Krakow Holidays

Steeped in history and brimming with character, Krakow, the second-largest and one of the oldest cities in Poland, captivates visitors with its medieval charm and lively atmosphere. A city break to Krakow offers medieval architecture, vibrant nightlife, and incredible cuisine. With its welcoming atmosphere and ever-evolving attractions, Krakow is a place worth returning to again and again.

Average Weather in Krakow

Facts About Krakow

• Currency: Polish Zloty (PLN)
• Language: Polish
• Timezone: GMT+1
• Population: Approximately 0.8 million
• Airports: Kraków John Paul II International Airport (KRK)
• Flight duration from Gatwick airport: 2h 30m

Is Krakow Expensive for Tourists?

Krakow is generally considered a relatively affordable city compared to other major European destinations, offering good value for money, especially for travelers on a budget. Here’s what you can expect to spend in Krakow:

• Average price of a beer: €2.50 - €3.50
• Glass of wine: €4 - €9
• Coffee: €1.20 - €2.40
• Sandwich: €2.50 - €4
• Dinner: €14 - €18
• Attraction entry prices: €9 - €20

Prices around popular spots like Wawel Castle, Main Market Square, and Kazimierz may be higher. If you're visiting on a budget, consider dining and shopping a bit further from these hotspots to enjoy more reasonable prices.

Getting Around Krakow

Krakow offers a variety of transport modes, including buses, trams, and taxis, making it convenient for visitors to navigate the city. Contactless payment is available on most public transportation options, enhancing the ease of travel.

• Buses: Krakow's extensive bus network covers the entire city and its suburbs, operating from early morning until late at night.
• Trams: The city boasts a well-developed tram system, providing frequent services across major routes.
• Bicycles: Krakow supports cycling with dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing schemes, offering a healthy and eco-friendly way to explore the city.
• Taxis: Licensed taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street, booked by phone, or through mobile apps.
• Suburban Trains: Local trains connect Krakow with surrounding towns and cities, offering an efficient option for regional travel.
• Sightseeing Buses: Hop-on-hop-off buses provide guided tours of Krakow's main attractions, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace.

How do I get from Krakow Airport to the city?

While taking a taxi from Krakow Airport to the city centre is convenient, it can be a bit expensive. Alternatively, the SKA1 suburban train line operates from the airport to Kraków Glowny (Main railway station) and further to Wieliczka. It takes about 17 minutes to get to the city centre, and further 20 minutes to Wieliczka (for Salt Mine).

Is Krakow a walkable city?

Yes, Krakow is best explored on foot, especially within the historic Old Town, which has been transformed into a pedestrian zone. Visitors can comfortably explore major attractions walking, while enjoying the city's rich history and architecture.

What Can You Do In Krakow?

• Explore Wawel Castle: This historic royal residence showcases stunning Renaissance architecture and houses Poland’s national treasures. Visitors can tour the State Rooms, admire the Crown Treasury, and walk through the picturesque courtyards.
• Visit the Main Market Square: One of the largest medieval squares in Europe, this vibrant area is home to St. Mary’s Basilica and the Cloth Hall. It’s a great place to enjoy street performances, shop for souvenirs, or relax at a café.
• Discover Kazimierz (Jewish Quarter): Once the heart of Jewish life in Krakow, this district is now a cultural hub filled with historic synagogues and trendy cafés. It’s a great spot to experience Krakow’s artistic scene and try traditional Jewish-Polish cuisine.
• Tour the Wieliczka Salt Mine: A UNESCO-listed underground marvel, this mine features intricate salt carvings, underground chapels, and a fascinating history. Guided tours take visitors through winding tunnels, salt lakes, and breathtaking chambers.
• Walk along the Vistula River: The scenic riverside offers picturesque walking and cycling paths, perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Boat cruises are also available, providing a unique view of Krakow’s skyline.
• Experience Oskar Schindler’s Factory Museum: This museum tells the powerful story of Krakow during World War II through immersive exhibits. It’s a must-visit for those interested in history and the impact of the Holocaust.

Krakow to Auschwitz-Birkenau Tours

Include an impactful and meaningful tour at Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, the largest German Nazi concentration camp and extermination center, to your holiday to Krakow. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, where over 1.1 million people lost their lives, is a short distance away from the city and an unforgettable, educational experience.

There are two parts to the camp, Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau. Auschwitz I is the first Auschwitz camp where the Nazi experimented with Zyklon-B. Birkenau is the camp where the Nazis mass exterminated around one million Jewish individuals. It is recommended that you visit both camps to understand the full scope of the atrocities committed.

You can choose to either tour the camps at your own pace, or explore with a guided tour. Guided tours are most popular as they help you understand everything from this very important site.

Why is it good to visit Auschwitz?

A trip to Auschwitz is regarded as something everyone should do once in their lifetime. You will be confronted with a solemn reminder of the horrific crimes committed - a difficult but important reminder to help us learn and improve the world moving forwards. The Nazis never intended for any evidence of Auschwitz to be left behind. By visiting, you are taking part in an act of resistance against the Nazi ideology.

What do I need to know before going to Auschwitz?

It is recommended that you visit the official Auschwitz website to read about any rules and regulations. The website also has a lesson you can complete before you visit. This lesson will give you the necessary knowledge to make the most of your trip.

Is there a dress code to visit Auschwitz?

While there is no dress code, it is asked that visitors dress in a manner suitable for the nature of the museum, which is with solemnity and respect.

Krakow Multi-City Breaks

Multi-City Break: Krakow & Berlin

A multi-city break is the perfect way to make the most of your annual leave. Jump into the energetic and buzzing city of Berlin before exploring the beautiful culture and scenery of Krakow (or vice versa) - all in one round trip!

What can I do in Berlin?

Berlin is known as an artistic city with an electric party scene. Lively, quirky and captivating, a trip to Berlin is sure to be unforgettable. With plenty to do and see, here are some top sights you can’t miss:

• Reichstag: Whether you’re into politics or not, this historic building is an architectural beauty with its stunning glass dome. If you wish to visit, make sure to pre-register on the website to gain entry.
• Brandenburg Gate: This Greek revival building is one of Berlin’s most iconic landmarks. Symbolising unity and peace, it has since become a symbol of the Cold War.
• Museum Island: Featuring five world famous museums, this UNESCO World Heritage site showcases incredible art and artifacts. It also holds regular exhibitions, so make sure to check what’s on before you visit!
• Charlottenburg Palace: Go back in time to experience the magic of the Rococo period at this enchanting palace. With beautiful baroque gardens, it's the perfect change of pace from the bustling city centre.

How long is the train from Berlin to Krakow?

The fastest train from Berlin to Krakow takes just under 7 hours. On this train you can enjoy the landscapes of Europe, read a good book and get some much needed sleep after enjoying the nightlife of Berlin or Krakow.