Krakow Holidays

Enjoy our lowest-priced travel months!

Ahhh, Krakow. The place where pierogi meets party and 'history' meets 'hip'. It's a perfect blend of medieval history and modern-day mojo.

Destination highlights

A feast for the eyes and the feet, thanks to all the cobbles and town squares
Home to the legendary Dragon of Wawel Hill – and who doesn't love a good dragon story?
It's got five nature reserves where you can let your inner David Attenborough run wild
Two words: pierogis, and vodka. 'Nough said.

🎉 3 Fun Facts About Krakow You Didn’t Know

The Dragon of Wawel Hill: Legend has it that a fierce dragon once lived under Wawel Castle - don’t worry, he’s long gone now, but the legend lives on.
Trumpet Tradition: Every hour, a trumpeter plays a tune from St. Mary’s Basilica tower - but it stops mid-note to honour a medieval trumpeter who was shot while warning the city of an attack.
Polish Hollywood: Kazimierz, the historic Jewish quarter, was one of the filming locations for Schindler’s List - so you can stroll through scenes of movie history.

💬 Local Lingo

Dzień dobry (jen DOH-bri) – Good morning!
Proszę (PROH-sheh) – Please
Dziękuję (jen-KOO-yeh) – Thank you. Handy after you’ve polished off a plate of pierogis.
Tak (tahk) – Yes
Gdzie jest toaleta? (g-jeh yest toh-ah-LEH-tah) – Where’s the bathroom? Essential after all those vodkas!

🚗 Getting Around on your Krakow holidays 2025 / 2026

Exploring Krakow is a breeze – whether you’re cruising the streets or gliding through the city like a local legend.

🚌 Buses & Trams - cheap, cheerful, and oh-so-easy. Hop on, enjoy the ride, and don’t forget to validate your ticket - unless you fancy being Krakow’s next fare-dodging fugitive. 😉

🚖 Taxis & Ride Shares - feeling too fab to walk? Bolt (Krakow’s version of Uber) has your back. Quick, comfy, and no risk of getting lost!

🚲 Bikes - want to channel your inner cyclist? Grab a bike, pedal through the parks, or glide along the Vistula River like you own the place.

What are the best sights to see on your holidays to Krakow?

Krakow city breaks are like no other. The attractions here are like a highlight reel of Polish history and culture, so prepare to be seriously wow'ed by...

Wawel Castle - it's not just a castle; it’s a treasure chest of Polish history. Kings, queens, and legends - this place has seen it all.
Main Market Square - step into the heart of the city, buzzing with energy and surrounded by fab architecture. And yes, those horse-drawn carriages are as charming as they look.
Kazimierz - wander through the historic Jewish quarter where every street tells a story. It's all about the history, the secret little nooks, and of course - the vibes.
St. Mary’s Basilica - more than just your average church - this place rocks a Gothic altar that’ll make your jaw drop. And the trumpet call every hour? Goosebumps, guaranteed.
Cloth Hall - shopping with a side of history. This Renaissance building in the Main Market Square is where souvenirs meet style.

What are the top hotels to stay at on your Krakow holidays?

Think Krakow's stuck in the past? Wait 'til you see how they do hospitality. From cheap holidays to family breaks, here's where to drop your bags in style:

Alexander - this spots the perfect pick for a city break, it's got a breakfast buffet to fuel you up for the day, and it's literally steps away from the Main Square. Exploration on tap? Yes please!
Inx Design Hotel - add a dash of swanky to your jolly at this four-star hotel, offering on-site dining and drinks, a gym and a sauna/jacuzzi - okay, it's more than a dash.
Hotel Stary - a blend of medieval and modern luxury. The rooftop bar views? An Instagrammer's dream.
Queen Boutique Hotel - where elegance meets cosiness. Perfectly plonked in the centre for city exploring, and then relaxing like royalty.
Betmanowska Main Square Residence - right on the Main Market Square, it’s like having the city at your doorstep. Wake up and step straight into a Krakow postcard.

Holidays to Krakow at Christmas = Pure Festive Magic

If you think Krakow is charming in summer - just wait until you see it dressed up for Christmas. Twinkling fairy lights, the smell of spiced mulled wine drifting through the frosty air, and snow-dusted medieval streets… trust us, this city slays the festive game... and we're gonna tell you why:

✨ Main Market Square Christmas Market - Krakow’s pièce de résistance. Wooden stalls piled high with hand-painted baubles, woolly socks you’ll actually wear, and mountains of hot pierogi. Runs from late November to Boxing Day - sometimes into early January if you’re lucky!
✨ Festive Feasting - grab a steaming cup of grzaniec (that’s Polish mulled wine) and nibble on oscypek - smoked cheese grilled right in front of you. You’ll never look at cheddar the same way again.
✨ Ice Skating & Horse Carriages - pop on your skates at the rink near Galeria Krakowska or the Main Square, then snuggle up in a horse-drawn carriage for the ultimate winter Insta snap.
✨ Seasonal Sights - don’t miss nativity scenes displayed all over town - Krakow’s handmade szopki are so fancy they’re UNESCO-listed!
✨ Our Top Tip - stay somewhere near the Main Market Square so you can roll out of bed straight into the fairy lights (and maybe back again for a nap after too much mulled wine - no judgement).
📅 When to visit? - late November to early January is Krakow’s prime Christmas window - with the best vibes, fewer crowds than big cities like Vienna, and a proper winter chill that makes your hot chocolate taste even better.

Your Krakow holidays 2025 / 2026 travel guide

👨‍👩‍👦 Things to do for families

Krakow has plenty to keep the little ones happy. Take a trip to Krakow Zoo for a fun day out, or explore the Dragon’s Den under Wawel Castle - it’s a hit with kids. And don’t forget a horse-drawn carriage ride around the Main Market Square - it's like a fairy tale in real life!

💑 Things to do for couples

Wander hand-in-hand through the Botanical Garden or take a sunset walk along the Vistula River. Finish the day with a candlelit dinner in Kazimierz, where romantic restaurants and cosy wine bars set the mood.

👯‍♂️ Things to do for groups

Krakow's nightlife is buzzing! Head to Szpitalna 1 or Prozak 2.0 for a night of dancing, or join a pub crawl for a wild night out. During the day, why not rally the group for an escape room challenge? Krakow has some of the best in Europe!

🍽️ Things to do for foodies

Foodies, Krakow is your playground. Start with pierogis - Krakow’s best-known dish. Then hit the food markets in Kazimierz for a taste of local street food, and finish the day at Starka, a restaurant known for its traditional Polish cuisine. And of course, don’t leave without trying Polish vodka - it's practically a rite of passage!

Popular Krakow hotels

More Krakow hotels

Weather in Krakow

JAN

10^°C

FEB

12^°C

MAR

18^°C

APR

24^°C

MAY

28^°C

JUN

31^°C

JUL

32^°C

AUG

32^°C

SEP

27^°C

OCT

23^°C

NOV

17^°C

DEC

10^°C

Craving a city break with seasons that actually turn up on time? Krakow’s got you covered. Winter here acts like winter - temperatures dip below 0°C, the city wears a dusting of snow, and there’s no better excuse to sip on a steaming mug of grzaniec (Poland’s delicious answer to mulled wine). Snow angels optional, but recommended.

Spring in Krakow is when things start to defrost nicely. Expect mild days with temperatures hovering around 10-15°C — perfect for wandering the Old Town without freezing your fingers off. The city’s parks bloom back to life, and the café terraces fill up faster than you can say ‘coffee and cake’.

Summer is a sweet spot for sunshine lovers. Krakow heats up to a comfy 20-25°C - not scorching, but just right for city strolls, lazy lunches outdoors and a well-deserved ice cream (or three). Sun hats and sunglasses? Absolute must.

Then there’s autumn, rolling in with cosy vibes and temperatures between 5-10°C. It’s moody, colourful and a great excuse to layer up, grab a hot chocolate and explore Krakow’s storybook streets before winter returns for round two.

FAQs

The local currency used in Krakow is the Polish Zloty. It's as fun to pay with as it is to say.

The official language spoken in Krakow is Polish.

It takes around 2.5 hours to fly to Krakow from the UK, which is just enough time to get into your holiday playlist, or just have a kip before the fun starts.

The local time in Krakow is one hour ahead of the UK, so don't forget to alter your watch and electronic devices when you land, or you might be in for quite a confusing trip...

Kraków’s Christmas markets bring the cosy vibes and the culture – set in a stunning medieval square, it’s all twinkly lights, Polish pierogi, and folk music that’ll have you feeling festive in about five seconds flat. 🎶🥟

Krakow Christmas Market (Rynek Główny) (Estimated) - 28th November 2025 – 1st January 2026

Bath time

Keep the bath bombs at home for this one - we don't mean your regular rub-a-dub-dub in a tub action, we're talking about Krakow's thermal baths. AKA, a warm, outdoor pool where you can treat yourself to a relaxing soak. Head to Zakopane for the ultimate outdoor pamper - complete with thermal pools, whirlpool baths and even waterslides to keep the kiddos happy.

Put a lock in it

Have your main character moment on the Father Bernatek Footbridge, by adding a padlock to the railing and tossing the key into the river. It's supposed to be all romantic, with people usually leaving a padlock that's engraved with someone's initials. We're not sure about the tossing the key into the river part, though.

Head to Dragon's Den

You won't find Peter Jones and Deborah Meaden here, but you will find a 25-million-year-old cave (looks great for her age, mind you), with creepy crawl spaces, eerie caverns and a tour guide to give you all the juicy goss on exactly what went down here. Claustrophobes, you might wanna skip this one.

Burn off some Energylandia

This is the biggest amusement park in Poland, with rollercoasters that'll have your stomach doing flips and a kids' zone for the youngsters. There's also a waterpark if you prefer your rides to come with a splash at the end, and you can catch an acrobatic show if you'd rather sit still and observe. Everyone's a winner!

Confuse your Instagram followers at the Museum of Illusions

Krakil, the Museum of Illusions is the place to snap some unique pics on your trip. It's a quirky old mansion with a bunch of weird and hilarious photo ops, and there are staff dotted all over the place to fill you in on the historic meaning behind it all. Even the kids will love this one!

Flip Your Perspective at the Upside Down House

Ever wondered what it's like to defy gravity? (We see you, Elpheba) Step into Krakow's Upside Down House, where the world is literally turned on its head. Walk on ceilings, sit on floating chairs, and capture mind-bending photos that'll leave your Insta followers doing double-takes. It's a quirky, interactive experience that's perfect for families, friends, and anyone looking to add a twist to their Krakow holidays.

What events can I go to in Krakow?
Krakow’s calendar is like a buffet of festivals and events – there's something for every craving! Here's the lowdown on what's cracking (or Krakowing) throughout the year:
- Days of Commedia dell’Arte (February/March) – step into a world of masked mischief and slapstick fun as Krakow celebrates classic Italian comedy theatre. Expect larger-than-life characters, hilarious performances, and workshops that let you unleash your inner trickster. It’s like a history lesson, but way more entertaining.
- Krakow Film Festival (May/June) - a cinematic feast where you can binge-watch everything from indie flicks to documentaries. Just because you're on your Krakow holidays, doesn't mean you can't enjoy a film or two.
- Wianki - Fête de la Musique (June) - music and wreaths on the summer solstice, because why not? It's like a Midsummer Night's Dream, but you're actually awake.
- Dragon Parade (June) - what it says on the tin - a parade where dragons take over the city. It's like Game of Thrones, but family-friendly and without the drama.
- Cultural Night (June) - when the city turns into a 24-hour cultural party. Who needs sleep when there’s art to see and music to hear?
- Pierogi Festival (August) - celebrate Poland's favourite dumpling! It's a carb-lover's paradise, with more fillings than you knew existed. Food coma? Worth it.
- Krakow Live Festival (August) - music-lovers, assemble! With big names and electric vibes, it’s like Coachella, but with more pierogi and less desert.
- Krakow Jazz Autumn (October/November) - get jazzy with it as the city swings to the rhythm of saxophones and double basses.
- All Saints' Day (November) - not the girl group in this case. Think candlelit cemeteries and a sea of lights, turning remembrance into something magical.
- Christmas Markets (December) - fairy lights, mulled wine, and enough festive cheer to power Santa’s sleigh. It's like walking into a Christmas card.
Where's the best nightlife in Krakow?
Alright, let's talk Krakow holidays after dark – where the fun doesn’t stop and every corner has a story (...or a shot). Check out these spots for pure party vibes:
- Alchemia - it's like your cool, slightly eccentric aunt’s living room turned bar, smack dab in the middle of Kazimierz. Perfect for a chill night with live tunes that’ll have you tapping your feet.
- Wodka Cafe Bar - this cosy joint's like a vodka rainbow exploded in the most chill way possible. Great for a 'let's try every flavour' challenge.
- Frantic Club - if you're into thumping beats and dancing like nobody’s watching (even though everyone is...), this is your jam.
- Prozak 2.0 - underground? Literally. It's all about the bass that you feel in your bones and a crowd that's all in for a good time.
- Szklanki – a vibrant rooftop experience with a rotating selection of craft beers and a conservatory-style setting brimming with greenery; the perfect spot to sip and socialise under the stars.
- Piękny Pies - a bit gritty, a bit hip, and a whole lot of fun. It's the spot where you're bound to make new besties.
- Mercy Brown Dive Bar - sneak into this speakeasy for some seriously fancy cocktails. It's like Gatsby’s party, but in modern Krakow.
- Harris Piano Jazz Bar - smooth jazz, smoother drinks. It’s the classy corner of Krakow where you can pretend you know a thing or two about jazz.
- BaniaLuka - cheap drinks and a no-frills good time. It’s the go-to for laughs, chatter, and the “I’m not spending much tonight” crowd (yeah, right...).
What's the food like in Krakow?
Get ready to tuck into Krakow's culinary scene – it's like a hearty hug on a plate, Polish style! Here's what to munch on while you're there:
- Pierogi – Polish dumpling royalty. Stuffed with everything from potatoes and cheese to fruit. Just trust us on this one.
- Żurek – this sour rye soup is a flavour bomb. It’s served in a bread bowl because, let's be honest, everything's better when you can eat the bowl.
- Bigos – known as Hunter's Stew, it’s a mix of sauerkraut, meat, and a whole lot of love. It's like a stew that's been to the gym – buff and hearty.
- Kielbasa – Polish sausage that’s so much more than just sausage. Grill it, fry it, love it – it’s the versatile meaty treat of your dreams.
- Oscypek – smoky cheese from the Tatra Mountains. It’s like regular cheese decided to go on an adventure.
- Kotlet Schabowy – a breaded pork cutlet that’s giving schnitzel some serious competition. Crunchy, meaty, and oh-so-satisfying.
- Zapiekanka – imagine a baguette, topped with mushrooms, cheese, and a whole lot of toppings, then toasted to perfection. It’s street food that’s basically a pizza sandwich. Genius, right?
- Pączki – these Polish doughnuts are little rounds of joy filled with jam or cream and dusted with sugar. They're like a hug for your sweet tooth.
So we've dished up (we wish we meant literally) all the delish eats to have on your radar, but how about where to head to actually eat some of 'em? Well, keep reading, we've got all the hottest spots to try on your holidays to Krakow below:
- Pod Aniołami – tucked away in a historic cellar right off the Royal Route, Pod Aniołami dishes up hearty Polish classics with a medieval twist. Think wild boar, pierogi and mead served in a candlelit, rustic setting. Perfect for living out your old-world fairytale foodie dreams.
- Szara Gęś – overlooking Krakow’s iconic Main Square, Szara Gęś brings modern Polish fine dining to the heart of the city. The menu champions local, seasonal produce with an elegant flair - order the goose and thank us later. It’s your go-to for a romantic dinner with a view of St. Mary’s Basilica twinkling at night.
- Café Camelot - this quirky little spot feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Candlelit tables, eclectic decor, and a menu that's comfort food meets artsy vibes. Their cheesecake is legendary, and the whole place has that cosy, romantic energy that's perfect for date night.
- Bottiglieria 1881 – if you want bragging rights, snag a table at Krakow’s first Michelin-starred restaurant. Hidden in a quiet street near Kazimierz, Bottiglieria 1881 serves up seasonal tasting menus paired with top-tier Polish and European wines. It’s an intimate spot where every plate is a work of art.
- Fiorentina – right by Wawel Castle, Fiorentina blends Polish culinary traditions with a dash of modern European flair. The star of the show? The perfectly cooked dry-aged steaks and melt-in-your-mouth beef tartare.
- Karakter – meat lovers, rejoice! Karakter is all about nose-to-tail dining with a gourmet twist. Think beef cheeks with bone marrow, wild game and unusual cuts you won’t find just anywhere. It’s bold, it’s fun, and it’s a firm favourite among Krakow’s in-the-know locals.
- Lokator - hidden in Kazimierz, this intimate spot serves up creative Polish dishes that'll make your Insta followers well-jel. The tasting menu is a top-tier journey through Polish flavours with a contemporary edge.
- Charlotte Chleb i Wino - part bakery, part wine bar, all delicious. Perfect for when you can't decide between carbs and booze – spoiler alert, you can have both! Their sourdough is artisan level (ooh la la), and the wine selection is spot on.

Places to visit

Planty Park
Once you get past the whole it sounds like a toddler named a park thing, this place has gotta be bumped near the top of your Krakow holidays bucket list. It's one of the biggest parks in Krakow and gives Central Park a run for its money, minus the skyscrapers and overpriced pretzels. This place was once the moats, walls and towers that acted as the city's defence, but today it's a pretty stroll space full of winding paths, flowerbeds and fountains. It's a welcome bit of peace and quiet away from the tourist buzz. Don't forget to keep an eye out for squirrels!
Wawel Royal Castle
You're about to step into Krakow's own version of a royal soap opera. Not to sound like an M&S ad, but this isn't just a castle - it's a mash-up of centuries of juicy history, grand kings...and maybe a dragon tale or two. Wander through fancy halls and check out the crown jewels that'll make your bling look a bit...well, bland. Plus, the views? Let's just say they're more Insta-worthy than your favourite influencer's feed. It's like stepping into a time machine, but with way better interior design. Royal selfies, anyone?
Market Square
Krakow's Market Square is like the ultimate people-watching spot, but with a side of medieval architecture. Fancy a spot of shopping? The Cloth Hall’s got souvenirs that scream 'I’ve been to Krakow and got you this'. Hungry? The surrounding cafés serve up pierogi that'll make you forget all about your diet. And those street performers? They’re Krakow’s free entertainment, ranging from 'wow' to 'what the...?'. Plus, the pigeons here are practically celebrities – but maybe don’t ask for an autograph.

We'd recommend checking with your healthcare provider for all up-to-date vaccination advice before booking your holiday.

No, you won't need to pay any tourist tax on your holiday to Krakow.

If you're visiting for less than 90 days, then you don't need a visa to visit Krakow, or anywhere in the Schengen area.

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Krakow Holidays

Enjoy our lowest-priced travel months!

Destination highlights

🎉 3 Fun Facts About Krakow You Didn’t Know

💬 Local Lingo

🚗 Getting Around on your Krakow holidays 2025 / 2026

What are the best sights to see on your holidays to Krakow?

What are the top hotels to stay at on your Krakow holidays?

Holidays to Krakow at Christmas = Pure Festive Magic

Your Krakow holidays 2025 / 2026 travel guide

👨‍👩‍👦 Things to do for families

💑 Things to do for couples

👯‍♂️ Things to do for groups

🍽️ Things to do for foodies

Popular Krakow hotels

Weather in Krakow

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

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FAQs

What currency do they use in Krakow?

What language do they speak in Krakow?

How long does it take to fly to Krakow?

What's the time difference between the UK and Krakow?

Where will the Krakow Christmas Markets 2025 be held?

Bath time

Put a lock in it

Head to Dragon's Den

Burn off some Energylandia

Confuse your Instagram followers at the Museum of Illusions

Flip Your Perspective at the Upside Down House

What events can I go to in Krakow?

Where's the best nightlife in Krakow?

What's the food like in Krakow?

Places to visit

Planty Park

Wawel Royal Castle

Market Square

Key facts about Krakow

Flight Time

2.5 hrs

Time Difference

+1 hr

Currency

Polish Zloty

Language

Polish

Do I need any vaccinations to visit Krakow?

Do I need to pay tax on my holiday to Krakow?

Do I need a visa to visit Krakow?