Krakow 4 Day Itinerary

4-Day Krakow Itinerary: History, Culture & Cuisine

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Greg & Tom Hostel, The Little Havana Party Hostel
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Copernicus, Metropolitan Boutique Hotel
  • Luxury: Hotel Stary, Sheraton Grand Krakow

Transportation:

  • Krakow is very walkable.
  • Public transport (trams and buses) are efficient and affordable. Purchase a “Krakow Card” for unlimited travel and discounts.
  • Taxis and ride-sharing apps are available.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Polish Złoty (PLN). ATMs are widely available.
  • Language: Polish, but English is spoken in tourist areas.
  • Tipping: 10% is standard for good service.

Day 1: Unveiling Krakow’s Heart

  • Morning: Start with a free walking tour of the Old Town (Rynek Główny). See St. Mary’s Basilica, Cloth Hall, and Wawel Hill.
  • Lunch: Enjoy traditional Polish cuisine at “Restauracja Pod Baranem” or “Restauracja Wentzl”.
  • Afternoon: Explore Wawel Castle and its Cathedral - a symbol of Polish history and royalty.
  • Evening: Catch a Klezmer concert in the Kazimierz district, followed by dinner at “Ariel” for authentic Jewish cuisine.

Day 2: Echoes of History and Culture

  • Morning: Visit the poignant Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum (book tickets in advance). Reflect on the horrors of the Holocaust.
  • Lunch: Grab a quick bite from a “milk bar” (bar mleczny) for an authentic Polish experience.
  • Afternoon: Explore Kazimierz, Krakow’s historic Jewish quarter. Visit synagogues, art galleries, and charming cafes.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at “Alchemia”, a bohemian restaurant with live music and a unique atmosphere.

Day 3: Nature & Relaxation

  • Morning: Take a day trip to Wieliczka Salt Mine, an UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at the underground chambers and salt sculptures.
  • Lunch: Have lunch at one of the cafes near the salt mine entrance.
  • Afternoon: Relax in Planty Park, a green ring surrounding the Old Town. Enjoy a coffee or picnic by the pond.
  • Evening: Indulge in a traditional Polish dinner with pierogi and kielbasa at “Restauracja Starka”.

Day 4: Arts & Souvenirs

  • Morning: Visit the National Museum in Krakow for art exhibitions covering Polish history and culture.
  • Lunch: Have lunch at “Miod Malina” for delicious Polish honey cakes and other treats.
  • Afternoon: Stroll through the Sukiennice (Cloth Hall) market and browse for unique souvenirs like amber jewelry, wooden crafts, or traditional textiles.
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at “Restauracja Bazyliszek” with stunning views of Wawel Castle.

Tips:

  • Learn basic Polish phrases like “dzień dobry” (good morning/day) and “dziękuję” (thank you).
  • Dress in layers, as Krakow’s weather can be unpredictable.
  • Be aware of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas.

Other Things to Do:

  • Visit the Schindler’s Factory Museum.
  • Attend a performance at the Kraków Opera or Philharmonic Orchestra.
  • Take a cooking class and learn to prepare traditional Polish dishes.
  • Explore the Dragon’s Den, a cave beneath Wawel Hill.

Enjoy your unforgettable journey in Krakow!