Explore our favourite places, from hotspots to hidden gems so you can live like a local.

Discover Local in Kraków

Have you ever wanted to visit the past and spend a day in a beautiful medieval village? Good news – you’ll feel like you’ve done just that as soon as you step onto Rynek Główny. All of the beauty of the Middle Ages and none of the smells! This public space is the main square of Old Town, dating back to the 13th century. There’s a ton to see and do, which makes sense. This is the largest medieval town square in Europe. You won’t be able to miss the Sukiennice, aka the Cloth Hall, a massive architectural feat dating to the 16th century. Walk around the building, taking in its impressive architecture, or admire it from one of the many bars, restaurants, and beer halls lining the square. Pick up a few souvenirs while you’re there – with all the stores, there’s something for everyone!

Explore the heart of the Old Town at Rynek Główny

Your visit to Kraków is likely full of historic destinations. To understand how the city’s history has informed its present, we recommend a visit to the Museum of Contemporary Art, a showcase for both global and Polish contemporary artists. One of the first things you’ll see is the spectacular building itself. The museum is located in a former factory belonging to Oskar Schindler, the man known for saving thousands of Jewish lives during World War II and made famous in the film “Schindler’s List”. Once you step inside, you’ll be carried away by the expansive collection of contemporary art. Explore the exhibitions on site – even if you’re not an art lover, you’ll gain an appreciation for how the works examine many challenging themes in modern Polish society. For those looking for additional insight, guided tours are available. Don’t miss this experience.

Dive into Poland’s thriving art scene at Mocak

Make sure to plan a visit to the Princes Czartoryski Museum, which is the proud home of one of Europe’s most impressive art collections. One of the country’s oldest museums, its storied collection has awed visitors since its opening in 1878. The story of the museum is closely linked with that of Poland, but the collection has survived history’s challenges and now is open to visitors from across the world. We suggest an extended visit so that you can take in the wide variety of offerings – with fashion, coins, antiquities, and stained glass alongside the paintings on display. But you can’t visit without stopping to see masterpieces by some of the world’s most famous artists. There are works from Da Vinci, Raphael, and Rembrandt on display, all of which draw crowds and dazzle their viewers. We understand if you never want to leave!

Take in world-class art at The Princes Czartoryski Museum

Kraków offers visitors so many special experiences, but we think that the salt mine happens to be one of the best. Take a mini-excursion to the town of Wieliczka, just outside of Kraków. There, you will find the world’s oldest salt mine, dating back to the 13th century. While it stopped producing salt in 2007, it is now open for visitors looking for an experience unlike any other. You’ll descend into the “Mine of Mysteries”, where you’ll learn about the life of mineworkers and the methods they used to create salt. Deep in this underground wonderland, you’ll encounter serene pools and stunning carvings. Under the supervision of a guide, you’ll explore the 3,5 km route and visit the ornate St. Kinga’s Chapel, deep within the mine. Hungry? Don’t worry – you can get delicious Polish cuisine and drinks at the restaurant just 125 metres below the surface!

Taste history in the Wieliczka salt mine

You can find one of Poland’s most unique monuments atop and around Kościuszko Mound. When the country paid homage to Andrzej Kościuszko, a military leader and statesman who led the 1794 Kościuszko Uprising, they built this impressive burial mound. The construction itself is reminiscent of prehistoric burial mounds, but much grander, reaching 34 metres in height and 326 metres above sea level. Climb to the peak for some extraordinary panoramic views of the city. It’s a bit of a walk, but definitely worth it. Once you’re back at the bottom, rest up at one of the cafes. Once you’ve had something to eat and drink, step into the museum on-site to learn more about this internationally-known leader. With views, a climb, food, and a museum, this is a perfect all-around destination.

See the view and honour a hero at Kościuszko Mound

What was once a separate town and the Jewish quarter is now a centre of Jewish culture and one of Kraków’s most vibrant, exciting neighbourhoods. While the tragic history of Kraków’s Jewish population hangs heavy, it is the resilience and determination that makes this district inspiring. This is the city’s Jewish cultural heart, and you can see that woven throughout the district’s synagogues, museums, and shops. But this is a neighbourhood that lives in the now and looks to the future with hope and fervour. Take a day and lose yourself in Kazimierz’s beauty and vitality. Head to Szeroka Street for a picture-perfect glimpse of the historic neighbourhood, then let yourself wander. Whether you’re in the mood for a fine dining experience or browsing galleries and boutiques, you’ll leave your time in Kazimierz inspired and full of joy.

The Museum of Contemporary Art