Things to do in Krakow: attractions & sightseeing

Top 20 Kraków sights, places to visit & what to do in Krakow Poland

What to do in Krakow and Poland? Top 20 Sights Kraków, an overview of tourist attractions, highlights and activities. What are the places to visit in and around Krakow?

Top 20 Best things to do in Krakow - Attractions & Landmarks

The Polish city of Krakow (Kraków) has a lot of character and is known for its many colors, museums and painful history in the Second World War, but the city also has beautiful buildings that ensure that you will have no problems enjoying yourself for a couple of days in Krakow. During your visit to the most beautiful city in Poland, it is useful to check our top 20 of the best Krakow tourist attractions, activities, highlights and sightseeing, so that you won't miss anything during your city trip. Click on one of these highlights for more information about these unique Things to do in Krakow Poland. What to do in Krakow city:

1. Rynek Główny: Main Square with the Cloth Hall

^{Rynek Główny, or Krakow's Main Market Square}

^{Carriage on the central square of Krakow Poland}

Rynek Główny, or the Krakow Main Market, is the main square and is considered one of the most beautiful medieval squares in Europe. The square dates back to the 13th century and one of the most prominent buildings on the Main Market Square is the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), which originally served as a marketplace for textile merchants. The Cloth Hall is a beautiful example of Renaissance architecture and was rebuilt in the 16th century after a fire. Today, the building houses a museum and several craft shops where visitors can buy souvenirs and local products. The square is surrounded by numerous historical buildings, churches and townhouses, each with their own unique architectural styles and stories. The square is bustling with activity with street musicians, market stalls, cafés and restaurants. Events such as concerts, festivals and parades are held here regularly, adding to the lively and dynamic atmosphere. Other major attractions on and around the square:

• St. Mary's Church (Kościół Mariacki): This impressive Gothic church on the edge of the square is known for its beautiful altar, made by Veit Stoss, and the Hejnał, a trumpet signal played every hour from the church tower (entrance 15 Zloty).
• Town Hall Tower (Wieża Ratuszowa): This remnant of the old town hall offers a beautiful view of the square and the city. For 18 Zloty you can climb the tower or it is included in the Krakow Card.
• Adam Mickiewicz Monument: This statue, dedicated to the famous Polish poet Adam Mickiewicz, is a popular meeting point.
• Rynek Underground Museum: This underground museum near the Cloth Hall takes you on a fascinating journey through Krakow's history, with archaeological finds and interactive exhibits (book Rynek Underground Tour or included in the Krakow Card).

2. Wawel Castle and Cathedral

^{The Wawel Cathedral}

^{Entrance to Wawel Castle}

Both Wawel Castle and Wawel Cathedral, located on the Wawel Hill, are among the main tourist attractions in Kraków. Wawel Castle, a magnificent example of Renaissance architecture, served as the residence of the Polish kings for centuries. Built in the 14th century under the reign of Casimir III the Great, the castle was expanded and renovated over the centuries, integrating different architectural styles. The castle complex houses museums with extensive collections of art, furniture, weapons and historical objects. One of the most impressive halls is the King's Hall, where you can admire the famous Flemish tapestries. In addition, there is the Treasury and Armoury, which exhibits valuable royal insignia and medieval weapons.

The Wawel Cathedral, officially the Cathedral of St. Stanislaus and St. Wenceslas, is the highlight of Wawel Hill. This Gothic cathedral is over 900 years old and has served as the coronation place of almost all Polish kings. The interior of the cathedral is richly decorated with Baroque chapels, royal tombs and religious artworks. One of its most notable features is the Zygmunt Bell, one of the largest church bells in Poland.

• Entrance to the cathedral is 23 Zloty (this is the most beautiful part of Wawel and you can buy tickets on site)
• Only the castle courtyard can be visited for free. For the castle, you can book various guided tours via the official website to visit, for example, the royal apartments, the state rooms or the royal treasures. The disadvantage is that you will have to book different guided tours for each part of the castle. Sometimes tickets can also be purchased on the day itself at the castle ticket office.
• Tip: You can also book this guided tour which visits both the cathedral and part of the castle

3. Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory

^{Attractions in Krakow: Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory}

^{What to do in Krakow: Schindler's Factory Museum}

The much-visited Oskar Schindlers Enamel Factory is a historic site made famous by the film "Schindler's List". During World War II, Schindler used the factory to save over 1,200 Jewish workers from the Holocaust by registering them as essential workers. Today the factory is a museum, the "Schindler's Factory Museum" (book your tickets) and offers an insight into life during the German occupation of Krakow, Schindler's efforts to save lives, and the history of the Jewish community. Through exhibitions, personal stories and artifacts, the museum offers a glimpse into this dark history. More info 'Oskar Schindler's Factory'.

4. Must See: St. Mary's Church

^{The St. Mary's Church of Kraków city center}

^{The beautiful roof of the church}

St. Mary's Basilica (Kościół Mariacki) in Kraków is a beautiful Gothic church located on the Main Market Square. Built in the 14th century, the church is famous for its impressive interior, especially the high altar, masterfully carved by Veit Stoss. This altar, one of the largest Gothic retables in the world, depicts scenes from the life of Mary and is a gem of medieval art. Another feature of St. Mary's Basilica is the Hejnał, a traditional trumpet tune played every hour from the highest tower in memory of the fallen trumpeter who warned the city of an enemy attack in the Middle Ages (entrance 15 zloty).

5. Excursion Auschwitz & Birkenau

^{An excursion from Krakow to Auschwitz}

^{Visiting Auschwitz and Birkenau}

A tour to Auschwitz-Birkenau offers a compelling and sobering glimpse into the horrors of the Holocaust. Located 70 kilometers from Krakow, Auschwitz I and the larger Birkenau (Auschwitz II) were the most notorious Nazi concentration and extermination camps. During the tour, visitors will visit the barracks, crematoriums and the famous gate with the inscription "Arbeit macht frei". Guides will provide detailed explanations of the history of the camps, the living conditions of the prisoners and the systematic extermination of more than a million people, mainly Jews. The visit is emotionally heavy, but offers important insights and moments of remembrance. Auschwitz and Birkenau are now a museum and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, serving as a powerful reminder of this dark period in history.

6. Kazimierz, Jewish Quarter of Krakow

^{Kazimierz, Jewish Quarter of Krakow}

^{Kazimierz, a district full of synagogues}

Kazimierz, the historic Jewish Quarter of Kraków, is a district full of culture and history. Located southeast of the Old Town, it was the center of Jewish life in Kraków for centuries. The district is home to many synagogues, such as the Old Synagogue (the oldest in Poland, also included in the Krakow Card), the much-visited Remuh Synagogue and the New Jewish Cemetery. The Isaac Synagogue and the Tempel Synagogue can also be visited. Kazimierz is also known for its atmospheric streets such as Szeroka and Józefa, full of Klezmer cafés, art galleries and antique shops.

Furthermore, visit the Galicia Jewish Museum (more info & tickets), which features exhibitions on the Jewish heritage and the Holocaust. Plac Nowy, a lively square, is famous for its market and street food, including the famous zapiekanka, but the rest of the district is also packed with atmospheric restaurants and bars. You might also want to pop into the beautiful Corpus Christi Basilica that towers over the district. Prefer to discover the district’s hidden gems with a guide? Then book a Jewish Quarter and Ghetto Tour.

7. Discover Krakow with a bike tour

^{Discover Krakow with a bike tour}

^{The Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz during a bike tour}

Recommended! A bicycle tour is the ideal way to discover the city. With this bike tour you cycle past the most important sights such as the Main Market Square, St. Mary's Basilica and the Cloth Hall. You will also cycle through the historic Kazimierz district, where you can admire the old Jewish synagogues and cozy streets

The tour takes you to Wawel Hill, where the majestic Wawel Castle and Wawel Cathedral are located. A guide will provide interesting explanations about Krakow's history and sights along the way. The Bike Tour of Old Town, Jewish Quarter and the Ghetto is the perfect activity for your first day in Krakow.

Book your bike tour

8. Barbican and the old city wall

^{Sightseeing: Barbican of Krakow}

^{The main city gate is the Floriansgate}

The Barbican of Kraków is a medieval defensive structure that once served as an entrance to the city. Built in the 15th century, this round fortress is surrounded by a moat and offers fascinating views of the Old Town (included in the Krakow Card). The nearby Old Town Wall, which originally protected the city, is also an important historical monument. One of the main city gates is the Florians Gate (Brama Floriańska), which gives access to the Old Town. This gate is decorated with beautiful Gothic details and is a popular place to buy souvenirs.

9. Musical Clock of Collegium Maius

^{The special clock of Collegium Maius}

^{Things to do in Krakow: tour of the university}

Collegium Maius is the oldest building of the Jagiellonian University in Kraków, dating back to the 15th century. This magnificent example of Gothic architecture now houses a museum showcasing the rich history of the university and its influence on Polish culture. Visitors can stroll through the elegant courtyard or take a guided tour (booking via official website) to admire the impressive rooms, including scientific instruments. Collegium Maius is also famous for the story of the legendary medieval astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus, who studied here. The highlight is the Collegium Maius Clock in the courtyard, which plays the university song five times a day (at 9am, 11am, 1pm, 3pm and 5pm).

10. Places to visit: Krakow Ghetto

^{Krakow Monuments: The Ghetto Square}

^{Piece of wall in the ghetto}

The Kraków Ghetto, established by the Nazis in March 1941, was one of many ghettos during the Holocaust. Located in the Podgórze district, approximately 15,000 Jews were forced to live in a small area under appalling conditions. Several places in the district still serve as reminders of this horrific period. The Plac Bohaterów Getta (Ghetto Heroes Square) served as a central square, where transports to concentration camps took place. Major sights include the Apteka pod Orłem (Eagle's Pharmacy, included in the Krakow Card), which is now a museum, and the remains of the ghetto wall, which resemble gravestones. The famous Schindler's Enamel Factory (book your tickets), just outside the ghetto, commemorates Oskar Schindler's efforts to save Jewish lives.

11. Excursion to Wieliczka Salt Mine

^{The beautiful salt chapel of the salt mine}

^{Must see tourist attractions: the Wieliczka Salt Mine}

A tour to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, located 14 kilometers from Krakow, is an unforgettable experience. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its impressive underground tunnels, chambers and sculptures, all carved from salt. During the guided tour, which lasts over 2 hours, you will explore the beautiful salt chapels, with intricate religious statues and ornaments. You will walk 2.2 kilometers of underground passages. Excursions from Krakow often include transportation and an experienced guide who will tell you more about the history and fascinations of the mine.

• Warning: The Wieliczka Salt Mine in Poland receives around 1.7 million visitors each year, so it's highly recommended to book your tour in advance.
• If you are travelling with several people, it may be cheaper to book only the tour and arrange a taxi from Krakow yourself (e.g. via the Bolt taxi app).
• Choose from one of the following three options to visit the salt mine:

12. Planty Park, Krakow's green belt

^{Planty Park, Krakow's green belt}

^{A park with various monuments}

Planty Park is a beautiful green park, approximately 4 kilometres long, built on the site of the old city walls that were demolished in the 19th century. Planty Park is an ideal place to walk, cycle or simply relax among lush trees and colourful flowers. Along the park are several historical Krakow attractions, including the Barbican, Floriansgate and various monuments. The park also offers plenty of seating areas and cafés.

13. Sightseeing: Czartoryski Museum

^{Czartoryski Museum}

^{Impression of the museum}

The Czartoryski Museum, founded in 1800, is one of the oldest museums in Poland. The small museum houses an impressive collection of art and historical artifacts, including famous works such as Leonardo da Vinci's "Lady with an Ermine" and Raphael's "Virgin and Child." The exhibits include paintings, sculptures, furniture and weapons, reflecting Poland's rich history and culture. The museum is housed in a beautiful neoclassical building on Szewska Street (entrance fee 65 Zloty or included in the Krakow Card).

14. Communist district of Nowa Huta

^{Communist district of Nowa Huta}

^{An old tank in Nowa Huta}

Nowa Huta is a unique district of Kraków, designed in the 1950s as a model communist city. Originally intended as an industrial and working-class community, it is known for its bold architectural style and wide boulevards. It was built around the Lenin Steelworks, which was important to the Polish economy. Nowa Huta offers an interesting contrast to Kraków’s historic core, with notable buildings such as St. Raphael’s Church and the centrally located Lenin Square. Visitors can learn more about the communist history at the Nowa Huta Museum or on a guided walking tour (personal experience: without the communist stories and details from a guide, I don't think the district would make much of an impression). Some other original activities to explore Nowa Huta:

15. More beautiful churches

^{The Bazylika Franciszkanów in Kraków}

^{Church of St. Peter and St. Paul}

Kraków is a very religious city with around 130 different churches. Besides the famous St. Mary's Church and Wawel Cathedral, these are some special churches to visit in Krakow city center:

• Bazylika Franciszkanów: Built in the 13th century, the Bazylika Franciszkanów is a beautiful example of the Gothic and neo-Gothic style. The colorful interior is famous for its breathtaking stained glass windows and the impressive altar, designed by the Polish artist Stanisław Wyspiański.
• Church of St. Peter and St. Paul: Completed in the 17th century, the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul is a Baroque masterpiece with a beautiful façade and imposing statues of the apostles. In the evening you can attend a classical concert here.
• The St. Anne's Church is a beautiful baroque church from the 17th century. Built by the Dutch architect Tylman van Gameren, the church is known for its rich interior, impressive frescoes and elegant facade.

16. Original things to do in Krakow

In Krakow, enjoy an intimate Chopin concert at the Chopin Concert Hall (more info and bookings), where the enchanting music of the famous Polish composer comes to life. Take a relaxing boat cruise on the Vistula River, past the majestic Wawel Castle and admire the cityscape from the water. For a touch of tradition, catch this traditional Polish Folk Show, where colorful costumes and lively music come together for an energetic performance. Looking for something a little more exciting? Visit a shooting range to practice firing a variety of firearms under the guidance of experienced instructors for a unique, adrenaline-filled experience in this historic city.

17. Polish Aviation Museum

The Polish Aviation Museum in Kraków, located on the former Rakowice-Czyżyny military airport, is a museum with an impressive collection of over 200 aircraft, helicopters and aviation-related artefacts, including historical aircraft from the First and Second World Wars. Visitors can get up close to iconic aircraft, such as the legendary MiG-15 and the Polish Lisunov Li-2. The museum also offers exhibitions on the history of aviation in Poland and the development of aviation technology (more info and tickdets or included in the Krakow Card).

18. What to see in Krakow: more museums

^{Muzeum Inżynierii i Techniki}

^{National Museum of Krakow}

Krakow is a city with many interesting and diverse museums. Here is a comprehensive list of the most visited museums in the city:

• The MNK Muzeum Narodowe w Krakowie, or the National Museum of Krakow, is one of the largest museums in Poland. It houses an extensive collection of Polish and European art, from medieval to modern works. Highlights include paintings by artists such as Leonardo da Vinci and Stanisław Wyspiański (included in the Krakow Card).
• The Muzeum Inżynierii i Techniki in the Kazimierz district, also known as the Museum of Engineering, highlights the history of technology and engineering in Poland. With interactive exhibits, models, vintage trams and historical machinery, the museum offers a fascinating insight into innovations and inventions.
• Muzeum Krakova on Ulica Pomorska: a small museum that highlights the history and culture of Krakow and its people. The museum offers a variety of exhibitions, ranging from historical artifacts to modern art. The museum is housed in a former Gestapo building that still has several torture chambers (included in Krakow Card).
• MOCAK, the Museum of Contemporary Art in Krakow, is dedicated to modern art and provides a platform for current and experimental works of art. The museum hosts various exhibitions by both Polish and international artists (included in Krakow Card).
• The Museum of the Kata Kacianora is dedicated to the history of punishment and the role of the executioner in medieval society. The 'torture museum' offers insight into the legal and social aspects of punishment with exhibits on torture and justice.
• The Be Happy Museum is an interactive museum that focuses on happiness and positive experiences. Visitors can explore a variety of colorful and playful exhibits, including optical illusions and photo opportunities. The museum encourages visitors to be creative and capture their happy moments in a cheerful environment.
• At the Museum of Illusions, visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits, optical illusions and 3D artworks that trick the senses. The museum is perfect for fun photos and provides an unforgettable experience for both children and adults.
• The Krakow Arcade Museum is a nostalgic museum dedicated to classic arcade and video games. Visitors can play iconic games from the 80s and 90s, such as Pac-Man and Donkey Kong (more info & tickets).
• Bricks & Figs is a museum aimed at LEGO enthusiasts. Visitors can admire impressive displays of LEGO constructions and get hands-on with building projects (more info & tickets).
• The Pinball Museum is a unique attraction where visitors can explore the history of pinball. With a collection of dozens of vintage and modern pinball machines, guests can play and enjoy the nostalgia of these classic games.
• Womai, Into the Darkness is a unique experience where visitors find themselves in a completely dark environment, led by blind guides. This sensory tour offers an in-depth exploration of the world of visual impairment and encourages participants to use their other senses.
• The Stained Glass Museum (Muzeum Witrażu) is dedicated to the art of stained glass. Visitors can discover the production process of this beautiful art form and enjoy impressive stained glass windows.

19. Kościuszko Mound

The Kościuszko Mound is a historical and symbolic mound dedicated to Tadeusz Kościuszko, a national hero of Poland and a fighter of freedom and equality. Built between 1820 and 1823, the mound offers the best panoramic view of the city and the surrounding region. The mound itself is inspired by prehistoric burial mounds and symbolizes respect and reverence for Kościuszko’s contribution to Polish identity. It's 34 metres tall and is surrounded by a 19th-century fortress (more info and tickets). The easiest way to reach the mound, located a few kilometres from the city centre, is by a short taxi ride. Tip: For taxis, use the Bolt app in Krakow.

^{Kościuszko Mount as a tribute to a national hero}

^{Boat trip along the Tyniec Monastery}

20. More things to do around Krakow

In addition to Auschwitz and the salt mines, there are several worthwhile day trips from Krakow. Zakopane, located in the Tatra Mountains, offers beautiful hiking trails and thermal baths. Wadowice, the birthplace of Pope John Paul II, is a historic town where you can visit his former home and museum. For a day of fun, Energylandia is a great choice. Poland’s largest amusement park offers a variety of rides, from roller coasters to water parks, suitable for all ages. With this boat trip you can also go to the Tyniec Monastery, a historic Benedictine monastery on the Vistula River just outside Krakow. Read more about the 5 Best Day Trips from Krakow.