Wednesday, 29 January 2014

Top 10 things to do in Krakow - POLAND


Wawel Castle - The Wawel Royal Castle and the Wawel Hill constitute the most historically and culturally important site in Poland. On a sunny day it’s a beautiful walk, and hosts stunning views of the town below. Definitely worth a visit..





Kazimierz – also known as the Jewish Quarter is full of small winding streets, little parks in squares and beautiful Synagogues. All the synagogues are unique and worth a visit, even if they look small and worn from the outside, it’s worth peeking through the doors to see whats in-store. There are also plenty of local watering holes and eateries in this part of down, which are less tourist and in-expensive.




Main Market Square – this is the main tourist hub of Krakow. Full of bursting cafes, ice cream parlors and chocolates shops as well as some of Krakow’s most well known monuments. If you are stopping for a night in Krakow it is always handy to be staying near this square!





Cloth Hall – situated in the middle of the market square, cloth hall speaks for itself. This narrow long hall houses a vast amount of stalls from local garments, to tourists tit bits, to specialized foods, and even furry pieces.





St Mary’s Church – also situated in the Main Market Square, however this was sadly closed during our visit due to renovations. However, from what I have seen the interior is a palette of rich colours, large beautiful windows and gothic architecture. 




Florian Gate – one of the last remaining entrances to the city. Make sure you pass through this impressive gate on route to the main square.




Wawel Cathedral – this also sits upon Wawel Hill with the castle and is definitely worth a visit whilst you’re in the area. Its Poland’s answer to St Paul’s Cathedral.



Schindlers Factory – a museum dedicated to wartime experiences in Krakow. The museum takes up the sprawling administration building of the defunct plant at 4 Lipowa street, in the city’s grim industrial district of Zablocie on the right bank of Wisla river. Ingenious exhibitions combine period artifacts, photos and documents with multimedia and set-piece arrangements in an attempt to create a full-immersion experience. If you don’t have time to visit Auschwitz, I would highly recommend crossing the river and making a pit stop at this museum.


Auschwitz – if you are staying in Krakow for more than 48 hours try and visit Auschwitz. Only a 2 hour trip away, it gives you a real idea of how life was in Poland during WWII. Even though it is an emotional rollercoaster it is also an educational experience, one that you will never forget.


Hazelnut Vodka – the local favorite – goes down a treat! Be sure to buy stacks of the stuff before you head home!



To add – we stayed in a hostel called MAMA’s. Situated just off the main square it is in the perfect position for tourist attractions, bars and restaurants! The hostel is clean and the staff are friendly and considering the location its reasonably priced. 4 STARS.  We also went to a bar called ALCHEMIA which is situated in the Jewish Quarter. Next to the university, it is always packed full of young people drinking the local hazelnut vodka and beer. The bar isn’t overly fancy, and trainers are appropriate footwear. Old school vibes, cosy and warm, with vintage deco, it is definitely the best place to start your evening. 

Krakow is a walking city - due to the size it is easy to get around on foot. Alternatively, rent a bike and ride around in style. 



Bon Voyage x

No comments:

Post a Comment