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Have you ever been to Krakow? As someone who lived in Krakow for three months in 2020, I can confidently say that it’s one of the most incredible cities in the world. With its remarkable history and magnificent old town, there’s no shortage of things to do in Krakow in three days – especially if you know where to look! If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful city and wondering what to do in Krakow in 3 days, you’ve come to the right place.
In this blog post, I will share with you my ultimate itinerary for an unforgettable trip to Krakow. Whether you seek to explore the Old Town’s historic sites or discover the Jewish Quarter’s cultural heritage and the beautiful surroundings of Krakow, this itinerary has got you covered. So make yourself comfortable and let me take you on a quick tour around everything there is to see and to do within three days in Krakow.
Day 1: Exploring the Old Town
On your first day in Krakow, it’s time to explore the city’s historic Old Town. The heart of Krakow’s cultural and social life has been around since the 13th century and is full of marvelous architecture, charming streets, and a wealth of history. Let’s dive into the first day of your Krakow itinerary and discover all the amazing things to do in the Old Town.
The Morning of Day 1
Start your day off in Krakow by exploring the stunning Main Market Square, one of Europe’s most historic and largest squares. Stroll around the Old Town to admire its monuments and majestic buildings, one of which is the St. Mary’s Basilica. It is a must-see attraction, with its stunning Gothic architecture and the famous altar by Wit Stwosz, considered one of the greatest masterpieces of European art.
Afterward, make sure you pay a visit to Cloth Hall which dates back to the 14th century. Here, you’ll find plenty of souvenirs, local handicrafts, and traditional Polish products for sale. Take some time to explore the stalls and pick up some unique gifts or mementos from your trip to Krakow.
In the morning, start your day off right by visiting Krakow’s iconic Main Market Square – one of Europe’s largest and most historic squares. Stroll around the cobblestone streets to see some of Old Town’s grandest buildings and monuments, including St. Mary’s Basilica with its stunning Gothic architecture and Wit Stwosz’s renowned masterpiece altar inside. Then head over to Cloth Hall where you can find anything from souvenirs to traditional Polish products – it’s a 14th-century market hall that is worth checking out!
Next, make your way to the Town Hall Tower, one of the most recognizable landmarks in Krakow. Take in the sights from its top and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views across the city as well as an unbeatable perspective on Main Market Square itself.
Snap some photos or simply admire all that surrounds you before relaxing for coffee (and maybe even a sweet treat) at one of the many inviting cafes nearby. Refueled and refreshed, continue exploring Krakow through its charming alleyways and secret corners!
The Afternoon of Day 1
Afternoon on day one in Krakow should be spent exploring the historic Wawel Castle and Cathedral. This complex is a must-see for anyone visiting the city, not only because of its incredible beauty but also due to its significant role in Polish history. It was built in the 14th century and was once home to Poland’s kings and queens and holds stories of past struggles and triumphs.
As you wander around the castle grounds, take some time to appreciate the intricate details that make up the architecture, from the unique gargoyles adorning the walls to the impressive Gothic towers rising above the skyline.
Be sure to visit both the castle and cathedral while there; the former houses an amazing array of artifacts, including an armory and tapestries, while the latter serves as a reminder of the city’s religious heritage, with its stunning stained-glass windows and baroque altars.
When visiting the area, don’t forget to take a break for lunch at one of the traditional Polish restaurants nearby. Here, you can sample authentic local dishes such as Pierogi (dumplings), Bigos (hunter’s stew), and Zapiekanka (baked bread topped with mushrooms, cheese, and other ingredients). You’ll also find plenty of delicious desserts like Sernik (cheesecake) or Paczki (jelly doughnuts).
The Evening of Day 1
As the sun begins to set on your first day in Krakow, it’s time for a stroll along the majestic Vistula River. The colors of the sky as they fade from light blue to orange and finally red are truly breathtaking and make this evening walk one you won’t soon forget.
The river is lined with trees and plants and you can even catch a glimpse of some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Wawel Castle located atop the hill overlooking the river. As you take in all the beauty around you, you’ll feel the stress of the day melting away.
End your evening by making your way back towards the city center. Enjoy the sights and sounds of nightfall in Krakow before heading back to your hotel for a good night’s sleep.
Day 2: Discovering the Jewish Quarter
On the second day of your trip to Krakow, you should explore the iconic Jewish Quarter – Kazimierz. Kazimierz has been at the epicenter of Jewish life in Krakow for generations and continues to shape the city’s history by preserving its cultural legacy. Today it stands as an important reminder that both locals and tourists can appreciate. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or cuisine, Kazimierz is worth a visit.
The Morning of Day 2
The morning of day two in Krakow is a great opportunity to explore and learn about the city’s rich cultural heritage. To start, begin your day by taking a stroll through the Jewish Quarter. This area has been home to various Jewish communities for centuries, and its streets are filled with stories that come alive as you wander around them.
As you explore the quarter, make sure to pay a visit to the Remuh Synagogue and Cemetery. Here, you will learn more about the history of the Jewish people who have called this place their home. Take some time to appreciate the beauty of the synagogue which was built in 1553, and its adjacent cemetery where many graves date back to the 16th century.
The Afternoon of Day 2
Start your afternoon by choosing one of the many local restaurants in Kazimierz for lunch. Afterward, make your way to the Galicia Jewish Museum or the Museum of Jewish History in Poland. Both museums provide insight into the past and present of the Jewish community in Krakow.
The Galicia Jewish Museum offers interactive exhibits and multimedia displays that provide information about the culture and history of Jews in the region. Meanwhile, the Museum of Jewish History in Poland has an extensive collection of artifacts from the Holocaust as well as documents related to the post-war years.
Exploring these two museums will give you a deeper understanding of the struggles faced by the Jewish people and their resilience throughout the centuries. For me, these sites are a great reminder of how far we have come and how much more progress still needs to be made.
The Evening of Day 2
On the evening of day two in Krakow, I suggest you leave Kazimiers behind to finish the day by watching the sunset from Krakus Mound. This historic hill is located just outside of the city and offers stunning views of downtown Krakow. The top of the mound is surrounded by grassy fields and trees, creating a peaceful atmosphere as you take in the breathtaking view of the sun setting across the horizon.
As you watch the sky transform from blue to orange and red, you can learn about the history of the area and its importance to the local culture. The mound was once a sacred site for the pagan Slavic people who lived here before the arrival of Christianity. Today, it’s a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, who come to admire the scenery and get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Whether you stay until the stars disappear or head back into town afterward, this unforgettable experience will be sure to leave you with lasting memories of your time in Krakow.
Day 3: A Day Trip to Wieliczka Salt Mine and More
On day three, you’ll be taking a day trip to the nearby Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, before returning to Krakow to explore some of the city’s most fascinating historical sites. From the Schindler’s Factory Museum to the Krakow Barbican, you will delve into the rich and complex history of Krakow and learn about the city’s experiences during World War II.
The Morning of Day 3
The morning of day three is a great opportunity to explore one of the wonders near Krakow by taking a day trip to the Wieliczka Salt Mine. This UNESCO World Heritage site is located just outside of Krakow and offers visitors a unique look into history. The mine itself has been in operation since the 13th century, making it one of the oldest salt mines in the world.
Here can explore the mine’s chambers, which are full of fascinating sculptures made from rock salt. You will learn about how the mine was operated and its significance over the centuries. It’s a truly incredible sight to behold and one of my favorite places in Poland!
A visit to the Wieliczka Salt Mine should be planned for at least 2 to 3 hours as there is plenty to see and experience inside the mine. You’ll want to make sure you have enough time to take the guided tour and explore the various chambers. Of course, you may also choose to spend more or less time depending on your preferences.
The Afternoon of Day 3
After a delicious lunch at one of the local restaurants in the afternoon, I suggest you head to one of the most important attractions in the city: The Schindler’s Factory Museum.
This museum is dedicated to Oskar Schindler, a German industrialist who saved the lives of more than 1,200 Jews during WWII by employing them in his factory. During your visit, you will have access to a wide range of exhibits, artifacts, and documents that tell the story of the war in Krakow. You’ll also be able to see Schindler’s actual office, where he worked tirelessly to save as many people as possible from the Nazis.
You should plan on spending at least two hours at the museum, but if you are particularly interested in the topic and want to learn as much as possible, you may want to allocate even more time. There are also guided tours available for those who wish to get a more detailed overview of Schindler’s life and legacy.
At the end of the tour, you will come away with a greater appreciation of the difficult period of history that Krakow endured, as well as a newfound admiration for the courage of the people who lived through it. It’s a must-see attraction and should not be missed!
The Evening of Day 3
As the sun begins to set on Krakow, it marks the end of the third day of your journey through this fascinating city. What better way to end your trip than by watching the dazzling sunset from the Krakow Barbican? This historic fortification is located at the edge of Old Town and provides a breathtaking view of the city skyline as the colors of the setting sun reflect off its walls.
The Barbican was originally constructed in the late 15th century and served as an integral part of the defensive network that protected Krakow’s city walls during the Middle Ages. In the 19th century, the fortifications were renovated and turned into one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Today, the Barbican stands tall and proud, overlooking the main square, Wawel Castle, and all of Old Town.
As you explore the grounds of the Barbican, take note of the four gates that guard the entrance, the high walls lined with ramparts, and the numerous towers that stand sentry over the area. It’s easy to imagine what life was like when the Barbican was first built, and why it was such an important part of the city’s defenses.
As night falls, find a spot to witness the sunset and cherish the stunning view as the sun slowly disappears into the horizon. This final moment will stay with you long after you depart from Krakow!
Where to Stay in Krakow
Krakow offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and taste. Here are three highly-rated hotels on Booking.com that I recommend for your stay:
The Pokoje Gościnne Św. Anny is a budget-friendly yet modern and stylish hotel located just 50 meters from Krakow’s Main Market Square. It offers en suite rooms with free Wi-Fi and TV, and guests can rent bicycles to explore the city. With its prime location, the Wawel Castle and the historic Jewish district of Kazimierz are just a short walk away.
Hotel Jan is a boutique hotel located in the Kazimierz district, close to many restaurants and bars. The rooms are spacious and tastefully decorated, and the hotel offers a complimentary breakfast buffet each morning.
Housed in a 14th-century building, Hotel Copernicus is an elegant hotel that offers luxurious rooms and suites with modern amenities. It’s located in the heart of the Old Town, just steps away from the Wawel Castle and Cathedral. The hotel also features a restaurant serving Polish and international cuisine, as well as a spa and wellness center.
Conclusion
Krakow is an incredible city with a rich history, breathtaking culture, and captivating charm. Whether you’re exploring solo, as a couple, or taking your family on the trip of a lifetime, this Polish gem will amaze and delight in equal measure.
From its stunning architecture and monuments in Old Town to the powerful reminders of World War II at Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum and Schindler’s Factory – there are countless ways to experience Krakow’s unique atmosphere. So why not make it part of your bucket list today? With unforgettable memories awaiting around every corner, you won’t be disappointed!
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