Top 10 Must-See Attractions in Kraków, Poland
1. Wawel Castle
Historic royal residence overlooking the Vistula River, housing national museum collections and the Wawel Cathedral.
- Rich History: Explore over a thousand years of Polish history
- Architectural Masterpiece: Admire Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles
- Nation's Symbol: Understand the significance of the castle as a Polish national symbol
2. Kazimierz District
Vibrant former Jewish quarter filled with colorful houses, Jewish cultural sites and trendy bars.
- Jewish Heritage: Discover the rich history of the Jewish community
- Cultural Melting Pot: Experience diverse food, art and music
- Bohemian Vibe: Relax in the laid-back, artistic atmosphere
3. Main Market Square (Rynek Główny)
Largest medieval town square in Europe with Cloth Hall and St. Mary's Church.
- Historical Center: Explore the heart of Kraków's old town
- Architectural Wonders: Admire Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque buildings
- Shopping Destination: Find unique souvenirs at the Cloth Hall's market stalls
4. Wieliczka Salt Mine
13th-century salt mine featuring ornate chapels, statues and chambers.
- Geological Marvel: Witness the geological wonder of underground salt mines
- Historical Landmark: Discover the rich history of salt mining in Poland
- Artistic Masterpieces: Admire intricate statues and chapels carved from salt
5. Schindler's Factory Museum
Former enamel factory turned museum dedicated to Oskar Schindler and the Holocaust.
- Holocaust History: Understand the impact of World War II on Kraków's Jewish community
- Industrial Architecture: Explore a well-preserved industrial facility
- Rescue Story: Learn about the heroic efforts of Oskar Schindler
6. Jewish Cemetery in Kazimierz
Historic Jewish cemetery with over 180,000 gravestones dating back to the 16th century.
- Jewish History: Discover the history of Kraków's Jewish community
- Artistic Gravestones: Appreciate the unique, ornate gravestones
- Tranquil Atmosphere: Experience a peaceful, reflective space
7. St. Florian's Church
Baroque church with an ornate interior and the only functioning astronomical clock in Poland.
- Astronomical Marvel: Witness the only functioning astronomical clock in Poland
- Baroque Architecture: Admire the intricate Baroque details of the church's interior
- Religious Significance: Understand the importance of St. Florian in Polish history and culture
8. Church of Our Lady Queen of Angels (Kosciol Najswietszej Maryi Panny na Kazimierzu)
A unique church featuring a stunning rococo interior and an impressive organ.
- Rococo Interior: Admire the ornate Rococo decorations
- Incredible Organ: Experience a concert on one of Europe's finest baroque organs
- Religious Significance: Understand the importance of this church in the Kazimierz district
9. Florian's Gate (Brama Florianska)
A Renaissance gateway to Kraków's old town with a beautiful clock tower.
- Renaissance Beauty: Appreciate the beauty of a Renaissance structure
- Historical Significance: Understand its role as a historical gateway to the city
- Clock Tower: See the intricate clock mechanism up close
10. Collegium Novum (Jagiellonian University)
A Renaissance building housing part of Jagiellonian University, one of Europe's oldest universities.
- Academic History: Explore the rich academic history of Poland
- Renaissance Architecture: Admire the stunning Renaissance architecture
- Learning Hub: Visit a functioning educational institution with a rich history