Kraków is one of the loveliest cities that I came across during my travels across Europe. Well connected by train, it is full of life, and best of all, extremely cheap. Three days was a great amount of time to spend there. There are a couple of great day trips to experience despite the city itself being rather small and although I didn’t get to experience it, many people rave about Kraków’s amazing nightlife.
Where to eat and drink:
If you visit Kraków, be sure not to miss out on eating at Camelot, recommended to me by my best friend’s Polish boyfriend and one of the best foody experiences of my interrailing experience, and definitely one of the most delicious meals I have ever had the pleasure of eating. You must try the Cream of Leek and Onion soups, the Vegetable Tart, and the Chicken and Rosemary Risotto. Why not have a raspberry beer for tradition’s sake as well? We also managed to get amazing and free chocolate cake due to a mix up with our reservation – an added bonus!
What to see and do:
- The Wawel Castle which includes a hill with great views, the Cathedral, Museum, Dragon’s Den, Sandomierska Tower, the Crown Treasury and Armoury, the famous Bell Tower, the Crypt, and the Royal Tombs.
- Of the above I would most recommend the Cathedral which encompasses a few of the above including the Bell Tower, which has some historically famous bells definitely worth a see.
- The Main Market Square, for its stalls, its buildings and simply just its prettiness.
- St Mary’s Basilica. Less impressive on the outside, but hosting a magnificent interior, you get a real glimpse at the religion that is still so important in Poland.
- Florian Gate and the Barbican for that touch of history.
Day Trips:
- Auschwitz – Birkenau: I will not dwell too much on this topic, as it forms part of one of the darkest parts of European history, however, I think it is important for people to see the Concentration Camps in question, particularly when you are only a short journey away.
- Wieliczka Salt Mines: A short train journey from the city, this is such a fun thing to do. You can either choose the tourist trail (for more money) or the adventure trail. The adventure option puts you in the shoes of a real miner, and rather than be your guide, the person who shows you around is your boss. Be prepared for cold damp tunnels, stairs, and actual physical labour. All of this is worth it however to learn the history of such an incredible place and looking at the salt all around you, you’d think you were surrounded by diamonds. Not to be missed!
Where I stayed:
The hostel where I stayed was called Hostel Deco and it has got to be one of the nicest hostels in Europe. We felt like we were staying in a hotel rather than a hostel and some of the benefits included an ensuite for very little money, very friendly staff, great kitchen facilities and your first load of laundry done for free! It was in a very decent location and I would highly recommend it as a place to stay.
You should all enjoy wandering the streets of this fantastic city; there is definitely something for everyone!