Top 15 Tours in Krakow: Explore the Best Experiences

With a population of nearly 800,000, Krakow ranks as Poland’s second most populous city, following the capital, Warsaw, which boasts just over one million residents.

Located in the southern region of Poland within the Lesser Poland Province, the city is bisected by the Upper Vistula River.

Krakow is entirely recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was originally established in the 7th century.

The city is rich with historical and cultural attractions, making it a favored destination for tourists of all age groups and interests. Visitors can choose from a multitude of tours, encompassing both the city itself and nearby sites, such as national parks and World War II concentration camps.

1. Sightseeing by Eco-Vehicle

Whether referred to as an eco-friendly vehicle or an electric golf cart, this mode of transport allows guests to appreciate Krakow’s iconic landmarks comfortably without contributing to air pollution.

Beginning in Old Town, participants join their guide for a 60 or 90-minute excursion that covers significant sites such as the Krakow Ghetto, Oskar Schindler’s Factory, St. Mary’s Church, along with various museums.

The tours engage with cultural, historical (both contemporary and ancient) narratives, the Jewish experience during World War II, and the city’s remarkable architecture.

2. Traditional Polish Food Private Tour

Though many associate Polish cuisine predominantly with kielbasa and pierogies, these are merely a glimpse into the delightful culinary offerings found in Krakow.

This tour not only satisfies participants’ culinary curiosity but also immerses them in Polish culture as they explore Old Town and visit premier sites like St. Mary’s Basilica.

The culinary experience includes stops at two local eateries, where guests can meet residents and indulge in traditional foods such as dumplings, sausages, and baked goods.

Various duration options are available for the tours: 2½, 3½, and 5 hours, with four different start times to choose from.

3. Auschwitz-Birkenau Full-Day Guided Tour from Krakow

Auschwitz and Birkenau stand as some of the most significant and sobering sites in Poland.

These locations offer a stark and harrowing glimpse into history. Most participants in this full-day guided tour from Krakow regard it as one of the most impactful experiences of their travels.

Upon arrival, visitors may choose to explore independently or benefit from the guide’s insights to enhance their experience.

Key points of interest include the prison cells, notorious gas chambers, and crematoriums.

The tours commence and conclude in Krakow, accompanied by a knowledgeable, multi-lingual guide.

4. Historical Walking Tour for Families and Kids

Children often face limitations in enjoying cities renowned for their somber historical contexts, yet this is not the case in Krakow.

This walking tour caters to families, offering two, three, and four-hour options suitable for children of various ages.

Key highlights encompass historic landmarks, including St. Mary’s Basilica and Wawel Cathedral, alongside numerous activities designed to captivate young minds.

The tours involve considerable walking; thus, shorter options may be advisable for those with younger children.

5. Polish Beer Tasting Tour

It is widely recognized among beer enthusiasts that Polish beers can rival those from countries like Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands.

This tasting tour invites passionate beer lovers to explore the country’s finest local, regional, and national brews, led by an English-speaking guide.

It provides both a cultural immersion experience and the opportunity to taste exceptional beers. Each tour visits various pubs and breweries, showcasing traditional as well as modern offerings.

The tours last several hours and typically commence in the afternoon, leaving ample time for evening activities.

6. Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour Including Hotel Pick-Up

The Wieliczka Salt Mine’s continuous production for over seven centuries is a remarkable feat.

As one of the oldest mines of its kind globally, this 2½-hour tour takes guests over 100 meters underground to experience this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Unlike standard commercial salt mines, the artisans at Wieliczka have crafted altars, statues, and intricate decorations from the natural salt deposits, providing an enchanting atmosphere underground.

Refreshments and photo permissions are not included in the tour package.

7. Guided Segway Tour

Interestingly, Segways have an inventive history, though not entirely correctly attributed to Polish dwarfs from the 12th century hidden in a magical castle.

Nonetheless, Segways offer an enjoyable and relatively effortless way to discover Krakow’s splendid landmarks.

Following a brief instruction on operating these two-wheeled vehicles, guests engage in an exhilarating and educational tour encompassing gothic palaces, medieval cathedrals, and Renaissance art masterpieces.

The tours last approximately three hours and are offered in both the morning and afternoon.

8. Stained Glass Museum Tour

Krakow is renowned as a hub for traditional crafts, with stained glass being a particularly esteemed product.

This brief yet insightful tour allows guests to observe master craftsmen at work, employing both traditional and modern techniques to create exquisite stained glass pieces.

Included in the tour is the opportunity for self-guided exploration, with maps available to navigate various neighborhoods showcasing some of the finest stained glass examples in the city.

This experience proves advantageous for first-time visitors aiming to familiarize themselves with Krakow.

9. Kazimierz District Jewish Heritage Tour

The Holocaust resulted in the tragic loss of a considerable segment of Poland’s Jewish demographic, particularly in ghettos and Nazi extermination camps.

This Jewish heritage tour begins in the Kazimierz district, recognized as the only continuously inhabited Jewish enclave that has persisted since the medieval era.

This neighborhood is rich in historical significance and cultural vibrancy, now emerging as one of Krakow’s most artistic and Bohemian settings.

Tour highlights feature remarkable synagogues, monuments to the deceased, and remnants of ghetto walls from the war period.

The tours commence in a central location, begin in the mid-afternoon, and last approximately three hours.

10. Full-Day Energylandia Trip from Krakow

Spanning numerous acres filled with thrilling rides suitable for varying age groups, Energylandia serves as a premier attraction for visitors seeking a diversion from Krakow’s historical landmarks.

Following a brief journey through the countryside, participants collect discounted admission tickets and enjoy a day at Poland’s largest amusement park.

The park boasts nearly 80 rides, including a water park, which serves as an ideal reprieve from the summer heat.

Though the excursion can extend up to 12 hours, it is especially enjoyable for children who have engaged with the city’s historical tours.

11. Bar, Club and Pub Crawl

Enjoying local beverages and mingling with both locals and travelers presents an exciting opportunity for young adults to experience an exotic city like Krakow.

After gathering with their guide near the main market square, guests will embark on a dynamic exploration of some of Krakow’s trendiest bars, clubs, and pubs.

This type of tour is ideal for singles, couples, and groups alike. At each venue, participants are welcomed with a complimentary shot.

While certain spots may become crowded, this tour offers VIP-style skip-the-line access to minimize wait times.

12. Tyniec Abbey Guided Bike Tour

This four-hour bike tour, commencing mid-morning from Krakow, takes participants through relaxing cycling paths towards the Benedictine Abbey at Tyniec.

Along the way, guests will view notable attractions such as the flooded quarry at Zakrzówek, the Twardowski Rocks Nature Reserve, and a WWII German-built castle once used to accommodate high-ranking officers and pilots.

The 1,000-year-old abbey at Tyniec serves as the focal point, characterized by its remarkable architecture and deep history, having housed contemplative monks dedicated to prayer and meditation.

13. 2-Hour Photo Shoot

While selfies are currently in vogue, those seeking a distinctive means to document their travels should consider enlisting a professional photographer for a personalized session.

Participants can opt for iconic backdrops, including castles, palaces, and historical monuments for their photos, all at an accessible price point.

Tour locations can be customized according to guest preferences, with frequent highlights including St. Mary’s Basilica, Wawel Castle, and Market Square.

Upon completion of the session, guests will receive ten high-resolution digital images.

14. Old Town: 2-Hour Private Tour with Local Historian

Although Krakow is a straightforward city to navigate independently, participating in this two-hour private tour with a local historian can offer invaluable insights into the city’s cultural and historical contexts that visitors might otherwise overlook.

This guided experience immerses participants in Krakow’s fascinating history and vibrant culture, allowing them to perceive the city from a local’s point of view.

Noteworthy stops include Market Square, St. Mary’s Basilica, the Royal Castle, and Jagiellonian University. The tour predominantly focuses on the Old Town region and involves moderate walking, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

15. 3 ½-Hour Home Cooking Experience

While enjoying traditional Polish cuisine in Krakow is fairly straightforward, learning to prepare it demands guidance from a knowledgeable local.

Participants will first meet their guide in the city’s center, followed by a visit to a local market where they can interact with vendors, explore stalls, and select fresh ingredients for their cooking session.

This 3½-hour experience occurs in a local home and incorporates elements of culture, history, music, and, of course, food.

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn how to make pierogies, a beloved and traditional Polish dish.

This tour is suitable for children aged six and above.