Things to do in Kraków

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Wawel Castle showing a castle, heritage architecture and a city
St. Mary\'s Basilica featuring a square or plaza, a church or cathedral and a city
Krakow Barbican which includes a city, outdoor art and a monument
Krakow showing interior views
Main Market Square which includes outdoor art and street scenes

Kraków Attractions

Krakow is one of the oldest cities in Poland and the former capital of the Crown of the Kingdom of Poland. With origins in the Stone Age, the city has grown to be the second largest in the country and is home to Jagiellonian University, one of the oldest universities in the world, as well as several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Krakow features a wealth of history, with age-old structures, beautiful architecture, and fine art galleries that showcase pieces by world-famous artists. Take your time exploring Krakow's abundance of things to do and see, absorbing its heritage during your stay.


Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.

Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.

One Key members save 10% or more on select activities, hotels, cars and vacation rentals.


Most popular activities in Kraków

Tours & day trips

See all 625 activities

Private & custom tours

See all 130 activities

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 75 activities

Adventure & outdoor

See all 61 activities

Cruises & boat tours

See all 31 activities

What to do in Kraków

Free Things to Do in Krakow

There's no need to constantly reach for your wallet in Krakow. The following won't even cost a penny.

Father Bernatka Footbridge - Architecture buff or not, prepare to be impressed by this landmark's modernistic design.

Jagiellonian University - If you're planning to explore the area's history through its landmarks, mark this one down on your sightseeing list.

Main Market Square - Stop for a while in this lively spot and imagine life as a local resident.

Adam Mickiewicz Monument - Leave time to explore this place of local significance.

Church of St. Wojciech - Get an understanding of the local religion at this spiritual site.

Planty Park - Cultivate your green thumb and admire the diverse range of plants on display.

Areas & Neighborhoods in Kraków

Krakow was developed over many centuries and its neighborhoods are filled with an astounding range of architecture. While touring the city, look for fine examples of architectural styles from Gothic and Renaissance to Art Nouveau and Postmodern.

 

Old Town - Krakow's Old Town is part of the city's historic center and was the political center of Poland from 1038 to 1596. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Polish Historic Monument, the Old Town is home to the vibrant Main Market Square, where you can find the iconic Town Hall Tower and Cloth Hall, once a major center of international trade. The Royal Road of Krakow passes through the Old Town and is marked with some of the city's most prominent historic landmarks.

Kazimierz - Kazimierz is a historic district in Krakow and is separated from the Old Town by the Vistula River. The district is known for its picturesque renaissance buildings and historic Jewish quarter. Visit the Old Synagogue, which dates back to the 15th century and was one of the most important synagogues in the city until the German invasion of Poland in 1939. Kazimierz hosts the annual Jewish Cultural Festival, Europe's largest celebration of Jewish culture and music.

Wawel - Also known as Wawel Hill, Wawel is a fortified complex perched above Krakow's Vistula River. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the complex consists of landmarks like Wawel Castle and Wawel Cathedral, as well as buildings like the Rotunda of the Virgin Mary that date back to the 10th century.

What to See in Krakow

Krakow was named the European Capital of Culture in 2000, and with 28 museums and public galleries plus an abundance of Polish Renaissance art, the city does not disappoint. Visit major landmarks like the National Art Museum, which features nearly 780,000 works with a focus on Polish painting, or the Czartoryski Museum, which houses famous pieces by Leonardo da Vinci and Rembrandt. Krakow is also home to famous performing arts venues like the Julius Slowacki Theatre and the Krakow Philharmonic, home to the Krakow Philharmonic Orchestra, and the Opera Krakowska, where 200 opera and ballet performances are staged each year.

Sightseeing in Kraków

Spend your vacation in Krakow visiting its wealth of historic sites. In addition to famous buildings like the 16th-century Wielopolski Palace and the elegant Brick Gothic church of Saint Mary's Basilica, the city is home to green spaces like Planty Park and the Botanic Garden of Jagiellonian University where you can stroll among thousands of flowers and plant species. Near Krakow is the infamous Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp, where you can explore the somber history of World War II in the region. In Krakow itself is Oskar Schindler's Factory, which now operates as a museum devoted to the wartime experiences in the city. For a look at a lighter piece of history, visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine, which opened in the 13th century and features 4 chapels carved out of the rock salt by miners. Experiencing the cuisine is a must-do in Krakow as well, as the city is known for its hearty and protein-rich diet, Obwarzanki bread, and flavored vodka.

Things to Do in Krakow with Kids

There are lots of awesome experiences in Krakow that the entire gang will get a buzz out of. Here are a few of the top family friendly experiences around.


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Kraków? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 


Discover the most popular places to visit in Kraków

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Kraków

Krakow featuring heritage elements and a city as well as a large group of people

Kraków Old Town

5/5(306 area reviews)

Discover the charm of Kraków's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its vibrant events, medieval cellars housing cafes and clubs, and stunning architecture. Don't miss the Main Square, St. Mary's Basilica, and Wawel Castle.

Kraków Old Town
Krakow featuring modern architecture

Kraków City Centre

4.5/5(517 area reviews)

Centered around the Vistula River, this district boasts a UNESCO World Heritage Site, encompassing the Old Town, Wawel Hill, Stradom, and Kazimierz. Explore historic sites and vibrant streets in this cultural heart of Kraków.

Kraków City Centre
Kazimierz featuring a city and a square or plaza

Kazimierz

4.5/5(73 area reviews)

Historical district Kazimierz boasts major tourist attractions and a vibrant cultural scene. Explore Jewish-themed restaurants, bars, and museums, such as the Old Synagogue and Remah Synagogue.

Kazimierz
Default Image

Wesola

Travelers like the parks in Wesola, and Galeria Krakówska is a top attraction you might want to visit.

Wesola
Museum of Contemporary Art in Krakow as well as a couple

Podgorze

4.5/5(16 area reviews)

The ample dining options and beautiful river views are top of the list for many visitors to Podgorze. A stop by Oskar Schindler Factory or St. Joseph's Church might round out your trip.

Podgorze
Krakow is a great city. Vibrant night life with plenty of cool pubs.

Stradom

If you're spending some time in Stradom, Aquarium and Natural History Museum and Dzok Monument are top sights worth seeing.

Stradom

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Popular day trips from Kraków

Frequently asked questions

Is Kraków worth visiting?
From shopping to history and outdoor pursuits, there are plenty of great things to do in Kraków. Be sure to discover the area's blend of awesome attractions, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Kraków?
Wawel Castle and Oskar Schindler Factory are two good places to begin your adventures. Be sure to explore the retail and dining options in Kraków while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Kraków?
Don't go home without exploring Wawel Castle, rated the top tourist attraction in Kraków.
Is three days enough to stay in Kraków?
Three days in Kraków is more than enough to enjoy the city's major highlights. Many guests spend three days on average. Wawel Castle, Oskar Schindler Factory and Cloth Hall are among the top-rated sights. Like to see more? Stick around a bit longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Zabierzow.
Is Kraków a walkable city?
Some top attractions in Kraków, like Wawel Castle and Oskar Schindler Factory, are within walking distance. You can also enjoy several of the city's popular neighborhoods on foot. Just 0.1 miles from the city center of Kraków is Kraków Old Town and Royal Road is 0.2 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Kraków with kids?
What to do in Kraków for adults?
There are lots of things to do in Kraków, with activities for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Podolski Boulevard or Jewish Cemetery.
Are there free things to do in Kraków?
In Kraków, Main Market Square is a must-see spot for anyone wishing to experience the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, wander around the parks and other neighborhoods, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's an easy way to learn about the best free things to do in Kraków.