Things to Do in Krakow isn’t just another European city; it’s Poland’s living postcard, a place where medieval towers scrape the sky, where centuries-old churches echo with trumpet calls, and where every cobblestone whispers stories of kings, wars, resistance, and rebirth. Compact yet overflowing with culture, food, and history, Krakow has a magnetic charm that pulls travelers back again and again. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend escape or a deep dive into Poland’s heritage, this comprehensive guide will help you navigate Krakow like a local.
If you’re spending 3–4 days, consider this your perfect roadmap: explore the Old Town, wander through Kazimierz, dive into Krakow’s tragic WWII history, then save a day for iconic trips like Auschwitz or the Wieliczka Salt Mine. Now, let’s step into the heart of Poland’s cultural jewel.
1. Top Historic Attractions in Krakow Old Town
Rynek Główny (Main Market Square)
The beating heart of Krakow—and the largest medieval square in Europe—Rynek Główny is where your journey should begin. Mornings here feel peaceful, perfect for coffee and photos. Evenings bring performers, horse-drawn carriages, and golden-hour magic. Don’t miss the famous St. Mary’s Basilica trumpet call played every hour from the tower—a centuries-old tradition honoring a fallen watchman.
Sukiennice (Cloth Hall)
Dating back to 1555, this renaissance market hall remains the city’s souvenir paradise. Inside, artisans sell amber jewelry, wood carvings, hand-painted ceramics, and traditional Polish crafts. Beneath it lies a hidden treasure: the Rynek Underground Museum, a fascinating archaeological journey through medieval Krakow.
Wawel Royal Castle & Cathedral
No Krakow visit is complete without exploring Wawel Hill, the symbolic home of Polish royalty. Wander the free grounds, or book paid tours to see the Royal Tombs and State Rooms. Kids adore the Dragon’s Den, which ends next to the iconic fire-breathing dragon statue that roars flames every few minutes. The hill also offers some of the city’s best views.
St. Mary’s Basilica
A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, home to one of Europe’s greatest wooden altarpieces carved by Veit Stoss. Step inside to feel the weight of history—and don’t forget, the hourly trumpet signal is played from its taller tower.
Barbican & St. Florian’s Gate
A rare surviving example of medieval fortifications, this circular fortress once protected the city from invaders. Outside St. Florian’s Gate, you’ll also find an open-air art gallery filled with beautiful local paintings.
2. Museums & Cultural Experiences
Schindler’s Factory Museum
Perhaps the most powerful WWII exhibition in Poland, this museum tells the story of Nazi-occupied Krakow and Oskar Schindler’s heroic efforts. Tickets sell out fast—book at least a week ahead. Expect to spend 2–3 hours exploring it.
Rynek Underground Museum
Here, holograms, archaeological ruins, market stalls, and medieval artifacts bring old Krakow to life. The excavations reveal how the city looked 700+ years ago.
Czartoryski Museum
Home to Leonardo da Vinci’s stunning “Lady with an Ermine”, works by Rembrandt, and various royal collections. It’s also one of Poland’s oldest museums.
Pinball Museum
A quirky, fun escape—this 15th-century cellar houses 60+ vintage pinball machines, all free to play with one ticket. Great for rainy days.
3. Exploring the Jewish Quarter – Kazimierz
Kazimierz is a place of soul—once the center of Jewish life, later scarred by war, now reborn as Krakow’s hip, bohemian district.
Wander its streets to find:
-
Synagogues and Jewish heritage sites
-
Trendy bars like Alchemia or Mleczarnia
-
Incredible Middle Eastern cuisine at Hamsa (famous for their hummus)
-
Used bookstores and cozy cafes
-
Plac Nowy, Krakow’s street-food hub—try the iconic zapiekanka, a toasted open-face baguette topped with mushrooms, cheese, and endless extras.
Kazimierz blends history with modern creativity—a must-visit both during the day and after dark.
4. Essential Day Trips from Krakow
Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial
Somber, emotional, unforgettable—Auschwitz is a crucial chapter of world history. Tours last around 3.5 hours and should be booked 1+ month ahead. Combined tours are available for convenience.
Wieliczka Salt Mine
A UNESCO site unlike anything on Earth. Descend 378 stairs to explore underground chambers, salt sculptures, saline lakes, and the breathtaking Chapel of St. Kinga. Temperature stays around 14–16°C, so bring a jacket. The standard tour takes 2.5 hours.
Combined Auschwitz & Salt Mine Tours
Perfect if you’re short on time—these 10–11 hour full-day tours include transportation and a lunch break.
5. Unique & Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Kościuszko Mound
Climb to this scenic overlook for panoramic views of Krakow. The exhibition inside details the life of Polish hero Tadeusz Kościuszko. Plan for 30–40 minutes.
Wawel Dragon Legend
Kids love the fire-breathing dragon statue by Wawel Castle. Visit at night for the best effect.
Polish Folk Show
Experience traditional Polish dances, costumes, and live instruments like the accordion and violin. Great evening entertainment.
Vodka Tasting Tours
Poland takes vodka seriously—sample flavors like chocolate, raspberry, and lemon while learning about its cultural roots.
Themed Cafes
Think Harry-Potter-inspired interiors, bunny cafes, and other quirky spots perfect for Instagram and cozy breaks.
6. Where to Eat – Traditional Polish Cuisine
Budget ($)
-
U Babci Maliny – homestyle Polish meals
-
Gospoda Koko – big portions, daily specials
-
Milk Bar Tomasza – authentic communist-era canteen vibes
Mid-Range ($$)
-
Pod Wawelem Kompania Kuflowa – hearty plates, great beer
-
Pierogarnia Krakowiacy – the pierogi specialists
-
Chata – mountain cabin ambiance
-
Kuchnia u Doroty – beloved by locals
Upscale ($$$)
-
Pod Aniołami – romantic underground cellar setting
-
Kogel Mogel – refined Polish cuisine
-
Restauracja Sąsiedzi – elegant dining
Must-Try Polish Dishes
-
Pierogi (dumplings)
-
Żurek in a bread bowl
-
Zapiekanka
-
Bigos (hunter’s stew)
-
Obwarzanek (Krakow’s signature bagel)
-
Kielbasa (Polish sausage)
7. Nightlife & Evening Activities
Krakow comes alive after sundown:
-
Hotel Copernicus Rooftop Bar for sweeping sunset views
-
Lively Kazimierz bar scene
-
Vodka bars with flavored shots
-
Chopin Gallery classical concerts at 7 PM
Whether you want music, cocktails, or quiet strolls, nights here are magical.
8. Shopping in Krakow
Krakow is a great city for unique, handmade souvenirs:
-
Cloth Hall for traditional crafts
-
Vintage stores in Kazimierz
-
Polish ceramics & pottery
-
Amber jewelry
-
Local designer boutiques
9. Outdoor Activities
-
Planty Park: a lush ring of greenery encircling the Old Town
-
Vistula River Boulevard: perfect for walking or cycling
-
Bike tours to Tyniec Abbey
-
Observation Balloon or Cracow Eye Ferris Wheel for sky-high views
10. Practical Travel Information
-
Best time to visit: Spring & Fall
-
Ideal stay: 4–5 days
-
Getting around: Walk Old Town; use trams/buses for distant areas
-
Budget tips: Eat at milk bars; Krakow is cheaper than Western Europe
-
Booking tips: Reserve Auschwitz, Salt Mine & Wawel Castle early
-
Museum tip: Avoid Mondays—many close
-
What to pack: Layers, comfy shoes, jacket for Salt Mine
11. Sample 3-Day Krakow Itinerary
Day 1 – Old Town
Morning: Main Market Square, St. Mary’s Basilica
Afternoon: Wawel Castle & Cathedral
Evening: Dinner + Polish folk show
Day 2 – History & Kazimierz
Morning: Schindler’s Factory
Afternoon: Kazimierz sightseeing + food
Evening: Drinks in Kazimierz
Day 3 – Day Trip
Full day: Auschwitz + Salt Mine
Evening: Vodka tasting or relaxed dinner
Related: Coverwise Travel Insurance: Affordable, Reliable Protection for Every Traveler
Conclusion
Things to Do in Krakow is the kind of city that stays with you long after you’ve left. It’s poetic without trying, historic without feeling heavy, and vibrant without being overwhelming. From medieval squares to unforgettable day trips and a food scene that comforts your soul, Krakow deserves a top spot on every traveler’s European bucket list.
Save this guide, plan your adventure, and let Krakow’s magic unfold around you