I wrote this detailed Krakow itinerary based on my experiences in this fantastic city.

I have stayed in different areas and multiple hotels and also tried a few excellent restaurants that I will happily share with you.

I’ve visited many of Krakow’s top attractions and listed those you should not miss in this comprehensive guide. 

Let’s get started… 

Krakow, the cultural capital of Poland, is a city filled with history, charm, and architectural beauty. I first visited Krakow in 2009, and let me tell you, the city has truly transformed over the past fifteen years. 

The heart of Krakow is its stunning, well-preserved old town with a larger square, its castle, the burial place of Polish Kings, and the lively Jewish quarter, now filled with cafes and restaurants.

Krakow, located on the Vistula River, was the former capital of Poland before it was moved to Warsaw.

Additionally, several destinations near Krakow, like the Wieliczka Salt Mine, Auschwitz, Zakopane, and Zalipie, allow you to extend your stay and add even more to your Krakow itinerary.

So, whether you’re planning a 3-day or even a 4-day visit to Krakow, I have some valuable recommendations.

This 2 days in Krakow itinerary will guide you through this vibrant city and help you experience the best of Polish cuisine as the food in Krakow is already a good reason to visit.

Best Time to Visit Krakow

Krakow is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is late spring (May to June) or early autumn (September to October).

During these months, the weather is mild, crowds are smaller than in the peak summer season, and accommodation rates are more reasonable. 

Winters in Krakow can be cold, but the city’s Christmas markets add a magical charm.

Overview of 2 days in Krakow itinerary

Krakow’s magic lies in its blend of medieval history, renaissance architecture, vibrant nightlife, and profoundly moving historical landmarks.

This itinerary includes exploring the main highlights of the Old Town, Wawel Castle, and Jewish Quarter on the first day.

The second day is focused on to the famous Wieliczka Salt Mine or a visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau.

2 Days in Krakow Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Krakow from Wawel Castle to the Old Town Square

Start at Wawel Castle and Cathedral

Begin your day at Wawel Castle, one of Poland’s most significant cultural and historical sites. If you are staying in the old town (view accommodation options here), it will be easy to walk there. 

Perched atop Wawel Hill, this former royal residence blends Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. The castle complex includes a few notable exhibits: State Rooms, the Crown Treasury and Armory, and Art Collections. 

You can buy the “All Day” ticket, which grants access to the State Rooms, the Royal Private Apartments, and the Lost Wawel exhibit, which provides a fascinating insight into the castle’s centuries-old secrets.

Next, visit the Wawel Cathedral, where Poland’s kings were crowned and buried. The cathedral is a marvel of Gothic architecture, with elaborate chapels, towering arches, and historic tombs.

Of course, the main highlight is the Royal Crypts, where Polish kings and notable figures rest. 

Alternatively, you can explore the grounds for free, but visit the Wawel Cathedral. Entry to the Cathedral is 23 Zloty, and you can get the audio guide for 13 zl.

Walk to St. Peter and Paul’s Church

Take a scenic walk from Wawel Castle along Grodzka Street toward St. Peter and Paul’s Church.

This Baroque masterpiece stands out with its grand facade and statues of the Twelve Apostles lining the entrance.

Inside, you’ll find a striking white and gold altar. The church often hosts classical music concerts in the evenings. 

Lunch at the Main Square and Exploring the Cloth Hall

Continue towards Main Market Square (Rynek Główny), the bustling heart of Krakow and part of the UNESCO World Heritage list. Krakow’s Main Market Square is one of Europe’s largest medieval squares, measuring 200 x 200 metres.

Choose a restaurant on the square and enjoy a relaxed lunch while watching the vibrant activity around you. 

I recommend lunch at Restaurant Wesele or Restaurant No 7 to enjoy traditional Polish food.

After lunch, wander through the iconic Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), which dates back to the 13th century and was once a major trading centre for spices, textiles, and leather.

Today, it houses a charming indoor market where you can shop for traditional souvenirs, amber jewellery, and local crafts.

Above the hall is the 19th-century Polish Art Gallery, which features beautiful works by famous Polish artists.

Visit St. Mary’s Basilica

Across from the Cloth Hall is St. Mary’s Basilica, a magnificent Gothic church with twin towers that dominate the square’s skyline. Its richly decorated interior features a stunning wooden altarpiece by Veit Stoss, one of the largest Gothic altarpieces in the world. 

Every hour, a bugler plays a traditional melody from the taller tower, known as the Hejnał Mariacki, honouring a 13th-century watchman’s alarm of an impending Mongol invasion.

Entry to the church includes a tour of the main nave and access to the tower (ticket required).

Stroll to Floriańska Gate

Afterwards, head north along Floriańska Street, one of Krakow’s oldest streets, with quaint shops, cafes, and historic architecture. 

Here, you can also try a Polish doughnut known as paczky at Dobra Pączkarnia Kraków. The traditional flavour is the rose hip jam.

In the end, you’ll find Floriańska Gate, the last remaining medieval city gate, and part of Krakow’s ancient defensive walls.

Built in the 14th century, this stone gate was once the main entryway into the city. It is adorned with intricate carvings and symbols.

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Visit the Czartoryski Museum to See Da Vinci’s Masterpiece

After reaching Floriańska Gate, go to the nearby Czartoryski Museum for an artistic highlight of the day.

This museum, part of one of Poland’s oldest and most significant collections, houses Leonardo da Vinci’s “Lady with an Ermine”, a rare treasure and one of only a few da Vinci paintings worldwide. 

The portrait, believed to be of Cecilia Gallerani, a young woman from the Milanese court, is known for its delicate expression and stunning detail, embodying da Vinci’s mastery.

You have to line up for hours in Paris or book in advance to get into the Louvre to see the Mona Lisa; here in Krakow, you can see one of Da Vinci’s paintings very easily. 

In addition to “Lady with an Ermine,” the museum also displays works by Rembrandt, ancient artifacts, and historical Polish items, giving insight into Poland’s cultural and artistic heritage. 

You can purchase the ticket online the official website here.

Allow time to explore the galleries fully and appreciate the collection before returning to Old Town Square.

End the Day with Plum Chocolates, followed by dinner

Finish your day by trying Krakow’s beloved plum chocolates, a local treat with dried plums coated in smooth dark chocolate.

Look for a shop called Sweet Wawel on the main square. It offers these confections as souvenirs or an ideally sweet end to your first day in Krakow.

To complete your first day in Krakow, here are three excellent Polish restaurants that capture the essence of traditional Polish cuisine with a contemporary twist.

Best Polish Restaurants in Krakow

Pod Aniołami (Under the Angels)

Located in a beautifully preserved 13th-century building just a short walk from the Old Town, Pod Aniołami is known for its rustic interiors and cosy, medieval ambience.

The menu features classic Polish dishes like pierogi with venison, roasted duck with apples, and grilled meats cooked on an open fire. 

Kuchnia u Babci Maliny (Grandma Malina’s Kitchen)

If you’re after a more home-style Polish dining experience, Kuchnia u Babci Maliny is an excellent choice. Known for its affordable, hearty meals and warm, relaxed atmosphere, it’s popular with locals and tourists.

The menu includes staples like bigos (hunter’s stew), kopytka (Polish gnocchi), and placki ziemniaczane (potato pancakes) with sour cream. The restaurant has a vintage decor with a traditional vibe, making it feel like dining in a Polish grandmother’s home.

Czarna Kaczka (Black Duck)

Situated in the heart of the Old Town, Czarna Kaczka specialises in Polish cuisine, focusing on duck dishes. The restaurant’s warm, rustic decor and cosy ambience make it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.

Try their duck in cranberry sauce, goose with roasted apples, or pierogi with wild mushrooms. Czarna Kaczka is a perfect spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing, but you may need to make a reservation in advance to avoid disappointment. 

Nightcap at a Bar: End the night at Harris Piano Jazz Bar just off the Main Market Square. Harris Piano Jazz Bar is a top spot for live jazz lovers.

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Day 2: Day Trip to Wieliczka Salt Mines or Auschwitz Memorial

Your second day in Krakow can be dedicated to exploring one of two powerful historical sites: the Wieliczka Salt Mine or the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum.

Both options offer unique insights into Polish history and culture, and you can spend the afternoon back in Krakow. 

Option 1: Wieliczka Salt Mine

Morning:

Wlieliczka Salt Mine is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the oldest salt mines in the world, operating since the 13th century. It’s truly an incredible place to see.

There are two options for you to visit Wieliczka Salt Mine:

1. You can travel to Wieliczka Salt Mine by a quick 20-minute suburban train ride from Krakow’s main train station, get off at the Wieliczka Rynek Kopalnia, or take a taxi/Bolt here.

Once at the Salt Mine, you must join a guided tour to enter.

2. You can also book this top-rated guided tour with transfers included so you can get picked up from your hotel in Krakow. 

Salt Mine Tour

Embark on a 2-3 hour guided tour through the mine’s complex underground chambers and winding corridors, which lie nearly 135 metres below ground.

Highlights include stunning salt sculptures, impressive underground lakes, and the breathtaking St. Kinga’s Chapel, an intricately carved chapel made entirely from salt. The tour covers approximately 2 kilometres of this vast mine, offering fascinating insights into its historical and cultural significance.

You can go independently or pre-book an organised tour with a pick-up, which might save you some time and is more convenient for visitors, especially if you are visiting during peak season or on the weekend.

Midday – Lunch in Wieliczka

After your tour, enjoy lunch at Karczma Halit, a charming local eatery known for its hearty Polish dishes. Try their pierogi or pork cutlets for an authentic taste of Polish comfort food.

Return to Krakow and Explore Schindler’s Factory

Upon returning to Krakow, head to Schindler’s Factory Museum. Located in the Podgórze district, this museum offers an immersive experience detailing Krakow’s history during WWII, with moving exhibits focused on the Nazi occupation and the lives of the city’s Jewish residents. 

Allow 1-2 hours to explore the exhibitions fully. Buy a ticket at the museum or reserve your ticket here to avoid the line.

Then explore Kazimierz, the Jewish district of Krakow which is essential to see during your 2 days in Krakow.

Dinner at Hamsa: Enjoy modern Israeli-Polish fusion cuisine. The restaurant in Kazimierz offers an inviting atmosphere with a vibrant menu.

Option 2: Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum

Morning

Book a guided tour, including transportation to Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, about 1.5 hours from Krakow.

Auschwitz is a solemn place of remembrance, and guided tours provide essential context for understanding the history and enormity of the Holocaust.

Recommended guided tours for Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum are below:

Auschwitz Tour

The tour covers both Auschwitz I, with its preserved barracks and gas chambers, and Auschwitz II-Birkenau, the larger of the two camps. This deeply moving experience typically lasts around 3-4 hours and serves as a powerful reminder of history, with displays honouring the lives of those lost. 

Afternoon

Return to Krakow

After your tour, return to Krakow by mid-afternoon. The sombre experience will leave an impression, and a quiet moment back in the city to reflect can be grounding. You may also head to Kazimierz, the Jewish district of Krakow.

Late Lunch at Chłopskie Jadło

Stop by Chłopskie Jadło for lunch, a traditional Polish restaurant with rustic decor. Try classic dishes like bigos (hunter’s stew) or placki ziemniaczane (potato pancakes) for a delicious and hearty meal.

Evening

Walk along the Vistula River 

As the sun sets, stroll along the Vistula River for beautiful views of Wawel Castle and the river’s tranquil scenery. 

Dinner at Morskie Oko

For your final dinner in Krakow, head to Morskie Oko, a traditional Polish restaurant inspired by the highlands of Zakopane.

Enjoy live folk music, and indulge in dishes like grilled oscypek (smoked cheese), roast pork knuckle, and sauerkraut stew.

The rustic decor and warm ambience create a perfect end to your 2 days in Krakow. You can book a table through their website Morskie Oko.

Where to Stay in Krakow

Old Town (Stare Miasto) is perfect for first-time visitors, as it’s within walking distance of major attractions, dining, and shopping. 

I recommend staying in one of these hotels in the Old Town in Krakow:

Sheraton Grand Krakow – 5 star

The Sheraton Grand Krakow is a 5-star hotel in the city centre, at the foot of the Royal Wawel Castle and near the Vistula River boulevards. It offers spacious rooms, excellent breakfast, and comfortable beds.

Vienna House by Wyndham Andel’s Cracow – 4 star

This comfortable hotel has a great design, offers a fantastic breakfast, and is in an amazing location right next to the Galeria Mall and Krakow Main Station. This makes it perfect if you’re catching the train from the airport, Salt Mines, or other destinations in Poland.

Leonardo Boutique Hotel Krakow Old Town – 3 star

This boutique hotel is in the heart of the old town and is close to the castle. It’s a good value 3-star option that ticks all the boxes. 

Kazimierz (Jewish Quarter): 

It is known for its bohemian vibe, vibrant nightlife, and trendy cafes.

Consider staying at Hotel Rubinstein or Aparthotel BC 29 Residence.

How to Get Around in Krakow

Krakow’s city centre is compact, making it easy to explore on foot.

Here are the main ways to get around:

• Walking: Most main attractions are within walking distance, so trust me, you will need some good walking shoes.
• Trams and Buses: Efficient and cheap if you stay in the Jewish quarter. Buy tickets at kiosks, tram stops, or directly from the driver (cash only).
• Taxi and Ride-Sharing: Affordable and easy to find. Uber and Bolt operate in Krakow.
• Bikes or E-scooters: The city has a decent bike-sharing system called Wavelo, and you’ll find Bolt e-scooters. Please be mindful that most of the old town is a no-parking zone for these scooters (they have allocated parking places), and riding scooters over the cobbled streets isn’t so much fun.

Staying Connected in Krakow

To stay connected, purchase an eSIM before you arrive in Poland.

If you are doing more travels across Europe I highly recommend Airalo Eurolink eSIM.

Is Krakow Safe?

Krakow is considered one of the safest cities in Poland. The main tourist areas are well-policed, and violent crime is rare.

The only thing to keep in mind (like any popular tourist destination) is pickpocketing, which can occur in crowded areas. 

Getting to Krakow City Centre from the Airport

Krakow’s John Paul II International Airport is about 11 km from the city centre.

Here are the main options to get downtown:

• Train: The fastest option, taking around 20 minutes to Krakow’s main station. Trains run every 30 minutes. A return ticket costs zł 9 (USD 2.20) per journey or zł 16 (USD 4).
• Bus: It is affordable, and several lines (e.g., 208, 252, and night bus 902) connect the airport to the city.
• Taxi or Ride-Sharing: A taxi ride takes about 25-30 minutes and costs around zł 109 (USD 28). Ensure you use official airport taxis or book a ride via Uber/Bolt, which is cheaper, around 55 zł ( USD 14)
• Private Transfer: For a stress-free arrival, book a private airport transfer here before your arrival.

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Where to go from Krakow next?

Krakow’s position in Central Europe means you can travel to other destinations, such as Prague, Bratislava, Budapest, Vienna or explore more of Poland.

We wrote some helpful blogs to help you plan.

• 2 Days in Budapest Itinerary
• 2 Days in Prague Itinerary
• 2 Days in Vienna Itinerary
• 13 Things to Do in Bratislava Slovakia
• Charming Zalipie – The Prettiest Village in Poland
• Poland’s Best Cities To Visit – Our 9 Favourite Cities

Polish Food to Try

Polish cuisine is hearty and full of flavour. Must-try dishes include pierogi (dumplings stuffed with meat, cheese, or potatoes), żurek (sour rye soup with sausage and egg), and black ziemniaczane (potato pancakes).

For dessert, indulge in a slice of szarlotka (apple pie) or pączki (Polish donuts). Pair your meal with a shot of Polish vodka or a local craft beer.

Check out our detailed guide on 18 popular foods from Poland.

Make sure you get Travel Insurance before hitting the road. We recommend Heymondo & SafetyWing

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My final thoughts on the 2 days in Krakow itinerary

This two-day Krakow itinerary offers a taste of the city’s culture, history, and beauty; I’m sure you will enjoy this city as much as I do.

Travel Tips for Europe

We have many travel guides and tips for Europe— an incredible continent!

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Delicious cuisine can be enjoyed across Europe, and our food map of Europe will inspire your culinary journey.

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Here are 8 things to know about travelling to Eastern Europe and it’s good to know these 7 misconceptions about Eastern Europe too.

These top 6 travel hacks to save money are great to read when planning your travels.

You’ll need to stay connected while travelling in Europe. We recommend eSIM. It’s easy, reliable and affordable. View eSIMs for individual European countries, or consider a regional eSIM for Europe (which covers 39 countries).

If your travels in Europe are part of a much larger global adventure, then a Global eSIM may be the answer. It connects you in 124 countries, offering data-only eSIM and data/call/text eSIM. The Global eSIM has been a game-changer; we couldn’t imagine travelling without it now.

If you want to travel with like-minded travellers, consider joining a group tour. Check out our Group Tours first for any upcoming European departures, or view Tourradar for great deals on group tours in Europe.

Check out our best-ever travel tips compiled from more than twenty years of experience.