Krakow-5-day-itinerary

Kraków: A 5-Day Itinerary

This itinerary balances history, culture, delicious food, and a touch of nightlife. It’s easily adjustable based on your interests.

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Greg & Tom Hostel, Krakow Backpackers
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Estera, Willa Pod Białym Orłem
  • Luxury: Hotel Stary Kraków, Grand Hotel Kraków

Transportation:

  • Krakow is very walkable. The Old Town and Kazimierz are easily explored on foot.
  • Public transportation: Efficient bus and tram network. Purchase a ticket from kiosks or use the JAKdojade app for planning routes.
  • Taxis: Plentiful, but negotiate prices beforehand.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Polish Złoty (PLN). Credit cards widely accepted.
  • Language: Polish. English spoken in tourist areas.
  • Tipping: 10% is customary in restaurants. Round up taxi fares.

Day 1: Historical Kraków

  • Morning: Explore the Main Market Square (Rynek Główny), Europe’s largest medieval square. Admire St. Mary’s Basilica, Cloth Hall, and Town Hall Tower.
  • Afternoon: Visit Wawel Castle, a magnificent royal residence with stunning views of the city.
  • Evening: Dinner at Restauracja Pod Baranem for traditional Polish cuisine. Enjoy a performance at the Kraków Philharmonic.

Day 2: Jewish Quarter & Art Scene

  • Morning: Wander through Kazimierz, Krakow’s historic Jewish quarter. Visit synagogues, museums like the Galicia Jewish Museum, and soak in the bohemian atmosphere.
  • Afternoon: Explore the trendy art scene of Kazimierz with galleries like Bunkier Sztuki and MOCAK (Museum of Contemporary Art Kraków).
  • Evening: Enjoy a craft beer at Browar Pod Wawelem or have dinner at Klezmer Hois for Jewish-inspired dishes and live klezmer music.

Day 3: Auschwitz & Birkenau

  • Full Day: A sobering but essential experience. Visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum to learn about the horrors of the Holocaust. Book a guided tour in advance (highly recommended).
  • Evening: Reflect on the day’s experience with a quiet dinner at Restauracja Wentzl, known for its cozy atmosphere and Polish classics.

Day 4: Nature & Relaxation

  • Morning: Escape the city hustle with a hike up Wawel Hill for panoramic views. Alternatively, visit the beautiful Planty Park encircling the Old Town.
  • Afternoon: Pamper yourself at one of Krakow’s spas or thermal baths like Termy Krakowskie.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Polish pierogi dinner at Pierogarnia Krakowiacy followed by drinks in the vibrant nightlife district around Plac Nowy.

Day 5: Salt Mine & Departure

  • Morning: Take a guided tour of the Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage site with incredible underground chambers and sculptures carved from salt.
  • Afternoon: Depending on your departure time, explore any remaining sights in Krakow or pick up souvenirs at Sukiennice (Cloth Hall).

Tips for Your Trip:

  • Learn some basic Polish phrases – it goes a long way!

  • Try traditional Polish dishes like pierogi, bigos, and zapiekanka.

  • Visit during shoulder seasons (spring/fall) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

  • Book tours and accommodation in advance, especially if traveling during peak season.

  • Don’t be afraid to explore beyond the main tourist areas – Kraków has hidden gems waiting to be discovered!

Have a wonderful time in Krakow!