3 days in Krakow: from Wawel to Kazimierz
The essentials
- Visa: Schengen
- Currency: Zloti (PLN)
- Airport: ~20 min to the center by train
- Local flavors: Pierogi, obwarzanek, zapiekanka
- Our number one tip: Obwarzanek, sold from street carts, is Krakow’s version of simit. Grab one before you start your morning walk.
Krakow is one of the rare European cities that came through World War II largely undamaged. Its medieval square, riverside castle and café-filled Jewish quarter more than fill three days.
Day 1: Rynek Główny and the Old Town
In the middle of Rynek Główny, one of Europe’s largest medieval squares, stands the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice). From the tower of St. Mary’s Basilica, a trumpet call plays every hour and is cut off mid-note, in memory of a trumpeter who, legend says, was shot with an arrow.
Day 2: Wawel Hill and Kazimierz
Set aside the morning for Wawel Castle and Cathedral, and don’t head down without seeing the fire-breathing dragon statue at the foot of the hill. In the afternoon, head to Kazimierz: synagogues, second-hand shops, murals and a zapiekanka at Plac Nowy.
Day 3: Wieliczka or Auschwitz-Birkenau
In the UNESCO-listed Wieliczka Salt Mine, meters underground, there is a chapel carved entirely from salt. If you plan to visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, book in advance and keep in mind it will be an emotionally heavy day. We recommend not squeezing both into one day.
Book this tour: availability and prices on GetYourGuide (discount code GEZSEKDEDIK5)
Places in this story
- Plac Nowy (Kazimierz, Krakow) — Street Food. Zapiekanka stalls in a round building at the heart of Kazimierz. A Krakow classic for a midnight snack. Must try: Zapiekanka
Frequently asked questions
How many days should I spend in Krakow?
Three days is ideal: one day for the Old Town, one for Wawel and Kazimierz, and one for Wieliczka Salt Mine or Auschwitz-Birkenau.
Do I need a reservation for Auschwitz-Birkenau?
Yes, you need to book in advance. Because it’s an emotionally heavy day, we recommend not squeezing it into the same day as Wieliczka.
What should I eat in Krakow?
Pierogi, obwarzanek (Krakow’s version of simit), and zapiekanka at Plac Nowy in Kazimierz.
Authors
This story was written by Tuğba & Burak. We have been traveling together for 13 years and we visit every place we recommend ourselves. Instagram: @gezsekdedik