Krakow 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Old Town Exploration

  • Accommodation: Consider staying at the Hotel Grodzki or Apartamenty Stare Miasto, both centrally located and offering comfortable stays.

  • Breakfast: Start your day with a traditional Polish breakfast at Kasztanka.

  • Activities:

    • Wander around the Old Town, visit Rynek Główny (Main Square) and its surrounding historical buildings like St. Mary’s Basilica and Cloth Hall.
    • Explore the Jewish Quarter (Kazimierz) with its vibrant atmosphere, charming streets, and landmarks such as the Remuh Synagogue and the historic Jewish cemetery.

  • Lunch: Taste authentic Jewish cuisine at Szima.

  • Activities (Afternoon): Visit Wawel Castle, home to several museums and the Royal Tombs, offering a breathtaking view of Krakow. Then, stroll along the Vistula River and explore Wawel Hill.

  • Dinner: Dine at Pod Aniołami, known for its Krakow Schnitzel, and enjoy the live music performances.

  • Things to Know: Krakow’s Old Town is a pedestrian zone, so make sure to explore on foot or take advantage of the city’s many trams and buses.

Day 2: Wieliczka Salt Mine & Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial

  • Breakfast: Grab a quick breakfast at your accommodation or try Pijalnia Hutki, a popular milk bar serving traditional Polish food.

  • Activities:

    • Wieliczka Salt Mine: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this salt mine dates back to the Middle Ages and offers a unique underground experience. Book your tour in advance online.
    • Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial: This poignant site serves as a stark reminder of the Holocaust and is essential for understanding Europe’s recent history. Guided tours are highly recommended.

  • Lunch: Pack a lunch or grab something quick at the local cafes near the Salt Mine or Memorial before heading out.

  • Dinner & Relax: Return to Krakow, have dinner at Kuchnia and unwind in the Old Town.

Day 3: Schindler’s Factory & Planty Park

  • Breakfast: Start your day with a breakfast at Mleczny Bar MooMoo.

  • Activities:

  • Lunch: Have lunch at Alchemia Cafe, known for its unique atmosphere and creative dishes.

  • Activities (Afternoon): Discover Krakow’s trendy Kazimierz district, visit the Kazimierz Synagogue, and explore independent art galleries and shops.

  • Dinner & Nightlife: Dine at Browar Stu Mostów for craft beer and delicious food, followed by a night out in Kazimierz’s vibrant bars and clubs.

Day 4: Krakus Mound & Ojcow National Park

  • Breakfast: Grab breakfast at your accommodation or try Dwa Smaki, known for its unique combination of Polish and international dishes.

  • Activities:

    • Take a day trip to Ojcow National Park and explore its limestone cliffs, caves, and diverse wildlife.
    • Visit the Krakus Mound, an ancient burial mound dating back to the early Middle Ages.

  • Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch or grab something quick at a local café near Ojcow National Park.

  • Dinner & Relax: Return to Krakow, have dinner at Wierzynek, the oldest restaurant in Poland, and enjoy a traditional Polish feast.

Day 5: Krakow’s Underground & Departure

  • Breakfast: Start your final day with breakfast at your accommodation or try Kuchnia Polska, known for its authentic Polish dishes.

  • Activities:

  • Lunch: Enjoy a farewell lunch at Pod Wawelem, offering a stunning view of Wawel Castle.

  • Departure: Depending on your flight time, make your way to Krakow’s John Paul II International Airport (KRK) for your departure. If you have extra time, consider visiting Nowa Huta, a unique post-war urban district, or exploring more of the city at your leisure.

Transportation: Krakow has an efficient public transportation system, including trams, buses, and a funicular to the top of Wawel Hill. Taxis are also widely available, but make sure to use reputable companies.