Things to do in Krakow

Some of the most beautiful day trips from Kraków include:

• Wieliczka Salt Mine – Just 30 minutes from the city, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features underground chapels carved entirely from salt and a maze of stunning tunnels.

• Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum – About an hour and a half away, this powerful and moving site offers a deep reflection on the history of the Holocaust.

• Tarnów – A charming Renaissance town located 40 minutes to an hour from Kraków. A perfect family-friendly destination for a relaxed day trip.

• Ojców National Park – Only 40–50 minutes away, this scenic park is ideal for nature lovers, with walking trails that pass by castles, caves, and dramatic limestone rock formations.

Three days are enough to visit Kraków’s main attractions, including the Old Town, Kazimierz, Wawel Hill, the city’s museums, and walks along the Vistula River. With four or five days, you can explore the city at a more relaxed pace and even add a day trip to the surrounding region. And if you have a full week, you’ll have time for two or three excursions outside the city while still enjoying everything Kraków has to offer. You certainly won’t get bored!

Kraków is an energetic city full of young people, events, and buzzing nightlife. The evenings come alive with Kazimierz’s bars, craft beer pubs, and alternative venues. For something a little different, try a Vistula River cruise, a guided bike tour, a ride in a golf cart, or a visit to one of the city’s interactive museums like MOCAK or the Pinball Museum. With affordable prices and a laid-back vibe, Kraków is a perfect destination for students and groups of friends.

What to Do: 

• Visit major historical sites like Wawel Castle, the Old Town, and the Jewish Quarter. 

• Try traditional Polish dishes such as pierogi and żurek (a sour rye soup). 

• Be respectful at memorial sites like Auschwitz. 

• Learn a few words in Polish — greeting people with “Dzień dobry” (good day/hello) is often warmly appreciated by locals. 

What Not to Do: 

• Don’t speak loudly or behave disrespectfully in churches or at memorials. 

• Avoid drinking alcohol in the street or in public spaces — it’s prohibited by law. 

• Don’t take photos of monuments or memorials without first checking for signs that forbid it. 

Kraków is famous for its rich history, well-preserved medieval architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. It’s beloved for its cosy cafés, lively nightlife, and welcoming artistic atmosphere. Beyond the city’s main attractions, it also serves as an excellent base for visiting the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial.