A quick guide to Krakow

In the photo, Kraków looks like a small old town, but in reality it is a very large city with several districts. Most of the photos seen as visitors are from the heart of the old town. This is the perfect place to base yourself on your own if you are visiting Krakow to see the main attractions and attractions. Also, a day trip will depart to nearby concentration camps in Auschwitz and Birkenau.

Population: 759,131 +
Known: One of Poland’s most beautiful cities with incredible charm
Climate: Marine climate – Winter can be very cold!

A quick guide to Krakow

Before arrival

Before you arrive, it is important to know that Krakow is a large city with a population of nearly 1 million people. It is one of the oldest cities in Poland and is the capital of Lesser Poland in the southern part of the country. Be sure to prepare as you see the city covered in snow blankets, hot in summer and cold in winter.

Upon arrival

The main mode of transport for arriving in a city is by airplane or train. Others include buses and cars.

If you are planning on traveling by taxi to arrive at the airport, it is good to know that the airport is only 12 km away from the city centre. Please ask for a fare estimate before entering the vehicle or at least. If you’re looking for a cheaper (and sometimes more reliable) option, take the bus #292 or #208 to the last stop and head to the main train/bus stop. From there, there is a rather short walk to the city centre.

If you arrive by train, the station is not too far from the centre of the old town.

Go around

The best way to avoid this is by foot. Of course, during cold weather, there is a thick layer of snow on the ground, which can be a little difficult, so pack the right footwear!

Go through

Poles are the official language, but while many workers in the tourism industry speak basic English, it is not uncommon for people to not speak English, so here are some words to get you.

Hello: Hello

Sorry, sorry: Sorry (Sher-Prash-Am)

thank you:Thank you (djen-kyoo-yeh)

good bye:PA

Flickr/Nick forms the creative commons

What to see

Main Square – Main Square is the city centre and has a great atmosphere. Make sure to visit Town Cross Hall and take it home for a meaningful souvenir.

WAWEL CASTLE & CATHEDRAL – In the city, visit Wawel Castle and the nearby cathedral as it is a great insight into Polish history.

St. Mary’s Cathedral – This impressive cathedral is very wonderful from the inside, so be sure to look at it.

Auschwitz & Birkenau Concentration Camp – If you are interested in a better understanding and appreciation of the horrifying history of Nazi occupation in Poland, you must visit the Auschwitz concentration camp and the nearby Birkenau camp. Each camp offers a very insightful look through a retrospective lens, but is very confronting. Day tours in Krakow depart every day and are a great way to gain insight into the history of these camps.

Wieliczka Salt Mine – Another popular day trip is to visit the nearby Wieliczka Salt Mine.

What to eat and drink

Take the opportunity to try Polish food while you’re in Poland! It’s usually heavier than the Western diet, but there are some great options! Give me a Za Piekanka to drink Polish dumplings (Pierogi) and Za Piekanka (open bread with all the trimmings of cheese, mushrooms, ketchup, garlic sauce, etc.) Don’t miss the chance to try Polish vodka in your homeland.

Get out

While most travelers head straight towards Krakow as their only stop in Poland (this is an opportunity to experience the Auschwitz concentration camp and better understand history), there is still much more to see and see in Poland beyond this city alone. A two and a half hour drive will land in Zakopan (Ski Town), a three hour drive will land in Lokla and a four hour drive will land in Warsaw, the Polish capital.