Top 10 Things to do in Krakow
1. See the dragon
Watch the dragon breath fire at the Vistula river bank in Krakow. This will happen every few minutes so don’t worry – even if you just missed it, it will start again soon after. The only downside is the fact that the dragon statue is very popular with children. They are climbing all over it. It’s hard to get a decent shot without some of them photobombing your picture.
2. Rynek Główny
Rynek Główny is the main square in the oldtown of Krakow and one of the largest squares in Europe. Inside the cloth hall (which is the building in the center of the square) is a market. Krakow is famous for amber products. You will notice that when you check out the market.
3. St. Mary's trumpet call
When you visit Rynek Główny you will hear St. Mary’s trumpet call. It is played every hour on the hour, four times in succession in each of the four cardinal directions, by a trumpeter on the highest tower of the city’s St. Mary’s Church. The song will end abruptly however. Legend has it that a sentry sounded an alarm during the Mongol invasion in the 13th century but was shot before completing the call. To honor his memory even today the trumpet call will end at the point when he was shot.
4. Free walking tour
The local guides will talk about the history of Krakow and polish customs and traditions in general as well as guide you through the historic center of the city, show you sights and talk about their origin. When asked they will also recommend further places, sights, tours and restaurants in the area. Free tours are always a good starting point when visiting a new city.
5. Obwarzanek krakowski
Try Obwarzanek krakowski. They are offered at every corner in Krakow. Obwarzanek are braided ring-shaped breads sprinkled with salt, different seeds or cheese. They are a nice snack and very popular among tourists and locals alike.
6. Wawel castle
Wawel castle is just a short walk from Rynek Główny. You should visit it for two reasons: first, you will enjoy a gorgeous view. Second, the architecture itself is very interesting. Different parts were build during different epochs which is reflected in the styles used. Once on the top you have two possibilities of getting back down. You can either walk back the way you came from or exit through the dragon’s cave (3zł) and end up at the fire breathing dragon statue.
7. Vistula river shore
Escape the city and have a break at the shores of Vistula river. Bring a blanket or a towel and have a pick nick, rent a bike and cruise along the river or just sit down at one of the benches and enjoy the view.
8. Jewish quarters
See the Jewish Quarters and former Ghetto of Krakow and watch Schindler’s list by Steven Spielberg before you go. Schindler’s factory is still standing and was turned into a museum. On Mondays the entrance is even free. You should make sure to arrive early though because there is always a big crowd. A good way to see the Jewish quarters and hear about their history is to go on a free walking tour.
9. Old Synagogue
When travelling around Europe you get to see many churches from the inside. I for my part have never seen a Synagogue from the inside until I’ve visited Krakow. The synagogue is not in use anymore, but the interior is still authentic. It was turned into a museum in 1961 and informs its visitors about Jewish culture and traditions.
10. Daytrip to Auschwitz
Many tour operators offer daytrips from Krakow. Tours can be booked once you arrive in Krakow, there is no need to book in advance. It’s terrible to hear the stories how prisoners were treated see their living conditions and the Nazi examination camp, but I strongly recommend visiting it. Those who do not remember the past are condemned to repeat it (George Santayana).
