Krakow Holidays

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

Holidays to Krakow 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.

When is the best time to visit Krakow?

Krakow is a rare "all-season" beauty. While summer (June–August) hits a lovely 24°C, it’s also when the crowds are thickest, so bear that in mind when you're booking your next holiday. The rest of the year is still a vibe as long as you know what temps your working with:

• Spring/Autumn - perfect for city breaks. May and September see temps around 15-18°C - ideal for walking without breaking a sweat.

• Winter - December is magic. It gets chilly (average -1°C), but the Christmas markets and UNESCO-listed nativity scenes make it worth the extra layers.

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.

Best Day Trips on your Krakow holidays

Krakow is amazing, but if you fancy a change of scenery, you’ve got some world-class spots just a short drive away. Whether you want to reflect on history, go underground, or scream your head off on a rollercoaster, these day trips are 100% worth the travel time.

• Auschwitz-Birkenau - a sobering but essential visit to the former concentration camp - it’s a deeply moving experience that stays with you forever.

• Wieliczka Salt Mine - descend hundreds of metres underground to see chandeliers and chapels carved entirely from salt - honestly, it’s mind-blowing stuff.

• Zakopane - head to the "Winter Capital" in the Tatra Mountains for stunning views, wooden cottages, and smoked cheese that tastes like heaven.

• Energylandia - the biggest theme park in Poland with Europe’s tallest rollercoasters - perfect if you want to swap culture for pure adrenaline.

• Zakrzówek "Blue Lagoon" - a former quarry turned swimming spot with water so blue it looks like Croatia - an absolute gorge spot for a summer dip.

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

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.

Krakow holidays: Travel guide for UK holidaymakers

Is Krakow good for a family holiday?

Krakow is surprisingly kid-friendly, balancing medieval magic with plenty of space to run around - a perfect pick for your next family holiday.

• Visit the Wawel Dragon - head to the Dragon’s Den (Smocza Jama) beneath the castle. The bronze statue at the exit breathes real fire every few minutes - a guaranteed winner for toddlers and teens alike.

• Krakow Zoo - located in the Wolski Forest, this zoo is home to over 1,400 animals. It’s a great shout for a full day out, especially if you take the scenic bus ride through the woods to get there.

• Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides - you’ll find these "fairy tale" carriages lined up in the Main Market Square. It’s a classic Krakow experience that gives little legs a rest while you soak up the architecture.

What are the most romantic things to do in Krakow for couples?

With its winding cobblestone streets and candlelit cellars, Krakow is basically a giant date night waiting to happen.

• Sunset Strolls by the Vistula - walk the riverside paths at dusk for the best views of the castle reflecting in the water.

• The Botanical Garden - escape the city buzz in Poland’s oldest botanical garden. It’s packed with exotic greenhouses and quiet benches - perfect for a bit of "we-time."

• Atmospheric Dining in Kazimierz - this district is the heart of Krakow’s romantic scene. We recommend booking a table at Starka for traditional flavours and homemade vodka, or finding a tucked-away wine bar in a hidden courtyard.

What is there to do in Krakow for groups and stag/hen dos?

Krakow is a heavy-hitter for groups, offering high-octane days and legendary nights without the eye-watering price tag of London or Paris.

• World-Class Nightlife - start your night in the basement bars of the Old Town. Prozak 2.0 and Szpitalna 1 are the go-to spots for groups who want to dance until the sun comes up.

• Pub Crawls - if you don't want to worry about the guest list, join an organised pub crawl. It’s the easiest way to hit the best "hidden" bars while meeting other travellers.

• Escape Room Challenges - Krakow has earned a reputation for having some of the most immersive escape rooms in Europe. It’s the perfect hungover-friendly activity to test your group's teamwork (or patience).

What should I eat and drink in Krakow?

Forget the diet; Polish food is pure soul-warming comfort... Don't believe us? Try it for yourself, we'll wait.

• Zapiekanka - the ultimate street food. It’s an open-faced baguette topped with sautéed mushrooms and cheese - head to Plac Nowy in Kazimierz for the best ones.

• Pierogi - these dumplings come with everything from "Ruskie" (cheese and potato) to sweet fruit fillings.

• Żurek - a sour rye soup often served inside a hollowed-out loaf of bread. It’s a meal and a bowl all in one.

• Jewish Mezze - in Kazimierz, try a spread of hummus, falafel, and Israeli salads for a break from the heavier meat dishes.

Where can I shop in Krakow on a budget?

Krakow is a dream for shoppers, whether you’re hunting for vintage treasures or high-street hauls.

• The Bargain Hunter (Plac Targowy Unitarg) - a massive flea market where you can find anything from Soviet memorabilia to fresh local produce.

• The High Street Hero (Galeria Krakowska) - right next to the main train station, this giant mall has over 270 shops including all your favorite international brands.

• The Big Spender (Rynek 13) - a beautiful historic building housing high-end designer boutiques and a luxury delicatessen.

Getting Around on your Krakow holidays

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

• 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.

• Is the Kraków tram and bus system easy to use? - In a word: yes. Trams and buses run from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM. You can buy tickets at kiosks or machines on board (most take card). Pro tip: If you have a Krakow Card, your travel is totally free.

• Can I take a ferry in Krakow? - during the summer, water trams run along the Vistula River. It’s less about getting from A to B and more about seeing the Wawel Castle from the water without having to dodge selfie sticks.