Krakow is now one of my favorite European cities I’ve been to without a doubt! With such a unique mix of style and taste, wrapped up in a whole lot of history, I was amazed at how much I fell in love with Krakow in just a couple of days! Here are some of the highlights of our trip that I would make sure to check out when you go to Krakow.

Jewish Quarter

There are many reflections of the German occupation of Krakow during WWII throughout the city, and especially in the sector of Kazimierz, or the Jewish Quarter, where the lives of many Jews were drastically changed as they were forced into what was known as the Ghetto by the Nazi’s in 1939. The events that took place during this time in the Jewish Ghetto of Krakow, as well as in the nearby concentration camps of Plaszow and Auschwitz, have been portrayed profoundly in the film Schindler’s List, something I would recommend watching before you go to gain a little more insight into what took place here. Along with it’s ample amount of history, Kazimierz is also home to many amazing restaurants, cafes, beautiful cobblestone streets, and plenty of unique shops scattered throughout.

Schindler’s Factory

One of the most impressive museums I have ever been too was the museum inside what used to the enamel factory owned by Oskar Schindler. Another great reason to see the movie before visiting, Schindler saved 1,200 Jews from the Nazi extermination camps by employing them to work in his factory during World War II. The museum is extremely well thought out and delivers so much information in very creative ways. Definitely put this at the top of your Krakow to-do list!

Wieliczka Salt Mines

We learned so much about the history and building of the Salt Mines over in neighboring Wieliczka! A very interesting experience just outside of Krakow, and well worth the visit. Tours are offered in several languages that take you down and around some of the mines most notable places, such as the St. Kinga Chapel. Prepare to be amazed! The crystal chandeliers, brilliant salt floors and carvings have left millions in absolute awe. Once your tour is complete (approximately 2 hours), you will find yourselves with the option to purchase some souvenirs and grab a bite to eat in one of their underground restaurants.

When we initially arrived at the Salt Mines, we ended paying a couple euros extra to get access to the Graduation Tower. On the same property as the mines, the tower consists of a natural salt spray trickling down all sides. This is said to truly help heal and relax you, especially is you have any sort of inhalation struggle, as the salty mist in the air helps to clear your airways, and all in all provide some serious health benefits. It is recommended to spend at least 30 minutes here for the salty air to really have an effect on you.

Old Town

The heart of Krakow is it’s Old Town Main Square, the Rynek Glowny. One step inside of this huge city center and you can easily see why it’s Europe’s biggest market square! Your eye will immediately be drawn to the monstrous marketplace in the center of the square, or perhaps St. Mary’s Basilica. Restaurants, wineries, cafes, and shops surround the square, leaving plenty for you to explore. And don’t forget to grab a Polish brezel! This braided bread sprinkles with poppy or sesame seeds is the perfect thing to much on as you walk around the main square.

Visit Auschwitz

About an hour drive outside of Krakow lies the Auschwitz concentration camp. Eventually becoming what was known as a death camp, the Nazis murdered over one million men, women, and children here throughout the second World War. A very solemn yet important visit, visiting Auschwitz will take at least half of your day. Guides will take small tour groups to the original Auschwitz camp, as well as the larger Auschwitz-Birkenau camp and let you see in for yourself what was one of the most inhumane and brutal events recorded in history.

Go Pottery Shopping

There’s no shortage of Polish pottery shops throughout the city and I guarantee you will be walking away with at least one nice teapot or serving dish when you leave Krakow. You may feel overwhelmed with all the beautiful choices of pottery you have right in front of you, so budget a little time for this excursion so you don’t feel rushed. It’s not everyday you get to buy some hand painted Polish pottery in Poland itself.

Kawiarnias & Piekarnias

There are so many to choose from! Cafes (kawiarnias) and bakeries(piekarnias) seemed to be constanly following us around on our visit! With no shortage of unique Polish pastries and goods, you will never go hungry, or be decaffeinated, in Krakow. The Cytat Cafe is one of the most popular spots in Krakow, as it is a cafe filled to the brim with books and themed to fit some of your favorite novels, such as Harry Potter. Like in many European bakeshops, you’ll be able to score some absolutely phenomenal goodies at a pretty low price.

Krakow Street Art

As a city that encourages street art, you will come across many vibrant walls filled to the brim with colors and unique murals. While other street art will be reflective on Krakow’s historical background and culture, you won’t make it far until a new artistic style springs itself right in front of you.

Okraglak

If you don’t feel like going to a sit down restaurant, definitely check out the Okraglak, or rotunda, right around the corner from the Synagogue Temple. This is such a fun spot to look around in with many local artists and craftsman to see what they may be selling, as well as the perfect spot to grab a traditional European meal like the one pictured below. A popular street food item we noticed in this outdoor market was the Zapiekanki, or Polish pizza, a toasted open-faced sandwich topped with some of your traditional pizza toppings and hot ketchup. It looked and smelled absolutely delicious! We cannot pass up an opportunity to try it next time…

With truly every cuisine available in this sector of Krakow, there’s no doubt you will something to your liking, and you certainly will never be hungry.

Find Pierogi!

Not hard at all to find is this classic Eastern European dumpling, most commonly associated with Polish cuisine. We ended up having pierogi numerous times throughout our trip, as they were just the tastiest things! Their fillings will usually consist of potato and cheese, and will topped with some fresh herbs and crispy onions. Irresistible! And a must-eat item when visitng Krakow