DIVERSIONS
From majestic, medieval edifices to ancient legends of dragons, Kraków is a city built on history. Start in the fanciful Old Town, where the main square is made for people-watching. Stick around for the hourly trumpet call from the top of St. Mary’s Basilica, a tune that cuts off mid-melody to commemorate the death of a trumpeter reportedly killed during a 13th-century Mongol attack on the city.
Atop the unmissable Wawel Hill stands Wawel Castle, one of Poland’s largest, where a confluence of architectural styles appropriately represents the castle’s current purpose as an art museum.
Outside Old Town lies one of Kraków’s most visited districts: Kazimierz, or the Jewish Quarter. The area, formerly its own town in the Middle Ages, became a Jewish community in the 15th century. During World War II Nazi soldiers forcibly removed Jewish residents from the neighborhood, with only 10 percent of the Jewish population surviving the raids. Now the area preserves this important history while also celebrating its evolving alternative vibe with funky cafés, cool bars and thought-provoking street art, all among centuries-old synagogues.
Rent a bike to experience one of the best ways to explore the areas surrounding Kraków. Follow the bike path along the banks of the Vistula River, eventually reaching the nearby countryside, where you can peacefully cycle for miles.
INFO TO GO
John Paul II Kraków-balice International Airport lies approximately seven miles from the center of Kraków. Public transit makes it easy to access the city, as a train travels directly from the airport to Kraków’s central train station in 20–30 minutes for about $3. Purchase tickets from automatic machines on the train platform (via card) or from the conductor on board (in cash only).
Three bus lines (208, 209 and 252) also connect the airport with the city in 50 minutes. Departure times are listed in the arrivals terminal. Purchase tickets at ticket machines at the bus stop or in the arrivals terminal (both by card) or from the bus driver (by cash only); a one-way ticket costs about $1.50. Travelers also can hire a rental car or book a private bus or taxi in advance via the airport’s website.
JUST THE FACTS
Time zone: GMT +2
Phone code: Country code: 48 City code: 12
Currency: Polish złoty
Key industries: Agriculture, manufacturing, energy, information and communication technology, tourism
COMING AND GOING
U.S. citizens with a passport valid for at least six months do not need a visa to enter Poland for stays of less than 90 days.
OFFICIAL LANGUAGE
Polish