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Kraków

Krakow, Malopolskie, Poland

Fall Under Kraków's Spell: Where History and Heartbeat Entwine Kraków. The name itself whispers of cobbled lanes, soaring spires, and a history as rich as the hot chocolate served in its charming cafes. More than just a …

#historic city#cultural hub#UNESCO World Heritage Site#medieval architecture#tourist destination

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Kraków.

Top Hotels in Kraków

Top Flights to Kraków

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Kraków.

Tours

Wawel Royal Castle Tour

Explore the historic Wawel Royal Castle, a symbol of Poland's national pride and resilience. Enjoy a guided tour through the regal rooms and awe-inspiring cathedral.

St. Mary's Basilica Visit

Visit the stunning St. Mary's Basilica, a prime example of Gothic architecture. Don't miss the hourly trumpet signal from the famous bugle tower.

Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial Tour

Explore the historic site of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camps to learn about its harrowing past and its importance in history.

Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory Tour

Explore the historical museum in the former factory of Oskar Schindler who saved Jews during the Holocaust. Gain insights into Kraków's WWII history.

Kazimierz District Walking Tour

Walk through the historic Jewish Quarter of Kraków known as Kazimierz, filled with synagogues, charming cafes, and vibrant culture.

Shopping

Kraków Cloth Hall Shopping

Visit the iconic Cloth Hall in Kraków's Main Market Square for a shopping experience with local crafts and souvenirs.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Kraków.

Currency

zł | PLN | Polish Zloty

Population

804237.0

Languages

Polish, Polish

Average weather

Kraków

Jan

1°-5°

Feb

3°-4°

Mar

8°-1°

Apr

14°3°

May

19°8°

Jun

22°12°

Jul

24°14°

Aug

24°13°

Sep

19°10°

Oct

14°5°

Nov

7°1°

Dec

2°-3°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Kraków.

What people love

Kraków, located in Małopolskie, Poland, is a popular tourist destination with many attractions and activities to offer. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Kraków:

Rich history: Kraków is one of the oldest cities in Poland, with a history dating back over a thousand years. Visitors can explore the well-preserved historic center, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see landmarks such as Wawel Castle, St. Mary's Basilica, and the Cloth Hall.
Cultural heritage: Kraków is known for its vibrant cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, theaters, and music venues to explore. The city also hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and film to literature and art.
Beautiful architecture: Kraków is home to a mix of architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Art Nouveau. Visitors can admire the stunning buildings and churches throughout the city, as well as the picturesque streets and squares.
Vibrant nightlife: Kraków has a lively nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. The city is known for its bustling main square, Rynek Główny, where visitors can enjoy a drink or a meal while taking in the atmosphere.
Easy access to nature: Kraków is located near the Tatra Mountains and the Ojców National Park, making it a great base for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. Visitors can also take a day trip to the nearby Wieliczka Salt Mine or Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum.

Overall, Kraków offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty that appeals to a wide range of travelers.

What to know

Traveling to Kraków, Poland, like any other destination, may have some cons to consider. Here are a few potential drawbacks of traveling to Kraków:

Crowds: Kraków is a popular tourist destination, especially during the peak tourist season. This means that popular attractions, restaurants, and streets may be crowded, making it challenging to fully enjoy the city's offerings.
Weather: The weather in Kraków can be quite variable, with cold winters and hot summers. Depending on the time of year you visit, you may need to pack accordingly and be prepared for sudden changes in weather.
Language Barrier: While many people in Kraków, especially in the tourist areas, speak English, there may still be instances where communication can be a challenge. It's always helpful to learn a few basic Polish phrases or carry a translation app to navigate any language barriers.
Tourist Traps: Like any popular destination, Kraków has its fair share of tourist traps, such as overpriced restaurants or souvenirs. It's essential to do your research and be cautious to avoid falling into these traps.
Pollution: Kraków has faced air pollution issues in recent years, especially during the winter months. If you have respiratory issues or are sensitive to pollution, it's advisable to check the air quality levels and take precautions while visiting.

Overall, while Kraków is a beautiful and culturally rich city to visit, being aware of these potential cons can help you have a more enjoyable and stress-free trip.

Kraków, located in the Małopolskie Voivodeship of Poland, is one of the oldest and most historically significant cities in the country. Its rich history is marked by pivotal events, influential figures, and numerous landmarks that reflect its cultural and political importance.

Early History

Prehistory and Early Settlement: Archaeological evidence suggests that the area around Kraków has been inhabited since the Stone Age. The city itself was established as a major settlement as early as the 7th century.
Legend of Krakus and the Wawel Dragon: According to legend, Kraków was founded by the mythical ruler Krakus, who vanquished a dragon living under Wawel Hill.

Medieval Period

10th Century: Kraków became part of the emerging Polish state under the Piast dynasty. It was an important trade center on the route between Western Europe and Ruthenia.
1038: The city was made the capital of Poland by King Casimir I the Restorer.
13th Century: Kraków suffered a major Mongol invasion in 1241, which led to significant destruction.

Renaissance and Golden Age

1364: The University of Kraków (now Jagiellonian University) was founded by King Casimir III the Great, making it one of the oldest universities in the world.
15th-16th centuries: Kraków flourished as a center of science and culture during the Polish Renaissance. The city was the capital of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.

Important Figures

Nicolaus Copernicus: The astronomer who formulated a model of the universe that placed the Sun rather than Earth at its center, studied at the Jagiellonian University.
Jan III Sobieski: A Polish king celebrated for his victory over the Ottoman Empire at the Battle of Vienna in 1683, was crowned in Kraków.

Decline and Partitions

17th Century: Kraków experienced decline due to wars, particularly the Swedish invasion known as the "Deluge."
1795: During the Third Partition of Poland, Kraków was annexed by Austria.
1815: The city became a part of the Free City of Kraków, a semi-independent city-state under the protection of Austria, Prussia, and Russia.

19th and Early 20th Century

1846: Kraków was annexed by the Austrian Empire following an uprising.
1918: Following World War I, Kraków became part of the newly independent Second Polish Republic.

World War II and Post-War Era

1939-1945: During Nazi occupation, Kraków was made the capital of the General Government. The Jewish community suffered devastating losses during the Holocaust.
1945: The city was liberated by the Soviet Red Army and subsequently became part of communist Poland.

Modern Period

1978: Kraków's Historic Centre was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
1980s: The city was a center of the Solidarity movement, which contributed to the fall of communism in Poland.
2000: Kraków was named a European Capital of Culture.

Landmarks

Wawel Castle: A symbol of Polish national identity, it served as the royal residence until the end of the 16th century.
St. Mary's Basilica: Known for its wooden altarpiece carved by Veit Stoss.
Kazimierz District: The historic Jewish district, now a cultural and artistic hub.
Rynek Główny (Main Market Square): One of the largest medieval town squares in Europe.

Contemporary Kraków

Today, Kraków is a vibrant city that blends its historical heritage with modern culture. It remains a major academic, cultural, and economic center in Poland and continues to attract millions of tourists from around the world.

This is a comprehensive but non-exhaustive overview of Kraków's history, highlighting its evolution through different historical periods and its significance in Polish history.