Krakow is a vibrant and historic city that offers plenty of fun and exciting things to do for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re interested in exploring its rich history, enjoying its lively nightlife, or simply taking in the stunning scenery, there’s something for everyone in this bustling Polish city. From its charming Old Town to its trendy cafes and bars, here are 10 fun and exciting things to do in Krakow that are sure to make your visit unforgettable.
Wawel Castle
Wawel Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in Krakow, Poland. Located on top of Wawel Hill, this impressive castle dates back to the 14th century and served as the residence of the Polish monarchy for centuries.
The castle is a great example of European Gothic and Renaissance architecture, and features several distinct sections, including the State Rooms, the Crown Treasury and Armory, and the Royal Private Apartments. Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle to explore its many rooms, which are filled with stunning art and historic artifacts.
One of the highlights of a visit to Wawel Castle is the opportunity to climb to the top of the tower. From here, visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Krakow and the surrounding countryside. The castle grounds are also home to beautiful gardens and courtyards, where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery.
In addition to its rich history and beautiful architecture, Wawel Castle is also home to several important works of art, including a collection of tapestries from the 16th century and a famous portrait of Leonardo da Vinci’s Lady with an Ermine, which is on display in the castle’s Wawel Royal Castle’s collection of paintings.
Wawel Castle is a must-see attraction in Krakow, offering visitors a glimpse into Poland’s rich history and culture.
St. Mary’s Basilica
Mary’s Basilica, also known as the Church of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven, is a stunning Gothic church located in the heart of Krakow’s Old Town. Its iconic twin towers dominate the skyline and are visible from many parts of the city. The church was built in the 14th century and is one of the most important sites in Krakow.
The interior of the church is equally impressive, with beautiful stained glass windows, intricate sculptures, and a magnificent high altar. The star attraction of the church is the famous wooden altarpiece, which dates back to the 15th century and is considered one of the greatest masterpieces of European Gothic art. The altarpiece consists of over 200 individual figures and is a true work of art.
One of the most unique features of St. Mary’s Basilica is the trumpet call that is played every hour from the taller of the two towers. This tradition dates back to the Middle Ages when trumpeters would sound the alarm in case of attack. Today, the trumpet call is a popular tourist attraction and draws crowds of visitors to the church every day.
Visitors to St. Mary’s Basilica can also climb the tower for a breathtaking view of the city. The climb is not for the faint of heart, as the stairs are steep and narrow, but the view from the top is well worth the effort.
Overall, a visit to St. Mary’s Basilica is a must-do for anyone visiting Krakow. Its stunning architecture, rich history, and unique traditions make it one of the most popular attractions in the city.
The Krakow Shooting Range
The Krakow shooting range is a unique and exciting activity for visitors to Krakow. Located just outside the city, the shooting range offers a variety of firearms for visitors to try out in a safe and controlled environment. If you like adrenaline and action then this is one you shouldn’t miss on your visit to Krakow.
Visitors can choose from a range of weapons, including pistols, rifles, and shotguns, and can receive expert guidance from trained instructors. The shooting range also offers packages that include transportation to and from Krakow, making it a convenient and accessible activity for visitors.
The shooting range is a popular activity for groups, and it’s a great way to spend a few hours with friends or family. It’s also a popular choice for stag and hen parties, as well as corporate events and team-building activities.
While the Krakow shooting range is certainly an exciting and adrenaline-fueled experience, it’s important to remember that firearms should always be treated with respect and caution. The instructors at the shooting range are highly trained and take safety very seriously, ensuring that visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience.
The Krakow shooting range is a unique and exciting activity that offers visitors a chance to try something new and experience the thrill of firing a firearm in a safe and controlled environment. Whether you’re an experienced shooter or a complete beginner, it’s a fun and memorable activity that’s sure to make your visit to Krakow even more unforgettable. So don’t forget to book an appointment at a shooting range in Krakow for some guaranteed fun.
The Rynek Underground Museum
The Rynek Underground Museum is a fascinating and unique museum located in the heart of Krakow’s Old Town. The museum is located beneath the Main Market Square (Rynek Glowny) and offers visitors a glimpse into the history of the city from its earliest days to the present.
The museum features a series of interactive exhibits and multimedia displays that showcase the archaeological treasures that were discovered during the excavation of the site. Visitors can explore the underground chambers and passages and learn about the daily life of Krakow’s residents throughout the centuries.
One of the highlights of the museum is the interactive “Time Machine” exhibit, which takes visitors on a virtual journey through the history of Krakow. The exhibit uses state-of-the-art technology to transport visitors back in time and give them a firsthand look at what life was like in the city during different periods in its history.
Another fascinating exhibit is the “Treasury” exhibit, which showcases the many treasures that were discovered during the excavation of the site. Visitors can see ancient coins, jewelry, and other artifacts that offer a glimpse into the daily life of Krakow’s residents throughout the centuries.
The Rynek Underground Museum is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in the history of Krakow. Its interactive exhibits and multimedia displays make it a unique and engaging experience that’s suitable for visitors of all ages.
Hire a segway
Segway hire is a popular and fun way to explore the sights of Krakow. Segways are easy to use and provide a unique and exciting way to see the city.
There are several companies in Krakow that offer segway hire, and visitors can choose from a range of different tours and routes. Some of the most popular routes include the Old Town, Kazimierz, and the Wawel Castle area.
Before setting out on a segway tour, visitors receive a brief training session to learn how to operate the segway safely. Once they are comfortable with the controls, they are free to explore the city at their own pace, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who can provide information and insights about the sights along the way.
Segway tours are a great way to see the sights of Krakow while also enjoying a fun and unique experience. They are suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels, and provide an excellent way to cover more ground than would be possible on foot.
Overall, segway hire is a great way to explore the sights of Krakow in a fun and unique way. Whether you’re interested in exploring the historic Old Town, the trendy Kazimierz district, or the beautiful Wawel Castle area, a segway tour is a great way to see the city and make some unforgettable memories.
Explore Ojcow National Park
Ojcow National Park is a beautiful natural area located just a short distance from Krakow. The park is known for its stunning limestone rock formations, picturesque forests, and clear rivers, and is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Ojcow National Park is located about 20 kilometres (12 miles) north of Krakow and is easily accessible by car or public transportation. Visitors can take a bus or train from the city to the town of Ojcow, which serves as the gateway to the park.
Once inside the park, visitors can explore a range of trails and paths that wind through the park’s stunning landscapes. Some of the most popular sights in the park include the Maczuga Herkulesa rock formation, the Gothic castle ruins at Pieskowa Skala, and the Złota Jama cave.
In addition to hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the park, visitors can also take part in a range of other activities, such as cycling, horseback riding, and kayaking. The park also offers a range of educational programs and guided tours, making it a great destination for families with children.
Overall, Ojcow National Park is a beautiful and peaceful oasis just a short distance from the bustling city of Krakow. Its stunning natural beauty and range of activities make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting the area.
Auschwitz-Birkenau
Auschwitz-Birkenau is a former concentration camp located in Oświęcim, Poland, approximately 70 kilometres (43 miles) west of Krakow. During World War II, Auschwitz-Birkenau was the largest of the Nazi concentration and extermination camps and is now a solemn memorial to the millions of victims who were killed there.
Visitors to Auschwitz-Birkenau can tour the site, including the original barracks, gas chambers, and crematoria used to house and kill prisoners during the war. The site includes a museum, which houses exhibitions on the history of the camp, as well as artefacts and personal items that belonged to the victims.
Visitors can also take part in guided tours, which provide a deeper insight into the history of the camp and its role in the Holocaust. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who provide information on the camp’s conditions, the atrocities committed there, and the stories of those imprisoned and killed.
Auschwitz-Birkenau is a sombre and emotional destination but also an important one. It serves as a reminder of the atrocities committed during the Holocaust and the need to never forget the lessons of history. Despite the difficult nature of the site, many visitors find the experience to be a powerful and moving one. It is important to note that photography is not allowed inside the museum and other areas of the site out of respect for the victims.
Quad bike tour of the Krakow countryside
Quad bike tours are a popular and exciting way to explore the beautiful countryside around Krakow. These tours provide a unique way to experience the natural beauty of the area while also enjoying a thrilling ride.
Quad bike tours typically take visitors through the rolling hills, forests, and fields surrounding Krakow, providing an opportunity to see some of the stunning landscapes that make this part of Poland so special. Riders can expect to navigate narrow trails, ford streams, and climb hills as they explore the area.
Many quad-bike tours are led by experienced guides who know the area well and can provide information about the sights and landmarks along the way. These guides can also offer advice on how to handle the quad bike safely and ensure that all riders have an enjoyable and safe experience.
Quad bike tours are suitable for visitors of all skill levels, and no previous experience is necessary. Riders are given a brief orientation and training session before setting out on the tour, and all necessary safety equipment is provided.
Overall, quad bike tours are a fun and exciting way to explore the beautiful countryside around Krakow. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or just looking for a unique way to experience the area, a quad-bike tour is a great option.
Wieliczka Salt Mine
The Wieliczka Salt Mine is a fascinating attraction located just outside of Krakow. The mine has been in operation since the 13th century and is one of the world’s oldest salt mines, as well as one of the largest tourist attractions in Poland.
Visitors to the Wieliczka Salt Mine can take guided tours that take them through the mine’s network of tunnels, chambers, and galleries. Along the way, visitors will learn about the history of the mine, the techniques used to extract salt, and the lives of the miners who worked there.
One of the highlights of the Wieliczka Salt Mine is the Chapel of St. Kinga, an underground chapel carved entirely out of salt. The chapel features stunning sculptures, bas-reliefs, and altarpieces, all made out of salt. It is truly a remarkable sight and a testament to the skill and artistry of the miners who worked in the mine.
In addition to the chapel, visitors to the Wieliczka Salt Mine can also see other unique attractions, such as the underground lake, the salt sculptures, and the mining equipment used throughout the centuries.
Overall, the Wieliczka Salt Mine is a fascinating attraction that provides a unique look into the history of salt mining and the lives of the people who worked in the mines. Its underground chambers, stunning sculptures, and rich history make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting Krakow.
Rynek Glowny
Rynek Glowny is the main market square in Krakow and one of the largest medieval town squares in Europe. It is located in the heart of the city’s Old Town and is a hub of activity and a popular destination for visitors.
The square dates back to the 13th century and features stunning architecture from various periods, including the Renaissance, Baroque, and Gothic. At the centre of the square stands the Cloth Hall, a historic trading centre that now houses a variety of shops selling souvenirs, crafts, and traditional Polish products.
The tall buildings are not dissimilar to the buildings you will find elsewhere in Europe, such as in Amsterdam or Bruges, but with more ornate features and frills.
Around the square, visitors can find numerous cafes, restaurants (with many vegan and vegetarian food options in Poland), and bars, making it a great place to relax and people-watch. The square is also home to several important landmarks, including St. Mary’s Basilica, which features stunning stained glass windows and a soaring Gothic interior, and the Town Hall Tower, which offers panoramic views of the city.
Throughout the year, Rynek Glowny hosts a variety of events and festivals, including the Christmas Market, which features festive stalls selling mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and other traditional treats, as well as live music and entertainment.
Overall, Rynek Glowny is a vibrant and bustling destination that is not to be missed when visiting Krakow. With its historic architecture, lively atmosphere, and variety of shops and attractions, it is the perfect place to experience the unique culture and charm of this beautiful city.
Round up
Krakow, Poland is a fascinating destination with a rich history and culture. Wawel Castle is an iconic landmark and must-see attraction, showcasing impressive Gothic and Renaissance architecture and important works of art. St. Mary’s Basilica is another stunning Gothic church with a unique tradition of playing a trumpet call every hour.
The Krakow shooting range is a thrilling activity for visitors looking for a unique and exciting experience, while the Rynek Underground Museum offers a glimpse into the city’s past through interactive exhibits and multimedia displays.
Finally, hiring a Segway is a fun and popular way to explore the city’s sights. Whatever your interests, Krakow has something for everyone and is a must-visit destination.