Kraków is a historic city in southern Poland, close to the Czech border. It is famous for its well-preserved old town and rich Jewish heritage. At the heart of the city is the Rynek Główny, a large and beautiful main square. Around it, you’ll find Planty Park and pieces of the old city walls. In the square stands the Cloth Hall, a historic marketplace from the Renaissance, and St. Mary’s Basilica, a stunning Gothic church from the 14th century.
On a hill near the Vistula River, you’ll discover Wawel Castle and Wawel Cathedral. This area was once home to Polish kings and now serves as a museum with impressive art and architecture. Kraków’s Jewish history is preserved in places like Kazimierz, the old Jewish district, now full of trendy cafés and bars. You can also visit Oskar Schindler’s Factory, which shares the story of Kraków during World War II.
Popular day trips from Kraków include a visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial, a former Nazi concentration camp, and the amazing Wieliczka Salt Mine, a deep underground world filled with tunnels, chapels, and salt-carved rooms.
places to visit in Kraków
Wieliczka Salt Mine
Located in the town of Wieliczka near Kraków, the Wieliczka Salt Mine is one of the oldest in the world. Salt has been extracted here since the 13th century, and it continued producing table salt until 2007. Inside, visitors can explore long tunnels, deep shafts, underground lakes, and chapels—all carved out of salt. Many of the sculptures were created by miners, while modern artists have also added their work.
Wawel Castle
Wawel Royal Castle, in the heart of Kraków, is one of Poland’s most important historical sites. Ordered by King Casimir III the Great, the castle blends various architectural styles such as medieval, Renaissance, and baroque. It sits on Wawel Hill and was the first site in the world to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The castle complex includes royal apartments, art collections, and grand courtyards.
Main Square
Kraków’s Main Square is the center of the city and the largest medieval square in Europe. It’s surrounded by old houses and churches. Many buildings have neoclassical fronts, but their older foundations and details still show the city’s long history. This area is always lively, full of cafés, performers, and historic charm.
Kraków Cloth Hall
The Cloth Hall, located in the Main Square, is one of Kraków’s most famous landmarks. It dates back to the Renaissance and was once a busy market for merchants. Today, it houses a large art gallery showcasing 19th-century Polish paintings and sculptures. It’s also part of Kraków’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Ojców National Park
Ojców National Park is the smallest national park in Poland and is located near Kraków. It features amazing rock formations, caves, and ancient castles. The park is part of the popular Trail of the Eagles’ Nests, which includes the ruins of Ojców Castle and the well-preserved Pieskowa Skała Castle. There are also two museums in the park focusing on nature and art.
St. Mary’s Basilica
St. Mary’s Basilica is a stunning Gothic church on the Main Square. It’s famous for its tall towers and beautiful wooden altar carved by Veit Stoss. Every hour, a trumpeter plays the Hejnał mariacki from the top of the taller tower, a tradition that has lasted for centuries.
Rynek Underground Museum
Beneath the Main Square lies the Rynek Underground Museum, covering over 6,000 square meters. The exhibition, called “In the Footsteps of Kraków’s European Identity,” brings history to life using fog effects, holograms, and touch screens. Visitors can explore the remains of ancient roads and market stalls while learning about life in Kraków 700 years ago.
Old Synagogue
Located in Kraków’s Kazimierz district, the Old Synagogue is the oldest Jewish house of worship still standing in Poland. It’s one of the most important sites of Jewish heritage in Europe. Today, it operates as a museum and holds exhibitions about Jewish life and traditions in Kraków.
Ogrodzieniec Castle
Ogrodzieniec Castle is a striking medieval ruin in the Polish Jura region. It was built between the 14th and 15th centuries by the powerful Sulimczyk family. The castle’s dramatic setting and haunting atmosphere make it a favorite among visitors and photographers.
Smocza Jama (Dragon’s Den)
Smocza Jama, or Dragon’s Den, is a limestone cave at the base of Wawel Hill. It’s famous for its connection to the legend of the Wawel Dragon. Inside, rare cave-dwelling animals like the Niphargus tatrensis, a small crustacean, live in underground pools. It’s one of the most visited caves in Poland.
Best time to visit Kraków
The best time to visit Kraków is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November).
These months have pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
It’s a great time to explore the city comfortably.
Airfare and hotels are usually more affordable.
You can enjoy sightseeing without the summer rush.
