Kraków (pronounced Krakov, as my grandson Kuba pointed out – he’s half Polish!) is a fabulous destination.Set in the heart of southern Poland, Kraków is a city steeped in history and brimming with charm. As you wander through its cobblestone streets, you’ll find yourself transported back in time to an era of kings and knights. It escaped the bombing of WW2 and is in pristine condition.
Kraków’s history dates back over a thousand years, with its roots as a bustling trading hub along the Royal Route. Once the capital of Poland, Kraków has witnessed the rise and fall of dynasties, survived wars and invasions, and emerged as a cultural beacon in Eastern Europe.
From the regal splendour of Wawel Castle to the sombre echoes of the Holocaust at Auschwitz-Birkenau, Kraków’s past is both triumphant and tragic.
Where To Stay
For those seeking accommodations that echo the city’s rich heritage, look no further than:
- Hotel Copernicus – housed in a 14th-century building just steps from Wawel Castle. Website: www.hotel.com
- Sheraton Grand Kraków – For a more contemporary stay, the Sheraton offers modern amenities and sweeping views of the Vistula River. Website: Click here
Where To Eat
Kraków’s culinary scene is as diverse as its history, with traditional Polish fare rubbing elbows with international cuisine.
- Pod Aniolami – Indulge in pierogi and borscht at the Pod Aniolami. Website: www.podaniolami.com
- Bottiglieria 1881 – Savour modern Polish dishes at the Michelin-starred restaurant Bottiglieria 1881. Website: www.bottiglieria1881.com
Where To Drink
When it comes to libations, Kraków boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with something for everyone.
- Alchemia – For craft cocktails in a cosy setting, head to the bustling Main Square and duck into this hidden gem. Website: https://alchemia.com.pl
- Strefa Piwa – Beer enthusiasts will delight in the selection at Strefa Piwa, a craft beer bar tucked away in the Kazimierz district. Website: www.strefapiwa.com
What To Explore
Exploring Kraków is a feast for the senses, with each corner revealing a new treasure waiting to be discovered. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine streets of Kazimierz, Kraków’s historic Jewish quarter, where synagogues and kosher restaurants coexist alongside trendy cafes and art galleries.
Nearby attractions include:
- The Schindler Factory Museum – This chronicles the wartime experiences of Kraków’s Jewish community. Website: www.schindlerfactory.com
- The Galicia Jewish Museum – Dedicated to preserving Jewish culture and heritage in Poland. Website: www.galiciajewishmuseum.org
As the sun sets over the city, make your way to the Kraków Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its medieval architecture and vibrant street life. Join the throngs of locals and visitors alike as they gather in the shadow of St. Mary’s Basilica to witness the mesmerising trumpet call that has echoed through Krakow’s streets for centuries.
In Kraków, history is not confined to the pages of textbooks—it’s alive in every cobblestone, every spire, every whisper of the wind. So come, wander the streets of this ancient city, and let its stories unfold before you in a tapestry of beauty and resilience.
Historic sites to explore:
- Wawel Castle: Perched atop Wawel Hill, this majestic fortress has been a symbol of Polish royalty for centuries. Explore its regal chambers, including the State Rooms, Royal Private Apartments, and Crown Treasury. Website: www.wawel.krakow.pl
- Wawel Cathedral: Adjacent to Wawel Castle, this Gothic masterpiece is the burial site of Polish kings and queens. Marvel at its ornate chapels, crypts, and Sigismund Bell, one of the largest bells in Europe. Website: www.katedra-wawelska.pl
- Main Market Square (Rynek Główny): At the heart of Kraków’s Old Town, this bustling square is one of the largest medieval town squares in Europe. Admire the Renaissance-style Cloth Hall, St. Mary’s Basilica, and Town Hall Tower.
- Kazimierz: Once Kraków’s historic Jewish quarter, Kazimierz is now a vibrant neighbourhood filled with synagogues, museums, and trendy cafes. Explore landmarks like the Old Synagogue, Remuh Synagogue, and Galicia Jewish Museum.
- Auschwitz-Birkenau: Located just outside Kraków, this former Nazi concentration and extermination camp is a sobering reminder of the atrocities of the Holocaust. Visit the museum and memorial to pay homage to the millions who perished during World War II. Website: www.auschwitz.org
- Florian Gate and Barbican: Dating back to the 14th century, these fortifications are remnants of Krakow’s medieval defences. Walk along the city walls and admire the imposing towers and gates that once protected the city from invaders.
- Jagiellonian University: Founded in 1364 by King Casimir III the Great, this prestigious university is one of the oldest in Europe. Explore its historic campus and visit the Collegium Maius, where lectures were held by famous scholars such as Copernicus and St. John Paul II.
- Planty Park: Encircling the Old Town, this lush green belt was once the site of Kraków’s medieval fortifications. Take a leisurely stroll along its tree-lined pathways and enjoy views of historic landmarks like Wawel Castle and St. Florian’s Gate.
These notable historic places offer a glimpse into Krakow’s rich and diverse past, from its royal splendour to its tragic wartime history. Explore them at your own pace and immerse yourself in the stories that have shaped this extraordinary city.
The Top Travel Destinations - with Kevin Flanagan 
Leave a comment