This post is all about the best things to do in Krakow Poland.

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.
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.
Poland is filled with many iconic landmarks, it’s hard to prioritize what to see. Krawkow especially is so rich in history, it can make a first-time visit overwhelming.
Print your FREE Krakow Checklist so you don’t miss a thing.

Where to Stay in Krakow
Budget – Greg & Tom Beer Hostel (check out my review blog post here)
Moderate –Novotel Krakow Centrum
Luxury – Bachleda Luxury Hotel Kraków
My Krakow Essentials
Here are the best things to do in Krakow Poland
1. Walk around the main square – Rynek Główny
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.
Check out my review of the MOCAK 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.
Gaska Goose Restaurant and Kuchnia U Doroty are both delicious restaurants to try polish food.


8. Explore Old Town
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.
I had a great experience with the Auschwitz guided tour I took, which you can find linked below.

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. Go at your own pace or book a guided tour (and skip the LONG line).
The museum is technically called the Historical Museum of the City of Kraków and focuses more on the city during the Nazi occupation. 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 fortified outpost connected to the walls of the city and surrounded by a moat is now a historic gateway into Old Town Krakow.




New From the Blog

17 Best Things to Do in Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi is the vibrant capital of Vietnam where you can waltz the streets of the night market or get served a tasty bowl of pho to the tune of cars echoing all around you. With so much to do in the country’s capital, it’s important to spend a minimum of 3 days in this…

Beacon Main Street and More – Best Things to Do in Beacon NY
This post is all about what to do on the famous Beacon Main Street. Beacon Main Street is one of the most charming streets in Hudson Valley. When I was searching for the best day trips from New York City, Beacon seemed like it offered exactly what we were looking for…

Finca Carpe Diem Hostel in Minca – What You Need to Know
Finca Carpe Diem is a breathtaking paradise hidden in the Paso del Mango forest near Minca. This family-owned hostel focuses on remote living, employing locals, and sustainability. Here’s everything you need to know about staying at Finca Carpe Diem Hostel in the…
New From the Blog

Beacon Main Street and More – Best Things to Do in Beacon NY
This post is all about what to do on the famous Beacon Main Street. Beacon Main Street is one of the most charming streets in Hudson Valley. When I was searching for the best day trips from New York City, Beacon seemed like it offered exactly what we were looking for…

Finca Carpe Diem Hostel in Minca – What You Need to Know
Finca Carpe Diem is a breathtaking paradise hidden in the Paso del Mango forest near Minca. This family-owned hostel focuses on remote living, employing locals, and sustainability. Here’s everything you need to know about staying at Finca Carpe Diem Hostel in the…
I visited Germany when I was 16, and I still remember the experience visiting a concentration camp. It is not pleasant, but I agree, it is important.
Thanks for sharing these great tips on what to do in Krakow! I visited a number of years ago but hadn’t really planned on what to do here so I missed a lot. Hoping to go back this year!
What a great list! I’ve always been interested in taking a tour of Auschwitz and to learn more about this devastating time in history. Thanks for sharing your insights; you’ve definitely convinced me to go now. Xx Sara
Krakow looks like such a beautiful city to visit! I’d love to explore the Old Jewish Quarter, it looks like such a charming place! Thanks for the great guide!