Krakow was my second destination during the 1 week trip I made to Poland in October. Poland’s second largest city is a real fairy tale land. Here everything seems to have been thought out in detail to offer those who visit it a magical environment, made of impeccably preserved ancient buildings, and the feeling of almost being able to see people of yesteryear strolling in its streets. But you are wrong if you think that Krakow is just about History: its numerous restaurants and bars offer you many opportunities to have loads of fun.

See below a list of nine muist-see places in Krakow to start planning your next getaway there!


Market Square (Rynek)

Cracóvia Polónia Krakow PolandRynek, the great market square of Krakow, is one of the great gravitational centers of the city. Built in 1257, the square stretches out for 200 meters and is considered one of the largest medieval squares in Europe. It is surrounded by several ancient buildings and is a regular stage for important occasions such as parades and historical events.

The Sukiennice market

Cracóvia Polónia Krakow PolandLocated right on the Market Square (Rynek), Sukiennice is considered the oldest “shopping center” in Europe. This imposing old fabric market, built in the 14th century, has been through several ups and downs over the centuries. Nowadays it is essentially sought after by tourists who visit it in search of souvenirs to take home with them.

St. Mary’s Basilica

This imposing building, also located on the Market Square, is one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. From hour to hour, from the top of its highest tower, you can hear the sound of a trumpet being played toward each of the cardinal points. It is possible to visit its interior through the side door on the southeast side of the basilica.

Website: http://mariacki.com

 Wawel Royal Castle

Cracóvia Polónia Krakow PolandThe most imposing and fascinating building in Krakow had to be the first on the list because of the obligatory nature of its visit. Once inhabited by Polish royalty, it is now a museum divided into 5 different sections, for which it is necessary to purchase a separate ticket: the State Rooms, the Private Royal Apartments, the Treasury and Armory, the Lost Wawel and Oriental Art.

Website: https://www.wawel.krakow.pl

Wawel Cathedral

Cracóvia Polónia Krakow PolandThis Gothic-style Cathedral, located next to the Wawel Royal Castle, was the scene of numerous historical events of Polish nobility and royalty, including coronations, funerals, weddings and baptisms. When you visit the Cathedral do not forget to climb to the top of the tower where you find a huge bell that, legend says, grants wishes to whomever touches it with the left hand.

Website: http://www.katedra-wawelska.pl/

Schindler´s Factory

Cracóvia Polónia Krakow PolandThere are not many people out there who have not yet seen the incredible movie Schindler’s List at least once in their lives. During World War II, Oskar Schindler managed to save the lives of thousands of Jews through his factory. It is in Krakow that this factory is located, today a museum that offers a very interesting and educational view on life in Krakow during the Nazi occupation.

Website: https://www.mhk.pl

Wieliczka Salt Mines

Cracóvia Polónia Krakow PolandThe Wieliczka Salt Mines, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located a few kms away from Krakow, are nowadays one of the most visited places in Poland. Built more than 700 years ago, the mines offer an impressive insight into the former work of underground salt collection in an absolutely fascinating environment. Inside you’ll find the most beautifully decorated underground cathedral in the world.

Website: https://www.wieliczka-saltmine.com

Kazimierz, Krakow’s Jewish Neighbourhood 

Cracóvia Polónia Krakow PolandThe district of Kazimierz was, for centuries, the center of Jewish life in Krakow. After a long period of neglect, it was recovered during the 90’s, turning into one of the city’s most interesting cultural and nightlife districts, full of restaurants, bars, art galleries, synagogues and cafes. In the Summer, it hosts the Jewish Culture Festival attracting visitors from all over the world.

Ghetto Heroes Square (Plac Bohaterów Getta)

Cracóvia Polónia Krakow PolandLocated in the area where the Jewish Ghetto of Krakow was once located, this square was the place where Jews concentrated and left their goods and furniture behind before being deported to the concentration camps. Nowadays there is a monument made of several isolated chairs, that represent the memory of thousands of people who left  for their almost certain death during one of the darkest periods of world History. It was also here that the only non-Jewish commercial establishment operating during the Nazi occupation in the Ghetto , the Apteka Pod Orlem pharmacy, was located.


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Useful Links

For more useful tips, photos and videos, you can follow me on Instagram and Facebook.

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PLAN YOUR TRIP WITH THE HELP OF THESE LINKS

Accommodation:
For accommodation bookings, I always use Booking or Airbnb.

Flights:
For the best flight options, I recommend Jet Radar

Travel Insurance:
For safe travels, hire travel insurance with World Nomads 

Tours and Activities:
For tours and activities' bookings in several destinations around the world, I recommend Get Your Guide or Viator

Car Rental:
For car rentals, I always use Discover Cars

Transport:
For transport tickets in Asia, I recommend 12go.asia or Baolau

Maria João Proença

Born and raised in Lisbon, Portugal, but in love with the world. I love sharing my travel stories, photos and videos and inspire those who are just as fascinated with exploring the world as I am.

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