12 Must-See and Do Things to Visit Krakow

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Krakow is a cultural city very pleasant to explore between History and traditions. Poland's second city indeed has incredible charm and knows how to seduce visitors with its rich heritage, its gastronomy and its authentic and festive atmosphere. Of Wawel Castle to the immense market place in the heart of the old town, we suggest a selection of 12 must-sees for visiting Krakow.

#1 Wawel Castle

The first must-see when visiting Krakow, Wawel Castle is a magnificent set of buildings and fortifications which once housed the Polish royal family. Built on Wawel Hill, this castle dominates the city and the Vistula River. Gothic, Romanesque, Rococo or even Renaissance, Wawel Castle is a harmonious mix of architectural styles and you will be able to find what you are looking for in the architecture of this complex whatever your tastes. Note that it is possible to freely enter the castle grounds to admire the different buildings. Depending on your budget in Krakow, we nevertheless recommend that you opt for a visit to this major building in Poland. During your discovery, you will be immersed in the heart of Polish history and you will be able to learn more about this fascinating country. After your visit, don't forget to go see the statue of Wawel dragon located at the foot of the castle. Emblem of Krakow, this dragon is present in many legends of the city.

#2 Wawel Cathedral

Located within the grounds of Wawel Castle, the Wawel Cathedral or Cathedral Basilica of Saints Stanislaus and Wenceslas of Krakow is one of the most beautiful religious buildings in the country. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this cathedral is an integral part of Polish history since many Polish kings, queens and personalities are buried there. Depending on your wishes, note that you can discover the cathedral without visiting the castle.

#3 Krakow Market Square

Located in the heart of the old townKrakow's Market Square is simply the largest medieval square in Europe with its 40,000 m². Whatever your route to visit Krakow, you are sure to pass by this magnificent square and we even suggest that you start your discovery with this grandiose place. The market square is divided in two by the Cloth Hall where many artisans exhibit and sell their creations. Note that under the Cloth Hall you will find a small museum which we recommend you explore. The underground Rynek allows you to discover vestiges of Krakow. Also note that this square is always very lively day and night and that it constitutes the center of life in Krakow.

#4 Saint Mary’s Basilica

Located on the Market Square, St. Mary's Basilica is one of the most famous monuments in Krakow. With his two asymmetrical bell towersthis religious building presents an astonishing and recognizable architecture. After admiring the facade, we recommend that you discover the interior of the basilica where the decoration is busy but sublime. On a day when the climate in Krakow is pleasant, we also advise you to end your visit by climbing to the top of one of the basilica's bell towers. You will then be able to treat yourself to a magnificent panorama of the city and the surrounding area.

#5 Planty Park

Planty Park does the complete tour of Krakow Old Town and allows you to enjoy pleasant walks and breaks. If the ramparts once surrounded the city, they were gradually replaced by this magnificent green space. When the climate in Poland is sunny, we suggest you take a tour of the old town on foot in Planty Park. You can find remains of ramparts and enjoy lovely views of Krakow.

#6 The Jewish quarter of Kazimierz

Rehabilitated for several decades, the Jewish quarter of Kazimierz is now a must for visiting Krakow. You will indeed be able to discover major buildings such as the Old Synagogue or the Jewish Museum which will allow you to learn more about the long history of the Jewish community in Krakow. You will also have the chance to enjoy the festive and friendly atmosphere of this neighborhood which is become one of the liveliest in Krakow. If many traces of the past are still present in Kazimierz, you will also find a multitude of bars, restaurants and even art galleries.

#7 Oskar Schindler's Factory

Before your trip to Poland, you have certainly already seen Oskar Schindler's factory in the film “Schindler's List” by Steven Spielberg. This factory today houses a museum dedicated to Jewish life during the Second World War. During this must-see visit to Krakow, you will see many period documents. You will also discover the story of Oskar Schindlerthis industrialist who saved many Jews by employing them in his factory.

#8 The Kościuszko Mound

The Kościuszko Mound is a mound built by the inhabitants of the city at the beginning of the 19^e century. This strange monument honors the memory of Tadeusz Kościuszkoa national hero who worked for the independence of Poland. This mound can be visited and you will find a museum there which will teach you more about the history of this surprising place. We also advise you to go up to top of the hill to enjoy a magnificent view of Krakow. If the Kościuszko Mound is the best known, note that there are other mounds of the same style in Krakow to pay homage to important personalities.

#9 The Barbican

Built at 15^e century, the Barbican is a fortress which served as protection at the entrance to the old town of Krakow. Although this monument obviously no longer has any use today, it has been perfectly restored and remains unmissable when visiting Krakow. During the tourist season, it is possible to discover the interior of this fortress which remains one of the best preserved barbicans in Europe. Note that if you want to make many visits during your stay, we suggest you take a city pass to control your budget in Poland.

#10 A cruise on the Vistula River

The Vistula River runs through Krakow and is an integral part of the city's charm. To offer you a another view of Krakow and one pleasant break on the waterwe therefore advise you to take part in a cruise on the Vistula. During your walk, you will be able to learn more about the city and discover most of Krakow's monuments.

#11 The former camps of Auschwitz-Birkenau

Close to Krakow, we suggest visiting the former Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camps. You will indeed find numerous excursions from Krakow to immerse yourself in this very dark period of history. There visit is very hard and moving but it really allows us to understand all the horrors of these concentration camps during the Second World War.

#12 The Wieliczka Salt Mines

Even closer to Krakow, the Wieliczka salt mines are one of the essential visits to this region of Poland. Classified as a UNESCO world heritage site, these mines represent a real underground city with kilometers of galleries. During your visit, you will be able to wander between salt monumentsemerald lakes, underground staircases, crystal chambers and even salt sculptures. Note that you can only explore the Wieliczka Salt Mines with a guided tour. We therefore recommend that you reserve your slot in advance to ensure you have space.

And you, which must-see attractions for visiting Krakow will you add to your itinerary? Perhaps you are hesitating between Krakow and Warsaw? If you are planning a future trip to Eastern Europe, we suggest you discover our ideas for itineraries in Poland. Do not hesitate to also read our advice for preparing your trip to Poland to give you the best chance of having the best possible stay.