Krakow-5-day-itinerary

Krakow 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Old Town Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Krakow John Paul II International Airport (KRK) and take a taxi or bus (208, 292, or 902) to your accommodation.
  • Accommodation: Stay in the Old Town area, close to the Main Market Square. Recommended hotels include:
    • Hotel Pod Różą (4-star)
    • Hotel Wentzl (3-star)
  • Lunch: Try traditional Polish cuisine at Kuchnia u Doroty or Pod Aniołami.
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the iconic Wawel Castle and Cathedral (free admission, but some exhibitions require tickets)
    • Explore the charming streets of Old Town, including Floriańska Street and Grodzka Street
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Polish dinner at Restauracja Gessler or Miód Malina.
  • Transportation: Walking is the best way to explore Old Town. For longer distances, use public transportation (trams and buses) or taxis.
  • Tips:
    • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions
    • Try to avoid visiting during peak season (June-August)

Day 2: Jewish Quarter and Schindler’s Factory

  • Morning: Visit the Schindler’s Factory Museum ( tickets: 21 PLN / ~5 EUR)
  • Lunch: Head to the trendy Kazimierz district and try some street food at Targowisko Kazimierskie or grab a bite at Miejscówka.
  • Afternoon:
    • Explore the historic Jewish Quarter, including Szeroka Street and the Remuh Synagogue
    • Visit the Galicia Jewish Museum (free admission)
  • Evening: Enjoy a drink at one of the many bars in Kazimierz, such as Alibi Bar or Pierwszy Lokal.
  • Transportation: Use public transportation (trams and buses) or taxis to get between Old Town and Kazimierz.

Day 3: Wieliczka Salt Mines and Bonerowski Palace

  • Morning: Take a guided tour of the Wieliczka Salt Mines (tickets: 89 PLN / ~22 EUR)
  • Lunch: Grab some food at one of the many restaurants near the salt mines, such as Restauracja Wieliczka.
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the beautiful Bonerowski Palace (free admission)
    • Take a stroll along the Vistula River and enjoy the city views
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Restauracja Pod Baranem, serving traditional Polish cuisine.
  • Transportation: Use public transportation (trams and buses) or taxis to get between Krakow and Wieliczka.

Day 4: Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum

  • Morning: Take a guided tour of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum (tickets: 45 PLN / ~11 EUR)
  • Lunch: Grab some food at one of the many restaurants near the museum, such as Restauracja Auschwitz.
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the nearby town of Oświęcim (free admission)
    • Take a moment to reflect on the tragic history of the site
  • Evening: Return to Krakow and enjoy dinner at Restauracja Klimaty, serving modern Polish cuisine.
  • Transportation: Use public transportation (trains and buses) or book a guided tour that includes transportation.

Day 5: Royal Route and Departure

  • Morning:
    • Walk along the Royal Route, starting from Wawel Castle
    • Visit the Cloth Hall (free admission)
  • Lunch: Grab some food at one of the many cafes near the Main Market Square.
  • Afternoon:
  • Evening: Depart from Krakow John Paul II International Airport.

Additional Tips and Information

  • Language: Polish is the official language, but many locals speak English. You can also use Google Translate to help with communication.
  • Currency: The Polish złoty (PLN) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are available throughout the city.
  • Safety: Krakow is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
  • Weather: Krakow has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Be prepared for rain and cooler temperatures in spring and autumn.

This itinerary should give you a good taste of Krakow’s history, culture, and beauty. Enjoy your trip!