Krakow Travel Guide: Essential Travel Tips and Information

Essential Travel Information for a Trip to Krakow

Kraków, one of the oldest and most culturally vibrant cities in Poland, presents an array of attractions for tourists. At its center is the renowned Main Market Square, or Rynek Główny, recognized as the largest medieval town square in Europe. Visitors can marvel at the magnificent St. Mary's Basilica, famous for its remarkable altar crafted by Veit Stoss, and listen for the hourly trumpet call, known as the Hejnał, emanating from its tower. A short walk away is the historic Wawel Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site that overlooks the Vistula River from its elevated position. This castle complex showcases Poland's royal history, featuring impressive architecture, lovely gardens, and the intriguing legend of the Wawel Dragon.

History buffs can immerse themselves in a meaningful journey at the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, situated on the outskirts of the city. This solemn location acts as a powerful tribute to the Holocaust, allowing guests to contemplate the events of the past and pay respects to the victims. On the other hand, the bustling Kazimierz district, formerly the heart of Jewish culture in Kraków, has transformed into a vibrant neighborhood teeming with cozy cafes, art hubs, and synagogues, highlighting the city's diverse Jewish legacy. To experience the contemporary side of Kraków, visit the industrial area of Podgórze, where you can discover the Museum of Contemporary Art in Kraków (MOCAK). This venue features a diverse range of contemporary art exhibitions. Additionally, the nearby Oskar Schindler's Factory offers a profound look into wartime history and personal narratives, making it an essential stop for anyone interested in the rich history of Kraków.

Getting Around

Kraków boasts a comprehensive network of tram and bus services. The tram system features 22 daytime lines, 3 nighttime lines, and 2 express lines. Additionally, the city has a vast urban bus network with 132 municipal routes that link various areas of the Old Town to the suburbs. Schedules and tickets for trams, buses, and trains in Kraków can be accessed online. Transport tickets are conveniently available from ticket machines at major stops and on board most trams and buses. The city also offers train services, with the main railway station situated in the city center, adjacent to the main bus station and the Kraków Shopping Centre. There are 5 railway platforms at the main station, where tickets can be purchased from vending machines or ticket offices. While Kraków's public transportation system facilitates easy access to key attractions, walking may sometimes be the most enjoyable option. Taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive compared to other European cities; however, it is crucial to select an official taxi service that displays its name and contact number on the vehicle. For trips beyond the city center, taking a train or a tour bus is advisable.

Hotels and Nightly Rates

Krakow is rich in history and culture, with several neighborhoods each offering a unique experience. Whether you want to be in the heart of the Old Town, close to the vibrant nightlife of Kazimierz, or near the tranquil Vistula Boulevards, pinpointing your ideal location will enhance your overall experience. You can marvel at the magnificent St. Mary's Basilica or historic Wawel Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site that overlooks the Vistula River from its elevated position. When planning a visit to the iconic St. Mary's Basilica in Kraków, travelers will find a variety of accommodation options in close proximity to this historic landmark. Among the hotels situated nearby are Tango House Bed & Breakfast, Gołębia 8 Residence, Hotel Ascot Premium, and Downtown Kraków.

Tango House Bed & Breakfast stands out as the closest option, located a mere 146 meters from St. Mary's Basilica, making it an ideal choice for those who wish to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the area. Following closely is Gołębia 8 Residence, which is just 282 meters away, offering guests easy access to the basilica and the surrounding attractions. For those considering a slightly longer walk, both Hotel Ascot Premium and Downtown Kraków are situated within a comfortable radius of 616 meters from the basilica. These hotels provide a balance of convenience and comfort, allowing guests to explore the rich history and culture of Kraków without straying too far from the main sights. While Dada Premium Aparthotel and Golden Tulip Krakow Kazimierz are located over 1 kilometer from St. Mary's Basilica, they still maintain a strategic position in relation to other significant landmarks. Notably, these hotels are approximately 700 meters from Wawel Castle, another must-see attraction in the city. Among the options, Gołębia 8 Residence is particularly well-placed, being the nearest accommodation to Wawel Castle at just 660 meters away.

When choosing accommodations, it is vital to establish a budget. Setting your financial parameters ahead of time will help you find lodging that fits within those constraints. The hotels mentioned above represent some of the most esteemed options in Krakow, offering a variety of competitive prices generally ranging from $100 to $215 per night. For instance, the Downtown Kraków is available for $79 per night, while the Tango House Bed & Breakfast is listed at $215 per night. Moreover, there are several other hotels priced under $150, including Dada Premium Aparthotel and Golden Tulip Krakow Kazimierz. It is important to remember that rates can fluctuate significantly based on the season, so making reservations in advance is advisable, particularly during peak travel times. Find more Super Rated and Excellent Hotels in Krakow, starting at $ 41.

Super Rated 5 Star Accommodations in Krakow

Krakow features a remarkable array of five-star hotels for travelers seeking a lavish escape, with average nightly prices typically falling between $150 and $300. For instance, the Radisson Blu Hotel, Krakow offers rooms starting at $150 per night, whereas the H15 Luxury Palace Hotel has rates beginning at $300 per night. Furthermore, there are even more prestigious five-star options available, such as Kanonicza 22, where rates start at $390 per night. This hotel is conveniently situated just 687 meters from the city center, allowing guests to easily visit nearby attractions like PWawel Castle, Planty and Smok Wawelski Statue. The staff is multilingual, fluent in languages including English, Polish and Russian. Check out the following hotels.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Krakow

Radisson Blu Hotel, Krakow, a five-star establishment, is notable for its prime location right in the city center, near numerous major attractions. Guests can relish breathtaking views of Wawel Castle or the Old City from a variety of its roomy accommodations. This highly rated 5-star hotel is situated 473 meters away from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Planty, Town Hall Tower, Cloth Hall, Wawel Castle, Main Market Square, St. Mary's Basilica, Historical Museum of Krakow, Smok Wawelski Statue, and National Museum. Find more other super rated 5-star hotels in Krakow.

Wyndham Grand Krakow Old Town

Nestled within a stunning historic townhouse, Wyndham Grand Krakow Old Town features contemporary amenities and exceptional round-the-clock service the captivating city in southern Poland. This super rated 5-star hotel is located 333 meters from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Florian's Gate, Krakow Barbican, St. Mary's Basilica, Historical Museum of Krakow, Town Hall Tower, Planty, Wawel Castle, and National Museum. Find more other super rated 5-star hotels in Edinburgh.

H15 Luxury Palace Hotel

Nestled in a historic palace, the H15 Luxury Palace Hotel is located in the old town, just a 4-minute stroll from the Rynek Underground Museum, a 5-minute walk from St. Mary's Basilica, and a 14-minute walk to Wawel Royal Castle. This highly rated 5-star hotel is situated 331 meters away from the city center. Places nearby within 1 km are Florian's Gate, Krakow Barbican, Historical Museum of Krakow, Cloth Hall, Town Hall Tower, Planty, and National Museum. Find more other super rated 5-star hotels in Krakow.

Cheapest FLIGHT

The primary airport serving Krakow is John Paul II International Airport (KRK). This facility provides both domestic and international flight options, facilitating easy access for travelers coming to Krakow from numerous locations. Transportation from the airport to the city can be accomplished via taxi, public transport such as buses or trains, or by arranging a private transfer service. Taxis are conveniently available on-site. The ideal seasons to visit Krakow are spring and autumn, as the weather is generally mild and there are fewer tourists. Check out cheapest flight to Krakow before late.