Kraków has long been a city with a strong student rhythm — universities, cafés, clubs and meeting spots create an atmosphere perfect for discovering new things and making friends. For incoming Erasmus participants or students from other cities it’s an ideal place: a compact center, plenty of cultural events and many options to explore on a small budget.
The city is compact — many of the key points (the Old Town, Kazimierz, the Vistula Boulevards, the Błonia meadow) can be visited on foot in a single day. That’s a big advantage when you want to make the most of your time and money.
Beyond the classic sights, Kraków also has many student-friendly spots: parks, markets, milk bars, food trucks and local canteens that fit both the student budget and taste.
Walk the Old Town and the Planty — a classic way to start. Strolling around the Market Square, the Cloth Hall and the Planty ring takes time only, and in the centre you’ll meet atmospheric cafés and street musicians.
Kazimierz — the former Jewish quarter full of charming cafés, galleries and murals. It’s great for a long afternoon walk, photo discoveries and affordable food in local bars.
Vistula Boulevards and the Błonia meadow — perfect for a picnic, an afternoon with a book or meeting friends. In summer the boulevards come alive with concerts, stalls and an easygoing vibe.
Podgórze and Kopiec Krakusa — less crowded spots with beautiful city views. It’s worth going there for sunset.
Nowa Huta — a different face of Kraków. A self-guided walk along Aleja Róż and the Central Square offers a good introduction to PRL-era history and architecture.
Smaller museums and galleries — many places have student discounts or free-entry days. Check current offers before you go to get the best deals.
Kazimierz and the area around the Market Square are where you’ll find the most bars, pubs and intimate clubs. Many places run drink promotions or host free-entry shows, so you can plan an evening without spending much.
Student clubs connected to universities and neighborhood pubs often host themed nights, recitals or live-music evenings — a great way to discover the local scene and meet people.
If you prefer a quieter night, choose a café in Kazimierz or on the Vistula Boulevards — many stay open late and offer a friendly atmosphere for conversation.
Milk bars and home-style canteens — the first places many think of when looking for a cheap lunch. These spots often serve a daily menu (soup + main course + compote or salad) at very economical prices. They can be found across the city, especially near universities and residential districts.
Home-cooking bistros and small cafés in Kazimierz — many offer a “dish of the day” priced for students; portions are homey and filling.
Kumpir stands and market stalls at the city’s market halls — baked potatoes with toppings, kebabs and other market snacks are a cheap, caloric and tasty choice.
Oriental and Asian canteens — Kraków has many places serving inexpensive Vietnamese, Chinese and Turkish dishes; portions are often generous for the price.
Examples to try: Kuchnia u Doroty for home-style Polish dishes; Bar Mleczny Bieńczyce and similar neighborhood milk bars for very low-cost, hearty meals; the Hala Targowa (market hall) for small food stands with varied options. Keep in mind that offers and prices change, so check the current menu before you visit.
Practical tip: choose the daily special — it’s usually the best value for size and price. Avoid heavily touristy spots if you want to keep costs down.
Kuchnia u Doroty — known for home-cooked lunches and reasonable prices; look for the daily dish.
Various milk bars across the city — classic, cheap and filling; a great option when you want a quick, inexpensive meal.
Bar Mleczny Bieńczyce and other neighborhood canteens — often among the cheapest choices in the city, with large portions of pierogi or cutlets.
Market halls and food halls — kumpir, kebab, dumplings or Asian dishes are frequently good value for lunch.
Small oriental and Asian eateries — if you like Asian cuisine, you can find generous portions at friendly prices.
Shop at local markets or discount supermarkets — cooking for yourself is the cheapest option in the long run. Even occasional group cooking with flatmates can lower monthly food costs significantly.
Share portions — many canteens serve large portions; consider splitting one main course between two people and paying a small extra for a side.
Look for discount days at museums and cultural institutions — many places have student prices or free-entry days each month.
Use your student ID — it often grants discounts on transport, selected museums and events. Always ask whether a discount is available.
Kraków has an extensive tram and bus network — buy short-term tickets or check student and semester options with the municipal carrier. Prices and rules change, so check current information before buying.
Many central spots are best explored on foot — walking saves money and is often the fastest way to move between sights.
City bikes and electric scooters are useful for short trips; they’re flexible and frequently cheaper than a taxi.
Kraków is generally safe, but like any busy tourist city — especially in high season — remain aware of pickpockets in crowded places (the Market Square, trams and busy transport hubs).
Check opening hours — some milk bars and canteens serve lunches only until mid-afternoon (for example, until about 4 p.m.), and small places can be closed on weekends.
Cash vs card — while more places accept cards now, some neighborhood milk bars still prefer cash. Carry small change, especially if you eat away from tourist routes.
Morning - quick coffee and breakfast in Kazimierz, then a stroll through its atmospheric streets.
Late morning - Old Town: Market Square, Cloth Hall and the Wawel courtyards (outdoor areas are free to enjoy).
Midday - cheap lunch at a milk bar or a home-cooking bistro (daily special).
Afternoon - Vistula Boulevards and the Błonia meadow for a rest, photos and a local market or café stop.
Evening - Kazimierz or the Market Square area: dinner at an inexpensive bar and then meeting friends at a pub.
Do foreign students get special discounts? - Yes, many places offer discounts with a valid student ID or an Erasmus card; always show your document and ask about a discount.
Where can I find a really cheap lunch in the centre? - Choose canteens and milk bars a little away from the busiest tourist streets; a daily special in a small bistro often gives the best taste-to-price ratio.
Are milk bars safe for vegetarians? - Yes, many milk bars have meat-free options such as pierogi, potato pancakes or dumplings; ask the staff about ingredients before ordering.
Should I reserve a table in cheap eateries? - Usually no, but peak lunch hours (12:00–13:30) can be crowded; for bigger groups it’s wise to call ahead.
How do I check current prices and special offers? - The most reliable way is to check the venue’s online profile or call them; daily menus and prices can change quickly.
