Catherine - Savvy Family TravelWhether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with your family, this guide to 3 Days in Krakow, Poland has something for everyone. Explore the rich history and culture that permeate the streets, indulge in delicious (and affordable) traditional cuisine, and immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the locals.
From the stunning architecture of Wawel Castle and St. Mary’s Basilica to the picturesque charm of the Old Town, Krakow offers a perfect blend of historical wonders and modern delights.
Despite its tumultuous history, it is one of the most charming cities in all of Europe.
3 Days in Krakow, Poland
Historic Center of Old Town
Cloth Hall
The trading post of the old city. It used to be much larger until the early 1800s when the city demolished much of it to make the main square larger.
Town Hall Tower & St. Mary’s Basilica
Every hour, a trumpeter plays the five-note Polish anthem (Hejna Mariacki) from each of the four windows of the tower.
You may notice the anthem seems to end all too abruptly. Legend was that a trumpeter was shot while playing a warning alarm from the tower when Mongol troops were approaching. In memory of this invasion, the anthem continues to sound daily.
The Town Hall Tower stands tall, offering panoramic views of the square below. Ascend to the top and witness the stunning cityscape, with its charming architecture and bustling streets unfolding before your eyes.
Meanwhile, St. Mary’s Basilica, with its Gothic façade, is a true gem. Step inside and be mesmerized by the intricate stained glass windows and detailed interior.?
After visiting these two spots, give kids time to burn some energy in the square. You’ll often find bubble makers and musicians that are family favorites.
St. Florian’s Gate (Brama Florianska)
These gothic towers built during the Middle Ages were the main entry way to the Old Town.
Erected in the 14th century, this iconic Gothic tower is not only one of the best-known Polish Gothic towers but also a symbol of the city’s rich history and heritage.
Standing tall at 34.5 meters (114 feet), it’s difficult to imagine that this gate once connected to the Barbican via a drawbridge over the city moat. Today, it serves as a reminder of medieval times and stands as the only remaining medieval gate in the city.
Proceed to walk down Florianska Street and the Royal Route.
Wawel Hill
Wawel Hill, situated in the heart of Krakow, holds immense historical and cultural significance. This limestone rock formation rising above the Vistula River has been a center of power and activity for centuries. The hill’s name, “wawel,” possibly derives from the Polish word for ravine, reflecting the presence of a ravine that once divided the hill.
Wawel Cathedral
Wawel Hill’s Cathedral is where coronations would take place and crypts hold the remains of the most influential Poles.
Castle
Perhaps the most important building in all of Poland, this is where Polish Kings formerly resided. Now it has been converted into an art museum.
Dragon Statue & Smok Waweleski’s Bones
The dragon status breathes fire every so often, crowds gather to wait for this moment. A kid favorite for sure on a family visit!
The bones more likely belonged to a whale or mammoth than a mythical dragon, however they’re believed to have magic powers making this quite an attraction.
Jewish District (Kazimierz)
Stroll Szeroka Street and Nowy Square
Szeroka Street is the heart of the Jewish District. After much destruction during the Nazi invasion and formation of ghettos, we were pleasantly surprised to find that much of its medieval charm remains. That said, it is undeniable that this neighborhood endured some of the most inhumane treatment in history.
Schindler’s Factory Museum
If you’ve seen the movie Schindler’s List, you know the story. Oskar Schindler was able to stay on good terms with the Nazi and used this to persuade them to continue to staff his factory with Jews so he could prevent them from being taken to Concentration Camps and also ensured they were sufficiently fed. He saved as many as 1,200 lives through the risks he took. Visit this museum for glimpse into what life was like for the Jewish Community after the Nazi’s came into turning their neighborhood into a ghetto and depriving them of basic human needs.
Auschwitz Birkenau Concentration Camp
An hour bus ride from Krakow, is the Auschwitz Concentration Camp Museum. This one is not for the kids unless you have mature teenagers.
I’ll admit, I was torn as to whether I wanted to tour a site that saw such extreme human suffering. The day was certainly an uncomfortable experience witnessing the immense cruelty people were capable of, but I also felt that the museum succeeded in honoring the memory of those who were imprisoned and sharing a powerful message that behaviors, manipulation, and events like this must never be tolerated by societies again.
I felt sleezy even snapping a photo approaching the gate, so this is all I have to share.
Food and Drink for 3 Days in Krakow, Poland
Enjoy Dinner on the Main Square “Rynek Glowny”
You’ll pay a little extra for the location, but it’s worth it for the ambiance of musicians and being surrounded by hundreds of years worth of history.
Pretzel Carts
You’ll see them all over town, for less than $1, you can grab a pretzel on the go.
Pierogi
Savory/Sweet, try them all.
Milk Bars”Bar Mleczny”
We found some of our tastiest meals in Krakow were also the cheapest! Milk Bars were first established during socialist times as cafes for workers to get affordable, nutritious meals quickly during their workday and many are still around today!
Three of us ate generous portions and drank beers for $17 at Polakowski
Beer
Poland was the first country in which we tried non-pasteurized beer. Tyskie Niepasteryzowane was one example. Worth trying!
Basic Polish for your 3 Days in Krakow, Poland:
- Hello (formal): Dzien dobry (Jeyn Dob-ry)
- Thank you: Dziekuje. (Jenkoo-yeah)
- Yes: Tak (tock)
- No: Nie (nye)
- Goodbye (formal): Do widzenia (do vee-dze-neeya)
- Cheers!: Na zdrowie! (Naz-dro-vee-ay)
Discover our favorite European cities to explore with kids!
Catherine – Savvy Family Travel
My favorite pastime is finding fun, interesting experiences to share with family and friends.
I’m a mom of two energetic and curious boys who have endless patience with my tendency to over plan activities on our family vacations. My tireless husband, Troy, provides comic relief, is our favorite photographer, and expert navigator.
I’m a firm believer that travel with kids doesn’t have to be intimidating or expensive. It can be affordable, epic, and, dare I say, even relaxing!
Are you a travel loving parent too? I’d love to meet you, please reach out via Messenger and say “hi!”
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