Krakow 10 days

The heart of Krakow's Old Town, one of the largest medieval squares in Europe. It's surrounded by historic townhouses, palaces, and churches, and is a lively hub for locals and tourists alike.

• Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the quiet atmosphere.

A stunning Gothic church on the Main Market Square, famous for its altarpiece by Veit Stoss and its hourly trumpet call (Hejnał Mariacki) from the taller tower.

• Check the schedule for the trumpet call to experience this unique tradition.

A Renaissance-era market hall located in the center of the Main Market Square. Today, it houses souvenir shops selling amber, crafts, and local products.

• Look for authentic amber jewelry and local handicrafts.

A traditional Polish restaurant located overlooking the Main Market Square. It offers classic dishes in a charming, rustic setting.

The historic seat of Polish kings, perched on a hill overlooking the Vistula River. Explore its courtyards, royal apartments, treasury, and armory.

• Book tickets online in advance, especially for the Royal Apartments, to secure your entry time.

Located within the Wawel Castle complex, this is the coronation and burial site of Polish monarchs. Admire its stunning architecture and tombs.

Once a separate city, Kazimierz is Krakow's historic Jewish district, now a vibrant area filled with synagogues, atmospheric streets, unique shops, and trendy cafes.

The oldest surviving synagogue in Poland, dating back to the 15th century. It now houses a museum dedicated to the history and culture of Krakow's Jews.

A historic synagogue and its adjacent old cemetery, a poignant site that reflects the long Jewish history in Krakow. The cemetery is known for its weathered tombstones.

A popular restaurant in Kazimierz offering delicious Polish and Jewish cuisine, including pierogi and hearty stews. Known for its extensive selection of vodkas.

Located in Oskar Schindler's former enamel factory, this museum tells the story of Krakow under Nazi occupation during World War II. It offers a powerful and immersive experience.

• Allow ample time as the exhibits are extensive and emotionally impactful.

A atmospheric bar in Kazimierz with a unique interior and a great selection of craft beers and cocktails. It's a perfect spot to relax after a day of sightseeing.

This main branch of the National Museum houses extensive collections of Polish art, including medieval art, paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.

• Focus on specific wings if time is limited, such as the 'Gallery of 20th Century Polish Art'.

A beautiful green belt encircling the Old Town, created on the site of the former medieval city walls. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll.

A historic restaurant with a unique cellar setting, known for its traditional Polish cuisine cooked in medieval style. It's one of Krakow's oldest establishments.

Located across the Vistula River from Wawel Castle, this striking modern museum showcases Japanese art, culture, and technology, with a focus on its historical relationship with Poland.

While primarily a concert hall, the building itself is architecturally interesting. Check for any public access or guided tours, or consider attending an evening performance.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this historic salt mine offers a fascinating underground world of chapels, statues, and chambers carved entirely from salt. The highlight is the stunning St. Kinga's Chapel.

• Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking and many stairs.
• The temperature underground is consistently around 14-16°C (57-61°F), so bring a light jacket.

A restaurant located near the Wieliczka Salt Mine, offering traditional Polish dishes in a cozy atmosphere. A convenient stop for lunch after your underground exploration.

Travel back to Krakow from Wieliczka. Options include local buses, trains, or organized tours which often include transport.

A charming cafe in the Old Town, known for its artistic ambiance, delicious cakes, and good coffee. A pleasant spot for an evening break.

A poignant square in the former Krakow Ghetto, marked by rows of empty chairs symbolizing the furniture that once filled the apartments of deported Jews. It serves as a memorial to the victims.

Located in the former Krakow Ghetto, this small museum was the only pharmacy allowed to operate within the ghetto. It documents the lives of Jews during the occupation.

A fun and interactive museum where you can play on a collection of vintage and modern pinball machines. Great for a lighthearted break.

• The entrance fee usually includes unlimited play on the machines.

A casual restaurant chain offering hearty, traditional Polish cuisine. It's a good option for trying classic dishes like pierogi and bigos in a relaxed setting.

An artificial mound offering panoramic views of Krakow and its surroundings. It's dedicated to Tadeusz Kościuszko, a national hero.

• The climb to the top is moderate, and the views are well worth it on a clear day.

A contemporary restaurant known for its refined Polish cuisine and elegant atmosphere. Located near the Main Market Square, it's ideal for a special dinner.

Dedicated to the prominent Polish artist, architect, playwright, and poet Stanisław Wyspiański, this museum showcases his diverse works and contributions to the Young Poland movement.

Discover the intricate art of stained glass making at this unique museum, which often includes demonstrations and workshops.

• Check if they offer workshops for a hands-on experience.

A charming street in Kazimierz known for its artisan shops, cafes, and historic buildings. It offers a more local feel compared to some of the main tourist areas.

A restaurant offering a blend of traditional Jewish and Polish cuisine in the heart of Kazimierz. Known for its authentic atmosphere and flavorful dishes.

A gallery showcasing contemporary Polish art and crafts, including ceramics, jewelry, and paintings. A great place to find unique souvenirs.

Located near Schindler's Factory, MOCAK is dedicated to presenting and collecting contemporary art from Poland and abroad. Its architecture is also noteworthy.

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Vistula River. These boulevards offer scenic views, walking paths, and often host outdoor events and cafes during warmer months.

A modern food hall offering a diverse range of international and local food stalls. It's a great spot for a casual lunch with plenty of options to choose from.

A distinctive pedestrian bridge connecting Kazimierz and Podgórze, famous for its acrobatic sculptures. It offers great views of the Vistula River and Wawel Castle.

Revisiting Starka for dinner, as it's a highly-rated spot for both traditional Polish and Jewish cuisine in Kazimierz, known for its excellent food and ambiance.

A profoundly moving and essential visit, this former Nazi concentration and extermination camp is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. It's a somber but crucial historical experience.

• Book guided tours well in advance, especially during peak season. Tours are mandatory for individual visitors.
• This is an emotionally challenging experience. Dress respectfully and be prepared for the solemnity.

There are several simple restaurants and cafes near the memorial site offering basic Polish meals. A convenient stop for lunch after the visit.

Travel back to Krakow. Most organized tours include transportation, or you can use local buses or trains.

A well-regarded restaurant in the Old Town offering a refined Polish dining experience. Known for its elegant setting and quality dishes.

One of Krakow's oldest and liveliest open-air markets. Here you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, flowers, and various artisanal products. A great place to experience local life.

• Try some local smoked cheeses or fresh fruit.

Adjacent to Stary Kleparz, this market offers a similar experience with a focus on clothing, household goods, and more street food options.

A dedicated pierogi restaurant where you can sample a wide variety of traditional Polish dumplings, both savory and sweet. A must-try in Krakow.

• Order a tasting platter to try several different kinds of pierogi.

Located in Kazimierz, this museum explores Polish folk art, traditions, and crafts, offering insights into rural life and cultural heritage.

A cozy venue in Kazimierz known for its live jazz music and intimate atmosphere. A perfect place for a relaxed evening with good music.

• Check their schedule in advance for performances and book tickets if necessary.

Enjoy a final Polish breakfast or coffee at this charming cafe, reflecting on your trip.

A last-minute opportunity to pick up any unique souvenirs or art pieces you might have missed.

Experience a budget-friendly and authentic Polish meal at a traditional 'milk bar'. These cafeterias offer simple, hearty dishes at very low prices.

• Look for places like 'Bar Mleczny Zgoda' or 'Bar Mleczny Pod Arkadami'.

Depart from Krakow. Allow ample time for check-in and security.