Kraków is one of the most beautiful cities in Poland and Europe, full of history, culture, and a unique atmosphere. For tourists from all over the world, it is a symbol of Polish heritage, art, and tradition. Sightseeing in Kraków is not only about viewing monuments but also discovering atmospheric streets, museums, galleries, and places that tell stories from centuries ago.
In this guide, you will find a complete list of what to see in Kraków, the most interesting museums in Kraków, practical tips for tourists, ideas for sightseeing with children, as well as a recommendation for the ideal accommodation – Hotel Galicja SPA in Wieliczka – thanks to which your trip will be comfortable and well organized.
Why it is worth sightseeing in Kraków
Kraków is a city with a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. It was the capital of Poland for over 500 years and today is one of the most attractive tourist cities in the country.
Sightseeing in Kraków allows you to:
discover impressive monuments such as Wawel, St. Mary's Basilica, and Kraków Old Town,
learn about the history of the Jews in the Kazimierz district,
enjoy art in the most interesting museums in Kraków,
stroll along the boulevards by the Vistula River and the green Planty Park,
feel the unique atmosphere of cafes, restaurants, and local festivals.
For families with children, Kraków offers numerous educational attractions and interactive museums, making sightseeing with children a fascinating adventure.
What to see in Kraków: Monuments and attractions
It is worth starting sightseeing in Kraków from Kraków Old Town, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the historical heart of the city, full of colorful townhouses, narrow streets, and lively squares.
Main Market Square – Kraków’s center
The Main Market Square in Kraków is one of the largest and most famous medieval squares in Europe. It is surrounded by historic townhouses and full of restaurants, cafes, and attractions.
The main points at the Market Square include:
St. Mary's Basilica – with the Veit Stoss altarpiece and the daily bugle call that sounds from the tower every hour on the hour.
Cloth Hall – a perfect place to buy local souvenirs and handicrafts.
St. Florian's Gate and the Barbican – historic city entrances, great for photography and walks.
A walk around the Market Square is a must for every tourist. Additionally, there are numerous cafes and restaurants nearby serving traditional Polish cuisine.
Wawel – symbol of Kraków
The Royal Castle on Wawel Hill is a must-see when visiting Kraków. Wawel is not only a historic castle and cathedral but also a place full of the history of Polish kings and legends.
What is worth seeing:
The castle courtyard and royal chambers,
Wawel Cathedral with royal tombs,
The Crown Treasury and Armory,
Dragon’s Den – the legendary lair of the Wawel dragon.
Visiting Wawel allows you to feel the spirit of history and see monuments that have survived for centuries.
Kazimierz – Jewish district
Kazimierz is the historic Jewish district in Kraków, today full of atmospheric streets, galleries, synagogues, and cafes.
Kazimierz attractions include:
The Old Synagogue and Remuh Synagogue,
Nowy Square – the center of local life and markets,
Restaurants serving traditional Jewish cuisine.
Kazimierz is an ideal place for a walk in Kraków and discovering its multicultural heritage.
Vistula Boulevards and Planty Park
Vistula Boulevards – an ideal place for a walk by the Vistula River, relaxation, and admiring the panorama of Wawel,
Planty Park Kraków – a green belt around the Old Town, perfect for walks away from crowds.
The most interesting museums in Kraków
Kraków is also a paradise for museum lovers. Here is a list of the most interesting museums in Kraków worth visiting during your sightseeing:
1. National Museum in Kraków
One of the most important museums in Poland. Here you will find works by Jan Matejko, Jacek Malczewski, and Olga Boznańska. The museum offers both classical and modern art.
2. Historical Museum of the City of Kraków
Allows you to learn about Kraków’s history from the Middle Ages to the present. Interactive and educational exhibitions make sightseeing with children a fascinating experience.
3. Czartoryski Museum
Here is the famous painting “Lady with an Ermine” by Leonardo da Vinci as well as collections of European and Polish art. A perfect place for art history lovers and aristocratic Kraków enthusiasts.
4. MOCAK – Museum of Contemporary Art
For fans of modern art, MOCAK offers exhibitions of contemporary artists, installations, and multimedia projects. It proves that Kraków is a city that combines history with modern culture.
5. Schindler’s Factory
A museum devoted to Kraków’s history during World War II. In the former factory of Oskar Schindler, you can learn about the fate of the city and its inhabitants during the occupation.
6. Museum of Urban Engineering
An interactive technology museum, ideal for families with children. You will find old trams, automotive exhibits, and technical displays showing Kraków’s development.
7. Market Underground Museum
The museum under the Main Market Square shows Kraków’s history in the Middle Ages. Archaeological exhibits and multimedia presentations make weekend sightseeing in Kraków extremely attractive.
What to see in Kraków on a weekend
If you have only a few days, it is worth planning a route covering the most important points:
Day 1: Old Town, Market Square, St. Mary's Basilica, Cloth Hall, Planty Park
Day 2: Wawel, Dragon’s Den, Vistula Boulevards, stroll in Kazimierz
Day 3: Schindler’s Factory, National Museum, MOCAK or Market Underground Museum
Optional: Wieliczka Salt Mine – just 20 minutes from Kraków, Tyniec – Benedictine abbey on the Vistula River
Practical tips for sightseeing in Kraków
Plan your route – many attractions are close to each other; the Old Town, Wawel, and Kazimierz can be visited on foot.
Public transport – trams and buses make it easier to get to more distant attractions such as the salt mine.
Buy tickets online – avoid queues at the most popular museums and Wawel.
Best time to visit – spring and autumn, when there are fewer tourists and more pleasant weather.
Sightseeing with children – the Market Underground and Museum of Urban Engineering are family-friendly attractions.
Local guide – allows you to learn about curiosities and stories not included in guides.
Where to stay near Kraków?
When planning a trip to Kraków and visiting the most interesting attractions and museums, it is worth choosing accommodation in a convenient location. The ideal place is Hotel Galicja SPA in Wieliczka, located right next to the famous Wieliczka Salt Mine and just a few minutes from the center of Kraków.
Why choose Hotel Galicja SPA Wieliczka:
Ideal location – quick access to Kraków and close to the salt mine, perfect for tourists and families.
Comfortable rest – elegant rooms, SPA and wellness zone, ideal after a day full of attractions.
Easy access to attractions – Old Town, Wawel, Kazimierz, and Kraków museums within reach.
Family amenities – for those visiting Kraków with children, the hotel offers comfortable solutions and space to relax.
Booking a stay at Hotel Galicja SPA Wieliczka guarantees comfort and convenience, making your trip to Kraków not only pleasant but also well organized.
Summary
Kraków is a city that combines history, art, and modern culture. From the Old Town, through Wawel and Kazimierz, to the most interesting museums in Kraków – everyone will find something for themselves. With practical tips and a well-planned route, sightseeing in Kraków becomes a fascinating adventure.
Additionally, by choosing accommodation at Hotel Galicja SPA Wieliczka, you have an ideal base: close to Kraków, near the Salt Mine, with comfortable rest and attractions for the whole family. It is a place that allows you to combine sightseeing in Kraków with relaxation and a comfortable stay.
Don’t wait – discover the magic of Kraków, visit the most interesting museums and monuments, and book your stay at Hotel Galicja SPA Wieliczka to make your trip perfect.
