Krakow, for whatever reason, did not pique our interest as much as other Eastern European destinations did. But, after hearing fantastic recommendations from two different friends whose travel advise we trust, we added Poland to our already packed itinerary, hoping it wouldn't disappoint us like Croatia did.
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Krakow has a lot to offer in terms of activities, delicious food, and historical significance. We've put together a list of the best things to do in Krakow, as well as suggestions for where to eat and stay.
1. Take the Haunted Krakow Tour if you want to be spooked.
The free Macabre Tour at night was the last tour we did in Krakow. Our guides walked us around the historic town at night, telling us about the city's hauntings and serial murderers.
They also told us horrifying anecdotes of life in Krakow during the Middle Ages. It's a thrilling and spooky tour that we really enjoyed.
2. Auschwitz Concentration Camp
If you happen to be in Krakow, you should absolutely visit Auschwitz. It's powerful, dramatic, and well worth your time.
Because the Auschwitz excursion is quite popular, we recommend booking your tickets in advance if feasible. If you don't have them, you can always get them on-site, but make sure you there early.
You will have to wait in a long line (perhaps for an hour), and the only available tickets may be a few hours later (this was the situation for us). Fortunately, there was a nearby restaurant where we could have some breakfast and relax for a little).
When it was our time to enter, our guide walked us through the concentration camp architecture and prisoner rooms. Witnessing the room full of hair that had been shaved off the detainees as they arrived at the camp was one of the most traumatic images.
3. Krakow Restaurants and Bars
As one would imagine on a cool fall day, food in Poland is frequently substantial and pleasant. Meat, potatoes, and cabbage are common components, and meals are often filling.
In Krakow, more light and nutritional options are appearing, but be prepared to feast like a king (a huge bloated one!).
4. Eat a large Polish lunch.
If you become hungry while visiting the old town, there is a superb Polish restaurant on a little side street. It was called Gospoda Koko, and it was one of our favorite Polish eateries.
When you walk in, it seems to be a little company. If you travel to the back and down the steps to the basement, the place expands and becomes crowded with tables in a large brick-walled chamber.
We ordered a whole chicken with potatoes, soup, and salad, and the entire price for two people was probably about 21 zloty ($6 USD). We also had a few beers, and it was a fantastic and filling dinner. Please let us know if you come here; we'd love to come back.
5. Consume some street food
In the Jewish Quarter, in the midst of the Plac Nowy street block, a circular building houses numerous walk-up food sellers offering zapiekanki, a heated open faced sandwich.
It's like pizza on a baguette, and it's delicious. We'd have two (or three) at a time since we're gluttons for punishment.
Psst! Find out which wonderful cuisines you should try in Krakow.
6. Enjoy a craft brew
Ursa Maior, a lovely microbrewery in the Jewish Quarter with some patio seating, is a great place to unwind. You should sample some of their beers following your vacation.
If you want something a bit bigger, check out Ancient Depot Krakow, a brewery converted from an ancient railway station. They have a large hall and sometimes live music.
