10 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Krakow Poland

Being the second largest city in Poland, Krakow is a leading tourist destination with millions of tourists visiting the city annually, not less than 13 million. This historic city offers a delightful combination of Gothic and Renaissance structures, rich and diverse cultural life, quality food, and beautiful nature. As for sightseeing, Krakow has a great offer for every tourist, starting from Wawel Castle and including parks and markets. If you’re planning a trip to this charming city.

1. Wawel Castle

Dominating the city skyline and standing tall on Wawel Hill, the immeasurably stunning Wawel Castle remains one of the most symbolic places in Krakow. Wawel Castle has been the stage for many key historical events in Poland, with the history of the castle itself starting in the 11th century. Visitors can take a tour of the inside of the castle and be awe-inspired by the Gothic interior with the luxury of viewing priceless art collections and other valuables in the Royal State Rooms and Crown Treasury and Armoury. Speaking of landmarks, one should not omit the Cathedral, which has served as the coronation church for Polish monarchs for quite a long time now.

2. Main Market Square

One of the biggest market squares in Europe, Main Market Square in Krakow is situated in the Old Town region of the city. It lies amid the city surrounded by lovely homes, charming churches, and eateries offering delight. Many outdoor cafés let you relax, have a cup of coffee, and observe the people walking past. Every hour from the tower of the gothic St. Mary's Basilica, erected in the XIII century and located on the plaza, there is a unique five-toned title of Poland blasted.

3. Planty Park

One of the most stimulating and popular strolls in Krakow can be taken around the Planty, which is located just around the Old Town. This picturesque park was developed in the 19th century after the city pulled down its walls. Today, an array of foreigners and citizens frequent it. Surrounded by oak, maple, and chestnut trees, the park has several benches, water fountains, and flowers for the visitors to enjoy.

4. Wieliczka Salt Mine

The astonishing Wieliczka Salt Mine, which is located on the list of the World Heritage Sites, opens its doors to the guests within 14 km from Krakow. This subterranean maze is a sightseeing attraction for visitors to witness its salt chapels along with several beautiful chambers sculpted with miners’ work out of salt. Every piece of furniture in the rooms including chandeliers, desks, altars, and even the furniture is made from salt. Descend 378 stairs to get to the most impressive sight – the Crown Jewel of Merano – the Chapel of St. Kinga with crystal chandeliers and painted ceilings.

5. Kazimierz District

Visit the Jewish district of Krakow which is called Kazimierz and surely do not be disappointed. Most of the modern places, pubs, galleries, synagogues, and even Jewish graves are found along cobblestone streets. Formerly one of the less popular districts of Krakow, the area is now experiencing a new day, but with its past and non-typical for the city atmosphere. Take a break at one of the trendy café or restaurants and taste some yummy pierogi dumplings or potato pancakes.

6. Cloth Hall

The Sukiennice or the Cloth Hall occupies the right heart of the Main Market Square. This Renaissance trading hall has remained one of the most significant trade premises for commerce for many decades. It would be advisable to also stop by even if you are not in the market for handicrafts or souvenirs here since the details of the architecture are worthy of a visit. The interior arcades located on the first and the second floor which constitute the inner courtyard are occupied by stalls offering souvenirs, crafts, jewelry, national costumes, and other products.

7. Krakow Barbican

The Barbican is one of the very few fragments of the medieval fortifications of Krakow still preserved to the present day that was a part of the city’s defensive walls. This circular medieval castle comprises an entrance structure and seven towers. Stand atop the turrets and enjoy the marvelous look at Planty Park, Old Town, and even Wawel Castle. Read more about it and see history when you go for a tour of the Gothic vaulted chambers that are within that complex and now display historical treasures.

8. Jordan Park

Jordan Park occupies an area of over 74 thousand square meters and is situated to the north of Krakow’s Old Town district. It is well maintained with trimmed shrubs, flowers, walkways made of pebbles, and some spacious grassy areas, and is ideal for a walk or having a picnic. This urban avifaunal sanctuary has over 100 species of birds and so, carry your binoculars if you are planning a visit. You should visit here, especially in summer when the roses are in full grown or rather during holiday seasons to view the Christmas holiday lighting.

9. Ojcow National Park

Art lovers should not miss it, but nature lovers should pay a visit to Ojcow National Park during their day trip. Located only 60 km north of Krakow, this landscape park provides marvelous views of the peculiar geological and idyllic karst landscape, forests, rivers, etc., encompassing an area of 73 sq km. Take a hike, climb up the rocks, or rent a boat and row on the river passing through the valley-shaped park to enjoy the magnificent scenery of natural topography interspersed with castles, museums, and rustic wooden buildings.

10. St. Mary's Church

It would be a sin to list the beautiful places in Krakow and not mention St. Mary’s Church which is considered to be one of the best creations of the Gothic architecture. This is an ornate building of the Gothic type of architecture The edifice is situated in the southeastern part of the Main Market Square. Look at the splendid showy altar of workmanship by Veit Stoss or other artists as the case may be. Would like to notice the stained glass at the church before going to the tower to see the amazing view of Krakow as well as the St.Mary’s trumpeter call at the hour.

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