Krakow

Krakow, one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Poland, captivates with its rich history and amazing architecture. Walking its streets, you will immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Middle Ages, enjoy cultural and gastronomic delights, and get to know its unique heritage.

Quotes about cities are often created by famous writers, travelers, or historical figures, but Krakow itself is so rich in history and culture that its beauty and atmosphere are difficult to describe in just one sentence. However, here is a stylized quote that could be used to attract tourists: Krakow is a city where every corner is steeped in history, and every step leads to new discoveries. This phrase emphasizes the uniqueness and diversity of Krakow, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in its atmosphere and mysteries.

General information

Krakow is one of the oldest and most famous cities in Poland, attracting many tourists thanks to its rich historical heritage and cultural significance. Located in the south of the country, Krakow was the capital of Poland until 1596 and plays an important role in Polish history.

Here are a few key reasons why Krakow is popular among tourists:

• Historic Centre and Architecture: The historic center of Krakow, including the Main Market Square and the Wawel Royal Castle, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque buildings combined with narrow streets create a unique atmosphere of an ancient European city.

• Wawel Cathedral: This cathedral is a national sanctuary and the site of the coronation of Polish kings. It also serves as the final resting place of many important figures in Polish history.

• Jewish Quarter Kazimierz: Formerly a separate city, Kazimierz is renowned for its synagogues, historic buildings, and vibrant cultural scene. There are museums dedicated to Jewish culture and history here.

• Museums and Cultural Events: The Czartoryski Museum, the Gallery of Polish Art in the Cloth Hall, and the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCAK) are just a few of the city's many museums. Krakow is also known for its theaters, festivals, and musical events.

• Education and Science: Jagiellonian University, one of the oldest universities in Europe, is located in Krakow. The city has long been a center of intellectual and scientific life.

• Tourist Infrastructure: Krakow offers its guests a wide choice of hotels, restaurants, and cafes, as well as various tours and tourist routes, making it convenient to visit.

• Proximity to Other Attractions: From Krakow, it is easy to reach such famous places as Wieliczka (salt mines), Auschwitz-Birkenau, and Zakopane in the Tatra Mountains.

Krakow is not only attractive to history and culture enthusiasts but also offers a variety of entertainment and culinary delights, making it an ideal destination for tourists of various interests.

Monuments and museums

In this city, you will find many historical monuments and museums that reflect its rich culture and history. One of the most famous is the majestic castle, which stands on a hill and serves as a symbol of the city. This place is renowned for its architectural beauty and significance to national history. Nearby is a cathedral where many famous personalities are buried.

In the city center, you will find an ancient market square surrounded by medieval buildings. Here is also the famous trading hall, which has long served as an important trading center. In this hall, you can buy souvenirs and products from local craftsmen.

Among the museums, there are several important institutions. One of them is dedicated to art and houses the works of famous artists. Another museum provides a detailed account of the difficult period of World War II, giving a deep understanding of those days through artifacts, documents, and personal stories.

Additionally, enthusiasts of Jewish culture will find interesting exhibitions in a museum that provides a detailed overview of Jewish heritage and history in the region. The city is home to ancient synagogues, which are also open to visitors.

These landmarks make the city an energetic and thoughtful place for studying history and culture, inviting tourists from around the world.

Historical events

Krakow, one of the oldest and most culturally significant cities in Poland, has a rich history. Here are some key historical events and stages associated with Krakow:

• Foundation and Early History: According to legend, Krakow was founded in the 7th century by Prince Krak. The area had been inhabited since prehistoric times, and Krakow soon became an important trading center.

• Capital of Poland: In 1038, Krakow became the capital of Poland. The city quickly became the political, economic, and cultural center of the country.

• Defeat of the Teutonic Order: In 1410, after the victory in the Battle of Grunwald, Polish troops triumphantly entered the city.

• Jagiellonian University: In 1364, Casimir III the Great founded the Jagiellonian University, one of the oldest universities in the world, which became an important educational and scientific center in Europe.

• Golden Age of Krakow: The 15th and 16th centuries are considered the Golden Age in the history of Krakow. During this time, the city flourished, and architecture, science, and art developed.

• Transfer of the Capital to Warsaw: In 1596, the capital of Poland was transferred to Warsaw, leading to a gradual decrease in the importance of Krakow as a political center.

• Partitions of Poland: As a result of the third partition of Poland in 1795, Krakow came under Austrian rule.

• Krakow Republic: In 1815, after the Congress of Vienna, the independent Krakow Republic was established, which existed until 1846 when it was annexed by Austria.

• World War I and World War II: During World War I, the city was under the control of Austria-Hungary; during World War II, Krakow became an important administrative center for Nazi Germany and experienced difficult times of occupation.

• Post-war Period and Modernity: After the war, Krakow became a center of cultural and academic revival in Poland. In 1978, its historic center was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

• European Capital of Culture: In 2000, Krakow was named the European Capital of Culture, emphasizing its significant role in the cultural and historical life of Europe.

These events have shaped Krakow into a city with a rich cultural heritage and significant historical importance.

Cultural events and festivals

Krakow, one of the cultural centers of Poland, is known for its many festivals and events that attract tourists and locals. Here are some of them:

• Krakow Film Festival: Held annually and dedicated to documentary, animation, and short films. It is one of the oldest film festivals in Europe.

• Jewish Culture Festival: Takes place in the Kazimierz district and includes concerts, lectures, exhibitions, and culinary masterclasses dedicated to Jewish culture and history.

• Misteria Paschalia Music Festival: A Easter festival dedicated to classical music, usually held during the spring and featuring concerts in historical buildings.

• Krakow Crafts Festival: Held on the main market square of the city, showcasing traditional Polish crafts, handmade products, and local dishes.

• Saxon Gardens Festival: A summer music festival held in one of Krakow's oldest parks, offering outdoor concerts.

• Naturalist Festival: An event for nature lovers, featuring specialized lectures, excursions, and discussions on nature conservation and biodiversity.

• Pie Festival: A celebration dedicated to pies - a traditional Polish dish. Visitors can try many variations and participate in contests.

• Krakow Carnival: Held annually at the end of winter, including parades, costume events, and street performances.

These and many other festivals make Krakow a significant cultural center, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Galleries and exhibitions

In Krakow, one of the largest and most culturally rich cities in Poland, there are numerous galleries and exhibitions, each offering unique exhibitions and artistic experiences. Here are some of them:

• National Museum in Krakow:

  • One of the largest museums in Poland with an extensive collection of Polish art from the Middle Ages to the present.
  • Regularly hosts temporary exhibitions.

• Museum of Contemporary Art in Krakow (MOCAK):

  • Located in the post-industrial zone of Zatorze, the museum focuses on contemporary art and includes works by Polish and international artists.

• Gallery of the International Cultural Center:

  • Situated on the Market Square and offers various exhibitions related to world cultural heritage and contemporary art.

• Bunkier Sztuki Gallery in Krakow:

  • Known for its exhibitions of contemporary art and cultural events.

• Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) - Gallery of Polish 19th Century Art:

  • Located on the second floor of a historic building on the Main Market Square, here you can see works by the most famous Polish artists of the 19th century.

• Ethnographic Museum:

  • Presents a collection of folk art and artifacts from Polish culture, including temporary exhibitions dedicated to various aspects of people's lives and culture.

• Poster and Design Gallery:

  • Specializes in graphic design and posters, offering unique exhibitions in this area.

• Manggha - Center for Japanese Art and Technology:

  • Showcases the art and culture of Japan, including temporary exhibitions of contemporary Japanese artists.

These galleries and exhibitions reflect Krakow's rich cultural heritage and offer something interesting for every visitor, whether traditional painting or modern art installations.

Local cuisine

Krakow is a city with a rich gastronomic tradition, and there are plenty of local delicacies for tourists to try. Here are some of the most popular:

• Obwarzanek Krakowski - a traditional Krakow pastry resembling a bagel, topped with poppy seeds, salt, or sesame seeds. It is sold at street stalls throughout the city.

• Pierogi - Polish dumplings that can be filled with a variety of ingredients, from meat, potatoes, and cheese to cabbage and mushrooms, as well as sweet versions with berries.

• Żurek - a soup made from sourdough rye flour commonly served with sausage and egg. It is a traditional Polish dish, perfect for chilly weather.

• Klöciki - small potato dumplings served as a side dish or a main course.

• Bigos - a hearty dish made from stewed cabbage with meat (usually pork, beef, or sausage) and sometimes dried fruits.

• Kielbasa - Polish sausage that comes in various forms, from smoked to fresh, with a variety of flavorings.

• Kapuśniak - fermented cabbage soup with various spices and sometimes apples or other ingredients.

• Serniki - Polish cottage cheese pancakes often served with powdered sugar or sour cream.

• Kremówka - a dessert also known as papal cake, consisting of puff pastry with cream that became popular thanks to Pope John Paul II.

• Medovik Cake - although more common in Russia, this honey cake is also popular in Poland and is often served in cafes and restaurants.

Krakow is known for its traditional restaurants and cafes where you can sample these delicacies. Don't forget to visit local markets and food fairs to fully enjoy the gastronomic diversity of the city.

Restaurants and cafes

Krakow is a city with a rich culinary culture, offering a huge variety of restaurants and cafes. Here are a few establishments that tourists should consider:

• Restauracja Starka - This restaurant in Kazimierz, Krakow's popular Jewish quarter, serves traditional Polish dishes with modern accents.

• Pod Aniolami - Located in an old building on Grodzka Street, this restaurant offers Polish cuisine cooked over an open fire.

• Szara Gęś - An elegant restaurant on the main square (Rynek Główny) with exquisite Polish and European dishes.

• U Babci Maliny - For a more authentic and affordable experience, you can visit this establishment, offering homemade Polish food in a cozy atmosphere.

• Alchemia - One of the most famous bars in Kazimierz, which also offers light snacks in addition to its extensive selection of drinks.

• Wierzynek - A legendary restaurant on the main square, known for its history and luxurious Polish cuisine. Here, you can feel the spirit of old aristocratic Poland.

• Hamsa - If you want to try Middle Eastern cuisine in Krakow, this restaurant in Kazimierz will offer delicious and fresh dishes.

• Vegab - A great choice for vegetarians and vegans, serving vegan versions of popular kebabs.

• Pijalnia Czekolady E. Wedel - A cafe for those who love chocolate and sweet desserts. The perfect place to relax after a walk in the city center.

When planning your visit to restaurants and cafes, it is recommended to make reservations in advance, especially in popular establishments and on weekends. Enjoy your trip and delicious discoveries in Krakow!

Shopping malls and markets

Cracow is a city with a rich history and culture, offering a variety of shopping, entertainment, and nightlife options.

Shopping centers and markets

• Galeria Krakowska: One of the largest shopping centers in Krakow, located near the main railway station. It features stores of international and Polish brands, restaurants, and cafes.

• Galeria Kazimierz: A shopping center located in the lively Kazimierz district, offering a wide selection of stores, a cinema, and a grocery hypermarket.

• Bonarka City Center: Another large shopping and entertainment complex with various stores, cafes, and a cinema.

• Sukiennice (Cloth Hall): Located on the main Market Square, it is a historic market where you can find souvenirs, amber products, and local goods.

• Hala Targowa: A traditional market selling fresh produce, clothing, and various goods. A popular place among locals and tourists alike.

Nightlife and entertainment

• Kazimierz: A historic district known for its atmospheric nightlife. There are plenty of bars, pubs, and clubs with different music styles. Live music venues and jazz clubs are particularly popular.

• Old Town: Around the Market Square, there are numerous bars and nightclubs. In this area, you will find both traditional Polish pubs and trendy cocktail bars.

• Podgórze: This area also offers interesting places for nightlife, more oriented towards locals but welcoming to tourists.

• Clubs: Krakow has a large number of clubs to suit every taste. For example, the club "Prozak 2.0" is known for its night parties and great atmosphere.

• Cultural events: The city regularly hosts various concerts, theatrical productions, and festivals. For example, the Krakow Philharmonic and various theaters offer a rich program to suit every taste.

Cracow offers something interesting for everyone: from shopping and cafes to nightclubs and cultural events, making it one of the most attractive cities to visit in Poland.

When is the best time to come?

The best time to visit Krakow depends on the preferences of the tourist and what they want to see and experience.

Spring (April - June): This period is one of the most popular times to visit Krakow. The weather during this time is usually pleasant, with moderate temperatures, making it comfortable for walking around the city. Additionally, this is the time when gardens and parks are in full bloom.

Summer (July - August): Summer months are also popular among tourists. The weather is warm and sunny, but it's worth noting that the city can be crowded with tourists during this time. It's the perfect season to visit numerous summer festivals and events.

Autumn (September - October): This period is also a great time to visit Krakow. The temperature starts to drop, but remains comfortable for strolls. Autumn in Krakow is particularly beautiful due to the colorful foliage.

Winter (November - March): The cost of visiting may be lower, and the number of tourists decreases, making this time attractive for those who prefer to avoid crowds. In December, the city hosts a Christmas market, adding a special charm.

If you want to avoid large crowds and get better prices on accommodation, then spring and autumn may be the best times to visit Krakow.

Transport

In Krakow, there are many ways to get around the city, including:

• Public transport:

  • Trams and buses: This is the main form of public transport in the city. They cover most of Krakow and are convenient for getting around both the city center and remote areas. Tickets can be purchased at vending machines at stops, kiosks, or through mobile apps.
  • Night transport: There are night routes that are convenient to use after midnight.

• Bicycle:

  • Krakow is bicycle-friendly, with many bike paths and rental points. The city bike rental system makes it easy to rent a bike and return it to any other station.

• Taxi and car-sharing:

  • Taxis in Krakow are available on the street, can be ordered by phone, through mobile apps like Uber, Bolt, or using the services of local companies.
  • Car-sharing is also popular and can be convenient for short-term car rentals.

• Walking:

  • The central part of the city, including the historical center, is quite compact, making walking a pleasant way to explore the sights.

• Electric scooters:

  • In recent years, electric scooter rental services have become popular. They can be found on almost every corner and are convenient for short trips.

• Car rental:

  • If you need more freedom in getting around, you can rent a car from one of the many car rental companies.

When choosing transportation, consider the time of day, distance, and availability of different modes of transport depending on your needs and preferences.

Note for tourists

Krakow is a beautiful and historically rich city that offers many sights and unique experiences. Here are some tips and information about local customs and rules of conduct that may be useful to tourists in Krakow:

• Language: The official language in Poland is Polish, but many residents of major cities, including Krakow, speak English, especially young people and tourism industry workers.

• Currency: The currency in Poland is the Polish Zloty (PLN). Currency exchange can be done at banks or exchange offices (kantor) located in the city center.

• Tipping: It is customary to leave a tip of about 10% of the bill amount in restaurants. In bars or cafes, the bill is usually rounded up to the nearest 5-10 zlotys.

• Transportation: Krakow has a well-developed public transportation system, including trams and buses. Tickets can be purchased at vending machines at stops and must be validated upon entry.

• Maintain cleanliness: Public places in Krakow are very clean, and it is important to keep them that way. Remember to dispose of trash in bins.

• Clothing: There are no specific restrictions, but if you plan to visit churches or other holy places, opt for more modest clothing covering shoulders and knees.

• Smoking and alcohol: Smoking is prohibited in public places, including restaurants and bars unless there is a designated area. Alcohol can be purchased in stores and consumed in restaurants and bars. Drinking alcohol on the street is not allowed.

• Traditions: Polite and respectful behavior is an important part of Polish culture. Greetings are usually done with a handshake, and polite words like "dziękuję" (thank you) and "proszę" (please) are always appropriate.

• Historical sites: Krakow is full of historical monuments, such as Wawel Castle and the Main Market Square. Visiting these places requires a respectful attitude, especially towards monuments and memorials.

• Local cuisine: Be sure to try traditional Polish dishes, such as pierogi (dumplings), barszcz (borscht), and żurek (sour rye soup). Krakow is also known for its lively markets where you can buy fresh produce.

By following these recommendations, your visit to Krakow will be more pleasant and comfortable. Enjoy your trip!