Krakow, one of Poland’s oldest and most charming cities, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and architectural beauty. As the country’s former royal capital, it offers a wealth of experiences for travelers, from medieval castles and historic squares to vibrant neighborhoods and moving memorials. This guide provides a comprehensive look at the top things to do and see in Krakow.
1. Historic Old Town
Main Market Square (Rynek Główny)
At the heart of Krakow’s Old Town lies the Main Market Square (Rynek Główny), the largest medieval square in Europe. This lively hub is surrounded by colorful townhouses, cafes, and restaurants. Here you’ll find some of the city’s most iconic landmarks:
- St. Mary’s Basilica (Kościół Mariacki): Known for its twin spires, this Gothic basilica is one of Krakow’s most recognizable landmarks. Inside, the stunning Veit Stoss Altarpiece (the largest Gothic altarpiece in the world) and the colorful vaulted ceilings are a must-see. Every hour, a trumpet call (hejnal) is played from the taller tower, a tradition dating back to the Middle Ages.
- Cloth Hall (Sukiennice): Located in the center of the square, the Cloth Hall is a Renaissance-style market building that has served as a trading hub for centuries. Today, it houses souvenir shops on the ground floor and the Sukiennice Museum, which showcases 19th-century Polish art, on the upper level.
- Town Hall Tower: This solitary tower is all that remains of the original town hall that once stood here. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the square and beyond.
Wawel Castle and Wawel Hill
Perched on a hill overlooking the Vistula River, Wawel Castle is a symbol of Polish royalty and national pride. The castle complex, which dates back to the 13th century, includes several key sites:
- Wawel Cathedral: The coronation site of Polish kings, this cathedral is one of the country’s most important religious buildings. Inside, you’ll find the tombs of many Polish monarchs and national heroes. Don’t miss the chance to climb the Sigismund Bell Tower for incredible views of the city.
- Royal Chambers and State Rooms: These beautifully restored rooms showcase tapestries, paintings, and royal regalia, offering a glimpse into the life of Poland’s royal court.
- Dragon’s Den: According to legend, a dragon once lived in a cave beneath Wawel Hill. You can explore this cave, known as Smocza Jama, and find the Wawel Dragon sculpture at the exit, which occasionally breathes fire.
2. Jewish Quarter (Kazimierz)
The Kazimierz district, located just south of the Old Town, was once the center of Jewish life in Krakow. Today, it’s a vibrant neighborhood known for its historical significance, trendy cafes, and nightlife. Some key sites in Kazimierz include:
Old Synagogue (Stara Synagoga)
This 15th-century synagogue is the oldest still-standing synagogue in Poland and now serves as a museum dedicated to Jewish history and culture. It offers insight into the life of Krakow’s Jewish community before the Holocaust.
Remuh Synagogue and Cemetery
The Remuh Synagogue, built in the 16th century, is one of the few synagogues still active in Krakow. Next to it is the Remuh Cemetery, a historic Jewish burial ground with gravestones dating back to the 1500s. The cemetery is a poignant reminder of the once-thriving Jewish community.
Plac Nowy and Szeroka Street
For a taste of contemporary Kazimierz, visit Plac Nowy, a square that hosts a lively flea market by day and becomes a hub for nightlife in the evening. The market’s food stalls are famous for selling zapiekanki, an open-faced sandwich that’s a local favorite. Szeroka Street is the heart of Jewish Kazimierz, where you’ll find historic synagogues, restaurants, and memorials.
3. Schindler’s Factory and Ghetto Heroes Square
For those interested in World War II history, a visit to Schindler’s Factory Museum is essential. Located in the Podgórze district, this museum is housed in the former enamel factory owned by Oskar Schindler, the German businessman who saved over 1,000 Jews during the Holocaust. The museum offers a powerful, immersive exhibition that tells the story of Krakow during the Nazi occupation.
Nearby is Ghetto Heroes Square, a memorial dedicated to the Jewish residents of the Krakow Ghetto. The square is marked by 70 empty metal chairs, symbolizing the tragedy of the Holocaust and the lives lost.
4. Day Trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau
A visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, located about an hour’s drive from Krakow, is a sobering yet important experience. Auschwitz was the largest Nazi concentration and extermination camp during World War II, and the museum preserves the memory of the victims who perished there. Guided tours are available, offering insight into the atrocities that took place and the importance of remembering this dark chapter in history.
5. Wieliczka Salt Mine
Another popular day trip from Krakow is the Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage site located just outside the city. This fascinating underground world, carved entirely from salt, has been in operation for over 700 years. Visitors can explore the maze of tunnels, chambers, and chapels, including the breathtaking St. Kinga’s Chapel, which features intricate salt carvings and chandeliers. The mine also houses a museum that details the history of salt mining in Poland.
6. Planty Park and Florianska Gate
Surrounding the Old Town is Planty Park, a green belt created in the 19th century on the site of the city’s medieval defensive walls. The park is a peaceful place for a walk or a rest after sightseeing, and it connects many of the city’s key landmarks. While strolling through Planty, you’ll come across the Florianska Gate, one of the few remaining parts of the old city walls, and the entrance to Florianska Street, a bustling thoroughfare lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.
7. Kościuszko Mound
For panoramic views of Krakow, head to Kościuszko Mound, located in the western part of the city. Built in honor of the Polish national hero Tadeusz Kościuszko, the mound stands 35 meters high and offers sweeping views of the city and the surrounding countryside. It’s a popular spot for a peaceful afternoon walk or picnic, and the nearby Fort Kościuszko, a 19th-century military structure, adds an extra layer of history to the visit.
8. Museums in Krakow
National Museum
Krakow’s National Museum is the largest museum in Poland, housing a diverse collection of Polish and international art, including medieval works, decorative arts, and 20th-century Polish paintings. One of its most famous exhibits is Leonardo da Vinci’s “Lady with an Ermine,” displayed in the Czartoryski Museum, which is part of the National Museum collection.
MOCAK (Museum of Contemporary Art in Krakow)
For a taste of modern and contemporary art, head to MOCAK, located in the Podgórze district. This museum showcases thought-provoking works by Polish and international artists and is housed in a former factory building.
9. Krakus Mound and Liban Quarry
For an off-the-beaten-path experience, visit the Krakus Mound, another ancient mound believed to be the burial site of the legendary King Krakus, the city’s mythical founder. Nearby is the Liban Quarry, which was used as a forced labor camp during World War II and later served as a filming location for Schindler’s List. The site, now partially abandoned, offers a poignant reminder of the city’s wartime history.
10. Tyniec Abbey
For a peaceful escape from the city, take a short trip to Tyniec Abbey, a Benedictine monastery located on a cliff overlooking the Vistula River. Founded in the 11th century, the abbey is one of Poland’s oldest and is still an active monastic community. Visitors can tour the abbey’s museum, admire the stunning views of the river, and enjoy some tranquility in the abbey gardens.
Conclusion
Krakow is a city that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern charm, offering something for every traveler. Whether you’re exploring its medieval streets, learning about its Jewish heritage, or visiting nearby memorials, Krakow’s depth of culture and history leaves a lasting impression. From the grandeur of Wawel Castle to the vibrant streets of Kazimierz, Krakow is a city that invites you to linger, explore, and discover its many treasures.
Leave a Reply