Introduction
Krakow is a box of surprises. The former capital of Poland is a city that takes you back in time, with an impeccably preserved medieval old town, a fairy-tale castle and a vibrant energy you can feel on every corner. If you’re planning a getaway, this 3-day itinerary in Krakow will help you make the most of your visit, no rushing, with time to absorb the unique atmosphere of this Polish city.
Day 1: The Heart of the Old Town
The first day is dedicated to exploring Krakow’s historic centre, the Stare Miasto. Start your walk at the Planty Park, a green ring around the old town where the medieval walls used to stand. From there, head to the Barbican, an imposing defensive structure that guarded the city’s entrance.
Walk through St. Florian’s Gate and down Floriańska Street, Krakow’s most famous, until you reach the Main Market Square (Rynek Główny), the largest medieval square in Europe. Here you’ll find the Sukiennice, the old cloth hall, and the majestic St. Mary’s Basilica, with its two towers of different heights. Don’t miss the chance to climb one of the towers for a panoramic view of the city.
Continue your walk down Grodzka Street, towards Wawel Hill. Along the way you’ll pass several churches and historic buildings. The day ends with a visit to the Royal Wawel Castle and the Wawel Cathedral, where Poland’s kings were crowned and buried.
Day 2: History and Memory
The second day is dedicated to exploring Krakow’s more recent history. The morning can be spent on a visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, a place of deep reflection on the horrors of the Holocaust. The visit can be emotionally intense, but it’s an important part of history that mustn’t be forgotten.
In the afternoon, head back to Krakow and explore the Kazimierz neighbourhood, the old Jewish quarter. Today, Kazimierz is one of the most vibrant areas of the city, with a mix of historic synagogues, art galleries, cafés and restaurants. Visit the Old Synagogue, the oldest in Poland, and the Remuh Cemetery. Cross the Father Bernatek pedestrian bridge into the Podgórze neighbourhood, where the Krakow ghetto stood during the Second World War. Here you can visit Oskar Schindler’s Factory, which today houses a museum about the Nazi occupation.
Day 3: The Depths of the Earth and the World of Knowledge
On the third day, get ready for a journey to the centre of the Earth with a visit to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This underground labyrinth of tunnels and chambers carved out of salt is an impressive work of art, with a particular highlight in the incredible Chapel of Saint Kinga, a cathedral made entirely of salt.
Back in Krakow, spend the afternoon visiting the Collegium Maius, the oldest building of the Jagiellonian University, one of the oldest in Europe. Figures like Nicolaus Copernicus and Pope John Paul II studied here. It’s a calm end to the day, soaking up the academic atmosphere and the history of one of the most prestigious educational institutions in the world.
What to know before you go
- Currency: The local currency is the Złoty (PLN). Although Poland is part of the European Union, the euro is not the official currency.
- Language: Polish is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
- Transport: The centre of Krakow is fairly compact and can easily be explored on foot. For longer distances, the network of trams and buses is efficient and easy to use.
- Weather: Summers are mild and winters are harsh, with snow being a regular presence. Spring and autumn are pleasant times to visit, with fewer tourists and milder temperatures.
Where Multipark fits in
Travelling by car through Europe can be an incredible experience, and Krakow is a fantastic destination to add to your itinerary. If you’re planning a road trip, remember that finding parking in the centre of historic cities can be a challenge. With Multipark, you can book your parking spot in advance, ensuring a calm and safe arrival in the city. That way, you can leave the car safely parked and explore Krakow on foot, no worries.
Conclusion
Krakow is a city that captivates and surprises. With its rich history, stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere, it’s a destination that has something for everyone. This 3-day itinerary is just a starting point. Let yourself be carried by the cobbled streets, discover hidden courtyards and cosy cafés, and you’ll see that Krakow will win over your heart.
If you’re going by car, plan your parking with Multipark and explore the city without a worry.
