Krakow is a city full of attractions. It is visited by millions of tourists and they are all charmed by its unique atmosphere. To be specific, the City of Polish Kings is visited by nearly 10 million travelers a year – impressive, right? What should we focus on during our stay in the most beautiful city in Poland? This post should answer the question.
Where should we start our journey?
It is obvious – from the Main Market Square, one of the largest in Europe! It is a vibrant place, always crowded and filled by musicians, performers and mimes. It delight not only adults, but also the youngest visitors. St. Mary’s Church and the Cloth Hall – two symbols of Krakow are located right here. The Market is surrounded by breathtaking houses and palaces and in the Underground, there is a very unique Museum with a fantastic exhibition dedicated to everyday life in Krakow in the Middle Ages. In the museum historical objects harmonizes with modern technology. You can see here some great reconstructions and authentic everyday objects. The Underground of the Krakow Main Market Square has its popularity all across the Europe (only City of York in England has a similar exhibition). Krakow Old Town is a mess of narrow, picturesque streets with medieval, Renaissance and Baroque houses. Take a walk from Szczepanski Square with its pubs and cafes through Jagiellonska Street running next to the buildings of the oldest Polish university. Then go to the Franciszkanska Street with Bishop Palace and its famous window from which St. John Paul II spoke to the crowds. Later, You can take a walk through Grodzka Street and see the first Baroque church in Poland. After a few minutes, You will find yourself next to the Wawel Hill. Now You can visit Gothic Wawel Cathedral and Royal Castle with Renaissance arcaded courtyard. In addition, another obligatory stop – Dragon’s Den J. It is also a good time to walk along the river to Kazimierz district, located nearby.
Kazimierz district
Kazimierz was once a separate town established in the Middle Ages by king Casimir the Great. Now Kazimierz is a part of Krakow with its own fantastic atmosphere that You simply have to feel in the air! You can see here some beautiful Gothic and Baroque churches as well as 7 synagogues (some part of Kazimierz was inhabited by a Jewish community for centuries). Today Kazimierz is recognizable for many cafes, pubs and clubs which are meeting points both for inhabitants, and tourists. Visit also the famous Plac Nowy (New Square) and so-called “Okrąglak” (humorous Polish term for a circular building) where you can eat … casseroles, the unofficial symbol of Kazimierz. It is worth knowing that Jewish past of Kazimierz is commemorated by every-year Jewish Culture Festival starting here in June.
Podgorze district
Podgorze district where during the Nazi Occupation Jewish Ghetto was established is located on the other side of the Vistula River. The former Oscar Schindler’s ‘Emalia’ Factory with museum exhibition that refers to World War II is located nearby, in Zablocie. Additionally, You can visit the very popular MOCAK (Museum of Contemporary Art in Krakow) with its impressive avant-garde collections and projects. This place attracts an increasing number of tourists.
Visiting Krakow – a bit of culture, or a bit of recreation?
Going back to the city center, it is good idea to visit the National Museum with its really impressive collection of world class masterpieces (Polish Paintings Gallery in the Cloth Hall, Bishop’s Erazm Ciołek Palace or Europeum). But when you feel tired of the hustle and bustle of the city, we recommend a very popular Henryk Jordan Park where you can relax in peace or spend time actively eg. riding a bicycle. There is also a huge open green space called Błonia nearby the park. This great meadow and its surroundings are perfect for jogging, roller blading, cycling, or simply picnicking with the closest people admiring a fantastic view of the Old Town or mounds. In hot days, there is a fun in going to Water Park for swimming, sliding and many other attractions that will please not only children but adults as well.
Visiting Krakow, it is good to have a considered itinerary. We can offer You guided tours and our help in but also help in accommodation booking finding.
