FULL GUIDE & ITINERARY FOR KRAKOW17 min read

FULL GUIDE & ITINERARY FOR KRAKOW

If you’re planning a weekend getaway in Europe, few places are as rewarding as Krakow in Poland. From the charming Old Town to the emotional weight of Auschwitz, they are from hearty Polish food to vibrant nightlife, this city has something for every traveller.

When I first started planning my trip, I searched for a practical Kraków guide that wasn’t just about ticking boxes but also about experiencing the city in an authentic way. After my journey, I created this Kraków itinerary to help others make the most of their visit, whether it’s your first time or a return trip.

This complete guide will cover when to go, how long to stay, how to get there, money matters, what to pack, where to stay, and a detailed 3-day Kraków itinerary based on my personal experience.

🗺 Where Exactly is Kraków? (And Why It Feels Magical) 🗺

Kraków is located in southern Poland, not far from the Czech and Slovak borders. The city sits on the Vistula River and is best known for its well-preserved medieval core and Jewish quarter.

📆 Best Time to Visit Kraków Without the Crowds 📆

When planning your visit to Kraków, I personally decided to visit in February, because I wanted to avoid the crowds. Yes, it was freezing, but it made visiting places like Auschwitz and the Jewish Ghetto feel even more powerful and atmospheric.

⏳ How Long Should You Stay in Kraków? ⏳

We stayed for 3 days and it was packed full, as well as giving us time to sample some of the restaurants and bars in the main square – a must-visit in Eastern Europe!

If you want to add more day trips (like Zakopane in the Tatra Mountains), four or five days would be ideal. But for most of the travellers, a 3-day Kraków itinerary is a sweet spot.

🛫 How To Get There? 🛬

Krakow has become one of the most popular non-beach destinations in Europe and thus has direct flights from all across Europe.

🌞❄️ Kraków Weather: What To Expect Each Season 🌞❄️

When I first checked the weather I couldn’t believe the difference from their summer to winter. Their summer can get well beyond 25C and below -5C in their winter. We went during February, not only to stay away from the crowds but also because it is generally their driest month

💳 Currency That is Accepted in Kraków 💳

Poland still uses their own currency, the Zloty, but like most of Europe, the Euro is widely accepted and is the way a lot of tourists pay. The majority of agents, drivers, and attractions accept Euro, but watch out for their exchange rate. ATMs can be found throughout the city, but again, due to exchange rates, you might be better off bringing your own cash from home.

🗣 Language in Kraków: Is English Enough to Get By? 🗣

Polish is the official language here, but as the city has become more and more accustomed to tourism, English is spoken by most. Don’t expect any problems when going into a restaurant, taxi, or tourist attraction.

A few basic phrases in Polish are appreciated, but you’ll manage fine with English.

🚖 How To Get Around: Walk, Taxi, or Private Driver?  🚖

As a major city, it’s relatively cheap. We had our own driver for 3 days, and we couldn’t believe how cheap it was. However, this is not completely necessary. Taxis are generally ok, but you have to be careful about getting ripped off – the same with any city.

The only time you would need transport is from the airport and to Auschwitz. Auschwitz can be done as part of a tour where the transport is included, so you won’t have to worry.

📱 Internet & Mobile in Kraków📱

Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, cafés, and restaurants. If your SIM has roaming charges, you can buy a local Polish SIM card at the airport or city shops. I mainly relied on Wi-Fi during my stay.

🧳 What To Pack for Kraków (Season-to-Season Essentials) 🧳

The time of year will dictate how you need to pack. During our trip in February, it was freezing cold. I found myself wearing more clothes than I expected, so be sure to wrap up!!

However, for other seasons you should pack:

• Winter: Thermal wear, thick coats, gloves, scarves, hats.
• Summer: Light clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, but still a jacket for evenings.
• All year: Comfortable walking shoes are a must.

🏢 Where To Stay In Kraków (My Top Picks) 🏢

In terms of location, as long as you stay within the old town, you can’t go wrong. Even being within walking distance of the old town should be more than enough. Have a look at some of the options for different budgets.

LUXURY – Hotel Copernicus

This is where we stayed, and it was great. Just 2 minutes from the square and on a quiet street away from any of the noise. The facilities were excellent, with a pool and gym if you fancy it.

MID RANGE – Radisson Blu Hotel

Radisson Blu is located just on the edge of the old town and has not only a great bar but also rooms with a view! Some of the rooms face towards the Wawel Royal Castle.

AFFORDABLE – Hotel Wyspianski

For just €25 each, Hotel Wyspianski is an absolute bargain. Not only is the destination perfect and the breakfast generous, but they also offer single rooms at just €20!

My 3-Day Krakow Itinerary

Here’s how I structured my trip, and how you can use this Krakow itinerary for your own adventure:

DAY 1, FOOD & WALKS

13:00

FOOD TOUR

After checking into your hotel, it’s now time to sample Poland’s finest food. Let’s be honest, it won’t all be for everyone, but it’s something I make an effort of do every time I visit a new place. Be prepared for the straight vodka!

15:30

WALKING TOUR

I always find that a walking tour is best done at the beginning of a trip, just to help get your bearings! A tour of the old town will take you around the Royal Castle, St Mary’s Basilica, and the Cloth Hall.

19:30

DINNER

End a long day with a casual dinner at your hotel or at Sakana Sushi & Sticks.

DAY 2, THE HIGHLIGHT

07:30

AUSCHWITZ

After an early wake-up call and taxi to Auschwitz, it’s time to enjoy the highlight of the entire weekend. It’s important to arrive at the opening time of 07:30 am as the crowds tend to come thick and fast. There is so much to be said about this place, so ensure you get a reputable guide who is happy to take their time to show you around.

12:00

SALT MINES

On the way back it’s time to call into the impressive Salt Mines. This attraction is often overshadowed by the attention Auschwitz gets but it’s not to be sniffed at. After not expecting much from the mines, we walked away in pure amazement. To give you an idea of it’s size, the two hour tour only takes you around 2% of the complex!

19:30

DINNER

After arriving back to your hotel and either enjoying a nap or a beer, it’s time to head out to Salta Resto, an Argentinian Steak House in Kazimierz

DAY 3, SCHINDLER’S LIST

09:00

SCHINDLER’S MUSEUM & THE GHETTO

This morning, we need to build up a bit of an appetite, so we set off to the Agora of Athens and take the option of hiring a tour guide for 1 hour or 2. Here you can see some of Athens’s best ruins as well as the Temple of Hephaestus.

11:30

SHOOTING RANGE

After getting some food at Moo Moo it’s time to head towards the airport. But before checking in, there is time for one more activity. The shooting range is located just 5 minutes from the airport, yes I found that strange myself! No matter the gun you have in mind, you can be sure they’ll have it!

15:00

FLIGHT HOME

FINAL THOUGHTS

Krakow is no longer just that cheap Eastern European getaway; it offers so much more. When it comes to finding a unique destination in Europe with plenty to do, Krakow is one of the best. Not to mention the fact that it is one of the most affordable cities I’ve been to!

SAFE TRAVELS, DS x

To read about my Krakow trip, click here.