Planning a trip to Poland’s cultural capital?
Whether you are here for a weekend break or a week-long exploration, Kraków offers a blend of medieval history, somber remembrance, and vibrant nightlife.
To help you navigate the city like a local, we’ve answered the most frequently asked questions by tourists visiting Kraków.
1. Exploring the Heart: Wawel Castle and the Main Market Square
Most visitors begin their journey in the Old Town (Stare Miasto).
How to buy tickets for Wawel Royal Castle?
Wawel is the soul of Poland, but ticketing can be tricky. You can buy tickets at the Visitor Center on-site, but for popular routes like the Royal Private Apartments, booking online in advance is essential, as daily limits are strict.
Pro Tip: If you are on a budget, you might wonder: Can I enter the Wawel courtyard for free? Yes!
Walking around the castle grounds and entering the Cathedral (except for the bell tower and crypts) is free of charge.
When does the Hejnał (Bugle Call) play?
At the top of every hour, look up at the taller tower of St. Mary’s Basilica on the Main Market Square. The bugle call is played four times, once in each direction.
Don't miss: The Rynek Underground Museum. Is it worth it? Absolutely—it’s a high-tech journey into Kraków's medieval foundations located right beneath your feet.
2. Beyond the City: Top Day Trips from Kraków
Kraków is the perfect base for exploring Southern Poland. Two destinations dominate every itinerary:
Auschwitz-Birkenau: Essential Planning
How to get from Kraków to Auschwitz?
The easiest way is an organized tour with a pickup, but you can also take a local bus (Lajkonik) or a train to Oświęcim.
Booking tickets: We recommend booking at least 1-2 months in advance. Tickets for individual visitors without a guide are limited and disappear fast.
Wieliczka Salt Mine: A Subterranean Wonder
Wieliczka or Bochnia?
While Bochnia is older and less crowded, Wieliczka is the world-famous UNESCO site featuring the stunning St. Kinga’s Chapel carved entirely of salt.
Transport: You can reach Wieliczka in just 20 minutes by suburban train from the Kraków Main Station (Kraków Główny).
3. Eating and Drinking: A Taste of Kraków
You cannot leave without trying the local flavors.
Where to eat the best pierogi?
For an authentic experience, head to a Bar Mleczny (Milk Bar) for affordable, homemade dumplings, or visit the Jewish Quarter (Kazimierz) for modern twists.
What is Maczanka Krakowska?
Think of it as the 19th-century ancestor of the pulled-pork burger. It’s a slow-roasted pork loin served in a rich gravy on a roll—try it at the street food markets in Kazimierz.
Obwarzanek vs. Pretzel: They look similar, but the Obwarzanek Krakowski is boiled before baking and has a protected geographical status. You’ll find them at small blue carts on every street corner.
4. Practical Travel Tips (FAQ)
Is Kraków safe at night?
Yes, Kraków is considered one of the safest cities in Europe for tourists. The Old Town and Kazimierz are well-lit and busy until the early hours. However, as in any city, stay aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
Can you drink tap water in Kraków?
Yes! The city’s water system is modern and the water is perfectly safe (and encouraged) to drink.
How does public transport work?
Download the Jakdojade app. It’s the gold standard for checking tram and bus schedules and buying digital tickets.
Are there shopping Sundays? Most shops in Poland are closed on Sundays. However, restaurants, museums, and small convenience stores (like Żabka) remain open.
Ready to see the best of Kraków?
Don't spend your vacation waiting in lines or figuring out bus schedules.
Call us !
