This post is all about things to do in Krakow Poland.
Krakow is a step back in time.
With its rich history, preserved medieval architecture, and cobblestone streets, Krakow is undoubtedly one of the most majestic cities in Eastern Europe.
So much history in one city can make a first-time visit overwhelming. You want to indulge in everything Krakow has to offer, which is a lot!
Print your FREE Krakow Checklist so you don’t miss a thing.
Rynek Główny is the main square of Krakow and it’s hard to miss!
The beautiful architecture forming the square is mesmerizing. It’s also the perfect chance to see if any events are taking place, like the Krakow Christmas market.
2. St Mary’s Basilica
Located in the main square, St Mary’s Basilica is a stunning church with polish-gothic architecture.
3. Take a Free Walking Tour of the Old Jewish Quarter
Learn about the old Jewish Quarter by taking a free walking tour with Walkative.
This tour will take you all around the old jewish quarter where you will learn about many historic synagogues, the former jewish ghetto, and heroes square.
4. The Ghetto Heroes Square
Ghetto Heroes Square is a haunting and important site.
This is where you will find the Empty Chairs of Krakow memorial to remember those who left the Krakow ghetto and were never to return.
Also located in Heroes Square is the famous Eagle Pharmacy. The pharmacist is historically honored for hiding jews in the pharmacy who were marching from the ghetto to their death.
5. Tworzywo Coffee Shop
Tworzywo Coffee Shop is conveniently located in heroes square. Sit down and have a cup of coffee and cake in one of the cutest coffee shops in the former jewish quarter.
6. MOCAK Art Museum
MOCAK Museum of Contemporary Art in Krakow is truly one of the coolest modern art museums! I loved getting lost in all the creative exhibitions. Definitely prepare to spend a few hours here.
7. Eat Traditional Polish Food
You can’t leave Krakow without trying delicious polish food!
Zapiekanka is a street food must try, which is Poland’s own version of a flatbread pizza. Also, be sure to eat traditional polish dumplings.
Colorful buildings and cobblestone streets. Need I say more? Old town Krakow feels like a fairytale.
9. Take an Auschwitz Tour
A chilling experience back in time. While this tour is hard to stomach, I personally think it’s essential to educate ourselves on such a dark period of history.
10. Wawel Castle
The spectacular Wawel Castle was once the royal residence. It is the first UNESCO World Heritage Site in the world.
11. Harris Piano Jazz Bar
If you’re looking for a night out with quality cocktails and live music, check out Harris Piano Jazz Bar. It’s located right in the middle of old town near the square.
12. Oskar Schindler Factory
If you’ve seen the movie (or even if you haven’t!) be sure to take a tour through the Oskar Schindler museum. Book your tour through walkative so you can skip the wait and receive a proper tour.
The museum is technically called the Historical Museum of the City of Kraków and focuses more on the city during Nazi occuation. However since it was the real Oskar Schindler factory, it has included bits of him as well.
13. St. Florian’s Gate & Barbakan
What was once a fortfied outpost connected to the walls of the city and surrounded by a moat is now a historic gateway into Old Town Krakow.
This post is all about things to do in Krakow Poland. Krakow is a step back in time. With its rich history, preserved medieval architecture, and cobblestone streets, Krakow is undoubtedly one of the most majestic cities in Eastern Europe. So much history in one city…
This post is all about staying at Greg and Tom Beer House Hostel in Krakow, Poland. I’ll be honest, I’ve been backpacking for a long time now, which means my standards for hostels are HIGH. Typically, my top priorities when booking a hostel are comfort, fun, and…
Looking for stunning outfits for Mexico that’ll make you look like a beach goddess? Here are some super stylish and affordable ideas for perfect vacation outfits for Mexico. `Planning your trip to Mexico? If you’re heading to Tulum, check out my honest review of Coco…
This post is all about staying at Greg and Tom Beer House Hostel in Krakow, Poland. I’ll be honest, I’ve been backpacking for a long time now, which means my standards for hostels are HIGH. Typically, my top priorities when booking a hostel are comfort, fun, and…
Looking for stunning outfits for Mexico that’ll make you look like a beach goddess? Here are some super stylish and affordable ideas for perfect vacation outfits for Mexico. `Planning your trip to Mexico? If you’re heading to Tulum, check out my honest review of Coco…
While this review is specifically over my stay at the Greg and Tom Beer House location, I’ve heard all three hostels are similar and super great!
Shop My Hostel Essentials
Location
Greg and Tom Beer House Hostel is in a prime location for exploring Krakow. Located right in the center of old town Krakow, it’s walking distance to everything you’ll want to do in the city.
The hostel can be found on Google Maps under the name of ‘Beer House’.
Exact address is Florianska 43, 31-09 Krakow, Poland.
Rooms & Prices
Prices may vary according to season, but I paid about $18 USD a night for a 6-bed mixed dorm.
Additionally, they offer 4-bed, 10-bed, and 12-bed mixed dorms. Unfortunately, they don’t offer female-only dorms.
The price includes complimentary breakfast AND dinner. I definitely took advantage of the free meals, mostly because they were so delicious!
It was by far the best food I’ve ever had at a hostel.
Tour Add Ons
The hostel does offer a variety of tours you can book for your stay.
Some of the tours book up weeks in advance, especially the tour to Auschwitz. Be sure to communicate with the hostel when you want to book your tour.
The Auschwitz tours are around 160 PLN and include transportation, a professional guide, and entrance to the museum.
Zakopane toursinclude return bus ticket to Zakopane, thermal pools, and Morskie Oko.
The Hostel Pub Crawl costs 60 PLN and includes games, 1hour of unlimited drinks, welcome shots, and free entrance to various clubs.
You will also meet many good friends on the pub crawl, it’s a must-do!
The Vibes
Greg and Tom promote themselves as a party hostel and they even send you an email after booking to make sure you know what you’re signing up for.
I was thankful for their forwardness because I don’t typically book party hostels.
However, I was so surprised at how clean and tame they kept things around the hostel. A lot of the party happens outside of the hostel and I appreciated those boundaries. I had a great balance of party and good sleep!
Also, there is 24-hour reception in case you ever have any issues.
The vibes overall were amazing and I made so many good friends out at the pub crawl or even staying in to eat the hostel dinner. There are so many opportunities for socialization!
Where to Book
Book your stay by clicking the button below or here on hostelworld.
This post is all about things to do in Krakow Poland. Krakow is a step back in time. With its rich history, preserved medieval architecture, and cobblestone streets, Krakow is undoubtedly one of the most majestic cities in Eastern Europe. So much history in one city…
This post is all about staying at Greg and Tom Beer House Hostel in Krakow, Poland. I’ll be honest, I’ve been backpacking for a long time now, which means my standards for hostels are HIGH. Typically, my top priorities when booking a hostel are comfort, fun, and…
Looking for stunning outfits for Mexico that’ll make you look like a beach goddess? Here are some super stylish and affordable ideas for perfect vacation outfits for Mexico. `Planning your trip to Mexico? If you’re heading to Tulum, check out my honest review of Coco…
This post is all about staying at Greg and Tom Beer House Hostel in Krakow, Poland. I’ll be honest, I’ve been backpacking for a long time now, which means my standards for hostels are HIGH. Typically, my top priorities when booking a hostel are comfort, fun, and…
Looking for stunning outfits for Mexico that’ll make you look like a beach goddess? Here are some super stylish and affordable ideas for perfect vacation outfits for Mexico. `Planning your trip to Mexico? If you’re heading to Tulum, check out my honest review of Coco…
Looking for stunning outfits for Mexico that’ll make you look like a beach goddess? Here are some super stylish and affordable ideas for perfect vacation outfits for Mexico.
`Planning your trip to Mexico?
If you’re heading to Tulum, check out my honest review of Coco Limited boutique hotel here.
Also, find my Tulum printable below so you don’t miss a thing!
Here are 17 beautiful outfits for Mexico that I’ve compiled from Pinterest and Amazon so you don’t have to!
1. Two Piece Jungle Wanderer
A two-piece printed maxi dress is a gorgeous look for Mexico. Dress it up for a fancy dinner or dress it down for a walk along the beach.
2. When Life Gives You Lemons.. You Go to Mexico!
Yellow is one of my favorite colors to wear to Mexico. I could totally see this yellow lemon printed dress in a colorful city like Oaxaca or Puerto Vallarta.
3. Off the Shoulder Beach Girl
This white off-the-shoulder maxi dress is perfect for your summer vacation. Pair it with a fun but practical set of sandals to match.
4. Boho Babe
Total Mamma Mia vibes! A bohemian look is always in style.
5. Elegant Beach Party Dress
How cute is this green teal and brown combo?
6. Pretty in Patterns
Again with this blue and brown combination, I can’t get enough of it! This strapless maxi dress will keep you cool in Mexico’s hot summer heat.
7. Sophisticated Vacationer
Have the influencer look without breaking the bank. This chic white set is everything!
8. Sunny Sweetheart
Look sweet in the sun with this cherry red ruffle set.
9. Light and Airy Ruffles
This ruffled romper is effortlessly stylish. Pair it with a dainty necklace or a beige pair of wedges.
10. The Comfy Explorer
Explore but keep it casual and comfy with these light and loose pants from Amazon. Style it with your favorite colored tank and a hat.
Why is it that hats instantly make an outfit look better!?
11. Classic White Summer Beach Dress
A white dress is a summer essential!
12. Yellow Mellow
Stand out amongst other vacationers in this bold and beautiful look. Don’t forget the bright yellow tassel earrings to really bring this Mexico-inspired look together.
13. Summer Angel
Cover up (but not too much!) with this pearly-white beach set. The sheer skirt makes a simple white bikini look high fashion.
14. The Adventurer
Whether you’re walking on the beach or exploring the Mayan ruins, this two-piece set will fit any occasion.
15. Livin’ la Vida Loca
A fun and sassy Mexico outfit with a classic spin. Perfect for nights at a beach bar!
16. Fine and Fancy
Look fine and fancy with this affordable beige set. I would totally wear this out to a nice dinner on the beach.
17. Daisy Blue
A sundress that can do it all. I love all the different colors and styles amazon has to offer with this dress.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.
Cappadocia is truly one of a kind.
It looks as if it’s a city frozen in time with its giant cave formations lining the landscape.
When the balloons launch in the air every morning, it feels as if you’re in a fairytale.
Cappadocia is the ultimate bucket list destination.
My Cappadocia Essentials
Where to Stay in Cappadocia
Did you know that Cappadocia is made up of several villages?
Truthfully, I was clueless when I planned my trip. I had no idea when I researched hotels in Cappadocia that it was important to pick a village to stay in.
In this breakdown of the best hotels in Cappadocia, I’ve narrowed it down to three main villages: Goreme, Uçhisar, and Ürgüp.
Additionally, Avanos and Ortahisar deserve an honorable mention. These Cappadocia villages are less touristy and off-the-beaten-path. However, only consider staying in these villages if you have a car.
While I’ve listed several options on the best location to stay in Cappadocia, overall I think Goreme is best.
My Hotel Stays
I was in Cappadocia for 1 week and stayed in Goreme.
Antique Terrace Suites is where I personally stayed at on my trip. A beautiful hotel that offers budget-friendly prices with a unique luxury experience.
It has a vibrant rooftop perfect for photos and a delicious breakfast buffet. The location is right in the center of Goreme!
Grand Cappadocia is another lovely hotel I stayed at. I enjoyed my stay here because the hotel is more modern feel thank others.
Equipped with a pool, beautiful decor, and top-notch customer service. Only a 5-minute walk into the center of Goreme.
Uçhisar
Uçhisar is a lovely village that you will enjoy if you fancy more a quiet scene. The village is known for its striking rock castle that sits high, overlooking the town.
If you don’t have a car, Uçhisar is still a possible option for Cappadocia.
To get from Uçhisar to Goreme, you can take a bus that departs every half hour from Uchisar Village to the Goreme bus station.
The Museum Hotel is an award-winning boutique hotel that is one of the most luxurious accommodations in Cappadocia. With the unique concept of the hotel itself being a museum filled with historic Ottoman-era pieces, this hotel is truly special!
Rox Cappadocia is another stunning hotel in Uchisar. It is located right next to the Uchisar castle and offers a gorgeous rooftop panoramic view of Goreme.
Don’t let these low prices at the Capiedra Hotel fool you! With an impressive five stars on google, travelers love that it’s a family-run business, the castle view, and the hospitality.
Ürgüp
Best Hotels in Ürgüp Cappadocia
Ürgüp is more modern than the other villages in Cappadocia and just a 20-minute drive to Goreme.
Yunak Evleri is an upscale hotel in historic Urgup offering the finest amenities. It features two swimming pools, a spa, an epic view, and a restaurant offering homemade dishes.
If you’re looking for a budget accommodation option in Urgup, Cappadocia Balloon Boutique hotel will give you a lovely experience far more than what you pay for. Guests say that it’s exceptionally clean and cozy.
Cave Hotels in Cappadocia
Take a step back in time and get back to the basics in a cave hotel room.
Cave hotels are very common in Cappadocia and offer a unique experience unlike any other. The charming rooms are carved out of soft stone and are super cozy. Prepare to get the best sleep ever!
Is Cappadocia Worth Visiting?
I’ll admit, I was skeptical about making the hike to Cappadocia. I had seen the balloon photos blasted all over Instagram. As a seasoned traveler, I try not to fall for tourist trap destinations.
However, I can confidently say Cappadocia was one of my favorite places I’ve ever traveled to.
Whatever budget you have and whichever hotel you choose to say at, you will have a spectacular time in Cappadocia, Turkey.
This post is all about things to do in Krakow Poland. Krakow is a step back in time. With its rich history, preserved medieval architecture, and cobblestone streets, Krakow is undoubtedly one of the most majestic cities in Eastern Europe. So much history in one city…
This post is all about staying at Greg and Tom Beer House Hostel in Krakow, Poland. I’ll be honest, I’ve been backpacking for a long time now, which means my standards for hostels are HIGH. Typically, my top priorities when booking a hostel are comfort, fun, and…
Looking for stunning outfits for Mexico that’ll make you look like a beach goddess? Here are some super stylish and affordable ideas for perfect vacation outfits for Mexico. `Planning your trip to Mexico? If you’re heading to Tulum, check out my honest review of Coco…
This post is all about staying at Greg and Tom Beer House Hostel in Krakow, Poland. I’ll be honest, I’ve been backpacking for a long time now, which means my standards for hostels are HIGH. Typically, my top priorities when booking a hostel are comfort, fun, and…
Looking for stunning outfits for Mexico that’ll make you look like a beach goddess? Here are some super stylish and affordable ideas for perfect vacation outfits for Mexico. `Planning your trip to Mexico? If you’re heading to Tulum, check out my honest review of Coco…
Make sure you stop by the famous Carousel bar if you visit!
Chicago
August
Chicago was a quick trip as my flight out of the United States left from O’hare. It was the perfect excuse to plan a weekend getaway to the Windy City.
Dubai
August
I kicked off my 5-month backpacking trip in Dubai.
A city full of technology, luxury, and expats – Dubai feels like some sort of strange Utopia and idealistic city. It’s definitely worth checking out once in your lifetime.
Read some of my favorite things to do in Dubai here.
I stayed at the coolest hotel, Grand Cosmopolitan Hotel. Check out my review here.
Romania
Next was the land of Dracula.
Romania was my first stop in Europe. It’s somewhere I had never been before and I was blood-thirsty to see the iconic Dracula castle.
I also visited the capital city of Bucharest and the mountain village of Brasov.
Cyprus
August
After Romania, I was craving the sun and the sea.
My tour around Cyprus included the city of Limassol and the beach town of Paphos. I paid a visit to Aphrodite’s rock hoping for eternal youth.. we’ll see in twenty years if the legend is true! 🤣
Greece – Greek Island Hopping
August/September
No Europe backpacking trip is complete without a little partying on the Greek islands!
I spent a solid month soaking in the sun on the islands of Crete, Ios, and Paros.
Bratislava has always been at the top of my travel list. I spent a week exploring the beautiful and quaint capital city of Slovakia.
Read some of my favorite things to do in Bratislava here.
Ukraine
October
Next was Ukraine! It was so interesting to explore a country with such complex historic and modern history.
I traveled to Kyiv, Chernobyl, and Lviv during my time in Ukraine.
Turkey
October
You can’t keep me from the Mediterranean for long!
Turkey was a dream destination for me, and one of my favorite new countries I explored on my backpacking trip.
I started off in Cappadocia then made my to Antalya, and then of course Istanbul!
Athens, Greece
November
Greece is no doubt one of my favorite countries in the world. I came back for a round two to explore Athens.. for a whole month!
I volunteered to work at a hostel to save money and enjoy a slower pace of getting to know the fascinating and historic city of Athens.
Check out my guide to the Ancient Agora of Athens here.
Poland
December
After Athens, I spent my last few days in Europe in Poland.
I spent some time in both Krakow and Wroclaw. My highlights of Poland were learning about the country’s rich history and walking around the Christmas markets.
England
December
Since my flight back to the USA was out of London, I decided to go back to my old study abroad town of Oxford.
I might be biased, but I think Oxford is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
New York City, New York
December
Go big or go home! I ended my backpacking trip in none other than one of the craziest cities in the world.
I’m lucky to have spent so much of the year exploring. While 2022 will likely not be filled with much globetrotting, I’m looking forward to spending time at home with family and friends. And of course, dreaming about where I’ll go in the future!
This post is all about things to do in Krakow Poland. Krakow is a step back in time. With its rich history, preserved medieval architecture, and cobblestone streets, Krakow is undoubtedly one of the most majestic cities in Eastern Europe. So much history in one city…
This post is all about staying at Greg and Tom Beer House Hostel in Krakow, Poland. I’ll be honest, I’ve been backpacking for a long time now, which means my standards for hostels are HIGH. Typically, my top priorities when booking a hostel are comfort, fun, and…
Looking for stunning outfits for Mexico that’ll make you look like a beach goddess? Here are some super stylish and affordable ideas for perfect vacation outfits for Mexico. `Planning your trip to Mexico? If you’re heading to Tulum, check out my honest review of Coco…
This post is all about staying at Greg and Tom Beer House Hostel in Krakow, Poland. I’ll be honest, I’ve been backpacking for a long time now, which means my standards for hostels are HIGH. Typically, my top priorities when booking a hostel are comfort, fun, and…
Looking for stunning outfits for Mexico that’ll make you look like a beach goddess? Here are some super stylish and affordable ideas for perfect vacation outfits for Mexico. `Planning your trip to Mexico? If you’re heading to Tulum, check out my honest review of Coco…
Visiting the Ancient Agora of Athens? Here’s everything you need to know.
Aside from the Acropolis, I would consider the Ancient Agora of Athens to be one of the coolest historical sites to see in Athens.
Did you know there are two main Agoras in Athens?
There is the Ancient Agora and the Roman Agora. In this post, we will be covering the Ancient Agora of Athens, which is arguably the most popular of the two.
What is an Agora?
An agora is simply a designated public spot for Greeks to meet; specifically for political, religious, artistic, and communal gatherings. The word Agora translates to “gathering place”.
The Ancient Agora of Athens
The Ancient Agora of Athens was founded in the 6th century BCE. It initially was used for military duty or to communicate statements from rulers. Over time, it evolved and served as a marketplace where Athenians would sell their goods and meet for cultural and religious events.
Spiritually, the Agora was considered a sacred place. Even the layout was designed to worship the holy road that ran through the middle, Panathenaic Way. This special road led to the traditional festival to worship the goddess, Athena.
Where to Find the Agora
You can see the remains of the Agora all throughout the grassy areas between the Acropolis and Monastiraki.
The Agora is not a building or a designated confined area, but rather a mass amount of land taking up a large area. You can even spot the metro tracks running along part of the historical site.
The exact location of the entrance to the Agora and museum is: Adrianou 24, Athina 105 55
Ticket Prices
During high season, tickets are 20 euros.
Low season, tickets are 10 euros.
For European citizens under the age of 25, entrance is free.
The Athens pass or Combo ticket is 30 euros and includes entrance to many of the famous historical sites of Athens over the course of 5 days. This is a great value for tourists, especially if it’s your first time in Athens and want to cross off many of the sites.
Where to get Tickets
Tickets can be purchased on location, this includes both single entrance to the Agora and the Athens combo pass.
You can also get tickets on their official website here (however their website is glitchy sometimes!)
Many third-party websites like Viator offer skip-the-line passes for a slightly higher price, which may be worth it during peak season.
Temple of Hephaestus
Located on the northwest side of the Agora on top of Agoraios Kolonos hill sits the Temple of Hephaestus.
This temple is well preserved due to its various uses and conversion into a Christian church. The Temple of Hephaestus has not been re-constructed and is considered the best ancient preserved temple in Greece.
Who was Hephaestus?
Hephaestus was the Greek God of Fire and Metalworking.
Worshipped by craftsmen, and frowned upon by others for being ugly and walking with a limp. Hephaestus was the son of Zeus and Hera, though Hera rejected him and cast him off Mount Olympus due to his disabilities.
Later, he gained revenge by returning and making her a magical throne, which did not allow her to get up once she sat down. How ironic!
It only seems fitting that one of the best-preserved ancient temples in Greece was dedicated to a craftsman.
Stoa of Attalos
Traditionally, a stoa is a covered walkway where stoics would gather and discuss philosophy.
It’s hard to ignore this massive structure as you walk through Monastiraki. Initially constructed in 159 BC, it served as a shopping center for Athenians.
Unfortunately, the building you see now is a reconstructed model to honor the original structure. The stoa was destroyed in 267 AD and reconstructed in 1956 with the financial support of American John D. Rockefeller Jr.
Inside the stoa is also the Agora Museum, where you can view ancient tools, furniture, and statues.
The Best Photo Spots at the Ancient Athens Agora
It’s hard to not want to take a selfie or two at some of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world. These are truly fascinating moments you’ll want to remember forever!
Front of the Stoa of Attalos
The massive columns lining the front of the stoa make for a memorable photo of your Agora experience.
The Backside of the Temple of Hephaestus
After climbing the stairs to Agoraios Kolonos hill, head to the back of the temple for a wider view. You can’t get a photo like this in the front, because the entrance is too close to the cliff facing the Acropolis.
Generally, there aren’t as many people lingering around in the back.
Front of Temple of Hephaestus
Okay, I know I just told you to skip the front of the temple for photos. While you won’t get the best photo of the temple on the front side, you will get a beautiful view of the Acropolis.
Best Time to Visit the Ancient Agora of Athens
Famous archeological sites like the Acropolis and the Agora can get really crowded.
The best time to visit would be during the off-season months, October – March.
If you are traveling during the summer (peak season) try to visit first thing in the morning on a weekday.
How Long to Plan
Don’t underestimate the agora! Be sure to save two hours of your day to explore this fascinating site.
Ancient Agora of Athens Hours
8am-5pm. The last entrance is at 4:30 pm.
Days for Free Entrance to Archaeoligcal Sites
On special days of the year, some of the historical sites in Athens are free to visit:
March 6 – Melina Mercouri Day
April 18 – International Day of Monuments
May 18 – International Day of Museums
Last weekend in September – European Heritage Days
October 28 – Oxi Day
First Sunday of each month between November 1- March 31
Now you’ll be fully prepared to visit one of the most significant archeological sites in Athens, Greece!
This post was all about the Ancient Athens Agora.
Planning your trip to Greece? Check out my Ios Greece Island travel guide.
This post is all about things to do in Krakow Poland. Krakow is a step back in time. With its rich history, preserved medieval architecture, and cobblestone streets, Krakow is undoubtedly one of the most majestic cities in Eastern Europe. So much history in one city…
This post is all about staying at Greg and Tom Beer House Hostel in Krakow, Poland. I’ll be honest, I’ve been backpacking for a long time now, which means my standards for hostels are HIGH. Typically, my top priorities when booking a hostel are comfort, fun, and…
Looking for stunning outfits for Mexico that’ll make you look like a beach goddess? Here are some super stylish and affordable ideas for perfect vacation outfits for Mexico. `Planning your trip to Mexico? If you’re heading to Tulum, check out my honest review of Coco…
This post is all about staying at Greg and Tom Beer House Hostel in Krakow, Poland. I’ll be honest, I’ve been backpacking for a long time now, which means my standards for hostels are HIGH. Typically, my top priorities when booking a hostel are comfort, fun, and…
Looking for stunning outfits for Mexico that’ll make you look like a beach goddess? Here are some super stylish and affordable ideas for perfect vacation outfits for Mexico. `Planning your trip to Mexico? If you’re heading to Tulum, check out my honest review of Coco…
