Krakow, located in Poland, is one of the country’s oldest and most beautiful cities. It’s renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved medieval old town, including the vast Main Market Square (Rynek Główny) and the historic Wawel Castle complex, the former seat of Polish kings. Krakow is a major center of Polish culture, art, and academic life, offering a vibrant atmosphere steeped in history.
Top Sightseeing Attractions in Krakow, Poland
Main Market Square (Rynek Główny)
This is the heart of Krakow’s Old Town (Stare Miasto) and one of the largest medieval town squares in Europe. Dating back to the 13th century, it’s a vibrant hub surrounded by historic townhouses, palaces, and churches. It’s constantly bustling with cafes, restaurants, horse-drawn carriages, street performers, and flower stalls. Major landmarks like St. Mary’s Basilica and the Cloth Hall are located here.
St. Mary’s Basilica (Kościół Mariacki)
Dominating one corner of the Main Market Square, this stunning Brick Gothic church is famous for its two towers of different heights and the spectacular wooden altarpiece carved by Veit Stoss (Wit Stwosz). Don’t miss the hourly trumpet call (Hejnal Mariacki) played from the taller tower, cutting off mid-note in memory of a trumpeter shot while warning the city of invasion.
Cloth Hall (Sukiennice)
Located in the center of the Main Market Square, this magnificent Renaissance building was once a major center of international trade. Today, its ground floor hosts stalls selling amber jewelry, crafts, souvenirs, and textiles. The upper floor houses the Gallery of 19th-Century Polish Art, a branch of the National Museum in Krakow.
Wawel Royal Castle and Cathedral
Perched on Wawel Hill overlooking the Vistula River, this complex is one of Poland’s most important historical and cultural sites. For centuries, it was the residence of Polish kings. You can visit various exhibitions, including the State Rooms, Royal Private Apartments, Treasury, and Armoury. The Wawel Cathedral within the complex is the coronation and burial site of many Polish monarchs and national heroes. Don’t forget to look for the Dragon’s Den (Smocza Jama) at the foot of the hill.
Kazimierz (Jewish Quarter)
South of Wawel Hill lies Kazimierz, the historic Jewish district. Once a separate town, it’s now a vibrant, atmospheric neighborhood filled with historic synagogues (like the Old Synagogue, Remuh Synagogue, and Tempel Synagogue), Jewish cemeteries, museums, unique shops, art galleries, and countless bohemian cafes, bars, and restaurants. It has a poignant history and a distinct, captivating atmosphere.
Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory (Fabryka Emalia Oskara Schindlera)
Located in the Zabłocie district (across the river from Kazimierz), this former factory is now a powerful museum. It tells the story of Krakow under Nazi occupation during World War II (1939-1945) and the actions of Oskar Schindler, who saved the lives of over a thousand Jewish workers. It’s an immersive and moving experience, part of the Historical Museum of the City of Krakow.
Planty Park
This green belt encircles the entire Old Town, following the line of the former medieval city walls. It’s a lovely place for a relaxing walk or break, connecting various parts of the historic center with shaded paths, benches, fountains, and statues.
Florian Gate (Brama Floriańska) and Barbican (Barbakan)
These are impressive remnants of Krakow’s medieval fortifications at the northern edge of the Old Town. Florian Gate was the main gateway to the city, marking the beginning of the “Royal Route.” The connected Barbican is a formidable, circular Gothic bastion, one of the best-preserved examples of medieval defensive architecture in Europe.
Collegium Maius
The oldest building of the Jagiellonian University (one of the oldest universities in Europe, founded in 1364), featuring a beautiful arcaded Gothic courtyard. You can visit the museum inside, which showcases historic university rooms, scientific instruments (including some associated with Nicolaus Copernicus, who studied here), and artworks.
Vistula River Boulevards (Bulwary Wiślane)
The banks of the Vistula River offer pleasant walking and cycling paths with great views, especially of Wawel Hill. You can relax by the water, enjoy refreshments at riverside cafes or bars (some on moored barges), or take a boat cruise for a different perspective of the city.
Nearby Day Trips (Highly Recommended):
Wieliczka Salt Mine (Kopalnia Soli Wieliczka)
A UNESCO World Heritage site located just outside Krakow. This historic salt mine features an astonishing underground world, including chapels, statues, chandeliers, and even an entire cathedral carved out of rock salt by generations of miners. It’s a unique and unforgettable experience.
Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum
Located about 70 km from Krakow, this is the site of the former Nazi concentration and extermination camp complex. It stands as a deeply sobering memorial to the victims of the Holocaust and Nazi atrocities during WWII. A visit is a profoundly moving and historically essential experience, requiring time and emotional preparation.
Krakow offers a rich blend of history, culture, and vibrant modern life, making it a compelling destination. Enjoy your sightseeing!