Top reasons to visit Kraków
- Enchanting Old Town: Explore Kraków's historic Old Town, featuring stunning churches, Wawel Castle, and picturesque streets.
- Vibrant Main Market Square: Experience the bustling atmosphere of the Main Market Square, filled with shops, cafés, and local culture.
- Rich Cultural Experiences: Discover fascinating museums and engage with the city's rich history and vibrant traditions.
- Charming Neighbourhoods: Enjoy the fresh air and friendly atmosphere in Kraków's nearby charming neighbourhoods.
- Diverse Accommodation Options: Choose from a range of hotels and hostels tailored for every type of traveller.
Find great hotels in Kraków
Discover an array of accommodation options in Kraków, from charming hotels to budget-friendly hostels ideal for backpackers. Whether you seek a pet-friendly retreat, a base for business travel, or a family-friendly getaway, Kraków has something for everyone. With a variety of hotels in Kraków offering excellent amenities, you’re sure to find the perfect place to unwind after exploring the city’s rich history and culture. Experience the best hotels in Kraków for an unforgettable stay.
- Metropolitan Boutique Hotel: This distinctive 4-star hotel boasts a rating of 9.8 out of 10, making it a top choice for discerning travellers. The Metropolitan Boutique Hotel is characterised by its chic, boutique-themed decor, featuring unique artworks that enhance the atmosphere. Ideal for business and leisure guests alike, this property offers a sophisticated retreat in the heart of Kraków, blending modern comforts with artistic flair. Guests can enjoy amenities that cater to both relaxation and productivity, making it a perfect base for exploring the city.
- Leonardo Boutique Hotel Krakow Old Town: With a guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, this eco-certified 3.5-star hotel welcomes both eco-conscious travellers and their furry companions. Situated in the vibrant city centre, the Leonardo Boutique Hotel combines a city-themed ambiance with pet-friendly policies, allowing guests to enjoy their stay without leaving their pets behind. The hotel places emphasis on sustainability with eco-friendly practices and offers amenities designed for comfort and convenience, creating a welcoming environment for all.
- Betmanowska Main Square Residence Adults Only: This elegant 4-star residence, rated 9.4 out of 10, is exclusively for adults, providing a tranquil escape in the bustling centre of Kraków. Guests can savour delightful dining options, including a restaurant and bar, as well as complimentary breakfast. The property is conveniently located near historical districts, allowing easy access to the city’s rich heritage. Entertainment options in the rooms, including flat-screen TVs, ensure a comfortable stay for those seeking a blend of relaxation and cultural immersion.
Where to stay in Kraków
Visitors to Kraków will be captivated by its rich history and vibrant culture. Explore the heart of the city, where the bustling Main Market Square and historic Wawel Castle await. Just west of Kraków, discover charming neighbourhoods offering fresh air and a friendly atmosphere. Whether you're indulging in local cuisine or enjoying family-friendly activities, Kraków promises an unforgettable blend of tradition and modernity in every corner.
- Kraków Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Kraków Old Town is the heart of the city, renowned for its medieval architecture and vibrant atmosphere. This historic neighbourhood features the iconic Main Market Square, where you can experience local culture, street performances, and bustling markets. The area is easily navigable on foot, making it perfect for leisurely strolls past stunning landmarks such as St. Mary's Basilica and Wawel Castle. Visitors flock here year-round, with peak crowds from July to September, drawn by its family-friendly activities and cultural experiences.
- Kraków City Centre: Serving as the modern hub of Kraków, the City Centre seamlessly blends contemporary life with rich history. This bustling area is filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it a lively destination for both tourists and locals alike. The City Centre offers easy access to attractions like the Cloth Hall and the Historical Museum of Kraków. With visitor numbers peaking in the summer months, it is an ideal spot for those seeking cultural experiences and urban exploration amidst charming streets and squares.
- Kazimierz: Once the centre of Jewish life in Kraków, Kazimierz is a neighbourhood steeped in history and cultural significance. Today, it is a trendy area known for its vibrant arts scene, eclectic shops, and diverse eateries. Visitors can explore historic synagogues and memorials, as well as enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with markets and events. With peak visitor numbers in April and the summer months, Kazimierz offers a unique blend of family, cultural, and business experiences, making it a must-visit during your stay in Kraków.
Things to do in Kraków
Shopping
In Kraków, visit Galeria Krakowska, a modern shopping centre featuring a mix of international brands and local shops. The Cloth Hall in the Main Market Square offers a charming market atmosphere with unique souvenirs, traditional crafts, and local delicacies, providing a memorable shopping experience.
Recreation
Spa at the Hotel Stary offers a tranquil retreat with luxurious treatments, including massages and facials, all within a beautifully designed space. Enjoy the indoor pool and sauna, providing a perfect environment for relaxation after exploring the city’s historic sites.
The Kraków Salt Mine features a unique wellness experience, where you can explore vast underground chambers while benefiting from the therapeutic properties of salt. The calming atmosphere and stunning sculptures carved from salt contribute to a truly distinctive outing.
Thermal baths in nearby Zakopane invite you to unwind in naturally heated mineral waters, surrounded by the breathtaking Tatra Mountains. Soak in the pools while enjoying stunning views and the invigorating mountain air, ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Adventure
Explore the Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can marvel at the intricate salt sculptures and stunning underground chapels. For thrill-seekers, the nearby Ojcowski National Park offers hiking trails through picturesque landscapes and opportunities for rock climbing and cave exploration.
Nightlife
Kraków's nightlife is vibrant, with venues like Szpitalna 1 offering eclectic music and a lively atmosphere. For a more relaxed experience, head to Alchemia in Kazimierz, known for its cosy vibe and unique cocktails. Don't miss the buzzing clubs along Floriańska Street for an unforgettable night out.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Kraków
To save money on your trip to Kraków, visit between January and March for lower accommodation prices. Enjoy free attractions like the Main Market Square and Jagiellonian University. Opt for public transport, using trams and buses, for affordable travel around the city. Book your hotel about a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia, especially on Mondays for the best rates. Consider combining your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings, and use filters to find eco-friendly options that suit your budget.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Kraków are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to June and September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Kraków is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Kraków is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Kraków is Friday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most economical prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel stay in Kraków with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in Kraków
Kraków is an ideal destination for city and culture-themed vacations, perfect for families. Visitors can explore the enchanting Old Town, with its stunning churches, historic castles, and fascinating museums. The area offers a rich cultural experience alongside outdoor activities, making it suitable for all types of travellers. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the charm of Kraków's Old Town for a truly memorable visit.
- Main Market Square: Experience the vibrant heart of Kraków, where you can explore the lively atmosphere, street performers, and local artisans. Surrounded by stunning medieval architecture, the square is an ideal spot to savour traditional Polish cuisine at outdoor cafés.
- Wieliczka Salt Mine: Discover an underground marvel, the Wieliczka Salt Mine, known for its intricate salt-carved sculptures and chapels. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a unique glimpse into the region's mining history while highlighting artistic craftsmanship.
- Wawel Castle: Visit the majestic Wawel Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the Vistula River. This historic site blends culture and romance, showcasing beautiful architecture, lush gardens, and captivating tales of Polish royalty.
Best time to go to Kraków
The best time to visit Kraków is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July and August are its hottest month on average. At the time of August, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Kraków
Flying into Kraków is convenient with the main airport being Kraków (KRK-John Paul II - Balice), located 10km from the city centre. Excellent hotel options nearby include the 5-star Balthazar Design Hotel, Radisson Blu Hotel, Krakow, and Wyndham Grand Krakow Old Town, all offering various airport shuttle services. For those considering alternative airports, Košice (KSC-Barca) is situated 180km away, with quality hotels like DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Kosice and Hotel Yasmin providing accessible airport transfers. Rzeszow (RZE-Jasionka), 150km from Kraków, has luxurious accommodations such as Bristol Tradition and Luxury, also offering shuttle services.