Things to do at Krakow
Krakow is full of historical and cultural sites to discover while walking through the multitude of routes between the historic squares and monuments.
Here are the main things to see during your visit:
- Rynek Główny Market Square: one of the largest in Europe, surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and magnificent historic buildings.
- St. Mary's Basilica: known for its intricately carved wooden altar and for the trumpeter who plays every hour from the top of the tower.
- Wawel Royal Castle: overlooking the Vistula River, a symbol of Polish royal authority.
- Jewish Quarter, including Kazimierz: a vibrant neighborhood overflowing with history, culture, and now nightlife.
- Wawel Hill and Cathedral: to immerse yourself in the spirituality and politics of the country.
- Floriańska Street and St. Florian's Gate: offer a beautiful walk through the old town.
- Schindler's Factory: an emotional museum related to the history of Nazi occupation and the history of Jews in Krakow.
The Wieliczka Salt Mines (nearby): an incredible underground area, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
Rynek Główny Market Square 
Wawel Royal Castle 
The Wieliczka Salt Mines Activities
When to go to Krakow
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Itinerary ideas
Begin your day in Krakow by having a traditional breakfast in a café in the Kazimierz district, the old Jewish area and bohemian district. After that, stroll toward Krakow's Old Town and old market square (Rynek Główny) - one of the biggest squares in Europe. Sit and look at beautiful St. Mary's Basilica, listen for the famous trumpeter from the tower in the church. Move on and take a walk down to Wawel Castle overlooking the Vistula River and see the castle and cathedral where Poland's kings lived.
For lunch, you can sample pierogis in a local tavern, and then walk back to the old Jewish quarter to the old synagogue and learn about the history of the Krakow ghetto. After a busy morning, you can rest for a little while by the Vistula or sitting in one of the many terrace cafés.
If you have the time, you can end your day with a tour of Oskar Schindler's factory or if you have some extra time, take a longer excursion to the Wieliczka salt mines. At night, Kazimierz is vibrant with cocktail bars and live music mixed with trendy restaurants that tempt you to extend the experience of a day full of discoveries in one of Central Europe's loveliest cities.
