Krakow is one of Poland’s most important cities and is considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in all of Europe. It also has a history that is both tragic and triumphant. One of the best things to do in Krakow is to explore the city on foot and visit its magnificent architecture, some of which have been standing since the Medieval Age, and each one has a fascinating story to tell about the city.
Within Krakow’s metropolitan area is the town of Wieliczka, which is the home of the famous Wieliczska Salt Mine. This natural treasure is a popular tourist attraction. You feel like a spelunker as you explore the lit labyrinthine passages of the mine and discover wonders like an underground lake and chapel. If you take a guided tour, you’ll learn about the history of the mine and how miners conducted their operations in the past.
The Wawel Royal Castle is the first designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most important tourist attractions in Krakow. It’s one of the finest examples of medieval architecture in Poland and is notable for having structures that are emblematic of other architectural styles. It houses a wide variety of historical artifacts, from tapestries to armaments. If you take a guided tour inside, you will learn about the history of Poland, Krakow, and the castle’s former residents.
If you’re looking to go shopping in Krakow, then one of the best places to visit is the Cloth Hall in Krakow Old Town’s main market square. This bustling building is filled to the brim with shops and stalls that sell a wide variety of goods from simple souvenirs to handcrafted items, jewelry, and even amber! Whatever it is you’re looking for, whether you know it or not, the Cloth Hall will have something that will surely tickle your fancy.
St. Mary’s Basilica is one of the must-sees in Krakow. It’s a 14th century brick gothic church and a UNESCO World Heritage Site near the city’s Main Market Square. It has garnered renown for its altarpiece, which was carved by Veit Stoss, a German wood sculptor. It’s a wonderful place to visit if you need a few minutes for prayer and reflection. Not only that, it’s one of the best places where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city. For fee, you can climb to the top of the Basilica’s tower and enjoy the scenery.
One of the most iconic structures in Krakow is the over-900-year-old Wawel Cathedral on Wawel Hill. It used to be the venue for the coronations of Polish kings. Many of the most important historical figures, most of them monarchs, are buried in its tombs. If you’re looking to learn more about the history of Poland and about the lives of its former rulers, then you should definitely add a visit to this holy site to your itinerary.
The Krakow Barbocan is one of Krakow’s remaining medieval fortifications that serves as the entry point into Krakow Old Town. Despite being centuries old, its walls are well-preserved. You can learn about the myths and legends of Krakow by watching a slideshow for a fee. If you’re lucky, you might even see a medieval pageant or mock jousting contests during your visit.
The Town Hall Tower can be found in the Main Market Square of Krakow Old Town. This gothic tower was built back in the 14th century and is the only thing that remains from the Krakow Town Hall, which was torn down back in 1820. Now, it’s a popular tourist attraction with an observation deck where visitors can enjoy stunning views of Krakow’s cityscape.
St. Florian’s Gate is one of Krakow’s most important historic landmarks. It’s a 14th century medieval fortification that leads to Krakow Old Town. Near the gate is a small square where you can find local artists selling their work, musicians playing, as well as coffee shops where you can sit down and hang out with your companions.
The National Museum in Krakow is one of the best places to visit to learn about the artistic and military history of Poland. It houses an extensive collection of paintings by local luminaries both long gone and still living. There are also displays of decorative art, wartime artifacts, and the armaments of Polish soldiers from weapons to body armor.
The Krakow Planty is one of the largest parks in all of Poland and is one of the best places for tourists looking to take a break from sightseeing or to go for lovely, relaxing strolls. If you follow the park’s trails, you will eventually reach the famous Wawel Royal Castle. Around the park, you will also find statues and monuments dedicated to important historical figures like Copernicus.
The historic city of Krakow is known for having several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, some of them being among the first to be given the designation. It is also notable for its well-preserved medieval fortifications.
The summer months of June to August are the times when the city is packed with tourists. If you want to avoid big crowds, it’s best to visit during the spring months of March to May or the fall months of September to November.
The best place for tourists to stay in Krakow is Krakow Old Town. It’s the best choice, especially for first-time tourists, because the Old Town is close to all of the city’s most important attractions and landmarks.