The Typical Tourist Checklist: Things to do in Krakow

Things to do in Krakow: This is a list of sites that are on most tourists’ lists! Browse around and click on the links to learn more about each one. Or for our complete list of everything you can do in Krakow visit our Ultimate List of 120+ Things to Do in Krakow!    …

Off the Beaten Path: Unique Experiences

Unique Experiences in Krakow If you have had your fill of European cities, and are looking for something that sets Krakow apart from the rest, then look no further than this list.  From exciting flea markets to amazing picnicing spots this list has it all, and consider them mostly local spots. For our Ultimate List…

A Printable Guidebook

Hello! So this printable guide is actualy why this blog was born. In January 2015 I opened my home to Airbnb travelers and quickly realized that they needed more information while staying in my home and being in Krakow. I started by creating this guidebook for guests to use during their stay. I’m not going to…

What to Eat, Where to Eat It, and Where and What to Drink With It

What to Eat in Poland This is our must eat list for Krakow, and covers the basics of Polish cuisine.  Most items are easy and cheap to buy at a grocery store and cook at home, but will taste much better from a recommended restaurant.  And only buy Zapiekanki from the Plac Nowy in Kazimierz….

Outside the City Limits and Day Trips from Krakow

Want to head out of town for the day?  Check out these awesome locations, mostly reachable by bus or train, some easier to get to by car, they will show you another side of Poland, much different from Krakow.  (Although I consider Aushcwitz and the Wieliczka Salt Mines to be day trips, I have included…

Festivals, Traditions, and Holidays

The best way to find out what is going on in Krakow during your stay is to check in with the Krakow Festival Bureau or grab a copy of the Karnet magazine.  (For those of you with an Instagram or Facebook, I suggest following the accounts for both those offices, among others, to get a feel…

Wawel Castle Grounds, Cathedral, and Vistula River

Wawel Castle single-handedly draws the most visitors, and for good reason.  It’s castle grounds and views from the gardens are amazing, not to mention the tower climb with close-up views of the entire Old Town panoramic. Wawel Castle Grounds: Zamek królewski na Wawelu Walk around the castle grounds for free, or buy a ticket to…

The Synagogues of Kazimierz

Throughout the Jewish district of Kazimierz you will find seven synagogue, each one having its own charm, with some giving Classical Music or Film concerts, and others displaying exhibits of interesting history.  Two synagogues still offer active services to the community, Tempel at 24 Miodowa street and Remuh at 40 Szeroka street.  A full break-down of information…

Church of St. Francis

Even if you are going through Europe and have had your fill of European churches, because I know I have, St. Francis is a breath of fresh air.  Its vibrantly colored walls cannot be done justice by my camera, and so I invite you to go see it for yourself.  And if you are a…

Kazimierz: The Old and New Jewish Cemeteries

In the Jewish District of Krakow, Kazimierz, you can find many synagogues and Jewish cemeteries.  The cemeteries are striking examples of the desturction the Nazis caused in these areas, and how the destruction had been repaired since.  During the Holocaust, gravestones were broken and destroyed, taken to be used as stones for pathways or just…

Say Hello to the Hejnal

Every hour on the hour, keep your ears open for the Hejnal playing his trumpet from the top of St. Mary’s Church Tower.  Legend has it that during a Mongol Invasion in the 1200’s, the Hejnal began playing his trumpet to warn the city, and was shot in the heart.  Today if you listen closely,…

Polish Traditions: Easter Basket and Eggs

If you’re lucky enough to be in Poland for Easter, we suggest joining in some of the traditions, whether you are Catholic or not.  Two very unique traditions are the dying of Easter eggs and the blessing of Easter baskets. Go to a local farmer’s market to find all the supplies you will need to put…

The Small Square: Mały Rynek

Just behind St. Mary’s Church in the Main Market Square, sits a smaller square, the Mały Rynek.  Here you will often find small festivals during the high tourist season, and on days without festivals you will be able to experience a much quieter square compared to the Main Market. With unique charm and colors, it is…

Best Eats: Gospada Koko

Out of all the restaurants that we can recommend in Krakow, Koko is by far the one we actually visit the most.  Anytime someone comes to visit, we take them here.  Anytime we have to be in the Main Square for an event, we stop by for a beer and some pierogi.  It is full…

Off the Beaten Path: The Mounds of Krakow

There are four mounds (kopiec) around the city, each with its own unique story.  Some are said to have Kings buried below them, while others are made of soil carried by citizens from prominent battlegrounds. No matter the legend, they provide breathtaking views of the entire city, each from a different view point, and some…

Cafes by Day, Bars by Night: Alchemia

Alchemia is a great example of the versatility of Krakow’s cafes.  Open practically 24 hours, you can stop by in the morning for breakfast, the afternoon for a quick pick-me-up, or hang out all night in the candle-lit dining room drinking beer.  In the summer, sit outside along the Plac Nowy, and watch the people…

Farmer’s Markets in Krakow

There are a few European style covered markets in the city.  Some are closer to the tourist attractions, and our favorite one is located a little further from the Old Town, and closer to the residential neighborhoods.  Both Nowy Kleparz and Stary Kleparz are within walking distance of the major tourist attractions, but their prices are higher, and…