Krakow Attractions
Kraków, once the royal capital of Poland, is a city brimming with history, culture, and timeless charm. It is one of Poland’s oldest and second-largest cities.
Situated along the banks of the Vistula River, its UNESCO-listed Old Town captivates with stunning medieval architecture, bustling squares, and the iconic Wawel Castle watching over the city.
As you walk through the streets of Krakow, you’ll discover powerful historical landmarks such as Schindler’s Factory, each telling stories echoing through time.
For unique adventures, explore the underground wonders of the Wieliczka Salt Mine or enjoy a scenic cruise along the Vistula River.
Discover the top tourist attractions in this charming city with our list of the things to do in Kraków.
Wawel Castle
Wawel Castle is one of Poland’s important historical and architectural landmarks, and it is located on Wawel Hill. It was once the residence of Polish kings, and Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture have influenced this UNESCO-listed site.
Visitors can explore its grand chambers, royal treasury, and the legendary Wawel Dragon’s Den and live through Polish history.
Hours: 9 am to 6.30 pm
Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
Location: Wawel 5, 31-001 Kraków. Get Directions
Chocholow Thermal Baths
Chocholow Thermal Baths, located near Kraków, is the largest thermal complex in Poland.
Natural geothermal waters feed this thermal bath, and the baths feature a variety of indoor and outdoor pools, jacuzzis, and saunas with stunning views of the Tatra Mountains.
This is an ideal escape where you can unwind, recharge, and relax after a day of sightseeing.
Hours: 9 am to 10 pm
Duration: 3 hours
Location: Chochołów 400, 34-513 Witów, Poland. Get Directions
Rynek Underground Museum
The Rynek Underground Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Kraków’s past beneath the Main Market Square. This interactive museum exhibits medieval merchant stalls, archaeological discoveries, and digital exhibits that bring the city’s history to life.
A visit here allows one to explore Kraków’s underground secrets while learning about its rich heritage.
Hours: 10 am to 7 pm
Duration: 90 to 120 mins
Location: Rynek Główny 1, 31-042 Kraków, Poland. Get Directions
Aqua Park Zakopane
Aqua Park Zakopane is a fun and relaxing getaway just two hours from Kraków in the heart of the Tatra Mountains. This family-friendly water park features thermal pools, water slides, jacuzzis, and a lazy river, all with breathtaking mountain views. For those seeking relaxation, the park offers saunas, salt caves, and hydrotherapy pools with mineral-rich thermal waters.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or a soothing spa experience, Aqua Park Zakopane is a great way to unwind after sightseeing in Kraków while enjoying the natural beauty and healing properties of the region’s geothermal waters.
Hours: 9 am to 10 pm
Duration: 3 hours
Location: Jagiellońska 31, 34-500 Zakopane, Poland. Get Directions
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Auschwitz Birkenau Tour
Auschwitz-Birkenau is the largest Nazi concentration and extermination camp, and a visit here would be a deeply moving and educational experience.
Located about an hour from Kraków, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a reminder of the unimaginable horrors of the Holocaust.
Guided tours take visitors through the preserved barracks, gas chambers, and memorials, and they give historical insights into the atrocities committed during World War II. A visit here is both somber and essential for understanding this tragic chapter of history.
Hours: 6 am to 2 pm
Duration: 3.5 hours to 11 hours (depending on the tour you choose)
Tatra Mountains
The Tatra Mountains, located on the Poland-Slovakia border, are a breathtaking natural escape just a short trip from Kraków. Known for its dramatic peaks, scenic hiking trails, and ski resorts, the Tatras offer year-round adventure.
They are the tallest mountains in the Carpathians, rising steeply from a high plateau and covering around 40 miles (64 km) along the Slovakian-Polish frontier. Whether trekking in summer, skiing in winter, or simply enjoying the stunning alpine landscapes, the Tatra Mountains are a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Hours: starts at 8 am to 9 am
Duration: 7.5 hours to 11 hours
Location: Get Directions
St. Mary’s Basilica
St. Mary’s Basilica is a Brick Gothic church in Kraków, Poland, next to the Main Market Square. The 13th-century basilica is renowned for its high altar carved by Veit Stoss and its interior with polychrome murals by Jan Matejko.
A trumpet signal, the hejnał mariacki, is played every hour from the taller tower. Tourists can visit the UNESCO heritage church to see the altar, admire the architecture and artwork, and learn about its legends.
Hours: 11.30 am to 6 pm
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Location: Plac Mariacki 5, 31-042 Kraków. Get Directions
Bania Thermal Baths
Bania Thermal Baths, located in Białka Tatrzańska, about 1.5–2 hours from Kraków, offer a perfect mix of relaxation and fun with stunning Tatra Mountain views. The complex features thermal pools, saunas, jacuzzis, and wellness treatments, with both indoor and outdoor options.
Families can enjoy water slides and a kids’ zone, while adults can unwind in the quiet spa areas with mineral-rich waters known for their health benefits. Whether you’re seeking a soothing retreat or a family-friendly water adventure, Bania Thermal Bath provides the perfect escape after exploring Kraków’s historic sights.
Hours: 9 am to 10 pm
Duration: 3 hours
Location: Środkowa 181, 34-405 Białka Tatrzańska, Poland. Get Directions
Extreme Shooting Range
The Extreme Shooting Range in Kraków will be the perfect opportunity to test your shooting skills.
There is a wide selection of firearms, and under the guidance of professional instructors, visitors can handle everything from pistols to powerful rifles in a safe and controlled environment.
Be it a beginner or an experienced shooter, this activity will be a thrilling experience and keep your adrenaline high!
Hours: 8 am to 8 pm
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Location: Jana Surzyckiego 16, 30-721 Kraków. Get Directions
Jewish Ghetto Tours
The Krakow Jewish Ghetto Tour will take you through Kraków’s powerful wartime history. Visiting the popular sites in Kazimierz and Podgórze, including Ghetto Heroes Square and the remains of the ghetto walls, the tour provides insight into the tragic experiences of Kraków’s Jewish community during World War II.
With stories of resilience and remembrance, this tour is an essential experience for those looking to understand the city’s past.
Hours: Starts at 10 am
Duration: 1.5 to 7 hours
Location: Depends on the tour you choose
Vistula River Cruise
Krakow’s Vistula River Cruise offers a relaxing way to see Kraków from a unique perspective. As you glide along Poland’s longest river, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Wawel Castle, the historic Old Town, and the city’s picturesque bridges.
You can choose a daytime sightseeing cruise or an evening sail. Escape from the bustling streets and enjoy a peaceful, scenic cruise ride through the Vistula River!
Hours: 10 am to 8 pm
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Location: Depends on the cruise you choose
Termy Bukovina
Termy Bukovina is a modern thermal spa resort nestled in the Tatra Mountains, just 1.5–2 hours from Kraków. It features geothermal pools, saunas, steam baths, and hydrotherapy zones, offering both relaxation and health benefits. Families can enjoy water slides and play areas, while those seeking tranquility can unwind in the adults-only wellness zones with stunning mountain views.
The mineral-rich thermal waters help relieve stress and fatigue, making it a perfect retreat after exploring Kraków. Whether you’re looking for family fun or a peaceful spa experience, Termy Bukovina is a must-visit relaxation spot in southern Poland.
Hours: 9 am to 10 pm
Duration: 3 hours
Location: Sportowa 22, 34-530 Bukowina Tatrzańska, Poland. Get Directions
Schindler’s Factory Tour
The Schindler’s Factory Tour takes visitors through the former enamel factory of Oskar Schindler, the German industrialist who saved over 1,000 Jews during World War II.
Now a museum, it features immersive exhibits detailing Kraków’s wartime history, the Nazi occupation, and the lives of those affected. This deeply moving tour provides a powerful insight into one of the city’s most significant historical sites.
Hours: 9 am to 8 pm
Duration: 1.5 hours
Location: Lipowa 4, 30-702 Kraków, Poland. Get Directions
Segway tour of Krakow
The Krakow Segway Tour is a fun and efficient way to explore the city’s historic streets. Glide through the Old Town, Kazimierz (Jewish Quarter), and the Vistula River boulevards while learning about Kraków’s rich history from an expert guide.
Ideal for travelers who want to explore more without the exhaustion of walking, this tour is a perfect mix of sightseeing and a fun, memorable experience.
Hours: 9.45 am to 5.45 pm
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Location: Depends on the tour you choose
Wieliczka Salt Mine
The Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the world’s oldest operating salt mines, dating back to the 13th century. This underground marvel features stunning chambers, intricate salt carvings, and a breathtaking chapel carved entirely from salt.
Just a short trip from Kraków, it offers a unique and unforgettable journey through history, art, and natural beauty.
Hours: 6.45 am to 4.15 pm
Duration: 2.5 to 13 hours
Location: Depends on the tour you choose
Polish Aviation Museum
The Polish Aviation Museum, located at the site of the former Kraków-Rakowice-Czyżyny Airport, is a large museum of historic aircraft and aircraft engines. The museum opened in 1964, and its collection includes over 200 aircraft, some unique worldwide.
Visitors can see aircraft from World War I, World War II, and the Cold War, as well as gliders and anti-aircraft weaponry. The museum also houses a large aviation library and photographic archives. It is considered one of the world’s best aviation museums. Tourists should visit to explore the history of aviation and see a wide array of aircraft.
Hours: 9 am to 5 pm (Mondays closed)
Duration: 2 to 4 hours
Location: al. Jana Pawła II 39, 31-864 Kraków. Get Directions
Kościuszko Mound
Kościuszko Mound is an artificial mound in Kraków, Poland, created to honor the Polish national leader Tadeusz Kościuszko. The mound was completed in 1823 and built on Blessed Bronisława Hill. It is one of four memorial mounds in Kraków, with the others being Krakus Mound, Wanda Mound, and Piłsudski Mound.
A 19th-century fort surrounds the mound with a serpentine path leading to the top, about 326 meters (1069 feet) above sea level. Visitors can see panoramic views of the city and the Vistula River from the top. There is also a museum devoted to Kościuszko.
Hours: 9 am to 4 pm
Duration: 2 hours
Location: al. Waszyngtona 1, 30-204 Kraków. Get Directions
MNK Sukiennice
The MNK Sukiennice, also known as the Sukiennice Museum, is a branch of the National Museum in Kraków, housed in the historic Cloth Hall in the Main Market Square. It is renowned for its collection of 19th-century Polish art, including paintings and sculptures.
The gallery is arranged like a 19th-century salon and features work by artists such as Jan Matejko, Jacek Malczewski, and Henryk Siemiradzki. Tourists should visit to see the major trends of Polish art from this period and to appreciate the grand Renaissance-style building, which also provides views of the Market Square.
Hours: 10 am to 6 pm
Duration: 1 hour
Location: Rynek Główny 3, 31-042 Kraków. Get Directions
Jewish Quarter Tour
The Jewish Quarter Tour takes you through Kazimierz, Kraków’s historic Jewish district, known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant atmosphere.
Tourists can explore centuries-old synagogues, charming streets, and important landmarks that tell the story of the city’s Jewish life. Kazimierz is now a lively hub of cafés, art galleries, and restaurants; hence, this tour perfectly blends history and modern culture.
Hours: 10 am to 6 pm
Duration: 2 to 5 hours
Location: Depends on the tour you choose
St. Florian’s Gate
St. Florian’s Gate is a Gothic tower in Kraków, Poland, that was built in the 14th century as part of the city’s fortifications. It is one of the best-known Polish Gothic towers and a focal point of Kraków’s Old Town. It was the main entryway to the Old Town.
Kings and princes would enter the city through this gate on the Royal Route. The gate is a terminating vista at the north end of Floriańska Street. Tourists should visit to see the historic architecture, the bas-relief of St. Florian, and the stone eagle designed by Jan Matejko. The gate is also a part of the City Defence Walls museum.
Hours: 8 am to 6 pm (Sundays closed)
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Location: 30-001 Kraków. Get Directions
Malta Thermal Baths
Malta Thermal Baths, or Termy Maltańskie, is Poland’s largest water park and spa complex, located in Poznań. Featuring thermal pools, saunas, steam rooms, and a wellness center, it offers both relaxation and adventure. The complex includes a wave pool, water slides, lazy rivers, and outdoor hot tubs, making it ideal for families and spa lovers alike. While it’s not near Kraków, if you’re traveling across Poland, it’s a fantastic stop for rejuvenation and fun.
Hours: 6 am to 11 pm
Duration: 3 hours
Location: Termalna 1, 61-028 Poznań, Poland. Get Directions
What are the top activities to do in Krakow at night?
Krakow offers a variety of activities at night, ranging from cultural experiences to lively nightlife.
Here are some of the top things to do in Krakow after dark:
Explore Kazimierz: The former Jewish Quarter, which is known for its vibrant nightlife, including restaurants, cocktail bars, and live music venues. Plac Nowy is a particularly buzzing area with street food stalls and bars.
Visit clubs and bars in the Old Town: Many clubs are located downstairs and often have a party atmosphere with a younger crowd. Popular clubs include Prozak 2.0, Teatro Cubano, and Szpitalna 1. Prozak 2.0 is known for techno music, Teatro Cubano for Cuban and Latin music, and Szpitalna 1 also for techno.
Party on a boat cruise along the Vistula River: The Cruise ride often includes an open bar, DJ, dinner, cocktails, and other entertainment. Boat parties depart at 4:30 PM and 7:30 PM.
Visit game bars and arcades: Explore the Krakow Pinball Museum, the Krakow Arcade Museum, and Cosmic Games Pub. These venues offer a cozy indoor activity. Cybermachina is another option for gamers with video games, board games, and themed cocktails.
Live music: Enjoy live music at venues like Alchemia, which has a cellar that regularly hosts live music nights.
Experience a traditional Polish folk show: Enjoy this show with music, dance, and a buffet of Polish food and drinks. These shows typically start at 7:00 PM.
Attend a Chopin concert: At the Chopin Concert Hall in the Old Town, attend a Chopin Concert. Nightly piano recitals are held from 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM.
Take a walk around the Main Market Square: The market is beautifully illuminated at night, and you can admire the architecture, visit the Cloth Hall, and listen to street musicians.
Relax in thermal baths: Thermal baths, such as the Chocholowska Thermal Baths, are located a couple of hours outside the city. Visiting in the evening allows you to relax and see the sunset.
Embark on a spooky walking tour: Uncover the city’s dark side and learn about ghost stories and tales of serial killers in this tour.
What are some free things to do in Krakow?
If you are on a budget holiday to Krakow and want to cut down on some spending without missing out on the excitement, here are some free things to do in Krakow.
Explore the Main Market Square: The Main Market Square, or Rynek Główny, is Europe’s largest medieval town square. You can soak in the lively atmosphere, admire the architecture, and see the historic Cloth Hall and St. Mary’s Basilica.
Wawel Hill and Castle Grounds: You can explore the grounds of Wawel Castle for free, including the Renaissance-style gardens and historic buildings, and enjoy panoramic views of the city. While some areas require a ticket, the grounds themselves are free.
Stroll through Planty Park: Planty Park is a green space around Krakow’s Old Town. It was once the location of the city’s medieval walls. You can enjoy tree-lined pathways, gardens, monuments, and other landmarks.
Cycle along the Vistula River: The Vistula River has dedicated cycle paths and wide boulevards, making it a good place to cycle. You can rent a bike and enjoy the scenic views.
Visit St. Peter and Paul Church: The oldest Baroque building in Poland, St. Peter and Paul Church has a grand stone façade and ornate statues. It is free to enter the church and see its stucco decorations.
Explore the Kazimierz District: You can explore its streets, see old synagogues, and discover street art and murals related to the area’s Jewish heritage. You can also experience the bohemian atmosphere of the area.
Relax at Bagry Lagoon: Bagry Lagoon is a natural oasis where you can relax on sandy beaches or swim in the water. It’s a great place to visit on a sunny day. You can also rent a kayak or paddleboard on the large lake.
Free Museum Entry Days: Many museums in Krakow have free entry days. For instance, the Rynek Underground Museum is free on Tuesdays, the paid areas of Wawel Castle and Schindler’s Factory Museum are free on Mondays, and the Manggha Museum is free on Tuesdays. Also, the 19th Century Polish Art Gallery (MNK Sukiennice) is free on Tuesdays.
Walk the Royal Road: Walking the Royal Road is a free experience where you can follow the path once taken by kings. It connects important historical sites between Florianska Street and Wawel Hill.
Climb Krakus Mound: You can climb Krakus Mound for panoramic views of Krakow. Locals and tourists gather there to have picnics and enjoy the scenery.
St. Florian’s Gate: This gate was once the main entrance to the city and is a symbol of Krakow. It was part of the city’s defenses against attacks.
What are some fun things to do with kids in Krakow?
Krakow is known to be a family-friendly and affordable city. If you are visiting with your kids – infants to teenagers – the Polish city has something for everyone.
Explore Main Market Square (Rynek Główny): It is a great place for kids to run around, watch street performers, chase pigeons, and play in the fountains. They can also enjoy ice cream or hot chocolate.
Horse-drawn carriage ride: Take a carriage ride with kids around the Main Market Square, Planty Park, and the Old Town.
Rynek Underground Museum: It has touch-screen and holographic exhibits showing life in Krakow hundreds of years ago. It also has an area for kids with a puppet show.
Open-air swimming pool – Zakrzówek: The pool has clear water and limestone rocks surround it. There are pools for children, as well as a lake for swimming.
Planty Park: This park surrounds Old Town and is good for a stroll.
Bagry Lagoon: Offers sandy beaches where kids can play and swim.
Henryk Jordan Park: Large park with playgrounds, sports facilities, and a pond. It also has a water area for sunny days and a cafe.
Live Bagel Museum of Kraków: Learn about the history of Polish bagels and have fun baking your own.
Krakow Pinball Museum: Offers access to over 80 retro pinball machines.
Cosmic Games Pub: Offers a variety of games, including beer pong and table football, and has a “Galactic Bubble Room.”
What are the best things couples can do in Krakow?
Krakow has various activities and attractions for couples in love. Here are some things to do in Krakow for couples:
Romantic strolls and sightseeing:
- Take an evening walk through Krakow’s Old Town, soaking in the medieval atmosphere and admiring the illuminated landmarks. The Main Market Square (Rynek Główny) is a beautiful place for a stroll, especially when it is lit up at night.
- Explore the charming streets of Kazimierz, the historic Jewish Quarter, known for its vibrant nightlife, restaurants, and bars.
- Enjoy a relaxing walk through Planty Park, which surrounds the Old Town, and stop to admire the views of the Wawel Castle.
- Climb Krakus Mound or Kościuszko Mound for panoramic views of the city, particularly beautiful at sunset. You can also walk around the base of Kościuszko Mound and read the educational plaques.
- Visit the Father Bernatek Bridge, also known as the Love Lock Bridge, which connects Kazimierz and Podgórze.
- Relax and rejuvenate at the Chocholowska Thermal Baths, which are open into the evening. Consider booking a spa or wellness treatment for a relaxing experience.
- Take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through the Old Town.
- Embark on an evening cruise along the Vistula River, offering scenic views of the city’s landmarks such as Wawel Castle, historic bridges, and boulevards. You can choose from different types of cruises, including sightseeing, dinner cruises, or cocktail cruises. Some cruises offer a romantic atmosphere with sensual lighting and music.
- Attend a Chopin piano concert for a classical music experience. Some concerts include a glass of wine.
Dining and Nightlife:
- Enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the many restaurants in Kazimierz. You can also experience the vibrant atmosphere of Plac Nowy with its street food stalls and bars.
- You can visit the bars and pubs in Krakow’s Old Town, known for its lively nightlife. Have a drink at a trendy riverside bar or cafe along the Vistula River. Or go on a vodka tasting tour, and sample different types of Polish vodka.
What to see and do in the Jewish Quarter of Krakow?
Here are some things to do in the Jewish Quarter of Krakow, also known as Kazimierz:
Explore the streets of Kazimierz: You can experience the unique atmosphere of Kazimierz by walking through its streets, rich history, and vibrant modern culture, as well as its many historical sites, cafes, and shops. You can discover street art, including murals and graffiti, that reflect the area’s Jewish heritage.
Visit Historic Synagogues and Cemeteries: Kazimierz is known for its Jewish heritage, and you can visit some of Europe’s oldest synagogues. Key sites include the Old Synagogue, which is the oldest in Krakow. You can also see historic cemeteries and moving memorials throughout the district. The Remuh Cemetery has a poignant wall made of tombstones from WWII. There is also a new Jewish cemetery that you can visit.
Experience the Nightlife: The Kazimierz district comes to life after dark, with numerous restaurants, cocktail bars, live music venues, and late-night cafes. With its street food stalls and bars, Plac Nowy is one of the most buzzing areas. The district is known for its bohemian atmosphere, where you might find art exhibitions, live concerts, and impromptu performances. Many bars stay open late into the night, and some clubs open around 10:00 PM and get crowded around midnight.
Enjoy the Local Culture: To connect with the local culture, you can visit traditional restaurants and bars and talk to the people who live there. Some bars to check out in Kazimierz include Singer, Mleczarnia, and Alchemia od Kuchni. You can also find tasty fast food, especially on Plac Nowy. Some cafes and bars have a bohemian vibe, unique decor, and a special atmosphere.
Walking Tours: Various walking tours of the Jewish Quarter are available that provide information about the area and its history. Evening tours of the Old Jewish Quarter are a way to experience the city’s nightlife scene.
Visit the New Square: New Square is a place where locals hang out, and it has a variety of bars and restaurants. On Sunday mornings, there is a flea market where you can find vintage furniture and other items.
Enjoy Street Art: You can view colorful murals and graffiti related to the area’s Jewish heritage throughout the Kazimierz district. You can find the “Ding Dong Dumb” mural in Podgórze.
