Old Town Guide
Stunning by any measure
Introduction
Old Town centre, the Main Square is certainly the most iconic place in the city. The biggest medieval square in Europe, surrounded by colourful town houses, each with its own stories and legends. Krakow’s Main Square has been the heart of city life for centuries. It is undoubtedly the best district to stay in Krakow, as it is very compact (easy to get around on foot) and allows you to be close to all major attractions and places to eat and drink.
There are free walking tours hosted every day, led by local guides, so feel free to join one to get to know the city more.
The area is full of great restaurants and bars. There is something for all tastes, from traditional restaurants where you can taste some local specialities, to international cuisine restaurants and the most famous fast food chains.
The prices and the quality of the experience can be quite variable, and you could fall into some tourist trap. That’s why it’s best to take advice on some places recommended by the locals, where you can eat and drink some local specialities.
Sightseeing
Top recommendations of the most unique things to see.
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The vibrant heart of Krakow. It's one of the biggest town squares in Europe (the shape of a regular square with sides of 200m x 200m), filled with old buildings, cafes, and street performers. Here, you can enjoy the busy scene, taste delicious Polish food, or shop at small stores.
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Its two characteristic towers are a true symbol of Krakow. Step inside to see the stunning interior, highlighted by the magnificent wooden altarpiece carved by Veit Stoss, and make sure to catch the hourly trumpet call, played from the taller tower.
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Right in the middle of the Main Square is the Cloth Hall, an old building that reminds of Krakow's past as a trading center. Today, it's a great place to find souvenirs like jewelry, fabrics, and wooden crafts.
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Why is only the tower left of Krakow's town hall? At the beginning of the 19th century, a decision was made to demolish the old granary adjacent to the building. During the work, the walls were so badly damaged that the entire building had to be demolished in 1820.
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Situated four meters below the Main Square is a unique museum that can take you through the Krakow medieval times. It includes multimedia exhibits, videos, and artefacts that will introduce you the past of the city.
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One of the most famous streets in Krakow. On either side of it rise beautiful historical houses, and in the distance you can see the St. Mary's Basilica. This is also where you will find the house where Jan Matejko lived and worked.
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Medieval city walls were demolished in the 19th century (today their course is marked by the greenery of Krakow's Planty Park). Krakow's main gate, the Florianska Gate and the 15th century circular fortress surrounded by a moat - the famous Barbican - have survived to the present day.
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Collegium Maius, Jagiellonian University's oldest building, dating back to the 14th century and Collegium Novum. Founded by the King Casimir the Great, the university declined after his death and began to operate again thanks to the efforts of Queen Jadwiga. Its grand halls and rich history show the intellectual spirit that has defined Krakow for centuries.
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Extremely scenic street connecting the Main Square and the Wawel Castle with the first baroque church in Krakow. Its body and façade is modelled on the Roman churches.
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Located on a hill overlooking the Vistula River, impressive seat of Polish monarchs and royal court. Inside, the breathtaking Wawel Cathedral. For a small additional fee, you can go to the royal tombs and a climb up the tower where the magnificent Sigismund Bell was hung in the 16th century.
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Legendary statue near the Wawel Castle. According to myth, the dragon terrorized the city until it was defeated by a clever shoemaker. Today, the statue breathes fire, delighting people and keeping the legend alive.
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A green oasis in the city. A tranquil garden with diverse plant species and charming pathways, offers a peaceful retreat from the city hustle. Something great for nature lovers.
Food & Drink
Tested and recommended places to eat or drink something.
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Polish traditional cuisine, affordable, unique atmosphere, good beer, traditional pork chops and other meat dishes. Popular place hosting many tourists, but mainly due to its location.
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Elegant and atmospheric chocolate and coffee drinking place. The hot chocolate is finger-licking good.
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"Honey raspberry" - a Polish phrasal verb meaning "all sweet". A rather classy restaurant with Polish cuisine, popular among tourists and locals.
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"The fist venue on Stolarska Street on the left hand side, when walking from the Small Square". Yes, this is the full name of this place. Very Polish drink bar/café. Large breakfast selection at a low price.
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Café with a cosy atmosphere, aromatic and delicious coffee, salads and toasts. Different lunches every day. For sweet lovers, there is their famous hot chocolate, a large selection of cakes and homemade biscuits.
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Good Italian food like pastas and pizza, friendly service. Despite the reputation of the place, prices are fairy normal.
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A nice place to watch sports broadcasts, as the circular screen is impressive. Great Budweiser beer from a tank, tasty Czech Republic inspired dishes.
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Outstanding quality of meat, especially beef steaks. Large selection of stronger spirits, wine and cocktail. Very elegant and expensive.
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Real non-european bubble tea. The one with the Taro milk is the best. Also delicious and authentic Taiwanese food.
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Very cool place, cheap shots and a tank beer. Popular among young people. Can get very crowded and loud.