What To Do And See In Cracow

Local Krakow: An Experience Above Any Other

As one of the oldest and largest cities in all of Poland, Krakow has much to offer every visitor. You’ll find many places for tourism that will meet many of your needs, but not necessarily all of the wants you may have with your visit to this outstanding city.

To navigate your journey through Krakow, you need to be able to see it through local eyes. That’s why you’ll want to consider adding these unique experiences to your upcoming visit!

#1. The Land of Whispers

If you’re looking for a great place to kick back and relax with a coffee or some tea, then Kraina Szeptow is where you’re going to want to find yourself. This charming place offers multiple floors for you to enjoy a quiet conversation or an outdoor table along the one way street. Have a chat with a loved one or get dressed up to enjoy an evening together – either way, the Land of Whispers will leave a loud impact on your evening.

The ground floor is reserved for non-smokers, but you may wish to brave the smoke and climb the creaking staircase up to the other levels to see the artwork and chandeliers. There are comfy sofas to enjoy and there is often live music playing that can be heard on all levels. It’s one of the best atmospheres in all of Krakow and the perfect place to have a quiet conversation.

#2. Florianska Street

This historical shopping street might seem like a tourist trap at first, but it really is one of the busiest places in all of Krakow. You’ll have to walk through the Florianska Gate to enjoy the main square, so make sure you bring your camera… and your money! That’s because this shopping district has everything you can imagine. Food, clothes, and even original paintings can all be purchased on this street.

The oldest hotel in Krakow is also located here, as is a museum that is dedicated to Jan Matejko, who lived on Florianska Street while he was producing his greatest works. There are a number of cafes to enjoy, fine dining options as well, and there are street vendors that can get you something cool on a hot day. Put on some comfortable shoes and enjoy a beautiful day just window shopping if you prefer – you won’t be disappointed!

#3. Cupcake Corner

Well off the beaten path sits one of the best bakeries that you’re ever going to find. Their unique, custom cupcakes can take many shapes, including that of your favorite Angry Birds if you prefer! Served with a side of cappuccino, these freshly baked cupcakes come in a variety of flavors as well. The carrot cake is always a great option, but the more brave at heart may enjoy the Grass Hopper. Flavors change daily, however, so be prepared to try something new!

The business also puts their baking schedule online, so you can check to see before your visit what the menu is going to be like. Some locals travel halfway across town just to experience a treat from this bakery, so definitely put it on your list of things to do!

#4. Malecon: A View Worth Paying For

One of the best experiences that Krakow has to offer is a sunset view of the river and the city while enjoying a favorite drink or a meal. The best way to get this view is at Malecon, which is a rooftop restaurant that offers a view of the Wisla River and a backdrop that includes Wawel Castle. It is truly a local gem as well because you won’t find Malecon in any of the tourist literature – it’s an almost 100% word of mouth establishment and the perfect place for coffee, a book, and a beautiful sunset.

If you need something to eat, Malecon offers a fairly traditional menu where the burgers are some of the best you’ll ever have. You might think that it’d be a pricey establishment with its location, but it is relatively average in price. There’s also an extensive wine list to enjoy!

#5. Charlotte: A Taste of Paris

If you’re looking for a sweet treat and a casual atmosphere, then you’ll want to find your way to Charlotte during your stay in Krakow. This little bakery features French pastries and breads, but you can also grab a sandwich here on freshly baked bread if you wish. Whatever you do, make sure you get a loaf of their rosemary bread and their olive loaf.

If you need something to drink with your pastries, coffee and tea is available. There is also a small selection of wines that are pretty reasonably priced if you want the true French experience. The entire menu is available all day long and if you’re hungry, be sure to order their roast beef sandwich. You can order bread to specific dietary requirements if you wish as well, including reduced gluten and salt free loaves. There’s often a line, so be patient because you’re about to enjoy something incredible!

#6. Mistrzejowice Fort

If you’ve never had the opportunity to explore an old war fort or bunker, then you’ve never really known how peaceful and serene the experience can be, despite the reasoning behind the construction. In a small little forest in the northern part of the city, there is a place where the kids can play, the dogs can run, and you can enjoy a quiet stroll.

Mistrzejowice Fort was completed in 1897 and was part of the modernization of the local fortress. It was primarily used as a warehouse and much of it has been destroyed or run down, but it still offers you that one place of privacy that you might need. There are several hiking paths to enjoy if you wish and the trees protect you from the sun and the noise of the city. It is definitely the place to be if you need to hit your reset button!

#7. Wisla Boulevard

One of the best ways to enjoy Krakow is by bicycle. You can rent one at a number of locations, but make sure to find your way to the Amber Route on Wisla Boulevard. It runs right along the river and you’ll find yourself recreating the old trade routes for amber that ran through the area. The total route is about 6 kilometers, but if you want to take the full day to explore, you can take the boulevard out to Tyniec to enjoy a small town experience. You might wish to avoid this trip on the weekends, however, because it gets quite busy.

#8. Błonia

At first glimpse, Błonia might not seem very exciting. After all, it is simply an open meadow. It is a large open meadow, however, and is one of the largest parks of its kind in all of Europe. Any park activity you can dream of doing can be done here and is a useful park experience for many locals. It doesn’t cost anything either, unless you’re visiting during the winter months and wish to do some ice skating.

The best way to enjoy Błonia is to pack a blanket, bring a bottle of wine, a few snacks, and a cheap kite that you can find in one of the local toy stores. Have a seat, enjoy the day, some wine, and watch the kite fly in the sky as you spend time with someone you truly care about.

#9. Domowka Cafe 

Being able to just hang out in the hotel in the evening and play a few games can be fun, but why limit yourself when you could go somewhere else and have a competitive game without expensive room service providing you with lousy beer? At Domowka Cafe, you’ll get a calm, fun atmosphere, plenty of board games to play, and all the beer you could ever want! You just pick a game from the menu, pick out a favorite beer from their regional and popular options, and enjoy an evening playing something you love.

#10. Ciuciu

Billing itself as the world’s smallest candy factory, it is easy to see what the place is almost always flooded with the local kids who are looking to purchase a favorite treat. The candy is made right before your eyes and the designs are surprisingly intricate, considering how fast the candy is made. The recipes are based on the original 17^th century combinations that were popular in Krakow and you can get just about any flavor you want.

The choices at Ciuciu are quite extensive, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself leaving with more candy than you intended to buy! Special orders are available as well so you can bring home a special, personalized treat if you wish as well.

Krakow is a beautiful city that offers a number of intriguing experiences for everyone. If you’re ready to enjoy everything that this city has to offer, then include these ideas for your upcoming journey and you will begin making wonderful memories, one step at a time

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