Krakow, Poland is a city that bustles with history, culture and soul. Alive from day to night, whether you are looking for the most historic church or the best jazz lounge in town, Krakow features countless cultural opportunities. 

These are the best historical spots you cannot miss and is best explored in a two to three day itinerary. Although you may want to see it all, some of the best moments in Krakow are when you lose yourself, wandering down an old alley way, wondering, "What should I do next?"  

St. Peter and Paul Church
In Poland, there is no lack of Catholic Churches. Built between 1597-1619, this is the biggest church in Krakow in terms of seating capacity. The Baroque Jesuit church is most known for its facade, containing the 12 apostles. The church was built shortly after the arrival of the Jesuits to defend the Catholic faith after signing the Council of Trident.

Between St. Peter and Paul Church and Market Square, it is common to find elder locals playing musical instruments along Grodzka Street. 

Old Town Market Square
This is the area where most people congregate to, and once you lay eyes on the square you’ll know why. The grandiose square contains spirit of the past and the present. Small birds circle the cathedral and horse and carriage loop around the square. It is the largest medieval square in Europe, which dates back to 1257. St Mary’s Basilica is one of the most popular churches in town. 
 
Explore the 10th Century St. Adalbert Church, which is a mix of pre-Roman, Roman, Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance architecture. Explore what is left of Krakow Town Hall with its tower as the rest of the facility was demolished to open up the square. The 13th Century Town Hall Tower stands 70 meters, but leans 55 centimeters as a result of a storm in 1703. Two stone lions guard the tower, which were brought from the Classicist Palace. The tower climb is steep, but worth the view and the experience to understand life in the medieval days. 

During the holiday season, enjoy the Christmas Market in Market Square. This is the perfect place to discover affordable Polish cuisine. Be sure to check out Wierzynek, the oldest restaurant in town with roots dating back to 1364. 

Market Square also contains the Cloth Hall. The 14th Century Cloth Hall contains countless souvenir stands. Some claim cloth hall is the oldest “shopping mall” and the edifice dates to 1555. It's one of the best spots to purchase a souvenir.  

And while on the topic of shopping, be sure to explore the countless shops in town and in the Cloth Hall that contain the popular Polish Pottery. These hand painted pieces of ceramic are a popular Christmas gift and is known for its stylish kitchen tools. Discover everything from spoons to baking dishes to coffee mugs. 

One popular shops is Mila Polish Pottery located at: Sławkowska 14, 31-014 Kraków, Poland

Another popular traditional Polish relic are the amber jewelry. The handcrafted jewelry is expensive (according to backpacker standards) but is a notable symbol of Poland. ​

Krakow is also known for its bustling music scene. The Poles know how to party so there is no lack of techno clubs. But for the finer side of Polish culture, be sure to check out of the many jazz shows in town. You'll discover many jazz clubs in and around Market Square. 

The two places I recommend are Harris Piano Jazz Bar and Piwnica Pod Baranami. These two establishments are next to eachother, both located underground with exposed brick walls and quirky, historical art on the walls. 

On the corner of Florianska and Pijarska street is an outdoor painter's market called, Galeria obrazów pod Bramą Floriańską. Discover everything from landscapes to nature to dancers. The paintings are perched alongside an old stone wall and features art from over 100 artists. In operation for decades, this is the spot for an affordable canvas painting; however, they own a nearby shop that sells paintings with a frame, 

Wawel Castle
Built between the 13th and 14th Century, Wawel Castle is the most impressive landmark in the city. Fifty thousand years ago, people lived on Wawel Hill during the Paleolithic Age. In the early 16th Century, King Sigismund I the Old brought in some of the best native and foreign artists to create the castle you see today. Permanent exhibitions include the State Rooms, Oriental Art, The Lost Wawel, The Royal Private Apartments and the Crown Treasury and Armory. Don’t be in too much of a rush, and be sure to stop and smell the flowers. 

Wawel Cathedral 
Inside the Wawel Castle is the cathedral where visitors marvel and decadent artistry and architectural wonders of the 18 chapels. Most of the Polish King’s and their family members, along with the nation’s greatest heroes, bishops, two poets and four saints, are buried in the cathedral.

Kazimierz - Jewish Square
Located south of Old Town and between the Wisla River and Ul, the Jewish Quarter is a neighborhood not only for Jewish culture, but for Bohemian artists as well. Near the Jewish Square green space are countless Jewish Restaurants surrounded by five synagogues. 

The historical pavilion, Plac Nowy, is a popular antique market that contains a farmers market on the weekend. There are also countless antique shops in this district that are worth exploring.

I recommend visiting the tiny black and white shops, Galeria Lue Lue to discover old black and white images of historic Krakow and Poland. 

There are countless opportunities to discover Jewish culture and cuisine around Jewish Square. Admire the historic window fronts, hear live music or simply explore your pallate with Kosher and Traditional Polish Food. I recommend Jewish Restaurant, Arial. 

Discover more on 7 Authentic Polish Restaurants in Krakow, Poland (for Pierogies & Vegetarians too).  

Schindler’s Factory
The once World War II factory is now a historical museum. The factory housed the former Nazi industrialist who saved the lives of his Jewish workforce during the Holocaust. Guests will see Schindler’s desk intact to what it would look like during the war alongside with walls filled with plates, Nazi propaganda and photos of the factory workers.

​Nearby is the popular family-owned restaurant, Jadlodajnia Wczoraj i Dzis.  Discover more on 7 Authentic Polish Restaurants in Krakow, Poland (for Pierogies & Vegetarians too).

Jewish Ghetto
On March 3, 1941, the Nazi occupation created a dwelling place for Krakow Jews. Podgorze is the conception of the Jewish ghetto located on the right side of the Wisla River. The ghetto consisted of 15 streets and some 320 buildings and 3,200 rooms, completely walled off from the rest of the city. The ghetto's western edge, at Limanowskiego Street near Rynek Podgorski square was the main entrance gate to the ghetto along with another gate on Limanowskiego Street, which was solely for the entrance of German military trucks.

Jagiellonian University - Copernicus University and Museum
Take a walk into history at one of the oldest Universities in Europe, and the oldest University building in Poland with roots dating back to 1400. This historic college is the place where Copernicus did his studies and also experienced a downfall during the Nazi occupation of book burning and extermination of the professors. Take a tour inside the museum to discover countless artifacts, paintings and original astrological devices from the Copernicus era. 

If you have two to three days in Krakow, you can explore most of these areas, even if you do not enter some of the museums. However, to take your time in each district or museum, it is best to schedule three days. Luckily, Krakow is not that spread out so it is easy to walk from place to place. 

Let's Connect! 

This Lemon Tree article is now featured on GPSmyCity.  To download this article for offline reading or travel directions to the attractions highlighted in this article, go to A Traveler's Guide to the Best Cultural Spots in Krakow, Poland.

Krakow is one of my favorite European cities. Not only is the culture and architecture one-of-a-kind, but so is the food. My Great Grandfather was from Krakow, married to my Ukrainian Grandmother, so pierogies, borscht and potato pancakes are a past time. Even to this day I can remember my "Baba" pushing through her carpal tunnel and back pain just to satisfy my family's stomach upon every visit. 

I have more love for Krakow than just nostalgia, but it is a city of creativity founded by tough people who survived communism, the War and the like. Polish people have not had an easy life, and even today you'll see grandma in the kitchen kneading dough for today's serving of dumplings and goulash. 

I do not eat meat, and I find it difficult to be 100% vegan in Poland unless you consume bird food from the supermarket or the salad section at the restaurant. As a two-time visitor to Krakow, these are my favorite places for traditional and authentic Polish food that also features vegetarian options. 

Ariel Jewish Restaurant
One of the most unique culinary experiences in Krakow is to explore the Jewish and Kosher culture. Discover countless Jewish restaurants along Szeroka Street.  

Located in Jewish Square, Ariel, sits between five synagogues in the heart of Kazimierz. Known for its live music events, Ariel features six indoor dining halls and outdoor seating in the summer. The green room, known as the fireplace room, features an eclectic mix of historic paintings and vintage items to replicate a Jewish tenement house from the 16th Century. In fact, "Arial" originates from the Old Testament and is named after one of the four archangels, "Uriel," known as the "Light of God."

And God bless this delicious food. Borscht, cabbage salads and Russian-style pierogies, you'll notice my trend as the blog post continues. A gift shop is also available. Prices are moderate to pricey. Check the website for the music concert calendar and apartment rentals.  

Jadlodajnia Wczoraj i Dzis
If you're looking for Grandma's cooking, be sure to visit this restaurant that has been family owned and operated for over 80 years. The restaurant's roots originated in market square, but now reside nearby the Oskar Schindler factory museum and the Jewish ghetto. This is one of the few family restaurants that survived after World War II, the occupation and communism. The menu features hearty traditional Polish food, and these family recipes that are made fresh every morning. 

I am obsessed with Polish carrot salad. It is one of my favorite foods in Poland. Between this and the potato pancakes with applesauce, this is a perfect lunch or dinner spot - one of the best in towns.  

Kuchnia Domowa
When I ate here three times in one trip, I realized this is a sign from God that this is probably one of the most special gems in Krakow. In fact, when a restaurant features a red and white checkered table cloth, it's a sign you've struck gold as the food is as authentic as the peasants who work in the kitchen. 

Cheap. Hearty and delicious, Domowa features everything I love about Polish food (suitable for plant-based eaters), pierogies, borscht and salads. As already established, carrot salad is my favorite followed by beet salad. Sadly, sauerkraut comes in third place. Actually, I am not a big fan of sauerkraut but Domowa's - I ate the entire bowl. It's not as pungent but is light and tasty without stinking like kraut juice. The best part is - the affordable price! The soup of the day is 5 zloty, equivalent to 1.25 euro. 

Traveler's Tip: Be sure to say no onion as the onion-butter topping contains bits of pork. 

Wierzynek
Located in the heart of Krakow and in the main square, Wierzynek is the oldest restaurant in the city. With 14th Century origins, travelers from around the world admire the ancient decor or chat over a beer at the street side cafe tables. According to the website, "In 1364, wealthy merchant Mikołaj Wierzynek hosted a splendid feast for the monarchs of Europe on behalf of the Polish King Casimir the Great. Wierzynek undertook the task of hosting the feast with great care and overwhelmed his noble guests with a truly lavish welcome. According to legend the tables were groaning with food and drinks and the guests celebrated for 20 days and nights. Upon departure, the generous merchant presented each guest with a splendid gift – gold and silver tableware." 

Today the restaurant follows the slow food notion and features a mix of artisan and delectable cuisines, or in plain English, rare foods served in small portions that are overpriced. It is worth exploring one of the five rooms each one decorated with aristocratic charm. 

Restauracja Horoscope
I am an astrology fanatic. As a cosmonaut at heart, something ancient resides in my bones when gazing at the night sky questioning what life was like during the medieval era. Nearby Wawel Castle, this modest cafe features vegetarian friendly meals such as a Greek salad and pierogies. The Greek Salad is not identical to the one you get in Greece, but Mediterranean veggies are served inside half of a head of Iceberg lettuce, the common peasant raw greenery in Poland, and topped with an Italian-style dressing. After eating countless dumplings, my body craved raw vegetables. Affordable and modest, this Aquarian girl admires this establishment's quirks and menu. 

Restauracja Przysmak Staropolski
Located near Wawel Castle is an inexpensive, outdoor cafe and restaurant. This is not exactly fine dining so don't expect the lot, but if looking for a cheap salad and pierogies, this place is a good pit stop despite the constant one-star ratings. 

Restauracja Pod Smoczą Jamą
Also located near Wawel Castle, Jama is another modest-dining experience that offers good food at fair prices. A plate of Russian pierogies is 16 zloty, equivalent to four euros. It's another spot to taste test the dumplings to see which ones you enjoy best.  

Pro Tip: Globalization is changing the world. When traveling abroad, be sure to check out places online to ensure the establishment is open and operating hours. 

What's your favorite restaurant for authentic food in Krakow?

This Lemon Tree article is now featured on GPSmyCity.  To download this article for offline reading or travel directions to the attractions highlighted in this article, go to 7 Authentic Polish Restaurants for Vegetarians in Krakow, Poland.

Krakow is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in Poland. With ancient squares and classy dressage, travelers visit Krakow year-round to explore its exquisite historical sites. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and strolling through Krakow makes you feel as if you are lost in time.

Old Town Market Square
This is the area where most people congregate to, and once you lay eyes on the square you’ll know why. The grandiose square contains spirit of the past and the present. Small birds circle the cathedral and horse and carriage loop around the square. It is the largest medieval square in Europe, which dates back to 1257. St Mary’s Basilica is a site to see and the 14th Century Cloth Hall contains countless souvenir stands. Some claim cloth hall is the oldest “shopping mall” and the edifice dates to 1555. 
 
Explore the 10th Century St. Adalbert Church, which is a mix of pre-Roman, Roman, Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance architecture. Explore what is left of Krakow Town Hall with its tower as the rest of the facility was demolished to open up the square. The 13th Century Town Hall Tower stands 70 meters, but leans 55 centimeters as a result of a storm in 1703. Two stone lions guard the tower, which were brought from the Classicist Palace.

Wawel Castle
Built between the 13th and 14th Century, Wawel Castle is the most impressive landmark in the city. Fifty thousand years ago, people lived on Wawel Hill during the Paleolithic Age. In the early 16th Century, King Sigismund I the Old brought in some of the best native and foreign artists to create the castle you see today. Permanent exhibitions include the State Rooms, Oriental Art, The Lost Wawel, The Royal Private Apartments and the Crown Treasury and Armory. Don’t be in too much of a rush, and be sure to stop and smell the flowers. 

Wawel Cathedral 
Inside the Wawel Castle is the cathedral where visitors marvel and decadent artistry and architectural wonders of the 18 chapels. Most of the Polish King’s and their family members, along with the nation’s greatest heroes, bishops, two poets and four saints, are buried in the cathedral.

Planty Garden Ring
Planty is a green belt of public parks, similar to a chain consisting of 30 gardens. Today, the area of Planty consists of 41 hectares. It takes one to two hours to walk around the Old Town district through the tree-covered pathways.

Schindler’s Factory
The once World War II factory is now a historical museum. The factory housed the former Nazi industrialist who saved the lives of his Jewish workforce during the Holocaust. Guests will see Schindler’s desk intact to what it would look like during the war alongside with walls filled with plates, Nazi propaganda and photos of the factory workers.

Jewish Ghetto
On March 3, 1941, the Nazi occupation created a dwelling place for Krakow Jews. Podgorze is the conception of the Jewish ghetto located on the right side of the Wisla River. The ghetto consisted of 15 streets and some 320 buildings and 3,200 rooms, completely walled off from the rest of the city. The ghetto's western edge, at Limanowskiego Street near Rynek Podgorski square was the main entrance gate to the ghetto along with another gate on Limanowskiego Street, which was solely for the entrance of German military trucks.

Wierzynek Restaurant 
This is Krakow’s oldest restaurant, which traditions date back to 1364. It’s become a landmark of its own regardless of if people actually eat. Dine in what looks like 1800’s décor and marvel at the beautiful wallpaper.  Wierzynek’s website states, “The tradition of the Wierzynek Restaurant dates back to 1364, when a wealthy merchant Mikołaj Wierzynek hosted a splendid feast for the monarchs of Europe on behalf of the Polish King Casimir the Great. Wierzynek undertook the task of hosting the feast with great care and overwhelmed his noble guests with a truly lavish welcome. The tables were groaning with food and drinks and the guests celebrated for 20 days and nights. Upon departure, the generous merchant presented each guest with a splendid gift – gold and silver tableware. At the Wierzynek Restaurant we continue this great medieval tradition of feasting until the present day by giving a royal welcome to each and every one of our guests!”

St. Peter and Paul Church
Built between 1597-1619, this is the biggest church in Krakow in terms of seating capacity. The Baroque Jesuit church is most known for its facade, containing the 12 apostles. The church was built shortly after the arrival of the Jesuits to defend the Catholic faith after signing the Council of Trident.

This Lemon Tree article is now featured on GPSmyCity.  To download this article for offline reading or travel directions to the attractions highlighted in this article, go to 12 Must See Historical Sites in Krakow, Poland.