In the heart of Poland, Kraków awaits with its rich history, artistic spirit, and captivating charm. Don’t forget to save your QR code and bring it with you on your trip!

Day 1: Historic Old Town and Culinary Delights

Morning Exploration: Rynek Główny and St. Mary’s Basilica

8:00 AM – Begin your Kraków adventure at Rynek Główny

Start your day at the heart of Kraków, the stunning Rynek Główny (Main Market Square). Marvel at the historic architecture and take in the vibrant atmosphere.

9:00 AM – Suggested Breakfast Spot: Café Camelot

Indulge in a delicious breakfast at Café Camelot, known for its cozy ambiance and a variety of breakfast options. Just a short walk from the Wawel Royal Castle. The menu features a variety of traditional Polish dishes, as well as international favorites.
Address: Café Camelot, 4 Świętego Tomasza, 33-332 Kraków, Poland
Average Cost per Person: PLN 20-30

10:00 AM – Visit St. Mary’s Basilica

Explore the impressive St. Mary’s Basilica, an iconic symbol of Kraków. A must-go.
Address: St. Mary’s Basilica, plac Mariacki 5, 31-042 Kraków, Poland

Highlights:

The Unmatched Altarpiece: A masterpiece of late Gothic sculpture, the altarpiece of St. Mary’s Basilica is considered one of the finest examples of Polish art. Created by the renowned German sculptor Veit Stoss in the mid-15th century, the altarpiece depicts the life of the Virgin Mary, spanning from the Annunciation to the Coronation of Mary.
The Mismatched Towers: St. Mary’s Basilica is renowned for its two distinctive towers, the shorter North Tower and the taller South Tower. The origin of this architectural anomaly remains a mystery, but it adds to the church’s unique charm.
The Haunting Hejnal Mariacki: Every hour, a trumpeter ascends the South Tower of St. Mary’s Basilica to play the Hejnal Mariacki, a solemn melody that echoes through the city’s streets. The trumpeting tradition dates back to the 17th century and is said to commemorate the legendary defense of Kraków against Tatar invaders.
The Opulent Interior: The interior of St. Mary’s Basilica is adorned with vibrant wall paintings, intricate Gothic arches, and a wealth of religious artworks. The richly colored murals, designed by renowned Polish artist Jan Matejko, depict scenes from Polish history and religious narratives.
The Spiritual Significance: St. Mary’s Basilica holds immense spiritual significance for the people of Kraków. It has served as a place of worship, refuge, and cultural identity for centuries, and its presence continues to shape the city’s character and spirit.

Afternoon Adventure: Wawel Castle and Kazimierz District

1:00 PM – Lunch at Pijalnia Wódki i Piwa

Overview: Pijalnia Wódki i Piwa, often referred to as “Pijalnia,” is a unique spot offering affordable drinks and Polish snacks. It has a laid-back atmosphere and is a good place to enjoy a casual meal.
Address: Floriańska 43, 31-021 Kraków, Poland
Average Cost per Person: PLN 10-25 per person
Suggested Dishes: Pair your drink with “kabanosy” (smoked sausage) or “ogórek kiszony” (pickled cucumber).

3:00 PM – Explore Wawel Castle

Discover the rich history and architecture of Wawel Castle. Visit the State Rooms, the Cathedral, and enjoy the panoramic views from the Wawel Hill.
Address: Wawel Castle, Wawel 5, 31-001 Kraków, Poland

Suggested Path:

Enter through the Wawel Hill Gate: Start your journey by entering through the Wawel Hill Gate. Take in the impressive surroundings and begin your ascent to Wawel Castle.
Visit the State Rooms: Begin your tour by exploring the State Rooms, also known as the Royal Apartments. Marvel at the opulent interiors, intricate tapestries, and period furniture that showcase the grandeur of Poland’s royal history.
Explore the Wawel Cathedral: Head to the Wawel Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that has witnessed numerous royal ceremonies and burials. Explore the chapels, crypts, and the Sigismund Bell, and don’t forget to climb to the top for panoramic views of Kraków.
Dragon’s Den: As you descend from the Cathedral, make a quick stop at the Dragon’s Den, a legendary cave at the foot of Wawel Hill associated with the Wawel Dragon. The dragon statue above the den is a popular spot for photos.
Wawel Courtyard: Take a stroll through the Wawel Courtyard, enjoying the Renaissance and Gothic architecture. Admire the details of the castle walls, and if available, consider joining a guided tour to gain insights into the history and legends.
Wawel Hill Panoramic Views: Climb to the top of Wawel Hill for breathtaking panoramic views of the Vistula River, Kraków Old Town, and beyond. This is an ideal spot for taking photographs and appreciating the cityscape.
Wawel Castle Gardens: After exploring the castle’s interiors and hilltop, relax in the Wawel Castle Gardens. Stroll through the lush greenery and enjoy the serene atmosphere. The gardens offer a pleasant escape from the historical sites.

5:00 PM – Wander through Kazimierz District

Explore the Kazimierz district, known for its Jewish heritage and bohemian atmosphere. Stroll through the cobbled streets and discover unique shops and cafes.

Check out what to see and where to go there:

Old Synagogues:
- Remah Synagogue: Visit the Remah Synagogue, known for its stunning interior and adjacent Remah Cemetery, the resting place of Rabbi Moses Isserles.
- High Synagogue: Explore the High Synagogue, which houses an exhibition on Jewish religious practices.
Jewish Quarter Square:
- Overview: Stroll through the Jewish Quarter Square, where you’ll find lively markets, street art, and a variety of cafes and shops.
- Highlights: Look for the “Eros Bendato” sculpture by Igor Mitoraj and the vibrant atmosphere of Plac Nowy.
Schindler’s Factory: ( reserve some time to explore it tomorrow morning! )
- Overview: Visit Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory, now a museum that tells the story of Kraków during World War II. The museum provides historical insights into the city’s past.
Kazimierz Street Art:
- Overview: Kazimierz is known for its vibrant street art scene. Take a leisurely walk through the district’s streets to discover colorful murals and artistic expressions.
Galicia Jewish Museum:
- Overview: Explore the Galicia Jewish Museum, dedicated to preserving the memory of Jewish life in Polish Galicia. The museum often hosts exhibitions and events.
New Jewish Cemetery:
- Overview: Visit the New Jewish Cemetery, a peaceful and historically significant site. The cemetery has unique gravestones and serves as a testament to Kraków’s Jewish heritage.
Klezmer Music Performances:
- Overview: Check for live Klezmer music performances in the area. Many cafes and cultural spaces host events that celebrate this traditional Jewish music genre.
Kupa Synagogue and Museum:
- Overview: Explore the Kupa Synagogue, home to the Jewish Community Center and a museum focusing on Jewish culture and history in Poland.
Cafes and Restaurants:
- Overview: Enjoy the diverse culinary scene in Kazimierz. Visit Jewish-style restaurants and cafes offering traditional dishes and modern interpretations.
- Recommendations: Alchemia, Ariel, and Mleczarnia are popular spots to experience local flavors.
Kazimierz Street Market:
- Overview: If you’re there on the right day, explore the Kazimierz Street Market, where you can find local produce, crafts, and unique items.

Evening Delights: Dinner at Starka Restaurant and Vistula River Promenade

8:00 PM – Dinner at U Babci Maliny

Overview: U Babci Maliny is a charming eatery with a rustic atmosphere, serving Polish and European dishes. It’s a great place to experience homemade-style cooking.
Address: Wiślna 8, 31-007 Kraków, Poland
Average Price: PLN 25-40 per person
Suggested Dishes: Try the “zrazy” (stuffed beef rolls) or the chicken soup.

10:00 PM – Relax by the Vistula River

End your day by the Vistula River. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the promenade, taking in the illuminated Wawel Castle and the city lights.

Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Artistic Vibes

Morning Exploration: Schindler’s Factory and MOCAK

10:00 AM – Visit Schindler’s Factory Museum

Explore the poignant exhibitions at Schindler’s Factory Museum, providing insights into Kraków’s wartime history.
Address: Schindler’s Factory Museum, Lipowa 4, 30-702 Kraków, Poland

Afternoon Adventure: Lunch & Planty Park and Cloth Hall

1:00 PM – Lunch at Polskie Jadło

Overview: Polskie Jadło is a restaurant offering a variety of Polish dishes. It’s known for its homey atmosphere and traditional cuisine.
Address: Świętego Tomasza 25, 31-014 Kraków, Poland
Suggested Dishes: Sample the “flaki” (tripe soup) or the “pierogi z mięsem” (meat pierogi), bigos and gołąbki.
Average Price: PLN 20-35 per person

3:30 PM – Visit MOCAK

Discover contemporary art at MOCAK (Museum of Contemporary Art in Kraków), showcasing works by Polish and international artists.
Address: MOCAK, Lipowa 4, 30-702 Kraków, Poland

4:30 PM – Relax in Planty Park

Take a leisurely stroll through Planty Park, a green belt surrounding the Old Town. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance and admire the sculptures and gardens.

5:30 PM – Explore Cloth Hall

Discover the historic Cloth Hall in Rynek Główny. Browse through the stalls offering traditional Polish handicrafts and souvenirs.

Evening Delights: Dinner at Pod Aniołami and Kraków by Night

7:00 PM – Dinner at U Babci Maliny

Overview: U Babci Maliny is a charming eatery with a rustic atmosphere, serving Polish and European dishes. It’s a great place to experience homemade-style cooking.
Address: Wiślna 8, 31-007 Kraków, Poland
Suggested Dishes: Try the “zrazy” (stuffed beef rolls) or the chicken soup.
Average Price: PLN 25-40 per person

9:00 PM – Experience Kraków by Night

Take a night stroll through the beautifully illuminated Old Town. Visit Rynek Główny and Wawel Castle, witnessing the city’s enchanting nighttime charm.

Day 3: Nature Retreat and Local Markets

Morning Exploration: Kosciuszko Mound and Nowa Huta

8:00 AM – Visit Kosciuszko Mound

Hike up Kosciuszko Mound for panoramic views of Kraków and the surrounding landscape.
Address: Kosciuszko Mound, Kopiec Kościuszki, 30-001 Kraków, Poland

9:30 AM – Breakfast: Bagelmama

Overview: Bagelmama is a cozy spot known for its delicious bagels and various toppings. It has a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a casual breakfast.
Address: Józefa 16, 31-056 Kraków, Poland
Suggested Dishes: Try the classic New York-style bagels with cream cheese or choose from their creative bagel sandwiches.
Average Price: PLN 10-20 per person

11:00 AM – Explore Nowa Huta

Exploring Nowa Huta, a socialist-era district in Kraków, allows you to delve into the history and architecture of this unique part of the city.

Here’s a suggested path to discover the highlights, including the Main Square and iconic socialist-era architecture:

Start at Central Square (Plac Centralny):
- Overview: Begin your exploration at Central Square, the heart of Nowa Huta. This square was designed to be the central point of the district, featuring a large open space surrounded by socialist architecture.
- Highlights: Observe the layout, fountains, and the central sculpture of Vladimir Lenin, showcasing the socialist urban planning principles.
Visit Nowa Huta’s Main Square (Plac Centralny im. Ronalda Reagana):
- Overview: Stroll through Nowa Huta’s Main Square, renamed in honor of Ronald Reagan. The square underwent changes after the fall of communism but retains its historical significance.
- Highlights: Admire the architecture, including the modernist-style administrative buildings and the massive steel sculpture of the “Wladimir Lenin Steelworks.”
Explore Avenue of Roses (Aleja Róż):
- Overview: Walk along Avenue of Roses, a charming boulevard that was originally designed with rows of roses and trees. It’s a pleasant area for a leisurely stroll.
- Highlights: Experience the greenery and architecture along the avenue, including residential buildings and cultural facilities.
Nowa Huta Museum:
- Overview: Visit the Nowa Huta Museum to gain deeper insights into the history of the district. The museum is housed in a former administrative building and provides a comprehensive overview of Nowa Huta’s past.
- Address: Osiedle Centrum E 1, 30-781 Kraków, Poland
See the Lord’s Ark Church (Kościół Arka Pana):
- Overview: Head towards the Lord’s Ark Church, an architectural gem that stands out in Nowa Huta. Built in defiance of communist authorities, this church is an iconic symbol of resistance.
- Address: Rynek Nowego Miasta 2, 31-028 Kraków, Poland
Visit St. Barbara’s Church (Kościół św. Barbary):
- Overview: Explore St. Barbara’s Church, a historic church in Nowa Huta with unique architectural features. It provides a contrast to the socialist-style buildings in the area.
- Address: os. Centrum E 1, 30-703 Kraków, Poland
Wander around Residential Districts:
- Overview: Take a walk through the residential districts of Nowa Huta, characterized by rows of identical apartment blocks. Observe the daily life of residents and the communal spaces designed during the socialist era.
Lunch at a Local Milk Bar:
- Overview: Experience the authentic socialist-era dining experience by having lunch at a local milk bar. These establishments serve affordable traditional Polish meals.
- Recommendation: Bar Mleczny Pod Temidą is one of the well-known milk bars in Nowa Huta.
- Address: os. Centrum B 15, 31-905 Kraków, Poland
Reflect at Cenotaph of Cracovian Workers (Cenotaf Czynu Robotniczego):
- Overview: Visit the Cenotaph of Cracovian Workers, a memorial dedicated to the workers of Nowa Huta. The site has historical significance and provides a moment for reflection.
- Address: Osiedle Centrum E 1, 30-781 Kraków, Poland
Park Ratuszowy:
- Overview: Conclude your exploration by relaxing in Park Ratuszowy, a park near the Nowa Huta administrative center. It’s a green space offering a peaceful environment.
- Address: Osiedle Centrum E 1, 30-781 Kraków, Poland

Afternoon Adventure: Krakus Mound and Bagatela Theatre

3:00 PM – Visit Krakus Mound

Take a journey to Krakus Mound, another panoramic viewpoint offering a different perspective of the city.
Address: Krakus Mound, 30-543 Kraków, Poland

4:00 PM – Enjoy a Performance at Bagatela Theatre

Immerse yourself in Polish culture by attending a performance at Bagatela Theatre, known for its rich theatrical tradition.
Address: Bagatela Theatre, Karmelicka 6, 31-133 Kraków, Poland

Evening Farewell: Dinner at Szara Gęś and Vistula Boulevards

7:00 PM – Dinner at Bar Mleczny Krakus

Overview: Bar Mleczny Krakus is a classic milk bar that provides affordable and hearty Polish meals. It’s a local favorite.
Address: Powiśle 27, 31-101 Kraków, Poland
Suggested Dishes:
- Kotlet schabowy (breaded pork cutlet) with potatoes and cabbage
- Pierogi Ruskie (Russian dumplings) with sauerkraut and mashed potatoes
- Żurek (sour rye soup) with sausage and potatoes
Average Price: PLN 10-20 per person

9:00 PM – Relax by the Vistula Boulevards