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Krakow is situated on the Vistula River and is one of Poland's oldest and largest cities which dates back to the seventh century, and has evidence of stone age settlements. It was a busy trading city throughout history and was the capital city of Poland for many years. This long history adds to the charm and interesting places for tourists to explore.
Krakow is a beautiful city with stunning architecture. With many of its attractions being named UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Krakow is a very popular destination for a city break in Europe because of its beauty, things to see and affordability.
There are TONS of things to see and do in Krakow so it can be hard to narrow it down if you are visiting for a short break. So read on for the 5 must-see places in Krakow.
1. Auschwitz Birkenau
When Nazi Germany invaded Poland at the start of World War 2, Krakow became a major base for Germany. The city's Jewish population were forced into concentration camps such as Auschwitz. Today, Auschwitz Museum is a place of remembrance and learning, listed as a historical site by UNESCO.
Auschwitz is open to the public for tours. When browsing for Auschwitz tours, check to see if there is a tour guide and how the tour will be run. Some tours have the option for a day trip where you can be collected in Krakow and driven to Auschwitz Birkenau where an experienced tour guide will take you around the site and explain the history. After the tour, you will be returned to Krakow. Since it is outside the city, this makes for the most convenient way to tour Auschwitz.
2. Stare Miasto (Old Town)
Stare Miasto, which means Old Town in Polish, is the real heart of Krakow. It has everything you'd want in an old town from quaint, colourful houses to an iconic market square, old churches and a stunning castle.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the finest and most extensive market squares in Europe. Plus, with so many restaurants, it’s the perfect place to grab your lunch or dinner.
Krakow’s Old Town is a true gem and is visited by millions of travellers every year. It was once a busy hub along ancient trade routes to the east. Today it has managed to keep its ancient charm alive.
3. Sukiennice (Cloth Hall)
Sukiennice or the Cloth Hall is an important part of the architectural heritage of Kraków. It has Renaissance architecture and is where trade was concentrated, in the centre of the Market Square.
The original Cloth Hall was built in the 13th century when Kraków became a city. The building consisted of two rows of stone stalls. Trading in the Cloth Hall was a significant source of revenue for the city because cloth merchants were required to sell their goods there. There was a fire and several rebuilds and renovations in the history of this building. It's well worth a visit to learn more about it.
4. The Wieliczka salt mines
From Neolithic times, table salt was produced in Wieliczka mines. It is one of the world's oldest operating salt mines. Salt mining was discontinued here due to falling salt prices and the mine flooding.
The Wieliczka Salt Mine is now an official UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features a labyrinthine of passageways which are 3.5km / 2.2 miles long! Amazingly, that is less than 2% of the mine passages' total length!! There is also an underground lake, four chapels, historic salt mining technology and statues carved by miners out of the salt. So there is plenty to see and explore here!
5. The Wawel Castle
Wawel Castle is a fortified architectural complex sat on top of a limestone hill. The complex contains many buildings of importance including the Wawel Cathedral where Polish monarchs were crowned and buried. Some of the oldest buildings can be traced back to 970 AD! The current castle was built in the 14th century and expanded over the following years to what we see today.
Today, the castle compound is a UNESCO World Heritage Site operating as a museum with lots to see and do including State Rooms and Royal Private Departments. Some tours include a live guide and others an audio one, so check when you are booking.
Final Thoughts
With so much to see and do, Krakow is an excellent option for a city break in Europe. It boasts multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites, stunning architecture and a range of history to explore. Make sure you fit in these five must-see destinations and enjoy your trip! If you are travelling as a family, check out my top tips for flying with kids.
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