Quick answer: Start at the Main Market Square, climb up to Wawel Castle, explore Kazimierz and visit Schindler’s Factory. Set aside separate days for Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine.
Old Town
- Main Market Square – one of Europe’s largest medieval squares.
- St Mary’s Basilica – the Veit Stoss altarpiece and the hourly hejnał trumpet call.
- Cloth Hall – a Renaissance market hall, with the Rynek Underground museum below.
- Floriańska Street and the Barbican – remains of the city walls.
- Planty Park – a green ring around the Old Town.
- Collegium Maius – the oldest university building, where Copernicus studied.
Wawel Hill
- Wawel Cathedral – coronation church with royal tombs and the Sigismund Bell.
- Wawel Royal Castle – State Rooms and Renaissance tapestries.
- Dragon’s Den – the cave below the hill and the fire-breathing dragon statue.
Kazimierz and Podgórze
- Kazimierz – synagogues, the Remuh cemetery and lively Plac Nowy.
- Zapiekanka at Plac Nowy – Kraków’s favourite street food.
- Schindler’s Factory – a moving museum of Kraków under Nazi occupation.
- Ghetto Heroes Square – the empty chairs memorial.
- Kładka Bernatka footbridge and the Vistula boulevards.
More
- Kościuszko Mound – views over the city.
- Nowa Huta – a planned socialist-realist district.
- Pierogi and vodka tasting – try them on a food tour.
- A classical concert in one of the Old Town’s churches.
Day trips
- Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial – book on the official site well ahead.
- Wieliczka Salt Mine – chapels and lakes 135 m underground.
FAQ: things to do in Kraków
What is Kraków famous for?
Its medieval Old Town, Wawel Castle, the Kazimierz Jewish quarter and as a base for visiting Auschwitz and Wieliczka.
Is Kraków good for nightlife?
Yes, especially in Kazimierz and around the Old Town, with cellar bars and inexpensive drinks.
More Krakow guides
- Kraków travel guide
- Kraków itinerary: 2, 3 or 4 days
- Where to stay in Kraków
- Best time to visit Kraków
- Kraków airport to the city
- Visiting Auschwitz from Kraków
- Wieliczka Salt Mine tickets
- Wawel Castle tickets
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