Kraków, Poland 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary for Kraków, Poland

Day 1: Arrival & Old Town Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at John Paul II International Airport (KRK). Check-in at your chosen accommodation, we recommend Hotel Stary or Apartamenty U Słonecznej Gwiazdy.

  • Afternoon: Visit the Old Town’s main square, Rynek Główny, and see the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), St. Mary’s Basilica, and Town Hall Tower. Enjoy traditional Polish cuisine at Pod Aniołami or Wierzynek.

  • Evening: Explore Kazimierz district – the former Jewish quarter, now known for its vibrant nightlife. Have dinner at Moishe’s New York Bagels or Szima.

Day 2: Wawel Castle & Kazimierz

  • Morning: Visit Wawel Castle, including the State Rooms, Cathedral, and Dragon’s Den. Don’t miss the panoramic view of Kraków from the tower!

  • Afternoon: Return to Kazimierz and visit the Remuh Synagogue, the Old Synagogue, and the Israelite Museum. Explore the charming streets, art galleries, and cafes.

  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Kraków evening at Alchemia – a hip bar with live music and a great selection of craft beers.

Day 3: Auschwitz-Birkenau & Wieliczka Salt Mine

  • Full day excursion: Book a guided tour to visit both Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum (Auschwitz I & II) in the morning, followed by Wieliczka Salt Mine in the afternoon. Both sites require pre-booking.

Day 4: Schindler’s Factory & Planty Park

  • Morning: Visit Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory Museum (Schindler’s Factory) to learn about Kraków’s history during World War II.

  • Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll around Planty Park, the green belt surrounding the Old Town. Relax at one of the many cafes or grab lunch at Krowarzywa (vegan burgers).

Day 5: Kraków’s Suburbs – Nowa Huta & Kościuszko Mound

  • Morning: Explore the socialist-era district of Nowa Huta, including the Modernist Saint Peter and Paul’s Church and the iconic Nowa Huta Market.

  • Afternoon: Climb up Kościuszko Mound for a panoramic view of Kraków. Have lunch at Bar Krowiary in Nowa Huta.

Day 6: Tyniec Abbey & Zakopane (Day trip)

  • Morning: Take a guided day trip to Tyniec Abbey and the nearby Pieskowa Skała Castle.

  • Afternoon: Continue on to Zakopane, known as the Winter Capital of Poland. Explore the town center, traditional wooden architecture, and the bustling Krupówki street.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend your last moments in Kraków visiting any sights you might have missed or revisiting favorite spots. Have a farewell meal at Kuchnia Krakowska before heading to the airport for your departure.

Things to Know:

  • Public transportation is convenient and affordable, with trams, buses, and the Krakus Małopolitański underground railway (KM) available. You can also walk or rent a bike.

  • Poland uses the Polish złoty (PLN). Credit cards are widely accepted in most places, but it’s good to have some cash on hand.

  • English is commonly spoken, especially in tourist areas and restaurants. However, learning a few basic phrases can enhance your experience.

  • Kraków’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and bring an umbrella.

Tips:

  • Purchase the Kraków Card for free admission to many museums and attractions, as well as public transportation.

  • Try traditional Polish dishes such as pierogi, bigos, and gołąbki. Don’t forget about the delicious local desserts like słodkie uszka (sweet dumplings) or makowiec (poppy seed cake).

Enjoy your trip to Kraków, Poland!