Traveling to Krakow, the student city and one of the most important tourist destinations in the country, is a must for those who travel to Poland. With beautiful medieval architecture, castles, good food and drink, for many this is an amazing destination. Thanks to its beauty and charm, you can do a lot of tourism in this city. Therefore, we will tell you what the best plans to see and do when traveling to Krakow.
Top 15 things to see and do in Krakow
Take a walk down Royal Road
The Royal Road (sometimes called the Royal Route) runs from the Old Town to Wawel Castle. This was once the king’s route as they passed through the centre of the city. On your tour you can see some of the most important historical monuments in Krakow.
Visit Auschwitz
This is a former concentration camp used by the Nazis during World War II. Admission is free, but the experience is much more meaningful with a guide who can explain the context of what happened there.
Explore Wawel Castle
Built in the 13th century, this site houses an art museum that has medieval tapestries, ancient Polish crown jewels, and also treasures from the Ottoman Empire.
Visit Schindler’s factory
Many will remember this name from Steven Spielberg’s film “Schindler’s List.” In this factory, you will find a museum that provides a complete tour of the history of the Second World War.
Visit the Underground Museum
The Rynek Metro traces Krakow’s medieval past through well-preserved foundations and artefacts from the city’s history. Incorporates 3D technology, videos, and simulations for a more interactive experience. It gives you an incredible overview of how the city “grew”.
Get to know the Kazimierz district
South of the city centre is the old Jewish ghetto. It was forgotten for many years, but is now the centre of a vibrant population of artists and students. You can visit the Jewish cemetery or take a free walking tour of the neighbourhood. While it is a great place for a bite to eat, the true flavour of Kazimierz comes to life at night.
Visit the salt mines
This mine was first used in the Middle Ages as one of the main industries in Krakow and produced table salt until 2007. Today it is no longer in use and is a UNESCO recognized site for tourists to visit and marvel at the cavernous chambers, statues and chapels, chandeliers and cathedrals, all carved out of salt by miners! The mines reach depths of over 300 meters and are also home to contemporary works of art.
Shop at flea markets
Go shopping early on Sundays at the Plac Nowy open-air markets in Kazimierz or in the Jewish Quarter. If you go there on Saturday, expect a variety of antiques. On Sundays, especially there are clothes for sale. It is a fun way to people-watch and get a feel for local life in the city.
Go to the Basilica of Santa Maria
As the home parish of Pope John Paul II, this is a Krakow landmark. By visiting it, you will understand the importance of religion in Polish society. The church itself is brick and designed in the Gothic style, and looks out over the old town. Every hour, a trumpeter plays from the tower in tribute to a 13th-century trumpeter who was shot while sounding the alarm for a Mongol. Make sure to dress appropriately as it is a place of worship.
Stroll through Nowa Huta
In the post-war years, Nowa Huta was established as a separate city filled with industrial workers and propaganda. It was one of the greatest examples of social engineering, built to be an example of the ideal Soviet city. Now, as a popular neighbourhood outside the centre, it is interesting to see how much Soviet influence remains.
Visit the MOCAK
The Museum of Contemporary Art is one of Krakow’s newest additions and has a vast and varied collection of contemporary art. Opened in 2011, it is actually located in a demolished section of the Schindler factory. It focuses almost exclusively on modern art from the last two decades, and although modern art is not my favourite type of art, the museum is still worth a visit just to get a feel for the Polish art scene.
Visit the oldest university building in Poland
Located at the Jagiellonian University, the Collegium Maius has been a scientific centre for research and discovery for centuries. Copernicus was a student here and the museum has a vast collection of 16th century scientific instruments. The building itself dates from the 14th century.
Visit the Botanical Garden
The Jagiellonian University Botanical Garden is an 18th century garden near the old town. Spanning over 24 acres, this is actually the oldest botanical garden in the country (it was founded in 1783). It is home to more than 5,000 species of trees, shrubs, orchids, and other flowers. The garden is only open from April to October and is a pleasant place to stroll during the summer.
Explore the Polish Aviation Museum
This museum has been consistently ranked as one of the best in the world. Opened in 1964, it is located in the old Kraków-Rakowice-Czyzyny airport. There are more than 200 aircraft on display. Including 22 extremely rare aircraft that were taken from a museum in Germany during WWII. There are many interactive displays and interesting exhibits, making this a fun place for children and adults alike.
Have fun at the Park Wodny
Park Wodny is a water park and a great place to go if you are traveling with children. There are 8 waterslides, kiddy pools, a lazy river, climbing walls, and a handful of hot tubs for adults. If you are looking to relax or have a little fun, this is the place!
ALFA