From Castles to Clifftops: Why Krakow Is More Than Just a City Break

Krakow, in the south of Poland near the borders of the Czech Republic and Slovakia, is one of Europe's best city break destinations and one you can enjoy on a budget.

I spent four days exploring this former Polish capital, which is easily accessible from the United Kingdom, and I was left speechless. From the legend of the Wawel Dragon to the haunting reminders of its wartime past, every corner of Krakow tells a story. Add in countless restaurants, cosy cafés, and the lively charm of the UNESCO-listed Old Town, and you have a city that perfectly blends history, culture, and modern charm.

Why Visit Krakow

Krakow has something for everyone, whether you are a history lover, foodie, nightlife enthusiast, or budget traveller. It is the perfect place to experience European charm without spending a fortune.

During my four-day solo trip, I spent around £220 in total, covering flights, public transport, food, and a private hotel room. Admittedly, I survived mostly on pastries from the Lidl bakery to keep costs down, but even the restaurants I passed looked fairly priced and offered plenty of options for every budget.

One of Krakow's greatest strengths is how compact and walkable it is. You can reach most attractions on foot along well-maintained paths. Whether you are wandering through the Old Town, crossing the river to modern districts, or heading toward the city's green spaces, Krakow is truly made for walking.

For those craving a break from the urban pace, the city offers plenty of nature too. You can enjoy riverside walks, explore forest trails, or take easy day trips to places like Zakopane, the Wieliczka Salt Mine, or the haunting remains of Auschwitz.

Getting Around

Public transport in Krakow is simple, reliable, and very affordable. The city has an excellent network of buses and trams that run frequently and connect all major areas. During my stay, I arrived on a free public transport day, which made my journey from the airport completely free.

For everyday travel, the Jakdojade app is invaluable. You can plan routes, purchase tickets, and validate them on your phone by scanning a QR code or entering the vehicle number. Trafi is another great option for checking schedules and buying tickets.

Tickets are time-based and cheap. A 20-minute bus or tram ticket costs 2.80 PLN, a 60-minute ticket costs 5 PLN, and a seven-day unlimited pass costs 48 PLN.

Trains are also easy and comfortable. The airport train reaches Kraków Główny, the main station, in about 20 minutes, with tickets costing 9 to 13 PLN. Trains run from early morning until late at night, making them a convenient option.

Whether you take the bus, tram, or train, Krakow's public transport system is clean, efficient, and stress-free, making it easy to explore the city without worrying about your budget.

Where to Stay

I recommend staying in the Old Town, as it puts you in the heart of the action. Most attractions are within walking distance, and you will find plenty of restaurants, cafés, and shops nearby. The area is also well-connected, with buses and trams running throughout the day.

Kazimierz, the historic Jewish Quarter, is another excellent option. It has a creative, artsy atmosphere, with trendy bars, vintage shops, and street art around every corner. It is slightly quieter than the Old Town but still close enough to walk to most attractions.

I would avoid Bronowice unless you prefer peace and distance from the centre. I stayed there and found it about an hour's walk from the main sights. While it is close to Wolski Forest and has a lovely river path leading into the city, it may feel too far for those wanting to stay near Krakow's lively spots. Always check your location before booking.

Must-See Attractions

Krakow is full of amazing sights, but some places are essential for any visitor. I visited all of these and highly recommend them.

Wawel Castle
Sitting above the Vistula River, Wawel Castle is the crown jewel of Krakow and one of Poland's most important historical sites. Once home to Polish kings, the castle complex has courtyards, royal chambers, museums, and a stunning cathedral.

I enjoyed wandering the grounds for free and taking in the views of the river, but tickets are available for exploring the interiors. At the base of the hill, you'll find the Wawel Dragon statue, which breathes real fire every few minutes—a fun sight for all ages.

Main Market Square and the Old Town
The heart of Krakow and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Main Market Square is one of Europe's largest and most beautiful medieval squares. Surrounded by pastel-coloured buildings, cafés, and street performers, it is perfect for people-watching. Don't miss the Cloth Hall for souvenirs or the trumpeter playing the Hejnał Mariacki every hour. The entire Old Town is compact, walkable, and packed with history.

St Mary's Basilica
Towering over the Main Square, St Mary's Basilica is instantly recognisable by its uneven towers. Inside, the blue-and-gold ceiling and Veit Stoss's hand-carved wooden altar are stunning. Try to time your visit to hear the hourly trumpet call from the top of the tower—a centuries-old tradition.

Planty Park
Encircling the Old Town, Planty Park is a peaceful escape from the city's bustle. Stretching for over four kilometres, it is lined with benches, fountains, and monuments, making it perfect for a stroll or a moment to relax with an ice cream.

Krakus Mound
This 7th-century mound offers panoramic views over Krakow. Legend says it was built in honour of King Krakus, the city's mythical founder. The short walk to the top is worth it, especially at sunset. The surrounding grassy area is perfect for a picnic, and the nearby Płaszów Concentration Camp memorial makes it easy to combine a reflective visit.

Hidden Gems

While Krakow's main attractions are incredible, some of the city's most memorable experiences lie just off the tourist path. These spots are peaceful, unique, and easy to reach from the city centre.

Lake Zakrzówek
Once a limestone quarry, Lake Zakrzówek is now a turquoise paradise with cliffs, forest paths, and panoramic viewpoints. Brave swimmers can enjoy the designated lifeguarded area, or wander to quieter coves for peace and relaxation. The surrounding paths offer amazing views of Krakow's skyline.

Wolski Forest and Piłsudski Mound
Just outside the city centre, Wolski Forest is full of trails, hills, and wildlife including deer, foxes, and wild boar. At its heart, Piłsudski Mound provides panoramic views across the forest, distant lakes, and the city skyline. A climb to the top is steep but rewarding.

Płaszów Concentration Camp
A quiet and emotional memorial, Płaszów was a Nazi concentration camp during World War Two. Signboards throughout the site tell the stories of those imprisoned here. Visitors can see remnants like the Grey House, ruins of the funeral home, execution sites, and the Monument to the Victims of Fascism. A nearby Jewish cemetery adds depth to the experience.

Day Trips

Krakow is an excellent base for day trips, offering history, nature, and unique experiences. Although I haven't visited these yet, they are at the top of my list for next time.

Auschwitz-Birkenau
About 70 kilometres from Krakow, this former concentration camp is a sobering and powerful historical site. Guided tours provide insight into the lives of those imprisoned here. Take a train from Kraków Główny to Oświęcim in around 90 minutes or join a bus tour from the city.

Wieliczka Salt Mine
Just 15 kilometres away, this UNESCO-listed underground labyrinth of tunnels, chapels, and salt sculptures is perfect for families and history enthusiasts. Take a 20-minute train to Wieliczka Rynek-Kopalnia station or join one of the many tours from Krakow.

Ojców National Park
Only 24 kilometres north, the park features limestone cliffs, caves, valleys, and wildlife. Ideal for hiking or photography, it can be reached by bus in about 40 minutes, or by car for flexibility.

Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains
Located 110 kilometres south, Zakopane offers stunning mountain scenery, alpine activities, and hearty local cuisine. Reach it by train in about two and a half hours, or by bus for a similar journey.

Practical Tips

Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is late spring to early autumn, between May and September, when the weather is warm and outdoor cafés are open. Winters are cold but charming, especially during Christmas markets. I visited in September and found the cooler temperatures perfect for exploring, even with a bit of rain.

Currency and Prices
Poland uses the Polish Zloty (PLN). Krakow is generally affordable: a casual meal costs 30–50 PLN, coffee or pastries 8–15 PLN, and local beer 10–15 PLN. Public transport is cheap, with 20-minute tickets at 2.80 PLN, 60-minute tickets at 5 PLN, and a seven-day unlimited pass at 48 PLN.

Safety and Etiquette
Krakow is considered one of Europe's safest cities. Be mindful of belongings in crowded areas. Locals are friendly, and many speak English. Learning a few phrases such as dzień dobry for hello and dziękuję for thank you is appreciated.

Useful Apps

• Jakdojade: plan bus/tram journeys, buy tickets

• Trafi: transport schedules and digital tickets

• Google Maps: walking directions and exploring hidden spots

• Krakow tourist website: attraction info and events

Final Thoughts

Krakow is a city that constantly surprises. Whether you are wandering the Old Town, spotting the Wawel Dragon, or discovering quiet spots like Lake Zakrzówek and Wolski Forest, there is always something new to see.

The city is compact, walkable, and affordable, with public transport that is easy to use. History is everywhere, from medieval streets to reminders of World War Two, and there are endless options for food, cafés, and nightlife.

Four days in Krakow wasn't enough to see everything, but I left with a deep appreciation for its mix of history, culture, and charm. For a European city break that offers more than the usual tourist experience without breaking the bank, Krakow is hard to beat.