful Baroque palace, however, hosts some of its most impressive and important artifacts; these document the history of Krakow. With old maps, paintings, and photos on display alongside astounding artworks and militaria, the museum is a great place to head to if you want to learn more about the city’s illustrious past.

13. Planty Park

One of the largest parks in the city, Planty Park completely encircles the Old Town and is located where the old medieval city walls used to be. These were taken down in the early 1800s, with fountains, trees, and flowerbeds taking their place.

A relaxing spot to go for a stroll, the green belt has lots of benches and refreshment stands on offer, with monuments of famous figures such as Copernicus and King Wladyslaw II Jagiello scattered about here and there.

Very popular among locals and visitors alike, Planty Park’s series of landscaped gardens lie just a short walk away from almost all of the city’s most famous sites of interest.

12. Basilica of St Francis

Dating back to the 13th century, the Basilica of St Francis exhibits some fine architecture and is particularly renowned for its exquisite Art Nouveau interior. Besides its colorful walls, which display gorgeous floral and geometric patterns, the church also sports a number of beautiful stained-glass windows.

Designed by Stanislaw Wyspianski, these distinctive features really do make the interior lovely to wander around. Another highlight is its enchanting and iconic centerpiece. Often overlooked by most tourists to the city, the Basilica of St Francis is well worth visiting for its unique designs and art that take inspiration from the saint’s love of nature.

11. Church of St. Peter and St. Paul

One of, if not the, earliest Baroque style buildings in Poland, the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul was built between 1597 and 1619 by the Italian architect Giovanni Maria Bernardoni. Its imposing facade is adorned with statues of various Jesuit saints. Peeking out from behind it, you can just make out the church’s cupola-topped dome.

Although much of the interior is quite austere in design, there are some nice features, such as the stuccoes overhead, its 18th-century high altar, and its impressive Foucault pendulum – the longest in the country. In the evenings, the church often hosts classical music concerts, and it certainly makes for a very atmospheric venue.

10. Sukiennice (Cloth Hall)

One of the most recognizable buildings in the whole of the city, the Krakow Cloth Hall – as it is known in English – lies right at the heart of the main market square in the lively Old Town. As such, you can hardly fail to notice its magnificent arcades or exquisite Renaissance-style architecture when passing through.

For centuries, the Cloth Hall played a prominent role in not only Krakow but Central Europe’s trading network. Everything from silks and spices to textiles and salt was bartered and sold here.

Nowadays, you can buy all sorts of souvenirs, arts and crafts, or religious icons at the stalls that line its interior. On the second floor, the Sukiennice Museum hosts a brilliant collection of 19th-century Polish artworks.

9. Polish Aviation Museum

Located in the east of the city where the Krakow-Rakowice-Czyzny Airport once lay, the Polish Aviation Museum is widely considered to be one of the best such museums in the world. With over two hundred aircraft for you to peruse, its extensive collection will delight aviation aficionados with all that it has to offer.

Besides its pre-war Polish planes, which are the sole such survivors on Earth, the museum also has bombers, fighter jets, and helicopters, as well as a vast array of jet engines. Its interactive displays and exhibitions are as informative as they are interesting and entertaining. Visitors are sure to come away having learned a lot about all things to do with flying.

8. Collegium Maius

Meaning ‘Great College’ in Latin, Collegium Maius is the oldest of Jagiellonian University’s buildings and was built in the 14th century. Located just off the main market square in Krakow’s Old Town, the red-brick building has some wonderful Gothic architecture on display, with its arcaded courtyard the undoubted star of the show.

Its finely decorated interior is just as marvelous to explore, with elegant ceremonial halls and lecture rooms found alongside a beautiful old library and professors’ common room. Nicolaus Copernicus – the renowned Polish astronomer and mathematician – studied here; some of his manuscripts, works, and instruments can still be seen in its small museum when on a tour of Collegium Maius.

7. Schindler’s Factory

Named after Oskar Schindler – the German industrialist who infamously saved over 1,200 Jews’ lives during the Second World War – this one-time enamel factory is now an enthralling museum about his life and the Nazi occupation of Krakow.

Immortalized in the film by Steven Spielberg’s ‘Schindler’s List,’ his heroic story is told in the museum through various memorabilia and photos. His list, which helped protect Jewish laborers from the Holocaust, is the star attraction. In addition to this, there are lots of moving exhibitions depicting what life in Krakow was like during WWII for the city’s Jewish citizens.

6. Wawel Cathedral

Consecrated all the way back in 1364, Wawel Cathedral has long been the national sanctuary of the country. It is here that many of Poland’s kings, queens, and nobles have been coronated and buried.

Mostly built in a Gothic style, there are various Renaissance features – such as the gorgeous Sigismund’s Chapel – popping up here and there. The current cathedral is actually the third to stand on the same site, as two earlier versions were destroyed.

While wandering around its beautiful interior, you’ll find lots of tombs, chapels, and crypts dedicated to some of the most important and influential people in Poland’s history. With a plethora of amazing art and architecture on show, it really is a fantastic place, and its eclectic exterior is just as delightful to gaze upon.

5. Kazimierz

For most of its history, Kazimierz was a separate city – until the filling in of part of the Vistula River incorporated the former island into Krakow itself. Named after Casimir III the Great, for centuries, it was considered to be a ‘Royal City.’ Its important location on the way to Wieliczka Salt Mine meant that wealth flowed to its streets.

Following a fierce fire that ravaged much of the Old Town in 1495, Krakow’s entire Jewish population was moved to Kazimierz; this is what gives the historic district its Jewish flavor today.

While walking around its old cobbled streets, you’ll come across a number of synagogues and Jewish cemeteries, with a couple of monuments and museums also on offer. A lively part of town, Kazimierz has lots of great restaurants and bars for you to check out, as well as a bustling weekend market.

4. St Mary’s Basilica

Towering above the main market square, St Mary’s Basilica is the most recognizable symbol of the city – you can hardly miss it when visiting Krakow. Built out of red-brick in 1347, its two towers, which differ in height, reach over 80 meters. From the top of the tallest one, you can enjoy marvelous views out over the Old Town.

Its interior is no less delightful, as stained-glass windows lie alongside colorful wall paintings and a stunning Gothic altarpiece. Featuring some of the finest examples of Polish Gothic art and architecture, St Mary’s Basilica is lovely to wander around and is still used to this day by worshippers.

3. Wawel Royal Castle

Lying on the banks of the Vistula River, the looming Wawel Royal Castle was once the political and cultural center of Poland. Built in the 13th and 14th centuries on the orders of Casimir III the Great, it is still in remarkably good shape, considering that it was sacked numerous times by the Swedes and Prussians.

Located around a large courtyard are many beautiful buildings for you to explore, with highlights being its Renaissance palace, Gothic crown treasury, and, of course, the fantastic Wawel Cathedral. With its gorgeous architecture and substantial collection of artworks and militaria, Wawel Royal Castle certainly has something for everyone to enjoy.

2. Wieliczka Salt Mine

One of the most popular tourist attractions in the whole of Poland, Wieliczka Salt Mine is an incredible place to visit. It lies just 15 kilometers outside of Krakow under a town called Wieliczka.

Stretching for just under 300 kilometers, its labyrinth of tunnels, passages, chambers, and churches are exhilarating to explore. At their deepest, they lie 327 meters below the surface.

Opened in the 13th century, it was one of the longest and oldest operating salt mines until it closed in 2007. Now, tourists can take a variety of tours below ground and see and taste the glittering salt streams for themselves while marveling at the huge tunnels miners carved out from the rock.

Some of the most impressive features are the churches, chapels, and statues that were sculpted by the miners, with the vast Chapel of St Kinga being the undoubted highlight.

1. Main Market Square

Lying in the center of the Old Town, the Main Market Square is the beating heart of Krakow. Lined by beautiful buildings and historic townhouses, it is remarkably the largest medieval town square in Europe and is a hive of activity at any time of day.

While its primary purpose throughout its centuries-long history has been trade and commerce, nowadays, it is tourism; tour groups assemble here, and people sit to eat and drink at its multitude of cafes and restaurants or shop at its souvenir stands.

Its two main features are the spectacular St Mary’s Basilica, which towers over the square, and the Krakow Cloth Hall that lies right in its center. Particularly atmospheric to visit at night, one can hardly fail to attend the Main Market Square when exploring all that Krakow has to offer up.

Best Time to Visit Krakow

Although July and August are the hottest months of the year in Krakow, averaging 23°C (so 73°F), they are also by far the busiest and most expensive. This makes exploring the center less enjoyable as all its streets and squares are packed. Trips to the Wieliczka Salt Mine and Auschwitz can also get booked up well in advance.

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn – so April to June and September and October – are therefore much better times to visit. While still quite warm at 14 to 22°C (57 to 71°F), the crowds are much more manageable. Fun events like the Wianki midsummer solstice festival and Krakow Film Festival also mean there is a nice, lively atmosphere in the town.

The rest of the year is quite quiet in Krakow except around Christmas and New Year’s when colourful celebrations and markets brighten up the dark days. The temperature drops to just 2°C (35°F) so make sure to wrap up warm!

In fact, it’s a good idea to pack a coat whenever you visit as each month sees from 12 to 17 days with at least some rain; June to August being the wettest period.

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Krakow Old Town (With Printable Map) Views and Facts

If you’ve seen any photos of  Krakow Old Town , you probably already know that it is breathtakingly beautiful. But… do you know anything else about it?

If not, don’t sweat it! Let this post be your guide to this magical part of Krakow.

You will find out:

The heart of the city

Krakow Old Town was acclaimed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1978 . Along with salt mines in Bochnia and  Wieliczka  (also a must-see!), it was the first in Poland to gain that status. And one of the first in all of Europe as well!

If you haven’t had a chance to visit this magical place yet, read this article and see why you should follow over 10 million tourists that had the luck to marvel at its attractions with their own eyes during the past year.

Let’s jump into it!

How big is Krakow Old Town?

Krakow can pride in having the biggest market square in Europe !

The actual Krakow Old Town is a part of the city extracted from administrative District I, also named “Old Town District”.

UNESCO recognizes the Old Town of Krakow with the Jewish quarter (Kazimierz) counted in , like the city’s authorities.

However, the traditional approach makes us give the title to the  88,67 hectares  of cobbled land surrounded by Planty Park. It stretches  between St. Florian’s Gate and marvelous Wawel Castle . With the shortest route adopted, you would need less than 30 minutes of running to cover the distance between both hallmarks.

But – believe us – due to the number of attractions the Old Town of Krakow offers, you would rather want to stroll around and take the scenic route.

Map of Krakow Old Town

Check out this awesome downloadable  Map of Krakow Old Town.

There is nothing like discovering the new city with a proper paper map that you can draw on – right? 

Download yours right now  – you will not get lost and you will have an amazing souvenir after your visit to Krakow.

Unique atmosphere

Krakow Old Town consists of a network of streets and squares which represent a historic enclave of the city.

Florianska  is the most  vibrant and lively street  in the city center. It leads from St. Florian’s Gate to St. Mary’s Church and is full of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered!

Szczepanski Square  and  Maly Rynek  are both relatively small squares located in very close proximity to the main one. They are definitely  less crowded, but not less beautiful  – make sure to pay them a visit when wondering around the city center.

Grodzka  is one of the  oldest  streets in Krakow (city’s records were mentioning it in the XIII century!) and certainly one of the most  picturesque  ones. It is a vital part of the “Royal Route”, which was a trail leading to Wawel Castle.

All of the above (and many more!) constitute one of the most beautiful old towns in the world.

We can’t wait for you to visit Krakow and see it for yourself!

@siwadlowski

Restaurants in Old Town

If you happen to find yourself hungry in the Old Town of Krakow, you will not need to leave the area to satisfy your appetite – no matter what your tastes and budget are. There are  hundreds of eateries to choose from , ranging  from bagel stands and milk bars to the top tier, absolute crème de la crème restaurants.

If you fancy something more gourmet – visit Szara Gęś, Cyrano de Begerac or Aqua de Vino.

If street food is more up your alley, then I recommend checking out Pierogarnia Krakowiacy or Trattoria Cyklop.

You can find details of the above along with some more delicious propositions in our  ultimate guide to Krakow restaurants . Check it out, you won’t be disappointed – we’ve curated the list very carefully so that it caters to absolutely everyone!

Krakow’s Oldest University

The year of 1364  witnessed the establishment of the oldest Polish university  (and the second-oldest in this part of Europe), then named Akademia Krakowska.

Currently, the Jagiellonian University of Krakow  has two of it’s most recognizable buildings located in the Old Town of Krakow: the XIV-century Collegium Maius and Collegium Novum, built in 1887.

The former structure is where the astronomical paraphernalia of Nicolaus Copernicus may be seen, along with the famous Jagiellonian Globe and collection of medieval academic textbooks.

@qnosquitenloviajao

The Main Market Square

Planned and established in the 13th century . 200 per 200 metres forming a regular square and 40,000 square metres of the most important commercial space of medieval Poland.

The place where life is led both over- and underground, with  countless pub or restaurant-housing cellars  and Cracow Underground Museum operating under its surface.

Flanked by old townhouses and merchant’s houses, palaces and churches, representing the Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and neoclassical architectural styles with their decor, it is defined by the image of iconic Sukiennice (the Cloth Hall) where you may still shop for souvenirs or familiarise yourself with the 19th-century Polish paintings at the gallery operating upstairs.

Why is it so attractive?

Well, except for the fact that  the masterpieces of architecture forming Krakow Old Town emanate with certain magnetism when passed by, there are also many gems closed behind the doors of its churches, galleries and museums!

They say that the Old Town of Krakow  encloses about 6 thousand historic sites to admire , including the works of stained glass, sculptures and furnishings collected in various institutions of culture that operate there.

Krakow Old Town views

I could go on for hours about the beauty of Krakow’s Old Town… but isn’t it better to let the beauty of Old Town speak for itself?

@message.from.t

@tomasz_mardyla

Interesting facts about Old Town (coming from local tour guides)

Did you know that there is an fascinating legend regarding different heights of St. Mary’s church’s towers? Apparently the church was being built by two brothers and one of them got jealous of the other one’s construction works going at a faster pace and creating a taller, more majestic tower. He stabbed his brother in fury with a knife (that you can see to this day displayed in Sukiennice!) and then – in an act of despair and regret – commited suicide by throwing himself off the tower.

Most of the tourist are unaware of what that little building with green roof in the main square is and I think it’s really worth checking out! It’s St. Adalbert’s church. It’s adorable and tiny and the most mind-blowing fact about it is that it’s almost a 1000 years old. That’s crazy! if you get the chance, go to a concert there – they are absolutely wonderful!

The monument of Adam Mickiewicz in the main square has some interesting traditions attached to it! For example, did you know that before their matura exams (the exams finishing high school in Poland), students from Krakow jump around it on one leg and believe that their score on the exam (the scale is -100) will be the same as the number of times they’ve jumped?

If you want to hear more awesome fun facts like that, I highly suggest considering the  Guided Market Sqare Tour !

What to do in Krakow’s Old Town?

I’ve compiled a small checklist for you consisting of all the must-do activities here in the heart of Krakow.

I recommend you to…

• listen to St. Mary’s Trumpet Call
• walk through Sukiennice
• eat obwarzanek
• visit the underground museum
• beware of the pigeons :) 
• drink a craft beer in a local pub
• admire street artists
• take a stroll around the entire main square
• follow the Royal Route that will take you straight to Wawel Castle

Come and explore it by yourself!

At this point, I don’t think you need more convincing.

Krakow’s Old Town is as beautiful as it gets, tourist-friendly and God knows the food here is top-notch.

It’s a true gem on every possible level – it’s beautiful, it has an amazing cultural and historical value and it has a unique, cool vibe to it.

I hope you’re ready to discover it!

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