3 days in Krakow

Geplaatst op 11-12-2024

3 days in Krakow
A city trip to Krakow city offers the perfect mix of history, culture, architecture and cosiness. This Polish city, once the royal capital of Poland, is one of the most beautiful and best preserved cities in Europe. Whether you are interested in medieval monuments, lively markets, impressive museums or just want to enjoy the atmosphere of a charming city, Krakow has something to offer for everyone.

Day 1: Exploring the Old Town
Start your city trip in the historic centre of Krakow, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The heart of the city is the Main Market Square (Rynek Główny), one of the largest medieval market places in Europe. Here you can stroll past colourful facades, market stalls and cosy cafés. The Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), a beautiful building that originally served as a trading centre for fabrics, now houses craft markets and souvenir shops. From the square you can also admire the impressive St. Mary's Basilica (Kościół Mariacki). The Gothic church is known for its breathtaking altar by Veit Stoss and the iconic trumpet call that rings out from the tower every hour.
After exploring the Main Market Square, visit the Florian Gate, one of Kraków’s original city gates, and explore nearby Floriańska Street, a picturesque street that leads to the old city walls. Art lovers should also visit the National Museum of Kraków. The museum houses an impressive collection of Polish art and is spread across several locations around the city.

Day 2: Wawel and Kazimierz Jewish Quarter
On your second day in Kraków, a visit to Wawel Hill is a must. Wawel Castle is one of the most important symbols of Polish history and culture. The castle is home to several museums, including the Royal Apartments and the Wawel Treasury, which display both art and historical artifacts. Wawel Cathedral, located on the same hill, is the burial place of many Polish kings and is one of the holiest places in Poland.
After visiting Wawel, it’s time to head to the Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz, one of Krakow’s most atmospheric neighborhoods. Kazimierz was once the center of Jewish life in the city and is still home to many synagogues, including the Old Synagogue and the Tempel Synagogue. The Jewish Historical Museum offers an in-depth insight into the history of Krakow’s Jewish community. The neighborhood has a bohemian vibe, with trendy cafés, art galleries, and cozy eateries. Don’t forget to visit one of the traditional Jewish restaurants and enjoy dishes such as gefillte fish or matzo balls.

Day 3: Wieliczka Salt Mines and more
On the third day of your city trip, you can take an excursion to the Wieliczka Salt Mines, located about 30 minutes from Krakow. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the oldest working salt mines in the world and offers an impressive underground experience. On a guided tour, you can wander through miles of underground tunnels, chambers and galleries, and admire the beautiful Chapel of St. Kinga, a chapel carved entirely from salt. The mines offer a fascinating insight into not only the history of salt mining, but also how it has influenced the Polish economy for centuries.
After your visit to the salt mines, you can head back to the city and plan a more relaxing activity, such as a walk along the Vistula River or through Kraków’s public gardens. Błonia Park is ideal for a relaxing afternoon stroll, and offers beautiful views of Wawel Castle and the city.
Eating and drinking in Kraków
During your city break, you shouldn’t miss out on sampling Polish cuisine. Kraków has a vibrant food scene, with numerous restaurants offering both traditional and modern Polish dishes. Try dishes such as pierogi (filled dumplings), żurek (sour soup) and placki ziemniaczane (potato pancakes). The city also has many cozy cafes and bars where you can enjoy Polish beers or a glass of mead (honey wine), a typical Polish drink.
Krakow is an ideal destination for a city break, with its rich history, charming streets and vibrant culture. Whether you want to explore the impressive historical sights, enjoy the local cuisine or learn about the dark chapters of Polish history, the city has something for everyone. With its combination of medieval charm and modern flair, Krakow is a city that will surprise you time and time again.