There are always pros and cons to visiting certain places during certain seasons. I could see how visiting Krakow, Poland during the winter months might seem intimidating due to the cold, but I promise, it’s absolutely worth bundling up for. Krakow is already a very picturesque city, with its stunning architecture and rich culture. However, during the holiday season, it becomes even more magical. Krakow transforms into a winter wonderland, captivating visitors with its festive spirit and irresistible charm.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about visiting Krakow, Poland during this special time of the year. I was lucky enough to visit this remarkable Polish city a few years ago in early December. I hadn’t visited an authentic European Christmas market and wanted to cross that experience off of my bucket list. My cousin and I ended up taking a memorable 10-day trip through three different European countries and Krakow turned out to be one of my favorite stops.
If you’re even slightly considering visiting Krakow, Poland as a winter destination, I hope this guide does all the convincing you need. Let’s get into it!
A Little History of Krakow, Poland
One of the reasons Krakow is such a fascinating city to visit is because of its rich tapestry of cultural heritage and history, which dates back to the 7th century. Originally founded as a Slavic settlement, Krakow served as Poland’s capital, a center of learning, commerce, and a hub of cultural activity over the centuries.
During the Renaissance era, the city experienced a period of cultural and artistic renewal. The Old Town, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a testament to Krakow’s Renaissance heritage. The Jewish community, which thrived in Krakow for centuries, also influenced the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
Krakow’s history does however tell stories of remarkable tragedy. The city endured significant hardships during World War II when it was occupied by Nazi Germany. The Jewish community was decimated during the Holocaust, and Krakow suffered extensive damage. The city has since recovered and rebuilt. And while we’ll never forget the horrors that the Holocaust brought, Krakow will remain a city where we can educate ourselves and learn from the past.
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What to Know Before You Go
Here are some important things to keep in mind while you start to prepare for your winter trip to Krakow, Poland.
How Much Time Do You Need in Krakow? I’d suggest at least three days to experience some of Krakow’s highlights without feeling completely rushed. Within three days you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the history and culture, visit some of the top attractions, and enjoy some of Krakow’s remarkable food. If you’re not visiting multiple counties as we did on our trip and you have extra time to spend in Krakow, five days would allow you a much more in-depth experience.
What is the currency in Krakow? Krakow’s currency is the Polish złoty (PLN). While most major tourist areas will take credit cards, it’s essential to have some złoty on hand for daily expenses such as meals, transportation, and souvenirs, as some smaller establishments may only accept cash. You can exchange currency at banks, exchange offices, and the train station.
Is Krakow Affordable?– Compared to many Western European cities, Krakow offers excellent value for your money! You can enjoy delicious food, comfortable accommodations, and a variety of cultural experiences without breaking the bank. It’s a perfect destination to visit during the expensive holiday season
What to Pack for a Krakow Winter Trip- layers will be your best friend while visiting Krakow during the winter months. Plan to pack sweaters with room for a thermal layer underneath, very thick wool socks, a heavy down coat that preferably goes past your waist, a good pair of gloves, and a nice warm hat
The Best Way to Get Around Krakow- if you’re coming into Krakow from a different European city or leaving it to head off to another one, the train is the most reliable and efficient mode of transportation. Download the Omio app, which will be super helpful for booking tickets.
While making your way around Krakow, Uber is very easy to use and readily available. However, if a place is within walking distance, I highly suggest walking as this is the best way to really experience Krakow.
Where to Stay in Krakow
Whether you’re looking for a budget option or want to splurge on somewhere fancy, Krakow has an accommodation for you. Here are three I’d recommend, depending on your nightly price point:
Budget: Ginger ApartHostel is a great place to stay for those on a budget. While they have shared rooms ideal for solo travelers looking to make friends, there are also beautiful private rooms, which give it more of a hotel feel. Depending on what vibe you’re going for, Ginger Hostel can accommodate it! With a perfect location, you can walk to Old Town in 10 minutes. They also offer breakfast and will book excursions and tours for you. To book your stay at Ginger Hostel, click here.
Mid-Range: For something more mid-range, I’d suggest Radisson RED. While this hotel is a little farther out location-wise (it’s about a 20-minute ride from Old Town) it has all of the amenities to ensure an amazing stay. There’s a fitness center, private parking, a lounge, a restaurant, and a bar. They even have some room options with a kitchenette for those wanting to make some of their own meals. To book your stay at Radisson RED, click here.
Luxury: If you’re looking to splurge, there’s no better place to stay than Bachleda Luxury Hotel. Each room features a flat-screen TV, a fridge, a coffee machine, and a set of cosmetics for a luxurious feel. Located right in the Old Town District, you’ll have various restaurants and museums within walking distance, but there’s also a restaurant and lounge bar at the hotel. As well as an on-site spa, indoor pool, and fitness center. To book your stay at Bachleda Luxury Hotel, click here.
Things to See in Krakow
There is so much to see in Krakow! It’s a very picturesque city where you can walk for hours and just admire the beautiful architecture, incredible churches, and stunning cobblestone streets. Here are some things you will not want to miss when visiting Krakow:
Krakow’s Old Town
As I mentioned before, the Old Town of Krakow is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also the heart and soul of the city. This charming district is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and bustling squares, which is perfect for taking a leisurely stroll and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere. The central square, Rynek Główny, is also a must-visit, with its Gothic Town Hall, Cloth Hall, and unique charm. Old Town is also filled with lots of great restaurants and cafes perfect for grabbing lunch or dinner in between exploring.
St. Mary’s Basilica
Located right in Old Town, St. Mary’s Basilica is a Gothic masterpiece and one of Krakow’s most recognizable landmarks. This impressive church features two towering spires that dominate the city’s skyline. Inside, the basilica is decorated with stained glass windows, ornate altarpieces, and beautiful frescoes, which will leave you captivated! Every hour on the hour, visitors can also experience the famous “Hejnał” trumpet call played from the top of the southern tower. This is a unique tradition that dates back to the 13th century!
St. Andrew’s Church
St. Andrew’s Church is lesser-known than St. Mary’s Basilica but equally fascinating. Visiting this church allows you to step outside of the bustling Old Town and into the Kazimierz district of Krakow. This Gothic church dates back to the 14th century and is one of the oldest in the city! The interior is adorned with beautiful frescoes and stained glass windows, offering a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere. The surrounding areas are also very tranquil and will allow you to forget you’re right in the heart of a city.
Wawel Royal Castle
This iconic landmark is an absolute must-see while visiting Krakow. Wawel Castle is a majestic fortress perched atop Wawel Hill, overlooking the Vistula River. The Wawel Castle served as Poland’s royal residence for centuries, symbolizing its history and culture. The castle complex includes a variety of buildings, including the Royal Chambers, the Cathedral, and the Treasury. Visitors can even tour the castle. However, its offered on specific days and times so book your tickets ahead of time.
The Cloth Hall
Also located in Old Town, this historic Renaissance structure was once a bustling marketplace, where merchants from all over Europe gathered for trading purposes. Today, the Cloth Hall houses a variety of shops, art galleries, and souvenir stalls. It’s the perfect place to go for unique handicrafts, traditional Polish products, and souvenirs to commemorate your trip!
Museums to Visit in Krakow
Krakow is home to some incredible museums, which help to tell the story of Krakow’s fascinating history and unique culture. Also perfect for visiting on an extra chilly, winter day when you want to spend more time indoors. These three in particular I found to be absolutely worth experiencing:
Rynek Underground Museum
The Rynek Underground Museum is a fascinating attraction located beneath the main square in Old Town. This museum is literally underground! And it offers a realistic glimpse into the city’s medieval past, with preserved remnants of ancient buildings, streets, and wells. Visitors can explore the underground labyrinth and see how the city has evolved over the centuries. It’s so fascinating to literally step back in time and witness what Krakow would have looked like at its inception.
The museum features interactive exhibits, multimedia displays, and guided tours that bring the city’s past to life. A visit to the Rynek Underground Museum is the best way to discover Krakow’s hidden secrets and gain a deeper understanding of its rich history.
Schindler’s Factory
Visiting Schindler’s Factory is a powerful experience that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who walks through the doors. This museum honors Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saved over 1,200 Jews during the Holocaust. The museum is located in a former factory building. Parts of the movie “Schindler’s List” were actually filmed here. You will get to explore the factory’s original interiors, learn about the lives of the Jews who worked there and see firsthand the conditions they endured.
A guided tour is not mandatory but it is strongly encouraged. Honestly, our tour guide is what made this experience so meaningful and thought-provoking for me. I don’t think I would have learned as much from this museum without her. I definitely recommend booking tickets in advance to avoid being turned away due to maximum capacity restrictions, which are common.
Wieliczka Salt Mine
Visiting the Wieliczka Salt Mine was one of the coolest things we did while in Krakow. Just to note, it’s located about a 15-minute drive outside of Old Town. Getting an Uber to and from was quick and easy, however.
The Wieliczka Salt Mine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been in operation for over 1,000 years! It’s actually one of the oldest salt mines in the world. Your tour starts with descending around 377 feet underground. You’ll get to venture into the mine’s labyrinthine tunnels, marvel at the intricate salt carvings and sculptures, and learn about the fascinating history of salt mining in Poland.
While our tour group was quite large, the guide did a great job of keeping everyone together and sharing important information along the way. Some of the mine’s underground chambers are adorned with chapels, statues, and chandeliers made entirely of salt, which was incredible to see! This truly is a unique, awe-inspiring experience, which is worth having while visiting Krakow.
Places to Eat in Krakow
To be completely honest, I didn’t know what to expect from the food in Poland. Little did I know, I LOVE Polish food and some of my favorite meals were those I had in Krakow. Here are a few fantastic places I’d recommend adding to your foodie lists:
- Domowe Przysmaki- This cozy restaurant is located in Old Town, making it a convenient lunch stop. They have some of the best pierogies I’ve ever had! They have an option where you can order a platter of pierogies with 5 different flavors, which is a great way to try all of their tasty options
- Cytat Cafe– this adorable cafe is a must for breakfast! It’s part cafe, part bookstore, and 100% charming. The atmosphere is very cozy and welcoming with a great menu serving up breakfast, lunch, and wonderful coffee drinks
- Vatti– If you’re in the mood for something other than Polish food while visiting Krakow, this Indian/ Nepali restaurant is the place to go! And it’s conveniently located right next to Ginger Hostel, which is where we stayed. The food was phenomenal, with very authentic flavors and generous portions
- The Christmas Markets– when visiting Krakow during winter, the Christmas Markets are a must. It was actually the focal point of our whole trip and the Christmas Market in Krakow was of of my favorites. We visited several stands, shared everything (to not fill up too quickly), and tried as many traditional things as we could. I highly recommend Polish sausage, perogies, langos, and of course save room for something sweet
Enjoy Your Time in Krakow, Poland
That wraps up my guide and I hope that it has given you some great insight into what you can expect when visiting Krakow, Poland during the winter months. Please feel free to leave any questions or comments below and as always, happy travels!
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