Kraków, Poland 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Historic Center

  • Morning: Start your day with a hearty Polish breakfast at Kaszeke, located in the Jewish Quarter (Kazimierz). Then, visit the iconic Main Market Square (Rynek Główny), the largest medieval town square in Europe. Don’t miss the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), where you can find local crafts and amber jewelry.

  • Afternoon: Head to Wawel Castle and Wawel Cathedral, the former royal residence and a symbol of Kraków. Explore the cathedral, its crypts, and the stunning view from the top of Wawel Hill. Afterward, stroll around Jewish Quarter (Kazimierz), visit the Remuh Synagogue, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

  • Evening: Have dinner at Mleczna 10, a unique restaurant located in an old dairy, offering vegan and vegetarian options. Afterward, take a night stroll along the Vistula River or join the locals for a drink in one of Kazimierz’s cozy bars.

  • Accommodation: Consider staying at Apartamenty Stare Miasto, located in the heart of Kraków’s Old Town, providing comfortable and affordable accommodation.

Day 2: Auschwitz-Birkenau & Wieliczka Salt Mine

  • Morning: Depart early for a guided tour to Auschwitz-Birkenau, the infamous Nazi concentration camp. Book your tour in advance and allow a few hours to fully understand the history and impact of this tragic place.

  • Afternoon: After returning to Kraków, head to Wieliczka Salt Mine, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a guided tour underground and witness the stunning salt chambers.

  • Evening: Have dinner at Pod Aniołami, a traditional Polish restaurant with live music, located in the Old Town. Try their pierogi and bigos (hunter’s stew).

Day 3: Schindler’s Factory, Planty Park & Krakus Mound

  • Morning: Visit Schindler’s Factory, now a museum dedicated to the Holocaust and Oskar Schindler’s story. Spend a few hours exploring the exhibitions and learning about this significant period in history.

  • Afternoon: Take a leisurely walk around Planty Park that surrounds the Old Town, offering peaceful green spaces and beautiful views of historical buildings. Visit the Krakus Mound, an ancient hillfort dating back to the 9th century, for panoramic views of Kraków.

  • Evening: Have a farewell dinner at Pod Norenami, located in the Old Town, known for its excellent Polish cuisine and traditional atmosphere.

Things to know:

  • Kraków is generally safe for tourists, but be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas like the Main Market Square.
  • English is widely spoken, but it’s always helpful to learn a few basic Polish phrases.
  • Polish currency is the złoty (PLN). Credit cards are accepted at most restaurants and shops, but smaller establishments may only take cash.

Transportation:

  • Kraków has an excellent public transportation system, including trams, buses, and a funicular to Wieliczka Salt Mine. You can also easily walk or bike around the city center. Taxis are available but be sure to use reputable companies to avoid scams.