The Polish city is packed with things to see and do, including a trip to the Auschwitz concentration camp and the stunning Wawel Castle – and it won’t break the bank
Krakow is a city rich in history and culture, offering everything from parks to vibrant nightlife, ensuring you’ll never experience a dull moment. You won’t be disappointed by a visit to this city, especially when it comes at such an affordable price.
Many tourists flock to Krakow with the primary intention of visiting Auschwitz, which was also my main reason for travelling to the city. As a first-time visitor to Poland, I wasn’t sure what to anticipate, writes Alycia McNamara. Parts of the city have a somewhat dilapidated feel, but this only serves to evoke thoughts of its historical past and the communist era.
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Located south of Krakow’s Old Town lies Kazimierz, a historical district of Poland. Left in ruins after the war, it has since undergone a revival and become a popular spot, reports the Express.
This desirable area boasts a variety of pubs, traditional eateries, and unique buildings. I made my way here from the Jewish Quarter, a walk that took approximately 30 minutes. Feeling peckish, I decided to dine at Makaroniarnia – an exceptional pasta restaurant.
The interior exudes a French vibe with its shabby chic decor, creating a cosy atmosphere. This feeling was amplified during my visit due to a dramatic storm raging outside.
A visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau is an unforgettable experience. Tours are conducted in silence; as you follow your guide, the names of Holocaust victims echo through your headset.
Tour guides lead you through buildings housing personal belongings of the victims, ranging from glasses and suitcases to children’s clothing items.
It’s a location everyone should experience to pay their respects. As I meandered, I noticed visitors subtly wiping tissues beneath their sunglasses – while I was also left incensed by some individuals taking selfies.
During our tour of Birkenau, our guide led us into a building where victims resided before their tragic end. Inside, there are three tiers of wooden shelves on each wall serving as sleeping quarters.
Each shelf-like space is roughly the size of a double bed, but we were informed that up to eight prisoners shared each one, with an average of 700-1000 occupants in the building. It was heart-wrenching to witness such a deplorable place used for such heinous acts.
Krakow’s architecture is truly unique, with the entirety of the Old Town recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city boasts a blend of communist-era concrete structures, often adorned with graffiti, serving as a stark reminder of its past to tourists.
In contrast, the main square of the Old Town exudes a vastly different atmosphere. As Europe’s largest market square, you can settle down at one of the surrounding eateries and soak in the hustle and bustle of the area.
The Bull Pub is a standout feature in the square, stepping inside feels like a trip back to England. Its striking green roof contrasts sharply with the white stone facade, instantly catching your eye from across the square.
Poland is home to an array of mouth-watering cuisine that’s a must-try during your visit. Among the top picks are:
- Pierogi (dumplings)
- Kiełbasa (sausages)
- Miodownik (honey cake)
- Obwarzanek (pretzel-like bread)
- Zapiekanka (Polish pizza)
Ranked as the second most popular attraction in Krakow, the salt mines are an unmissable experience. Burrowed deep beneath the earth, visitors can wander through an extensive labyrinth of historical mining passages, serene saline lakes, and stunning salt sculptures crafted over generations.
A tourist remarked: “This was the best experience, it was worth every pound. Our tour guide helped us to have an amazing experience. I would like to go there again, it was perfect.”
Although I didn’t venture into the salt mines myself, numerous travellers I encountered raved about how fascinating they found it. Should I return to Krakow, the salt mines will definitely be on my itinerary.
In summary, Krakow is a delightful city to explore over a long weekend. It’s a destination that promises charm whether you visit in the chill of winter or the warmth of summer.
A three to four-day trip is ample time to take in the sights, and it’s certainly a place that merits a spot on your travel list.