Summary
With its extensive architectural landmarks, distinctive churches, ancient castles, and numerous historical sites, Krakow has long captivated the attention of both visitors and admirers of fine art.
It is evident that there is an abundance of history to explore, fantastic cuisine to savor, and an array of activities to enjoy in this city, which was previously designated the European Capital of Culture.
If you are planning a trip to Krakow, consider incorporating the following 15 day excursions into your travel agenda.
1. Auschwitz-Birkenau
Experiencing films about the Holocaust offers a perspective, but visiting the site where these tragic events occurred provides an entirely different understanding.
To gain a more profound insight into the atrocities of what is widely regarded as the darkest chapter in history, a visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau extermination camp, situated approximately an hour’s drive from Krakow, is essential.
This profoundly moving experience is undoubtedly worth your time and investment.
2. Wieliczka Salt Mine
Many visitors deem this salt mine, which holds the distinction of being the oldest in the world, as a ‘must-visit’ during their stay in Krakow.
This mine has been operational for over 700 years, providing ample opportunity to learn about its rich history and heritage.
During your visit to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, you will descend 140 meters (462 feet) into the mystical depths and marvel at the functional mining equipment as well as the remarkable salt sculptures.
3. Zakopane Town
Zakopane stands as Europe’s most favored mountain resort north of the Alps.
This location serves as a tranquil retreat for travelers seeking to escape urban chaos.
Renowned as Poland’s winter sports capital, Zakopane also offers stunning views of the unique mountain architecture found within the Tatra Mountains.
While in the area, you can also indulge in Oscypek, a delightful smoked cheese native to this region.
The town is located approximately a 2-hour drive from Krakow.
4. Tatra Mountain National Park
This national park is recognized as the most Alpine of all parks in Poland.
By European standards, Tatra National Park is relatively small, covering an area of 211,000 hectares (the equivalent of 520,000 acres).
Millions of tourists flock to Tatra National Park, drawn by its remarkable landscape and alpine aesthetics.
A significant attraction is the cable railway on Kasprowy Wierch, one of the oldest such constructions in Poland.
Tatra National Park is also home to unique wildlife, including wolves, wildcats, lynxes, bears, marmots, and chamois.
Visitors to the park can engage in a variety of activities including paragliding, skiing, mountain climbing, hiking, and cycling.
5. Wadowice
This spiritual journey is essential, particularly for those of the Catholic faith.
Wadowice is the birthplace of Pope John Paul II, and a visit here allows for exploration of the saint’s family home, the site of his baptism, and his high school.
The residence at 7 Koscielna Street now serves as a museum that provides valuable insights into the life of the late Pope.
The best mode of transport from Krakow to Wadowice is by bus, with the journey taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
6. Czestochowa
A visit to Czestochowa, renowned as Poland’s religious heart, offers engagement with an array of attractions, from ancient churches to formidable castles.
A notable highlight in Czestochowa is the Black Madonna painting.
This renowned artwork, attributed to St. Luke, emerged after the Virgin Mary appeared to him.
Surrounded by various mysteries, this painting has been credited with numerous miracles.
You can view the exquisite Black Madonna painting at the Jasna Góra Monastery.
Travel options from Krakow to Czestochowa include both bus and train services.
7. Dunajec River Gorge
This excursion will lead you to one of the most picturesque locations in southern Poland.
The Dunajec River serves as a natural border between Poland and Slovakia.
The river gorge, which is featured on UNESCO’s Tentative List of World Heritage Sites in Poland, is characterized by remarkable geological formations and diverse ecosystems.
During your journey, you will cruise through the Dunajec River Gorge on a traditional wooden raft, providing opportunities to observe local flora and fauna as well as awe-inspiring mountain vistas from Gubalówka Hill.
8. Warsaw
No visit to Poland is complete without exploring its capital city – Warsaw.
An express train journey from Krakow to Warsaw can be accomplished in under 3 hours.
Your visit to Warsaw will afford you the chance to explore a diverse array of attractions, including historical landmarks, museums, monuments, theaters, medieval castles, and lavish residences of Polish nobility.
The Royal Baths Park, the largest public park in Warsaw, is also worth a visit.
9. Ojców National Park
Covering an area of 21.5 square kilometers, Ojców National Park may be the smallest of Poland’s 20 national parks, yet it is undeniably one of Europe’s most captivating recreational areas.
The park is located 24 kilometers northwest of Krakow, making for a quick 15-minute drive.
Within the park, you can spend your day discovering abandoned castles and concealed caves.
The King Lokietek Cave, notably, is a remarkable site, believed to have served as a secret hideaway for King Wladyslaw Lokietek during the 14th-century conflict.
The Ojców Castle is also thought to have been a sanctuary for royalty.
10. Eagles’ Nest Castles
The Eagles’ Nest Trail, a pathway steeped in medieval history, ranks among the most beautiful and frequented tourist routes in Poland.
The name derives from the ruins of fortresses and castles, known as Eagles’ Nests, which were strategically perched atop steep hills.
Throughout your journey, you will witness breathtaking landscapes, encounter castles, and hear captivating anecdotes about ancient rulers.
Local legends suggest that the region’s largest castle, Ogrodzieniec, is haunted by spirits.
11. Calvary Sanctuary in Kalwaria – Zebrzydowska
This extensive complex, established 400 years ago, comprises 42 churches and chapels of diverse sizes and designs.
The Calvary Sanctuary, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the largest sanctuary in Europe.
In addition to being an architectural marvel, the sanctuary offers a tranquil atmosphere conducive to reflection and spirituality.
While this spiritual experience nourishes the soul, visitors will also have the opportunity to savor delicious Polish culinary specialties here.
Be sure to indulge in a selection of delectable traditional dishes, such as the sour soup “Krupnik,” the savory cabbage stew “Bigos,” and the refreshing locally brewed beer “Zywiec.”
12. Babia Gora National Park
Situated in Southern Poland, Babia Gora National Park is one of the two national parks located near Krakow.
Although it is among the smallest of Poland’s 23 national parks, it rests within the Beskid Żywiecki mountain range, which is the second-highest mountain range in the country.
In addition to offering excellent skiing opportunities and stunning vistas, this park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bears, wolves, lynxes, and deer.
Due to its rich variety of rare flora, UNESCO has designated the park as one of the world’s most exceptional biosphere reserves.
13. Wooden Architecture Route in Malopolska
Malopolska, the region encompassing Krakow, serves as a veritable treasure trove for travelers.
Here, discerning visitors often find themselves overwhelmed by the multitude of sites listed on the prestigious UNESCO World Cultural and National Heritage list.
In Malopolska, there are 237 locations celebrated for their ancient timber constructions, including churches, cottages, granaries, and manor houses.
Among these, four churches have attained recognition on the esteemed UNESCO list.
14. Wroclaw
With its 12 islands and over 100 bridges, Wroclaw undoubtedly ranks among the most attractive cities in Poland.
Two essential sites that must not be overlooked during your stay in this stunning city, rich in history and beauty, include the Market Square, featuring the Wroclaw City Hall, recognized as one of the most magnificent Gothic-Renaissance structures in Central Europe.
Additionally, the Centennial Hall stands as a remarkable architectural achievement and is the city’s only UNESCO World Heritage site.
15. Morski Oko
Morski Oko is recognized as Poland’s most renowned lake.
Enclosed by the stunning peaks of the Tatra Mountains, it presents a truly breathtaking panorama.
To access the lake, visitors may opt for the scenic 9km route via a traditional horse-drawn carriage or by walking.
Nearby, the PTTK mountain hostel, among the oldest and most picturesque shelters in the Tatra range, awaits. For those in optimal physical condition, consider exploring the Valley of the Five Lakes, another magnificent destination in this area.
