Things To Do In Krakow

One of the best things to do in Krakow for both history and architecture buffs is to take a tour of the magnificent UNESCO-listed Wawel Castle. While you take a walk in the complex, marvel at the breathtaking Baroque and Romanesque architectural styles of the castle. Check out the stunning interiors of the monument and have a look at the Gobelin tapestries. As you stroll inside the museum of the castle, witness the spectacular armory and treasury. One of the prime attractions of the museum is Szczerbiec, which served as the coronation sword of all the monarchs, who reigned between 1320 and 1764.

Paying a visit to the very famous St. Mary’s Basilica has always remained as one of the top things to do in Krakow. On your visit to this place, take time to soak in the mesmerizing Gothic architectural style of the church. Keep your ears open for the iconic St. Mary’s Trumpet Call, which is played every hour from the top of the towers. This trumpet call is played in the commemoration of the 13th-century city trumpeter, who was shot while signaling for the Mongol invasion.

Take an exploration tour of the majestic Wawel Cathedral, where a number of Polish monarchs and eminent personalities have been buried. The original cathedral was burnt down and the one standing today dates back to the 14th century. While you are here, check out Sigismund’s Chapel, which flaunts an impressive Tuscan Renaissance style architectural design. You are also recommended to witness the 12.6 tonne Sigismund Bell, which is loud enough to be heard from a distance of over 30 kilometers.

Taking a tour of the Old Town is one of the most recommended things to do in Krakow, if you want to go back in time and get the experience of the Middle Ages in Poland. As you take a walk around this well-preserved, quaint little town, shop for some unique souvenirs, relish some local culinary bites, and click some good Instagrammable pictures. If you want to learn about the history of the town as you walk around here, consider booking a guided tour of Krakow Old Town.

Visiting UNESCO World Heritage–listed Auschwitz-Birkenau and paying tribute is one of the top things to do in Krakow for all types of travelers. Remember the 1.5 million people, who lost their lives in the infamous genocide that took place at this historical site, which was used as a concentration and extermination camp during the second world war. Take a tour of the barracks, railway ramps, crematoriums, watchtowers, museum exhibits, and gas chambers.

If you are a history lover, taking a tour of the Jewish Quarter should undoubtedly be at the top of your list of things to do in Krakow. Walk through the small streets and experience the rich history thriving here; no wonder both famous and infamous. While you are at the Jewish Quarter, pay a visit to the Galicia Jewish Museum, where you can get an in-depth insight of the history of this area.

One of the best things to do in Krakow for families is to go explore the famous Rynek Underground Museum. You will be left awestruck as you go 4 meters underground to witness the mesmerizing collection of hightech exhibits of this museum. You can either take a guided tour or a self-guided tour; anyway you will be mesmerized to learn about the fascinating history of the city, starting from the early residents to the infamous wars.

If you are seeking a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life, one of the best things to do in Krakow for you is spending some time at the breathtaking Ojcow National Park. Well, if you are an adventure enthusiast, this place will prove to be even more rewarding for you. While you hike the beautiful trails, you can see picture-perfect woodlands, fascinating rocky formations, and stunning limestone caves. You can also find small local cafes, where you can halt to relish some authentic Polish delicacies.

It is a sin, if you are an adventure junkie and do not have a tour to Energylandia in your list of top things to do in Krakow. While at Energylandia, the biggest amusement park in Poland, adrenaline seekers can enjoy mind-boggling roller coaster rides. You can feel the spine-chilling thrill as you ride at a speed of 88mph on Hyperion, the fastest roller coaster of Poland. You can also go swimming at the water park and watch the impressive acrobatic show. If you are visiting Energylandia with your little ones, you can let them have some fun at the Little Kids Zone.

If you want to experience some offbeat things to do in Krakow, get inside an 800 years old elevator and head 327 meters below the ground level, at the Wieliczka Salt Mine. Take a tour of the salt mine and check out its 22 underground chambers, fascinating chapels, and of course shimmering underground saltwater lakes. You will find a number of stunning saltwater lakes inside the mine, the most popular amongst which is the one nestled in the Weimar Chamber. You will be super amazed to see this teal-coloured lake with a high volume of sodium chloride present in its water.

Enjoying the exquisite experience of flying high at the Polish Aviation Museum must be included in every traveler’s list of things to do in Krakow. During your exploration tour of the museum, you can check out an extensive collection of stunning aircraft, with some of the flying machines dating back to even 300 years! You can witness unique exhibits, including the iconic Polish PZL 130 Orlik and the last Russian flying boat.

Pay a visit to the impressive and equally popular Barbican Museum, a magnificent palatial fortified outpost. Marvel at this well-preserved relic that was once a part of the defense barriers that encompassed the city. Take a stroll around the monument and admire its mesmerizing Gothic style architectural design. You can also shop for some great souvenirs like cards, gifts, books, and accessories at the on-site gift shops. You can even relish some good food and drinks at the in-house restaurant and bars.