Ancient Polish city on the Vistula River, known for its medieval Main Market Square, Gothic Wawel Castle, and vibrant cultural scene. Rich in history dating back to the 7th century.
Krakow, Poland's second-largest city, is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and significant historical sites. You can walk through the expansive Main Market Square, explore the chambers of Wawel Castle, or visit the former Jewish quarter of Kazimierz. The city is also close to important World War II sites like Auschwitz and natural wonders such as the Wieliczka Salt Mine with its underground chambers and salt sculptures.
Exploring Krakow's Old Town
The heart of Krakow is its Old Town, centered around the Main Market Square. This vast medieval plaza is surrounded by colorful townhouses and historic buildings. You can climb the Town Hall Tower to see the city from above or browse traditional crafts in the Renaissance-era Cloth Hall. St. Mary's Basilica stands out with its asymmetrical towers. Every hour, a trumpet signal plays from the taller tower, abruptly cutting off mid-melody to commemorate a 13th-century trumpeter shot while warning the city of a Mongol attack.
Wawel Castle and Cathedral
On a hill overlooking the Vistula River, Wawel Castle was the royal residence and seat of Polish kings for centuries. The castle complex includes the Crown Treasury, where you can see the Polish coronation sword, and State Rooms decorated with famous Flemish tapestries. Next to the castle, Wawel Cathedral contains the tombs of Polish monarchs and national heroes. You can climb the Sigismund Tower to see the massive Sigismund Bell and look out over the city.
Discovering Kazimierz
Kazimierz, Krakow's historic Jewish quarter, has changed from a neglected district to a popular neighborhood while maintaining its historical significance. You can walk its narrow streets lined with synagogues, including the Old Synagogue, now a museum of Jewish history. At night, the district has many bars and live music venues. Szeroka Street, the former center of Jewish life, has antique shops and traditional Jewish restaurants.
World War II History
Krakow has several important sites related to World War II. Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory, now a museum, tells the story of Krakow under Nazi occupation and Schindler's efforts to save his Jewish workers. The museum uses multimedia exhibits to present this history. For more information about this period, you can take a day trip to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, located about an hour from Krakow.
Savoring Polish Cuisine
In Krakow, you can taste traditional Polish dishes in both historic and modern settings. Try pierogi (filled dumplings) at a milk bar, a remnant of the communist era, or sample refined Polish cuisine at upscale restaurants. Look for obwarzanek krakowski, Krakow's own pretzel-like bread ring, sold from street carts throughout the city. For a different dining experience, you can eat in one of the city's cellar restaurants, many of which date back to medieval times.
Wieliczka Salt Mine
A short trip from Krakow takes you to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This extensive underground complex has chambers carved out of salt, underground lakes, and detailed salt sculptures. The most impressive part is the Chapel of St. Kinga, a large church carved entirely out of rock salt, including chandeliers made from salt crystals. Guided tours take you through the mine's tunnels and chambers, explaining the history of salt mining that dates back to the 13th century.
