Krakow-7-day-itinerary

7-Day Kraków Itinerary: History, Culture & Charm

This itinerary combines historical exploration with cultural experiences and culinary delights, offering a taste of Krakow’s diverse charm.

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Greg & Tom Hostel (friendly atmosphere, central location)
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Pod Wawelem (stunning Wawel Castle views)
  • Luxury: Hotel Stary (historic building with elegant rooms)

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Polish Złoty (PLN). Credit cards widely accepted.
  • Language: Polish. English spoken in tourist areas.
  • Transportation: Krakow is walkable, but trams and buses are efficient. Buy a Kraków Card for unlimited public transport and discounts on attractions.

Day 1: Arrival & Old Town Charm

  • Arrive at Krakow Airport (KRK) and take the train or bus to the city center.
  • Check into your accommodation.
  • Lunch: Milkbar Tomasza - traditional Polish cuisine at affordable prices.
  • Explore Rynek Główny, Europe’s largest medieval marketplace. Admire St. Mary’s Basilica and Cloth Hall.
  • Dinner: Restauracja Wentzl - elegant dining with Polish specialties and a charming courtyard.

Day 2: Wawel Hill & Jewish Quarter

  • Visit Wawel Royal Castle, exploring the royal apartments and cathedral.
  • Stroll through Planty Park, Krakow’s green belt surrounding the Old Town.
  • Lunch: Pod Baranem - traditional Polish dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
  • Explore Kazimierz, the historic Jewish quarter, with its synagogues and vibrant street art.
  • Dinner: Klezmer Hois - enjoy live klezmer music and Jewish-inspired cuisine.

Day 3: Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial & Reflection

  • Take a day trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau, the former Nazi concentration camp. A sobering experience but essential for understanding history.
  • Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch or eat at the museum cafe.
  • Reflect on the day and process your emotions.

Day 4: Wieliczka Salt Mine & Local Flavors

  • Visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine, an underground world of salt sculptures and chapels.
  • Lunch: Restauracja Krakowiacy - sample traditional Polish dishes like pierogi and kielbasa.
  • Explore the trendy district of Podgórze, with its cafes, boutiques, and street art.
  • Dinner: Hops - enjoy craft beers and pub food in a lively atmosphere.

Day 5: Zakopane & Mountain Views

  • Take a day trip to Zakopane, a charming mountain town nestled in the Tatra Mountains.
  • Hike to Morskie Oko, a stunning glacial lake.
  • Lunch: Gospoda “U Wiewiórek” - enjoy traditional highland cuisine with mountain views.
  • Explore Zakopane’s wooden architecture and lively market square.

Day 6: Museums & Relaxation

  • Visit the Schindler Factory Museum, learning about Oskar Schindler’s heroic efforts during WWII.
  • Lunch: Camelot Cafe - delicious brunch options in a cozy setting.
  • Relax at one of Krakow’s many parks or green spaces.
  • Dinner: Bazyliszek - enjoy modern Polish cuisine in an elegant restaurant.

Day 7: Departure & Last Bites

  • Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and reflect on your Kraków experience.
  • Purchase souvenirs from the Old Town Market Square or Sukiennice Cloth Hall.
  • Indulge in one last traditional meal at Restauracja Starka, known for its pierogi and Polish dumplings.

Transportation:

  • Public transport: Trams and buses are efficient and affordable (Kraków Card recommended).
  • Taxis: Available but more expensive. Uber operates in Krakow.

Tips:

  • Learn a few basic Polish phrases - locals appreciate the effort.
  • Visit during shoulder season (spring or fall) for milder weather and fewer crowds.
  • Book tours and accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Exchange currency at banks or exchange bureaus for better rates.
  • Be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.

Enjoy your Kraków adventure!