Historic and Beautiful Krakow

Krakow - An historic gem in the heart of Europe and a top city break destination!

Ali White on 19 Mar 2026

I’ve just got back from an amazing weekend in Krakow with my besties—and what a city! ✨

Beautiful, historic, and incredibly well preserved, Krakow is the heart of Poland’s history, art, learning, and culture. And yes… the food and drink scene is just as impressive (which is essential for any great city break!).


Top Tips for Krakow

👉 Start with a free walking tour
Kick off day one with a walking tour of the Old Town. It’s the perfect way to get your bearings and soak up Krakow’s fascinating history—just remember to tip generously!

👉 Explore Kazimierz (the Jewish Quarter)
This area has a truly unique atmosphere. Take time to appreciate both its history and its vibrant, creative energy.

👉 Mix tours with wandering
A buggy tour is a great way to cover the Ghetto and Kazimierz, especially if you’re short on time. Then slow things down with a stroll through the cobbled streets—this is where you’ll find the real magic (and the best bars!). Visit  Schindler's factory museum,  situated in Oskar Schindler's former enamel factory which gives remarkable insight into life under Nazi occupation.

👉 Don’t miss the hidden gems
Stop by Alchemia (keep an eye out for the wardrobe door!) and the iconic Singer Café. And of course—street food is a must. Think delicious dumplings and irresistible chimney cakes.

👉 Step inside something spectacular
Pop into the Corpus Christi Basilica—its stunning Baroque golden pulpit is worth the visit alone.

👉 Cocktails are non-negotiable 🍸
We loved Tag Cocktail Bar and Mercy Brown—perfect for a stylish night out.

👉 Eat like a local
For traditional Polish food, head to Pod Aniolami. With its gothic cellars and 13th-century interiors, it feels like stepping back in time.

👉 Brunch spots to bookmark
For a relaxed breakfast or al fresco bite near the Main Square, try Gossip Café or Café Camelot.

👉 Add a touch of culture
Don’t miss Lady with an Ermine by Leonardo da Vinci at the Czartoryski Museum—an absolute highlight.

👉 Day Trips: Wieliczka Salt Mine and Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum
The Wieliczka Salt Mines are a must-see. A massive 13th Century underground complex featuring chapels, lakes and tunnels carved entirely out of salt. Book in advance, allow plenty of travel time, and arrive early—they won’t wait! Expect stairs, walking, and an unforgettable experience. 

Located about 68km outside of Krakow, this former Nazi concentration camp is a significant site for Holocaust education. 

Where to stay

We stayed at the Venetian House Hotel which was a lovely apartment hotel off  the main market square  ‘Rynek Glowny' with views over the city and the iconic Town Hall Tower. It was a perfect spot from which to access all the key historical sites and of course, cafes and bars.

Getting Around 

The city centre is very walkable and largely pedestrianised. For day trips you can hire a taxi or book transfers in advance or join a group tour. The city also has a good network of trams and buses and the main train station is a short walk from the Old Town.

How to get there

Frequent  flights operate from UK airports with low-cost and scheduled airlines and with a quick transfer time from Krakow airport it is a great choice for a long weekend away with your besties!


Thinking about a Krakow getaway or a city break? I’ve got plenty more tips and ideas on trending city-break destinations in 2026, including those many you may not have thought of! Just give me a call and let's get planning!

 

☎️ 01672 570 006 | 07557 671 696 |ali.white@mytc.com