Have you arrived in Krakow and wonder where to start? Here are several tried-and-true ideas to get to know the city without rushing: stroll the Main Market Square and the Planty gardens, visit Wawel Castle, soak up the atmosphere of Kazimierz, see Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory, and if you like unusual viewpoints - head to Krakus Mound for sunset. This set can comfortably fit into a weekend, and spread over 3-4 days will let you feel Krakow like a local.
If you have only one day: focus on the Old Town and Kazimierz - coffee by the Planty, Wawel, a walk to the synagogues and across the Piłsudski Bridge. Two days let you add Schindler's Factory and an evening at a good restaurant. Three to four days: add the mounds (Krakus and Kościuszko), a walk along the Vistula and a visit to one of the galleries or themed museums.
A few practical tips: wear comfortable shoes (cobblestones and steps on the mounds), check the weather forecast before planning outdoor visits, and book entrances to popular sites in advance - especially museums and higher-end restaurants.
What it is and why it matters: this exhibition tells the story of Krakow during World War II, located in the former rooms of the factory. It helps to understand the city's history and the fate of its inhabitants during the years of occupation.
Hours and admissions (as of October 29, 2025): the museum is usually open on Mondays 10:00-15:00, and from Tuesday to Sunday 9:00-19:00; the first Tuesday of the month is closed. The last admission to the exhibition is 1.5 hours before closing. These hours can be adjusted for holidays or special events, so check the current schedule before visiting.
Tickets and reservations: the exhibition has limited entry slots - in high season tickets can sell out quickly. If possible, buy tickets online in advance; on some days (for example free-admission days) ticket rules differ - then tickets are distributed at the ticket office. Keep in mind that Mondays sometimes have free-entry days and special ticketing rules.
Address and contact: the Factory is at 4 Lipowa Street in Krakow. If you want to call or write with questions about visits, check the museum's current contact details on its official channels - that is the best way to confirm hours, reservations and availability of special exhibitions.
Tips for visiting: plan 1-1.5 hours for the exhibition. If you are interested in deeper historical context, arrive earlier to catch a guided tour (guided groups often run in foreign languages) or rent an audio guide. Approach the topic with respect - this is a place of remembrance, not an entertainment attraction.
Krakus Mound (Krakus, Krak's Mound) is the oldest of Krakow's mounds and an excellent viewpoint. You can visit it any time of year and almost any time of day - access to the mound is free and there are no fixed opening hours, the area is open year-round. That means you can come at dawn, for sunset or in the evening to enjoy the stars.
How to get there: the mound is in Podgórze, relatively close to the city center (about 2.5-3 km from the Main Market Square). You can walk, take a tram or bus - there are also city bike stations nearby. Several paths lead up to the mound, so you can choose a route that matches your fitness level.
What to bring and safety notes: comfortable shoes (steeper sections can be slippery after rain), water and a camera. At night keep safety in mind - visit the mound with company and stick to lit paths. The panorama from the top is beautiful - Wawel, the Old Town, Kazimierz and further parts of the city are in view. It's an ideal short break from the crowds of the center.
Krakow has four main mounds: Krakus and Wanda (the oldest, smaller, free to visit), and Kościuszko Mound and Józef Piłsudski Mound (larger, with additional attractions). If you enjoy green spaces and walks, combine visiting one mound with another - there is a green footpath called the 'Two Mounds' trail that links several viewpoints.
Kościuszko Mound is worth visiting if you want to see fortress exhibitions and stroll restored paths. Kościuszko Mound requires an entry ticket (prices vary by ticket type), and in summer there are also evening openings on selected nights. Check current opening hours and the possibility of night visits - it is a beautiful alternative if you want to see the city panorama at dusk.
Krakow is a true culinary mix: from traditional Polish food to fine dining, tasty bistros and international cuisines. To taste the 'best' of Krakow on a plate, consider: breakfasts in a Kazimierz café, lunch at a restaurant serving local specialties, and in the evening choose something more elevated or chef-driven.
Some concrete notes (state of the culinary scene in 2025): Krakow has venues awarded in the Michelin guide - a good option for a special celebration (reserve well in advance). At the same time the city is full of great lower-priced spots: bakeries with good coffee, bars with zapiekanki and places serving pierogi, and modern bistros focused on seasonal cooking.
Neighborhood food scenes: Kazimierz - lots of cozy cafés and restaurants; the Old Town - convenient but watch out for tourist-oriented places; Podgórze - lately very fashionable, with interesting eateries and atmospheric streets. To try local flavors: pierogi (sweet and savory), żurek, obwarzanek (Krakow bread ring), and regional meat dishes. For vegetarians and vegans there are many options: plant-based restaurants and bars with creative cuisine.
Reservation practice: while many small places accept walk-ins, for dinner at a popular restaurant (especially those with awards) it is better to reserve a table at least a few days ahead. Weekend evenings are the busiest. If you want a specific tasting menu, book even earlier.
Check opening hours before you go: many places adjust schedules for holidays or special events. The most reliable source is the official page of the museum or restaurant - check it a day before your visit.
Tickets and limits: popular exhibitions have entry limits - for example Schindler's Factory has a limited number of tickets for the permanent exhibition. If a specific time is important to you, buy tickets online in advance. On some days (for example free-entry days) ticketing rules can differ and sales are handled at the box office.
Transport: Krakow has a convenient tram and bus system - single tickets are available at machines, in mobile apps or from drivers (buying from the driver may be more expensive). If you plan many trips, consider a time ticket (24/48 h). The city is also very walkable - the center and Kazimierz are best explored on foot.
Safety and comfort: wear comfortable shoes, carry a water bottle and a light jacket for the evening. In the tourist season the center can be crowded - plan morning or late-afternoon visits to the busiest sights if you want to avoid the biggest crowds.
If you want, I can prepare a personalized 1-, 2- or 3-day plan for you - tell me how much time you have and whether you prefer history, nature or culinary experiences, and I will prepare a detailed itinerary with a map and suggestions.
