Uncovering the Highlights of Krakow with Our Krakow Tour Packages
Krakow is a city that has risen from the ashes of history, preserving its beauty and charm. Unlike many other European cities, Krakow was left almost untouched during WWII, leaving its architectural splendor intact for you to discover. With our thoughtfully curated itineraries to Krakow, you will explore:
- Historic Heart: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, with its stunning Main Market Square, Cloth Hall, and St. Mary's Basilica.
- Royal Legacy: Walk the halls of Wawel Royal Castle, a symbol of Polish national identity and a stunning example of Renaissance architecture.
- Poignant History: Pay your respects at the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, a profound and moving experience that offers a crucial lesson from the past.
- Vibrant Culture: Immerse yourself in the bohemian atmosphere of the Kazimierz district (the former Jewish Quarter), filled with synagogues, art galleries, and eclectic cafes.
- Underground Wonders: Discover the incredible Wieliczka Salt Mine, a subterranean world of chapels and statues carved entirely from salt.
Why Does Krakow Stand Out?
Krakow is not just another European city but a place where history is alive, culture is celebrated on every corner, and the people are warm and welcoming. It offers a unique blend of affordability and world-class attractions, making it a perfect destination for every type of traveler. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a foodie, or an art lover, Krakow holiday packages from Regency Holidays provide a canvas for your perfect adventure.
Travel with Regency Holidays: Your Ideal Krakow Tour Packages
With Regency Holidays, your journey to Krakow is more than just a trip! We handle the details to make your journey hassle-free and enriching so that you can focus on making memories.
- Package Inclusions: Our Krakow tour packages typically include comfortable accommodation, guided city tours, entrance fees to major attractions, and convenient airport transfers.
- Types of Krakow Tour Packages: We cater to everyone! Choose from luxury escapes, romantic honeymoon packages, fun-filled family vacations, or solo adventures. We also offer specialized Poland tour packages that connect you to more of this beautiful country.
- Personalized Support & Experiences: Our team is dedicated to crafting your perfect itinerary. Want to take a Polish cooking class or explore a niche museum? We offer personalized experiences and 24/7 support to ensure your trip is flawless.
How to Reach Krakow
By Air: Krakow John Paul II International Airport (KRK) is the main international gateway to the city of Krakow. It is well-connected to different parts of the world by flights operated by numerous airlines like:
- LOT Polish Airlines
- Ryanair
- Wizz Air
- Lufthansa
- EasyJet
- KLM
Other transport options include an efficient train network connecting Krakow with other major cities in Poland and Europe, as well as modern, long-distance buses.
Best Time to Visit Krakow
Peak Season (June to August)
- Weather: Warm, sunny weather perfect for exploring
- Events: Dragon Parade, Corpus Christi Procession, Summer Film Festivals, Summer Jazz Festivals
Shoulder Season (April to May & September to October)
- Weather: Pleasant with spring blooms/autumn colors
- Events: Krakow Film Festival, Cracow Art Week KRAKERS, Museum Night
Off-Season (November to March)
- Weather: Freezing Cold with Snowfall
- Events: Christmas, New Year, Krakow Nativity Scenes Contest, Misteria Paschalia Festival, Cracow Coffee Festival, Cracow Fashion Week
Other Information to Know About Krakow
- Currency Used in Krakow: Polish Złoty (PLN)
- Languages Spoken in Krakow: Polish (Official), English
- Time Zone in Krakow: CET (Central European Time) UTC/GMT +1
Top Places to Visit in Krakow
Krakow's landscape is dotted with historical monuments and hidden gems. Here are 10 must-see attractions in Krakow:
1. Main Market Square (Rynek Główny)
Main Market Square (Rynek Główny) is the bustling heart of the Old Town of Krakow and one of the largest medieval squares in Europe.
2. Wawel Royal Castle
Also known as the Wawel Royal Castle National Art Collection, Wawel Royal Castle is the former home of Polish kings. Built in the 14th century, the castle is known for its stunning architecture and panoramic city views.
3. St. Mary's Basilica
Famous for its wooden altarpiece and the hourly bugle call from its tower.
4. Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum
A solemn and essential visit to understand the history of WWII and the Holocaust.
5. Wieliczka Salt Mine
The Wieliczka Salt Mine is a UNESCO World Heritage site with underground lakes and chapels carved from rock salt.
6. Kazimierz (The Jewish Quarter)
Kazimierz is a historic district, known for its rich Jewish heritage, religious sites, and vibrant cultural scene. Here, you will find synagogues, unique shops and restaurants.
7. Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory
Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory houses two immersive museums dedicated to the wartime experiences in Krakow under Nazi occupation.
8. Cloth Hall (Sukiennice)
Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) is a Renaissance-era market in the center of the Main Square, perfect for souvenir shopping.
9. Planty Park
Planty Park is the largest park in Krakow, which encircles the Old Town. It is a popular spot for a relaxing stroll and enjoying nature.
10. Kościuszko Mound
Kościuszko Mound is a man-made hill, which was built in 1820 to commemorate the military hero, Tadeusz Kosciuszko. It is known for offering one of the best panoramic views of Krakow.
10 Must-Do Activities in Krakow
- Take a guided tour of the Old Town
- Go on a food tour to sample local delicacies
- Cruise down the Vistula River for a different city perspective
- Listen to a live classical or folk music performance
- Explore the street art in the Podgórze district
- Ride in a horse-drawn carriage around the Main Square
- Visit the Rynek Underground museum beneath the Main Square
- Join a pierogi-making class
- Hike or cycle in the nearby Wolski Forest
- Experience a traditional Polish vodka tasting
Popular Hotels to Stay in Krakow
- Hotel Stary
- Sheraton Grand Krakow
- Bonerowski Palace
- Hotel Copernicus
- Wyndham Grand Krakow Old Town
- Hotel Indigo Krakow – Old Town
- PURO Kraków Kazimierz
- AC Hotel by Marriott Krakow
- The Loft Hotel
- INX Design Hotel
Hotels Near Airport
- Hilton Garden Inn Krakow Airport
- Hampton by Hilton Krakow Airport
Top Restaurants in Krakow
Vegetarian Restaurants
- Veganic
- Pod Norenami
- Pierogarnia Krakowiacy
- Glonojad
- Ka Udon Bar
Non-Vegetarian Restaurants
- Starka Restaurant
- Ed Red
- Morskie Oko
- Cyrano de Bergerac
- Pod Baranem Restauracja
Best Cuisines to Try in Krakow
- Pierogi
- Żurek
- Bigos
- Kiełbasa
- Oscypek
- Barszcz
- Placki Ziemniaczane
- Gołąbki
- Zapiekanka
- Sernik
Top Things to Buy in Krakow
- Amber Jewelry
- Wawel Dragon Toys
- Hand-painted Pottery from Bolesławiec
- Linen Products
- Wooden folk art and carvings
- Bison Grass Vodka (Żubrówka)
- Sliwowica (plum brandy)
- Krakowska sausage
- Obwarzanek Krakowski (a braided ring-shaped bread)
- Handmade lace
Top Places for Shopping in Krakow
- The Cloth Hall (Sukiennice)
- Floriańska Street
- Grodzka Street
- Galeria Krakowska
- Kazimierz District
- Galeria Kazimierz
- Stary Kleparz
- Plac Nowy in Kazimierz
- Bonarka City Center
- Szeroka Street for Judaica
Experience Nightlife in Krakow
Nightlife in Krakow is legendary, boasting countless cellar bars, vibrant clubs, and cozy cafes suitable for every mood and budget. The major areas for nightlife are the Old Town and Kazimierz. Here is a list of the top places to visit for an eclectic party night in Krakow:
- Pijalnia Wódki i Piwa
- Prozak 2.0
- Szpitalna 1
- Harris Piano Jazz Bar
- Singer
- Alchemia
- Mercy Brown Dive Bar
- Teatro Cubano
- LostBar
- Buddha Bar
Travel Tips for Your Krakow Trip
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be required to walk a lot
- Always carry some cash (Polish Złoty) for small purchases
- Learn a few basic Polish phrases like "Dzień dobry" (Good day) and "Dziękuję" (Thank you)
- Be respectful when visiting religious sites and memorials
- Use a licensed taxi or a ride-sharing app for fair prices
- Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; 10% is standard for good service
- Book tickets for major attractions like Auschwitz and the Salt Mines in advance
- Validate your tram or bus ticket immediately after boarding to avoid fines