For nearly a thousand years, Krakow’s Wawel Castle has stood tall, dominating the marvelous medieval old town of Krakow, and proudly holding the esteemed title of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled along the banks of the Vistula, atop a hillock enshrouded in ancient legends of dragons, heroes, kings and queens, Krakow Castle is revered as one of the most significant symbols of Polish culture and national identity, making it a must-visit attraction in the city.

Today, Wawel Castle stands as an exceptional testament to medieval architecture, boasting an imposing cathedral and a complex of palaces that eloquently narrate the castle’s historical journey, seamlessly blending styles from different eras that chronicle the captivating history of Krakow as the Polish capital. Throughout the centuries, Wawel Castle served as the royal residence, the epicenter of power, and the treasure trove of a once flourishing medieval European city. Even in the present day, it continues to house the resting places of kings, saints and heroes, while its opulent palaces and beautiful gardens offer an unparalleled view of the tranquil banks of the Vistula.

Wawel Castle in Krakow: the Castle of the Kings of Poland

Wawel Castle proudly stands atop Wawel Hill, commanding a breathtaking view of the city and the majestic Vistula River. This historical site has been steeped in fortifications and legends since the 8th century, witnessing Krakow’s gradual ascent to prominence. By the year 1000, Krakow had already become an essential city for the Roman Catholic Church, prompting the construction of a cathedral to serve as the bishop’s seat.

In 1038, Duke Casimir I the Restorer made the pivotal decision to establish the royal residence in Krakow, transforming the city into Poland’s capital. During that period, the initial Wawel Cathedral and St. Leonard’s Crypt were constructed, which still house the remains of Polish heroes and kings to this day.

In the early 14th century, a fire ravaged the old cathedral, leading to the creation of the present Wawel Cathedral, along with the Gothic castle and numerous towers. Under the rule of King Władysław II Jagiełło during the Gothic era, Wawel Castle acquired much of its present shape and size. A dozen buildings were erected to accommodate troops, royal clerks, craftsmen, and servants. Mighty fortifications were built to safeguard the Royal Castle and the city.

However, in 1499, a disastrous fire destroyed the royal residences, transforming Wawel Castle into the marvelous royal palace that it is today. King Sigismund I the Old commissioned the finest Italian and German artists of the time to reconstruct the royal residences in the elegant Italian Renaissance style. During this period, the impressive and spacious rooms of Wawel Royal Castle were adorned, with tiered arcades overlooking a charming courtyard. The halls were graced with a stunning collection of over 350 tapestries from Flanders.

Unfortunately, over the years, many of the original decorations were lost to fires and damage, and Wawel Castle’s role increasingly shifted toward that of a fortress. In 1609, King Sigismund III moved the capital permanently to Warsaw, marking the decline of Krakow and Wawel Castle’s significance. Subsequent occupations by the Swedish, Prussians, and Austrians further devastated the castle and its precious heritage.

The Austrians repurposed it as a border fortress, serving little more than a barracks for soldiers and a military hospital. It wasn’t until the early 1900s that the Austrians, upon the request of Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria, finally relinquished control of Wawel Castle.

The people of Krakow were determined to restore the castle and transform it into the residence of the President of Poland. During the Nazi occupation, it was tragically used as the residence of Nazi generals. After the war, the resilient citizens of Krakow resumed restoration efforts, transforming Wawel Castle into the main tourist attraction in the city and arguably the most significant monument in all of Poland.

What to see at Wawel Castle

Krakow’s Wawel Castle is a fascinating complex of palaces, churches, and courtyards, showcasing various architectural styles that beautifully reflect its rich history. Even if you are not particularly fond of art and museums, taking a leisurely stroll through the picturesque courtyard and gardens of the Royal Castle is an experience that should not be missed.

Wawel Cathedral

Wawel Cathedral with its towers, chapels and crypts is one of the most important buildings of the Wawel Royal Castle. It was first built in the 11th century, but has been destroyed and rebuilt twice. What you can see today is the third version, in the Gothic style, dating back to the 14th century.

Its Silver Bells’ Tower is the oldest surviving building of Wawel Royal Castle, dating back to the 12th century. In the basement of the Wawel Cathedral are the crypts where poets, national heroes and kings are buried. The most important is St. Leonard’s Crypt, also called the Royal Crypt, which was built in the 11th century.

John Paul II Cathedral Museum

It is one of the main museums of the Wawel Royal Castle, inaugurated in 1978 by Karol Wojtyła, at the time Archbishop of Cracow and prospective Pope John Paul II. It preserves a valuable collection of art and objects of religious cult: paintings, sculptures, clothes and artifacts.

Dragon’s Den

According to a famous local legend, Wawel Hill was once inhabited by a ferocious dragon that terrorized the inhabitants of the town founded by King Krakus, the legendary founder of Krakow.

The dragon demanded constant offerings of cattle, otherwise humans would be devoured. According to the legend, the inhabitants of Krakow managed to defeat the dragon by feeding him sheep filled with sulfur. Some legends say it was Krakus who defeated the dragon, others say it was a shoemaker named Skuba.

In any case, you can still visit the caves where the Wawel Dragon (Smok Wawelski) lived. In front of the Dragon’s Den you can see a modern fire-breathing metal statue of the dragon. Nothing special, but nice for those traveling with kids.

The Royal Palace of Wawel Castle

The Royal Palace was the first and most important residence of the Polish kings. It is the heart of Wawel Castle and boasts beautiful Renaissance-style rooms, a wonderful tiered arcades courtyard, and several chambers and exhibitions that you can visit:

Royal Private Apartments

The magnificent royal apartments once housed the royal family and their most important guests. Even today you can see the beautiful decorated rooms, the private chapels and the fine collection of Flemish tapestries, dating back to the 16th century. The royal apartments can only be visited with a guide.

State Rooms

The State Rooms are undoubtedly the most interesting attraction of the Wawel Royal Castle. The rooms are elegantly decorated in the Italian Renaissance style. Paintings, tapestries, weapons and stuccos decorate these wonderful rooms that once served to welcome the most important guests and for court ceremonies, such as royal weddings.

Crown Treasury and Armory

This wing of the Wawel Royal Castle houses the most precious things that once belonged to the royal family and their army. Here is preserved the most valuable piece: the Szczerbiec, the coronation sword of Polish kings, used from 1320 to 1764. You can also see the crown jewels, artifacts and precious stones belonging to the royal families, and a large collection of weapons, such as halberds, crossbows, rifles and cannons belonging to the arsenal of the Castle.

The Lost Wawel

To discover the origins of Wawel Castle you can visit the permanent exhibition The Lost Wawel, located in the basement of the castle. Here you can see the oldest remains of the castle, dating from the 10th century and earlier. It is one of the few places where you can admire what the gothic castle was like.

Art of the Orient – Ottoman Turkish Tents

The Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, which had Krakow as its capital, was a vast and powerful kingdom, which had many contacts with Eastern and Islamic countries. Through centuries of trade contacts and military conflicts, the Polish royal court has amassed an impressive collection of oriental art treasures, carpets, weapons, Chinese and Japanese vases, and other goods from Turkey, Crimea, Caucasus and Iran.

How to visit the Wawel Castle in Krakow: Tickets and Tours

Wawel Castle is a complex of historic buildings and permanent exhibitions, each requiring a separate ticket. It is also highly recommended to visit it with a guide.

You can book a guided tour of Wawel Castle, with priority tickets included. The tours are led by an expert guide (with a special license for Wawel) and allow you to visit the castle in depth. There are tours in several languages (e.g. english, german, french, spanish, italian, and polish, of course).

Otherwise you can book only the group guided tour, buying the tickets separately.

The total price of the various separate tickets is around 110 PLN (around 25 €). Ticket availability is limited and there are also limits on the number of visitors admitted to the exhibitions at the same time. Imho, the best solution is to buy the complete guided tour (the first one), with skip-the-line tickets included. The price is almost the same.

The courtyard and outdoor areas of Wawel Castle, like most of the gardens, can be visited for free.

How to Get to Wawel Castle

Wawel Castle is located on Wawel Hill in the heart of Krakow’s Old Town. You can reach it with an easy walk of about 10 minutes from the Main Market Square, just follow the Grodzka Street towards the Vistula.

You can also reach Wawel Castle by tram: the Wawel stop is located right at the foot of the Wawel Hill and trams 8, 10, 13 and 18 stop there. More info can be found on the official website of the Wawel Royal Castle.

The Wawel Cathedral, with its thousand-year history and unique blend of architectural styles spanning over six centuries, stands as a testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of Krakow and all of Poland. Deeply intertwined with the nation’s history, the cathedral symbolizes the profound connection between the Polish people and Christianity, serving as both a spiritual center and a cultural landmark.

As the historic site of the coronations of Poland’s kings, the Wawel Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, majestically crowning Wawel Hill. Beyond its striking exterior, the cathedral offers a journey through Poland’s past, with chapels and mausoleums adorned by masterworks of the Italian Renaissance, reflecting the artistic grandeur of the time. Within the cathedral’s crypts lie the tombs of kings, queens, saints, poets, and national heroes, making it not only a place of worship but also a sanctuary of Polish history and identity.

Wawel Cathedral: History & Curious Facts

The Wawel Cathedral, also known as the Royal Archcathedral Basilica, holds significant importance as the Polish national sanctuary, commemorating the nation’s history, national identity, and the deep roots of Polish Christianity. What stands today is the magnificent Gothic Cathedral, the third edifice erected on this site. The original cathedral was built in the 11th century under the patronage of King Boleslaw I Chrobry. However, it was later replaced in 1140 by a Romanesque cathedral, which unfortunately succumbed to a fire in 1305.

Nonetheless, visitors can still explore St. Leonard’s Crypt, the sole remnant of the original 11th-century church. Another surviving structure is the Silver Bell Tower, which dates back to the 12th century Romanesque cathedral, making it the oldest tower at Wawel Castle.

Following the fire in 1305, King Władysław I the Elbow-high was crowned here in 1320, and he initiated the construction of the current Gothic Cathedral, which was eventually consecrated in 1364. The Cathedral, particularly the Sigismund’s Chapel dating back to the early 1500s, showcases the brilliance of the Italian Renaissance, owing to the efforts of several Italian artists. Among them were Bartolomeo Berrecci, a Florentine Renaissance architect, who played a significant role in designing much of the Royal Palace of Wawel Castle, and Giovanni Battista Gisleni and Giovanni Battista Trevano, prominent artists who served at the Polish kings’ court.

Throughout the centuries, all Polish kings were crowned here, and following their passing, they were laid to rest in the chapels and crypts of Wawel Cathedral. In addition to its historical significance, the cathedral holds personal connections to remarkable individuals. In 1942, Karol Wojtyla, who would later become Pope John Paul II in 1978, celebrated his first mass as a priest in one of the chapels in the crypt. Moreover, he was ordained as an auxiliary bishop of Krakow in 1958 at the same sacred place.

Wawel Cathedral: Things to See and Visit Guide

Wawel Cathedral is not merely a church; it is a captivating museum that offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Krakow. As you step inside Wawel Cathedral, you are immediately greeted by the alleged bones of the Wawel Dragon, a legendary creature said to have once terrorized the inhabitants of Krakow from its home on Wawel Hill. Locals believe these bones possess magical powers and safeguard the cathedral, but they are, in fact, fossilized mammalian bones, possibly from a whale.

Continuing your visit, you will come across the awe-inspiring Baroque Sarcophagus of St. Stanislaus, the patron saint of Poland. This silver masterpiece, created in the 17th century in Gdansk, is adorned with inscriptions and engravings that narrate the life of the revered saint. The central nave leads to several splendid chapels, including the Chapel of the Holy Cross (Kaplica Świętokrzyska na Wawelu), home to magnificent Byzantine frescoes dating back to the 15th century.

Another significant site within the cathedral is the Tomb of St. Jadwiga, the first queen of Poland, who passed away at the young age of 25. She was buried with only a wooden crown and scepter, as she had sold her jewels to save the declining Jagiellonian University. A true masterpiece of the Italian Renaissance, dating back to the 16th century, is the Sigismund’s Chapel. Originally built as a funeral chapel for the last members of the Jagiellonian Dynasty, it stands as a testament to exquisite craftsmanship.

However, the true highlights of Wawel Cathedral lie in its crypts. Descending into the ancient St. Leonard’s Crypt, dating back to the 11th century, offers a glimpse into the distant past. From there, visitors can explore the Royal Crypts, the final resting place of kings, royal family members, heroes, poets, and distinguished national leaders, such as Tadeusz Kościuszko and Józef Piłsudski.

For a remarkable experience, make sure to visit Sigismund’s Tower. Climbing 70 steps rewards you with the sight of the famous Royal Sigismund Bell, an impressive bell commissioned by King Sigismund I of Poland in 1520. Weighing around 13 tons, it requires 12 bell-ringers to swing it. The bell tolls on special occasions, like national or religious holidays, filling the air with its resounding chime. Additionally, from the tower’s top, you can relish a breathtaking view of Wawel Castle and the charming Krakow Old Town.

Wawel Cathedral Tours and Tickets

When visiting Wawel Castle, it’s essential to note that Wawel Cathedral requires a separate ticket, distinct from the tickets for other attractions within the castle. However, this ticket provides access to the cathedral, the crypts, and the tower with the bell.

Booking your tickets, along with an audio guide (offered in several languages), can be conveniently done online. Alternatively, you have the option to visit Wawel Cathedral as part of a Wawel Castle Tour, which come with skip-the-line tickets and a multilingual expert guide. These tours grant you the opportunity to unravel all the fascinating secrets of the Cathedral and Wawel Castle.

How to get to the Wawel Cathedral

The Wawel Cathedral is located within the walls of the Wawel Castle, between the Vistula and Grodzka Street. You can reach it with an easy 10-minute walk from the Main Market Square. For more info you can check the official website of the Wawel Cathedral.

Rynek Główny, also known as the Main Market Square, is the true heart of Krakow. Since ancient times, it has served as the city’s central square, bustling with life at all hours, offering an array of craft shops, excellent restaurants, cozy cafes, and housing the most iconic monuments of the area.

Krakow’s Main Market Square will be your primary reference point for exploring the city, as it is ideally situated in the center of Krakow’s Old Town. From here, you can conveniently access all the main attractions. And visiting the Main Market Square during the Christmas season, adorned with its festive markets and stalls offering delicious local street food, will undoubtedly make you fall in love with this vibrant place.

Rynek Główny, the Krakow Main Market Square: History & Interesting Facts

Krakow’s Main Market Square is one of Europe’s largest medieval squares, measuring approximately 200 x 200 meters, and holds the distinction of being one of the first sites inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Its origins can be traced back to the mid-13th century when Krakow was a significant crossroads for ancient trade routes. After the Mongol invasion devastated the city, a decision was made to rebuild it following the characteristic grid pattern typical of medieval cities, with the Main Market Square at its heart.

The name Rynek Główny – meaning Main Market Square – reflects its historical role as a meeting place for local and foreign merchants who traversed the ancient routes connecting the East with Europe. The Market Square bustled with a wide array of goods, ranging from fabrics and carpets from Persia and the Ottoman Empire to Baltic amber and spices from the Far East, as well as local food products and salt from the Wieliczka Salt Mines. Even today, the Gothic Cloth Hall situated in the center of the square hosts numerous souvenir stalls and local handicraft shops selling fabrics, carpets, and amber.

Aside from being a bustling marketplace, the Krakow Market Square also served as the focal point of city life. Here, the Town Hall and St. Mary’s Basilica, the most important church in Krakow, stood. Public speeches, executions, and punishments, common occurrences in the Middle Ages, also took place here. Rynek Główny’s strategic location places it on the Royal Route, the main street of Krakow’s Old Town, linking the St. Florian’s Gate and the Krakow Barbican to the Wawel Castle. The square witnessed solemn processions, military parades, tributes to kings, and other events significant to Poland’s independence.

Over the centuries, the Main Market Square has evolved into the captivating sight it is today. During the 18th and 19th centuries, some structures, like the Town Hall (of which only the tower remains), and stalls were demolished. Nevertheless, the square reached its heyday, now encircled by magnificent historic townhouses and ancient churches. Despite these changes, a few remnants of its bygone era have survived to the present day, such as the horse-drawn carriages, which have become an iconic and highly popular attraction for tourists.

Krakow Main Market Square: Things to Do & See

Kraków Cloth Hall (Sukiennice)

The most iconic building in Krakow’s Main Market Square is undoubtedly the Kraków Cloth Hall, whose Polish name is Sukiennice. The Cloth Hall dates back to the Renaissance, and was the place where traveling merchants and traders met to haggle and trade goods.

Its warehouses were filled with goods from the East, such as silk, leather and spices that were exchanged for local products, such as textiles, lead and salt. Today it houses stalls selling souvenirs and crafts, textiles and amber jewelry, while on the upper floor is the Sukiennice Museum, a branch of the National Museum that houses the largest collection of 19th-century Polish art.

Rynek Underground

Rynek Underground is a captivating museum that was inaugurated in 2010. Nestled beneath the vibrant Krakow Main Market Square, this hidden gem offers a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history of the square and the Old Town, and gain insight into life in ancient times. Through its impressive permanent exhibitions, visitors can embark on a journey through the past, unearthing the secrets of this remarkable city.

One of the museum’s main highlights is the collection of interactive installations strategically placed along a well-defined path. These installations provide an up-close look at the fascinating archaeological excavations of the old market square, revealing layers of the city’s past that have been preserved for centuries.

It is highly recommended to opt for a guided tour. A knowledgeable guide can infuse the experience with captivating stories, historical context, and little-known facts. Without a guide, the experience might be somewhat lackluster, as the true significance of the artifacts and excavations could be easily overlooked.

St. Mary’s Basilica

St. Mary’s Basilica is undoubtedly one of the most renowned buildings in Krakow, holding great significance as the primary church alongside the Wawel Cathedral, the ancient Royal Cathedral. This magnificent masterpiece of Polish Gothic architecture dates back to the 14th century, with its foundations laid in the 13th century. It boasts asymmetrical towers, with the tallest one soaring 80 meters above the city, adding to its distinct charm.

Once you step inside, you’ll be captivated by the famous altarpiece, known as St. Mary’s Altar, crafted by the sculptor Veit Stoss between 1477 and 1489. It holds the distinction of being the largest Gothic altarpiece in the world, making it a truly priceless artistic treasure cherished by Poland.

Make sure not to miss the enchanting Hejnał Mariacki (St. Mary’s Trumpet Call), a traditional anthem played every hour from the pinnacle of the tallest tower of St. Mary’s Basilica. It’s an experience that adds a magical touch to the atmosphere of the city.

Town Hall Tower

The Town Hall Tower is the lone tower that stands in the middle of Krakow’s Main Market Square, and is the only remnant of the old Kraków Town Hall that was demolished in 1820.

This beautiful Gothic tower dates from the 14th century and stands 70 meters tall. A curious fact is that the tower leans just 55 centimeters as a result of a storm in 1703. On the top of the Town Hall Tower there is an observation deck: you can go up and enjoy a nice view of the Market Square and St. Mary’s Basilica.

Church of St. Adalbert

The Church of St. Adalbert is a true jewel nestled in the heart of the Rynek Główny. This small church boasts a rich history spanning over 1000 years, having been constructed in the 11th century. It stands as an excellent example of Polish Romanesque architecture from the early Middle Ages and remains one of the oldest stone buildings in Poland, although its present appearance is masked by stucco. This can be attributed to a 17th-century restoration, which imbued the structure with a baroque aesthetic.

You can easily locate this historical gem at the intersection of Krakow’s Main Market Square and Grodzka Street.

Adam Mickiewicz Monument

The large statue dedicated to Adam Mickiewicz, the greatest Polish Romantic poet of the 19th century, dates back to the late 19th century and is considered one of the most renowned monuments in Poland. During the Nazi occupation of Poland, Krakow’s Market Square was infamously renamed Adolf Hitler-Platz, and unfortunately, the statue, along with many other elements of local culture, was destroyed. However, in 1955, it was admirably reconstructed using most of its recovered pieces, which were found in a scrap metal heap in Hamburg.

Today, the statue serves as a prominent meeting point, and it is from here that most city tours and pub crawls depart. It holds a significant place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike, honoring the legacy of Adam Mickiewicz and symbolizing the resilience of Polish culture and heritage.

Ancient Houses of Krakow’s Market Square

The Krakow Main Market Square is adorned with ancient and elegant townhouses, each showcasing true masterpieces of Polish Baroque architecture. These exquisite buildings stand as a testament to the rich history and artistic heritage of Krakow.

Every house in this square holds its own captivating history, embellished with intriguing legends and adorned with small artistic masterpieces displayed on their facades. Exploring the Rynek Główny on a guided tour offers a fascinating opportunity to delve deeper into the enchanting stories and architectural wonders that grace this iconic location, often hailed as one of the most beautiful squares in the world. Immerse yourself in the allure of Krakow’s past and the splendor of its well-preserved Baroque architecture as you uncover the secrets that lie within these timeless townhouses.

Things to see and do around Krakow Market Square

The Rynek Główny is undoubtedly the most famous landmark in Krakow, situated right in the heart of Stare Miasto, the Krakow Old Town. From here, you can conveniently access many of the most interesting districts, best museums and attractions that Krakow has to offer, including Kazimierz and the Wawel Castle.

The Main Market Square serves as the starting point for two of the main streets in Krakow’s Old Town: Florianska Street and Grodzka Street, both of which are lined with restaurants, shops, pubs, and clubs. The best way to experience the Main Market Square is by taking guided tour of Krakow’s Old Town. Alternatively, there are also excellent free walking tours available! For those interested in Krakow’s culinary delights, consider joining one of the city’s best food tours or pub crawls, which conveniently depart from this lively hub, adding to the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Kazimierz is one of the most authentic and surprising districts of Krakow. What was the old Jewish Quarter until the tragic events of WWII it has transformed into one of the liveliest and most enchanting parts of the city. Filled with charming restaurants, cozy pubs, bustling local markets, and remnants of a tragically turbulent past, Kazimierz offers a truly unique experience.

Following the war Kazimierz was left in a state of decay, but its revival began with the filming of Schindler’s List and now the district has become one of the most desirable areas in Krakow, attracting residents, diners, and nightlife enthusiasts, particularly students. Within the lively streets of Kazimierz, one can discover a genuine and authentic atmosphere. The district exudes an undeniable charm, with its narrow alleys and quaint establishments beckoning visitors to explore its hidden treasures, solemn synagogues and poignant memorials. Amidst the historical backdrop, Kazimierz has embraced modernity while preserving its authentic character.

The district has become a vibrant cultural center and the lively pubs pulsate with energy, inviting visitors to experience the lively nightlife. Within Kazimierz, Jewish culture is experiencing a remarkable resurgence: art galleries, kosher restaurants, and klezmer concerts are thriving, enriching the neighborhood day by day. This cultural boom adds a vibrant and dynamic dimension to Kazimierz, attracting both locals and tourists who are eager to immerse themselves in this fascinating heritage.

Whether you are strolling through its charming streets, indulging in delectable cuisine, exploring the local markets, or partaking in the cultural offerings, Kazimierz is undoubtedly one of the musts in a visit to Krakow.

Some interesting facts to know about Kazimierz

Kazimierz is a district located just south of Krakow’s Old Town, reachable within a few minutes’ walk from Wawel Hill. Kazimierz and Krakow were once two different towns, and each had its own defensive walls and autonomy.

Kazimierz stood on an ancient island, surrounded by the Vistula River. At the beginning of the 19th century, as the cities had merged together, and Kazimierz had become just a district of Krakow, part of the river was filled with soil and a boulevard was built in its place.

Kazimierz’s history dates back to 1335, when King Casimir III the Great decided to found a new city on the outskirts of Krakow. The city bears his name, and at the time its inhabitants enjoyed the same privileges as those of the royal city, Krakow.

In 1494 a devastating fire destroyed Krakow, which had to be redesigned and rebuilt. King Jan I Olbracht decided to grant it to the large and important Krakow Jewish community in the Bawół district of Kazimierz. Here the Jews had the right to build their own town protected by a defensive wall, living peacefully with the Polish community that inhabited the remaining half of Kazimierz.

This area of Kazimierz, called Oppidum Judaeorum, became one of the major centers of Polish Judaism, inhabited by some of the best Jewish scientists, writers, artists and craftsmen.

Under the Austrian Emperor Joseph II, the city of Kazimierz was merged with Krakow and the Jewish community merged with the Polish one. There were over 120 synagogues throughout the city, and in the old Oppidum of Kazimierz only the poorest and most ultra-conservative Jews remained. Perhaps that is why we can still see how Kazimierz looked in the 18th century today, as its buildings have remained virtually unchanged.

After the Nazi occupation of Krakow, Jews were expelled from the city and those who decided to stay in 1941 were transferred to the Krakow Ghetto, established in the Podgórze district, across the river from Kazimierz. Tens of thousands of people were forced to live in an area that previously housed a maximum of 2-3,000 inhabitants.

From late 1941 to March 1943 when the Ghetto was liquidated, tens of thousands of Jews were sent to die in concentration camps, such as nearby Płaszów and the extermination camps of Belzec and Auschwitz. A little more than a thousand people survived, mostly thanks to Oscar Schindler, a German industrialist who had hired them to work in his factory.

After the war, the Jewish quarter of Kazimierz became one of the most degraded and infamous places in Krakow. Only in the early 90s did it begin to be revalued, mainly thanks to the popularity given by the film Schindler’s List, which was set and filmed here.

Over the years it has become one of the most popular neighborhoods among artists, students, beatniks and hipsters. In summer, the Jewish Culture Festival in Krakow is held here, one of the most important and interesting in the world. The neighborhood has become one of the liveliest in Krakow, less crowded with tourists than the Old Town and more authentic.

In the streets of Kazimierz you can feel the charm of the old days, taste excellent Polish-Jewish cuisine and have a drink in some of the most original bars in the city. Free walking tours of Kazimierz and the nearby Podgórze Jewish Ghetto take place every day, remember to book in advance.

Things to Do and See in Kazimierz

Although Kazimierz is today one of the major attractions of Krakow, like the Wawel Royal Castle, it is much less crowded with tourists than the streets of the Old Town. It’s a good place for a calm stroll and for a drink or a meal in the evening.

Plac Nowy

The heart of Kazimierz is Plac Nowy, a somewhat shabby-looking square that serves as the perfect place to immerse yourself in the life and culture of the neighborhood. Every day, a local market is held in Plac Nowy where residents come to buy fresh fruit and vegetables. Additionally, a flea market is also hosted here, offering antiques and old Communist memorabilia for those interested in unique finds.

At the center of Plac Nowy stands the round building known as Okrąglak to the locals. This historic structure dates back to 1900 and serves as a covered market. Along its perimeter, several windows allow people to order food. Notably, this is the place to savor some of the best zapiekanka in Krakow.

Szeroka Street

Szeroka Street is undoubtedly the most picturesque corner of Kazimierz. Once serving as the main square of the neighborhood until the late 19th century, it was the bustling center of life and commerce for the Jewish community. Today, this former market square has transformed into one of the most vibrant places in Kazimierz, adorned with excellent traditional Polish-Jewish restaurants, bars, and art galleries.

You find yourself at the heart of the Oppidum Judaeorum, the epicenter of Kazimierz, where the original buildings still stand remarkably preserved. Notably, at number 16 stands the Popper Synagogue, one of the oldest and most significant landmarks, though internally devastated by the Nazis, it has since been transformed into a cultural center.

As you stroll through Szeroka Street, make sure to spot The Old Synagogue (Synagoga Stara) at one of the corners. An Orthodox-Jewish synagogue, it dates back to the early 15th century and holds the distinction of being the oldest in both Krakow and Poland. Today, it houses an intriguing museum dedicated to the life and culture of the local Jewish people, and entry is free with the City Pass Krakow Card.

Do not miss the opportunity to visit the small and picturesque Remah Synagogue (Synagoga Remu) at Szeroka number 40, dating back to the 16th century. It stands as one of the four synagogues that remain active in the city, showcasing the rich historical heritage of Kazimierz.

Ancient Synagogues of Kazimierz

Among the most renowned synagogues visible on Szeroka Street, such as the Old Synagogue and the Remah Synagogue, lies the Tempel Synagogue, dating back to 1860 and meticulously restored after World War II. Throughout the war, this very synagogue was tragically transformed into an ammunition depot by the Nazis. Today, it proudly stands as the largest active synagogue in Krakow.

A short distance away, one can explore the Izaak Synagogue, which dates back to the 17th century. This stunning architectural marvel was only recovered after the fall of communism, having been previously used as an art exhibition hall. Tragically, during the war, the Nazis confiscated the synagogue in 1939, and a heart-wrenching event occurred when the Gestapo entered the premises. On that fateful day, the Jewish official on duty bravely resisted their orders to burn the sacred scrolls of the Torah and was fatally shot as a consequence.

Venturing along the path that connects the Tempel Synagogue and the Izaak Synagogue, you will encounter the Kupa Synagogue, a remarkable structure from the 17th century. Inside, visitors are captivated by the exquisitely adorned interiors featuring intricately carved wood and stucco decorations.

Jewish Ghetto of Krakow

Combining a visit to Kazimierz with the Krakow Ghetto makes a lot of sense. The Ghetto is located in the Podgórze district, just across the river. To reach the Ghetto, you can cross one of the bridges over the Vistula: the most popular are the Piłsudski Bridge, an authentic iron bridge dating back to the 1930s and rebuilt after the war, and the Father Bernatek’s Bridge, a modern bridge inaugurated in 2010.

Once you arrive, head to the heart of the ghetto, Plac Bohaterów Getta (Ghetto Heroes Square), where deportations to concentration camps took place. From there, you can continue your journey to Schindler’s Factory, one of the most significant places for understanding the history of the Krakow Ghetto.

For the best experience, consider taking a guided tour of Kazimierz and the Jewish Ghetto. The area holds many significant places and stories to explore, and having a local expert guide you through it will enhance your understanding. If you opt for the most comprehensive tour, you’ll also have the opportunity to visit the Płaszów Concentration Camp and Schindler’s Factory.

Corpus Christi Basilica

As mentioned earlier, Kazimierz was a neighborhood where Jews and Poles (Christians) coexisted peacefully. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that in Kazimierz you can find some of the most beautiful churches in Krakow.

One such magnificent example is the Corpus Christi Basilica, a majestic Gothic church founded by King Casimir III the Great in 1335. Upon entering, you will be greeted by stunning Baroque elements crafted in carved wood and the largest organ in Krakow.

Church on the Rock (Kościół na Skałce)

Located a bit off the beaten path, the Church on the Rock is undeniably one of the most significant landmarks in Krakow. Originally, this site housed one of the most important sanctuaries in the area, constructed in the 14th century only to be destroyed by the Swedes in the 17th century.

The present-day monastery was rebuilt in 1734 in the elegant Baroque style and is devoted to St. Michael the Archangel and St. Stanislaus, the revered bishop of Krakow and martyr. As one of the most important sanctuaries in the region, it holds immense significance for the local community.

Galicia Jewish Museum

The Galicia Jewish Museum is a permanent cultural center dedicated to preserving the rich history and culture of the Galician Jewish community. Through its captivating photographic exhibits, the museum offers a profound insight into life in the Jewish district before the Nazi occupation, as well as during the most tragic phases of the massacre and the period after the war.

Admission to the museum is free with the City Pass Krakow Card, allowing visitors to explore this significant cultural site and all the most important museums in Krakow without any additional cost.

Museum of Municipal Engineering

The Museum of Municipal Engineering is a delightful destination, particularly if you are traveling with kids or have a passion for technical exhibits. Situated within an old tram depot dating back to the late 19th century, this museum houses a fascinating collection of vintage Polish cars, old city trams (occasionally seen running on the streets of Kazimierz during weekends), and other artifacts from the city’s past. It is not very big, so you can visit it in less than an hour.

One of the best parts is that entry is free with the City Pass Krakow Card, making it an even more appealing attraction to visit. Consider paying a visit to this charming museum to delve into the historical wonders of municipal engineering while enjoying a memorable experience, especially if you’re accompanied by kids or have a keen interest in technical history.

What is the best way to visit Kazimierz and the Jewish Quarter

Kazimierz can easily be explored on foot. Steeped in history, it boasts a plethora of historic buildings, each with its own captivating story and legend. The remnants of the ancient Jewish Quarter lend an aura of mystique, while the lively gathering spots draw in locals and visitors alike.

To ensure you make the most of your visit, consider joining one of the free daily walking tours, where a knowledgeable local guide will lead you through the neighborhood’s hidden gems. Remember to book in advance to secure your spot!

For a more enriching experience, consider combining your visit to Kazimierz with a cultural exploration of the Krakow Ghetto. There are affordable guided tours offering deeper insights into the ghetto’s history and an opportunity to visit Schindler’s Factory.

History enthusiasts will find immense value in an in-depth tour, led by an expert guide. This comprehensive journey includes a visit to the Płaszów Concentration Camp and Schindler’s Factory, providing a profound understanding of the area’s historical significance.

How to get to Kazimierz from Krakow’s Old Town

From Krakow Old Town, you can easily reach Kazimierz with a pleasant 15-minute walk. From the foot of Wawel Hill, at the end of Grodzka (the boulevard that starts from the Main Market Square), follow Stradomska Street towards the Vistula and you will arrive in Kazimierz.

Once on Stradomska Street, you can continue your exploration by taking Józefa Street, which will lead you to the heart of Kazimierz. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the famous Schindler’s List Passage at no. 12, one of the locations featured in Spielberg’s film.

If you prefer public transportation, the closest tram stops are Stradom (served by trams 8, 10, 13) and Miodowa (served by trams 3, 19, 24), which is on the opposite side of Kazimierz, near Szeroka Street. For added convenience, if you have the City Pass Krakow Card, you can enjoy free rides on trams and buses.

Hotels in Kazimierz and Surroundings: Stay in the Vibrant Heart of Krakow

Kazimierz stands as one of the liveliest cultural hubs of the city and is renowned for its vibrant nightlife. The area boasts numerous charming local bars highly favored by the locals, along with a wide array of excellent restaurants. So why not consider staying in Kazimierz? From here, you can conveniently reach the attractions of the Old Town while enjoying a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.

Podgórze is a quiet district of Kraków, lying across the Vistula River from the historic Old Town. For many years, it remained off the typical tourist trail and was known for its neglected appearance. However, in recent times, the area has experienced a revival, becoming increasingly popular among young families and locals seeking a residential neighborhood with character.

The district’s most significant draw is its poignant history. During World War II, Podgórze was the site of the Kraków Ghetto, where thousands of Jews were confined by the Nazi regime. Today, visitors can explore remnants of this dark chapter, including the ghetto walls and the haunting Ghetto Heroes Square, which was once the center of ghetto life.

Landmarks like Schindler’s Factory and the nearby Kraków-Płaszów Concentration Camp further illustrate the district’s role in wartime history. A walk through Podgórze offers a sobering glimpse into Kraków’s past, making it a place of reflection and remembrance.

Things to see and do in Podgorze

For centuries, Podgórze was an independent city, separate from Kraków, strategically located beyond Kazimierz along the vital route connecting Kraków with the Wieliczka Salt Mines. These mines were once a cornerstone of Kraków’s economy, making the area a crucial hub for trade and transport. Despite its proximity to Kraków, Podgórze remained relatively marginal in significance until the horrors of World War II.

During the Nazi occupation, Podgórze was chosen as the site for the Kraków Ghetto. In 1941, the Nazis forcibly relocated all Jewish residents of Kraków and surrounding areas to this district, establishing a confined ghetto. The ghetto was surrounded by walls, some of which were constructed from Jewish tombstones looted from nearby cemeteries, an act of desecration and symbolic violence. Armed soldiers guarded the narrow passages in and out of the ghetto, ensuring strict control over the population.

The ghetto housed over 16,000 people, crammed into an area that had previously supported a population of just 2,000-3,000 residents. Life in the Kraków Ghetto was marked by overcrowding, starvation, and the constant threat of deportation. Plac Bohaterów Getta (Ghetto Heroes Square), the ghetto’s central square, became a site of terror, where regular round-ups and deportations were carried out, often leading to the nearby Płaszów concentration camp.

In 1943, the ghetto was liquidated in one of the most brutal episodes of the Holocaust. The remaining Jews were deported to the Auschwitz extermination camp, where most were murdered upon arrival. Only a small number survived, many of them due to their forced labor at Schindler’s Factory. The factory, operated by Oskar Schindler, provided a rare haven for a few Jewish workers and is now one of Podgórze’s most important historical sites and tourist attractions.

Following the war, Podgórze slowly transitioned from a wartime scarred district into a growing suburb of Kraków. Today, it is a dynamic neighborhood with thriving residential areas. The old center of Podgórze, once the heart of tragedy, is now experiencing revitalization, drawing both locals and tourists to its streets and historical landmarks.

Remains of the Krakow Ghetto

Although the heart of the old Podgorze district has remained quite the same as it was in the 1940s, today it is quite difficult to find traces of its dark past.

The wall surrounding the Krakow Ghetto was in fact demolished immediately after the liquidation of the ghetto, and today only a small fragment remains. You can see it at 29 – 30 Lwowska Street, or you could take a look at the lesser known one, which is located at 60 Limanowskiego Street, just behind a public school.

Many of the buildings in the area have many stories to tell, some were prisons, others were secret police headquarters, offices from where the Nazis administered Ghetto life, hospitals and sanatoriums for infectious patients. Other houses were dens of partisans and underground resistance organizations, for example just adjacent to the central square was a safe house of the Jewish Fighting Organization (ZOB).

To discover all the secrets of the Krakow Ghetto, you can join a historical tour of the area, or one of the free walking tours that allow you to have an overview of Podgorze and Kazimierz.

The heart of the ghetto was what is now called Ghetto Heroes Square (Plac Bohaterów Getta). The roundups took place here and this is the place where during the liquidation of the Ghetto people were forced to leave for Auschwitz. Today in Ghetto Heroes Square there is an installation known as Krakow Chairs, 70 metal chairs that recall the sad past of this place.

Right adjacent to Ghetto Heroes Square is Pharmacy under the Eagle (Apteka pod Orlem). This pharmacy remained the only one operating in the entire Ghetto, and its owner Tadeusz Pankiewicz was the only Pole to be allowed to stay there. While they all shut down their business, he decided to stay and help the Jews. The pharmacy appears in the film Schindler’s List and its story is told in the book “The Krakow Ghetto Pharmacy”.

Schindler’s Factory

One of the symbolic places of Podgorze is Oskar Schindler’s Factory in Lipowa Street n. 4, in the Zablocie district, once an abandoned industrial district which is now becoming a modern residential district.

Oskar Schindler’s Factory was a large industrial complex owned by a German entrepreneur, Oskar Schindler, who had taken advantage of the Nazi occupation to set up an enamelware factory there.

The factory mainly used Ghetto Jews as labor, and over time it became a sub-camp of the Płaszów labor camp. Oskar Schindler witnessed the Nazi atrocities and decided to help as many Jews as possible. He managed to protect them by making them work for his factory, and having them moved to a new factory when the Ghetto was liquidated. He thus managed to save over 1000 lives.

Today Schindler’s Factory is one of the major attractions to visit in Krakow. Inside you can visit an interesting museum about the life of the city during the years of the Nazi occupation. There are excellent guided tours that allow you to visit Schindler’s Factory and the Krakow Ghetto at its best.

Płaszów Concentration Camp

Rather off the beaten path, beyond Krakus Mound, is the scenic Liban Quarry, a huge and terrifying abandoned limestone quarry. During the Nazi occupation this was one of the main forced labor camps of the Płaszów concentration camp.

Immediately after the rather unsafe abandoned quarry there is a hill with vast meadows, where the barracks of the Płaszów concentration camp stood. Many scenes from the film Schindler’s List were also filmed in these places.

The Red House is also easily recognizable, that is the house of Amon Goeth, the ruthless commander of the concentration camp, who in the film is also shown in the famous scene where he enjoys shooting Jews from the balcony of that house. The balcony in question is located in the back of the house, but a few years ago the current owners renovated it and transformed it into a private villa.

A few steps away it is still possible to see the Gray House, which has remained quite unchanged, another place of the horrors of the Płaszów concentration camp. Here was the office of the camp commander Amon Goeth (in the film Schindler’s List, unlike the real story, this is Goeth’s villa) and here were the cells for the most cruel punishments for the prisoners of the camp.

Little else remains of the Płaszów camp. In January 1945 the Nazis destroyed it, transferring the remaining prisoners to Auschwitz with a death march.

To visit the Płaszów concentration camp it is highly recommended to go there with an expert guide, because it is the only way to fully understand the history of the place and the tragic events of the Krakow Ghetto.

Krakus Mound

Krakus Mound is one of the most mysterious places in Krakow. It is a cairn of 60 meters in diameter and 16 meters in height, which rises right above the Podgorze district, near the Podgorski Cemetery.

Its origins are unknown, as well as its original functions. According to legend, Krakus Mound could be the tomb of King Krakus, the mythical founder of Krakow. However, archaeological investigations that took place in the 1930s did not find human remains inside.

Its origin appears to be very ancient indeed, and seems to date back to prehistoric times. Similar to other artifacts, such as those at Stonehenge, Podgorze’s Krakus Mound may have been built by the Celts. In fact, when viewed in the context of the other prehistoric mounds around the city, they seem designed with astronomy in mind, to signal some important Celtic feast days.

To visit it you have to follow some paths near the Podgorski Cemetery, in the area near Płaszów, or follow the paths that from the ancient Fort Benedict, located in the beautiful park behind the ghetto wall, lead to Płaszów and to the Krakus Mound, well visible even from a distance.

From the top of Krakus Mound you can enjoy a nice view over Krakow, I recommend you to go there at sunset as it is quite scenic.

Rynek Podgórski: the old center of Podgorze

When you come from Kazimierz to Podgorze via the two most famous bridges in Krakow, the new and spectacular Father Bernatek’s Bridge and the historic Most Marszałka Józefa Piłsudskiego, you will most likely arrive right in the heart of one of the most beautiful corners of Podgorze, its old center, which has kept the charm of the old days rather intact.

This area is not very popular with tourists, but mostly with locals. However, a lot of nice places to eat or drink recently have sprung up, mostly concentrated around Rynek Podgórski, the large triangular square in the center of the Pogorze district.

Just adjacent to the square you can find a great authentic milk bar, Bar Mleczny Południowy, which serves good and cheap simple Polish cuisine.

The beautiful church overlooking Rynek Podgórski is St. Joseph’s Church, a neo-Gothic masterpiece dating back to the early 1900s.

What is the best way to visit Podgorze and the Jewish Quarter

Podgorze can be easily explored on foot, a good choice can be to visit it together with the old Jewish quarter of Kazimierz.

In fact Kazimierz and Podgorze are not only adjacent (just cross one of the bridges over the Vistula), but they are also tragically connected: Kazimierz was the old Jewish quarter for centuries, while Podgorze became tragically known for the Krakow Ghetto during the Nazi occupation.

The best way to visit Podgorze is with a local guide: at a superficial glance it might seem just an anonymous suburb, with little or nothing of interest to see. An expert guide will allow you to understand well what you see, and the history behind the most important and mysterious buildings in the neighborhood.

I recommend a great guided tour (perfect for history buffs) which includes a visit to the Płaszów Concentration Camp and Schindler’s Factory. Alternatively, you can join one of the free walking tours that take place almost every day, but remember to reserve your seat ahead of time.

How to get to Podgorze from Krakow’s Old Town

You can get to Podgorze on foot, passing through the Kazimierz Jewish Quarter and crossing the Vistula River on the Bernatka Bridge (Father Bernatek’s Bridge) or, if you are coming from Wawel, the fastest route is via the Piłsudskiego Bridge. On foot it takes about 30 minutes from Wawel.

Alternatively you can take trams 8, 10 and 13 and get off at the Korona stop, near Rynek Podgórski. Or to and from Plac Bohaterów Getta you could take trams 3 and 24, which take you to the opposite side of the old town and stop in front of the central station. If you have the City Pass Krakow Card, tram and bus rides are free for you.

Krakow’s Stare Miasto, or Old Town, is the vibrant heart of the city, brimming with history and charm. Its narrow streets are lined with colorful townhouses, and the expansive Market Square (Rynek Główny) is one of the largest and most iconic in Europe. The area is dotted with historic churches, while Wawel Castle stands proudly on a hill, offering panoramic views of the city below.

Once a crucial hub on ancient trade routes leading to the East, Krakow’s Old Town has preserved its medieval atmosphere, attracting millions of visitors each year. By day, its streets buzz with activity, and by night, the area is equally lively with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying its many bars and restaurants.

In this guide, you’ll discover the top things to do in Krakow’s Old Town, along with insider tips on the best places to eat, drink, and explore.

Best Things to Do and See in Krakow’s Old Town

Krakow’s Old Town is actually a small part of the city center referred to as the Stare Miasto district. Consequently, hotels outside the Old Town are often marketed as being situated in Stare Miasto, yet they might be several kilometers further away. Nonetheless, Krakow is a fairly compact city, making it easy to get around on foot or by public transport. Public transportation is complimentary with the Krakow City Card, an affordable option that also grants access to nearly all the city’s museums.

Throughout this guide, we will use the term Stare Miasto to denote the centuries-old Krakow Old Town, encircled by Planty Park. Krakow’s Stare Miasto is globally renowned for being the first location to be inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Krakow Old Town stands as a genuine jewel of medieval architecture and served as Poland’s capital until the 1500s, when King Sigismund III Vasa moved his court to Warsaw. Its buildings boast over a thousand years of history, and even today, it is possible to marvel at the remnants of ancient towers and the imposing defensive system that rendered Krakow one of the most splendid and magnificent cities of the Middle Ages.

Since 1978, Krakow Old Town, encompassing its churches, castles, buildings, and primary monuments, has held the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

One of the best ways to fully enjoy the many attractions of Krakow Old Town is to join a guided tour. There are great free walking tours every day, led by friendly local guides. And one of the must-do experiences in Krakow is joining a vodka tasting. Poland claims this iconic spirit as its national drink, with its roots tracing back to this very region. Krakow is undoubtedly the best place to sample and learn more about Polish vodka, offering a variety of tasting experiences.

For those in the mood to party and explore Krakow’s renowned nightlife, don’t miss the lively pub crawls. These tours offer the perfect opportunity to discover the city’s top bars and clubs while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Stare Miasto after dark. Whether you’re a fan of vodka or simply want to experience Krakow’s festive side, these activities are a great way to enjoy the best of the city’s nightlife.

Main Market Square (Rynek Główny)

Krakow’s Main Market Square is certainly one of the most iconic places in the city. This ancient medieval square is one of the largest in Europe and is surrounded by ancient and colorful town houses, each with its own stories and legends. Krakow’s Main Market Square has been the heart of city life for centuries. Once here merchants from all over the world came to exchange their goods and to rest during the journey along the route between the East and Europe.

The square was full of stalls where cloths were exchanged for salt from the Wieliczka Mines, or for coal and lead extracted from Polish mines. The large textile market hall in the center of the square is called Sukiennice or Kraków Cloth Hall, and is a wonderful example of Polish Gothic architecture.

Saint Mary’s Basilica (Kościół Mariacki)

Adjacent to Krakow’s Main Market Square is the Saint Mary’s Basilica, the main church in Krakow Old Town. The church with its asymmetrical towers is one of the most iconic buildings in Krakow and one of the best examples of Polish Gothic architecture.

Dating back to the 14th century, it houses the famous wooden altarpiece carved by Veit Stoss, a masterpiece of European Gothic art. Its richly decorated chapels can be visited by purchasing a ticket. Don’t miss the trumpet signal (which locals call Hejnał Mariacki) which a trumpet player plays at every hour from the highest tower of the church.

Wawel Hill and the Royal Castle

Wawel Hill offers a commanding view of Krakow’s Old Town and the flowing Vistula River, making it an ideal location for a sunset stroll. This hill was once the regal residence of Polish monarchs and serves as the backdrop for some of the most illustrious and age-old legends associated with the city of Krakow.

At the hill’s summit, you have the opportunity to explore the grandeur of Wawel Cathedral, formerly the royal place of worship. Beneath its structure lie crypts that entomb Polish kings and revered heroes. I highly recommend partaking in a guided tour to fully experience the historical richness of the ancient Wawel Castle. This architectural and artistic masterpiece was crafted by distinguished Italian Renaissance artists who thrived in the court of Polish monarchs.

Floriańska Street (ulica Floriańska)

Ulica Floriańska (Floriańska Street) is considered one of the most famous and prestigious shopping streets in Poland, full of shops, cafes and restaurants, as well as pubs and clubs. It is located along what is called the Royal Route, an ancient road built in the 13th century, which starts at St. Florian’s Gate, which was one of the main city gates, and goes all the way to the Wawel Royal Castle.

St. Florian’s Gate is a jewel of medieval Gothic architecture, and is part of the Kraków Barbican defense complex. It is one of the few remains of the mighty medieval city walls. Floriańska Street goes all the way to the Krakow Main Market Square, from where it continues under the name of Grodzka Street, another straight boulevard full of shops, cafes and restaurants.

One of the most interesting museums to visit along Floriańska Street is the Pharmacy Museum of the Jagiellonian University Medical College, which boasts a valuable collection of ancient medical and pharmaceutical furnishings and equipment dating back to the Middle Ages. On Floriańska Street there is also the House of Jan Matejko, one of the most famous Polish painters. Here are housed some of his main works. It can be visited for free with the Krakow City Card.

Kraków Barbican

The Kraków Barbican stands as one of the finest-preserved medieval barbicans in Europe, showcasing remarkable ancient architecture. This Gothic-style defensive marvel traces its origins to the late 15th century, a time when Krakow was encompassed by formidable city walls. Functioning as a key city gateway, the barbican also served as a vital checkpoint. It facilitated passage through a covered corridor, enabling the traversal of the moat and granting access to the city walls.

Krakow’s intricate defense walls underwent disassembly during the 19th century under Austrian rule, eventually giving way to the creation of the present-day Planty Park. However, the Kraków Barbican was spared from demolition thanks to the intervention of the Senate of the Free City of Cracow. Consequently, it remains as one of the scant visible vestiges of the city’s medieval fortifications. Accessible at no cost with the Krakow City Card, the barbican offers a window into Kraków’s rich historical past.

St. Peter and Paul Church

Nestled in the heart of Krakow’s Old Town, the St. Peter and Paul Church in Krakow stands as an exquisite masterpiece of architectural and historical significance. Boasting the distinction of being the largest of Kraków’s historic churches in terms of seating capacity, this Polish Baroque gem was meticulously crafted between 1597 and 1619 by the skilled hands of Giovanni Maria Bernardoni, who refined the original vision conceived by Józef Britius.

Italian artistic influence is eloquently showcased in the church’s innovative facade design, a striking departure from the prevailing red-brick aesthetics of Polish Gothic architecture. Dominating the medieval tapestry of Grodzka Street, the St. Peter and Paul Church made history as the first Baroque-designed edifice in Kraków, and arguably, the pioneering example of Baroque architecture in Poland.

This sacred haven, consecrated in 1635, boasts a stately dolomite facade adorned with statues venerating Jesuit saints. Inside, an engaging exploration awaits, where a central nave and twin aisles cradle resplendent chapels. These sanctuaries, adorned with the intricate stucco artistry of Giovanni Battista Falconi from Milan, house an array of artistic treasures, including a notable Late Baroque high altar, a local masterpiece forged in 1735.

Beyond its architectural grandeur, the St. Peter and Paul Church now takes on a new role as one of Poland’s National Pantheons. This transformation honors the nation’s eminent scientists, artists, and intellectuals, interred within its hallowed walls. The church’s remarkable acoustics continue to captivate, hosting an array of concerts featuring classical and Baroque ensembles.

Best Places to Eat and Drink in Stare Miasto

The Stare Miasto district is full of great restaurants and bars. There is something for all tastes, from traditional restaurants where you can taste some local specialties, to international cuisine restaurants and the most famous fast food chains.

The prices and the quality of the experience can be quite variable and especially in Krakow Old Town you could fall into some tourist trap. That’s why I thought I’d give you some advice on some places recommended by the locals, where you can eat and drink some local specialties.

A restaurant that is definitely worth a visit is the Wierzynek, located in the heart of Stare Miasto, right on the Main Market Square.

Wierzynek is one of the oldest restaurants in Krakow Old Town and according to legend has been running since 1364. Many famous people have dined here, such as George Bush, Fidel Castro and Kate Moss.

The elegant interiors keep the charm of the old days intact, with antique furnishings, tapestries and paintings. The Wierzynek serves elegant dishes of international cuisine. It is a little expensive, but it is worth the experience.

Another good restaurant in Krakow Old Town is Morskie Oko, with its traditional atmosphere and its interior that resembles that of an old mountain house. It serves good regional cuisine, enlivened by musicians singing mountain songs.

I recommend you try the meat specialties: mutton, veal and pork accompanied by excellent traditional sauces. Also try their good selection of local spirits. Main courses: 30 – 70 zł.

If you want to fill up on pierogi, the famous Polish dumplings, you should go to Pierogarnia Krakowiacy, a small restaurant that serves excellent hand-made pierogis. You will spend around 20 zł for a serving of 10 pierogi.

A great alternative is also Przypiecek, which serves excellent pierogi until late at night. You will spend around 20 zł for a serving of 10 pierogi.

A great experience could be to join a traditional dinner held in a restaurant in the countryside just outside Krakow. You can book online, and you’ll get round-trip transportation from Stare Miasto and a gorgeous buffet dinner, unlimited drinks included.

Best Places to Stay in Stare Miasto

Stare Miasto is undoubtedly the best district to stay in Krakow, as it is quite compact (easy to get around on foot) and allows you to be close to all major attractions and places to eat and drink.

You can choose from a wide range of good quality hotels and hostels at quite affordable prices. If you are planning your trip to Krakow, some advice on the best places to stay in Krakow Old Town will certainly be useful.

One of the best accommodation for couples is the Aparthotel Stare Miasto, which offers fabulous apartments equipped with every comfort and located in the heart of Krakow Old Town.

Among the best hotels in Stare Miasto are the fabulous Unicus Palace, the Sheraton Grand Krakow and the excellent Hotel Wawel Queen.

Elegant, comfortable and offering excellent value for money are the Hotel Copernicus, the Hotel Polski Pod Białym Orłem and the Hotel Stary.

While for those looking for a cheap but quality accommodation the best choice is the Hotel Jan.

If you are looking for cheap and fun accommodation, you should know that Krakow offers a good choice of hostels. Right in the heart of Krakow Old Town are Let’s Rock Hostel (right on Grodzka Street) and The Little Havana Party Hostel, which offer good rooms and a cheerful atmosphere.

Also in the heart of Stare Miasto great alternatives are the quiet and clean Flamingo Hostel, the Globtroter and Draggo House which are nice, clean and comfortable guesthouses and the Greg & Tom Hostel, which offers free breakfast and dinner.

For those looking for a hostel near Krakow station, the best solution is the Bubble Hostel, which is convenient and comfortable and also offers girls-only dorms.

How to get to Krakow’s Old Town from the Airport

Getting to Krakow Old Town from the Airport is quite easy. The best solution is undoubtedly to book a private transfer, especially if you are traveling with your family or carrying heavy luggage.

Private transfers from Krakow Balice Airport to Stare Miasto are reliable and inexpensive. Drivers speak good English and have nice and comfortable cars. By booking online in advance, you will avoid the risk of scams and nasty price surprises.

There is also a train from the airport to Krakow city center, the Balice Ekspres, which runs from 5.00 to 22.30 from the airport to the central railway station (Kraków Główny). Runs every 30-60 minutes, the journey takes about 20 minutes and the ticket costs 12 zł.

Public buses are also a good alternative. During the day, lines 208 and 252 run between the airport and the city center every 60 minutes (every 20 minutes during peak times). At night you can take bus 902. The ride from the airport to Stare Miasto takes 30-40 minutes and the ticket costs 4 zł.

The most expensive way to get from the airport to Krakow Old Town is by taxi. The ride takes about 30 minutes and the fare starts at 90 zł.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find everything you need to know to plan a seamless day trip from Krakow to Auschwitz, whether you choose to visit independently or prefer to join a reliable local tour.

From transportation options to key tips for making the most of your visit, this guide covers all the essentials for an informed and respectful experience at one of the most significant historical sites in the world. The information provided here has been personally verified and is regularly updated to ensure accuracy, giving you the most current and trustworthy details for your journey.

How far is Auschwitz from Krakow?

The Auschwitz Concentration Camp is situated in the town of Oświęcim, about 60 kilometers west of Krakow. Originally a small, quiet town, Oświęcim was renamed Auschwitz during the Nazi occupation, reflecting the Germanized version of its name.

By the start of World War II, the area had become a key railway hub, which made it a strategic location for the Nazis to establish the Auschwitz I concentration camp just outside the town center. The camp’s location, in a relatively secluded area surrounded by forests, allowed the Nazis to carry out their atrocities with a degree of isolation, yet its proximity to major rail lines facilitated the mass deportation of prisoners.

Auschwitz I, the main camp, lies approximately 2.5 kilometers from both the city center and Oświęcim railway station, emphasizing its grim connection to the broader Nazi network of forced transportation. This site would later expand into a vast complex, including the infamous Auschwitz-Birkenau, where the most horrific crimes of the Holocaust were perpetrated.

How far is Birkenau from Auschwitz?

The Birkenau extermination camp is located in the countryside about 3 km from the main Auschwitz I camp. During visiting hours there are free buses running between the two camps.

How long does it take from Krakow to Auschwitz?

The journey from Krakow to Auschwitz takes between 1.5 and 3 hours.

The fastest way is to go with a guided tour, which includes round-trip transport by private bus and allows you to optimize time and comfort.

The train is a cheap but not very comfortable option. Depending on the type of train, the journey lasts from 1 hour and 40 minutes to over 3 hours. And from Oswiecim Railway Station to the main gate of the Auschwitz Camp it takes at least half an hour walk, or you can take a local bus, but they are not very frequent.

How to go from Krakow to Auschwitz by Bus

If you want to go from Krakow to Auschwitz on your own, one of the most common solutions is to take one of the public buses that take you directly to the Auschwitz Camp from Krakow city center.

It is a cheap and rather reliable solution, but remember to be well informed about the timetables because they change quite frequently and, especially in winter, you could risk missing the last bus back to Krakow.

Buses to Auschwitz leave from Dworzec MDA (formerly RDA Regional Bus Station), located at ul. Bosacka 18.

It can be reached from Galeria Krakowska, the shopping center located in the center, next to the Central Railway Station.

You can also go through the station, go along the platform and go down into the underpass where the train ticket offices are located. From here you have to go right, in the opposite direction to the underground entrance to the shopping center. At the exit of the underpass you will find the Bus Station, right on the left. Go inside and look for the ticket office, ask for a ticket to Oświęcim or explain your intentions to reach the Auschwitz Museum.

The return ticket costs 28 zł (approximately € 7) per person.

The journey from Krakow to Auschwitz by bus takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

I recommend that you go in the morning, the buses are more frequent (about one every half hour) and so you will be sure to arrive in time for your visit (there may often be delays due to road works).

Get off at the “Auschwitz Muzeum” stop. This is the same stop for the bus you will take back to Krakow. On the way back, the bus frequency is roughly one every hour, and the last one leaves around 6.15pm. In summer, buses are more frequent.

There are several companies that operate public buses between Krakow and Auschwitz, the cost of the ticket is more or less the same.

Be careful: when you ask for the ticket from Krakow to Auschwitz, it is better to specify that you want to go to the Auschwitz Museum (the Concentration Camp), otherwise you risk ending up at the Oswiecim Lodowisko Bus Station, which is over 5 km away from the Camp of Concentration.

How to go from Krakow to Auschwitz by Train

Going from Krakow to Auschwitz by train is a rather cheap solution, but perhaps not the fastest and most comfortable.

From Krakow Central Station (Krakow Glowny) you can take a regional train to Oświęcim. There is one every hour or two (depending on the day of the week and the season), and the journey lasts from 1 hour and 40 minutes up to over 2.5 hours (depending on the type of train).

It may be a good idea to inquire in advance at the train station ticket office about available options. Please note that many conductors do not speak English.

The cost of the one-way ticket varies between 9 and 25 zł, depending on the type of train. Normally the basic train fare from Krakow to Auschwitz is 15.60 zł (approx. € 3.60) one way.

You will get off at Oświęcim Station, which is almost 2km from the Auschwitz Concentration Camp. In summer it is about a 30-minute walk, in winter it is better to take the local bus to “Muzeum” at a cost of 2.7 zł.

How to go from Krakow to Auschwitz by Car

A day trip by car from Krakow to Auschwitz might be a good choice if you have enough time to spend and want to take a look at the surroundings.

You could rent a car, car rental prices in Krakow are inexpensive. In the vicinity of the Auschwitz Museum there are several parking lots. The price is around 8zł per day, less than 2€.

However, consider that there are traffic restrictions in the city center of Krakow, which is why many families opt for a private transfer, with a driver who will pick you up, take you to your destination, wait for you during the tour and then take you back to the your hotel in Krakow. Prices are very affordable if you book a licensed, certified and reliable driver. Prices are around € 100 per car.

The fastest way to get from Krakow to Auschwitz is the A4 motorway, however if you want to have a look around you should opt for one of the many secondary roads, such as the 780.

Is it worth booking a Guided Tour from Krakow to Auschwitz?

Auschwitz is one of those places that definitely deserve to be visited with a guide. Official guides allow you to better understand what you see, to give voice to what would otherwise be just ruins.

With its tragic history, Auschwitz has a lot to tell its visitors. It is a visit that only makes sense if made to learn more about its atrocious past. I have visited this place many times, both with and without a guide, and I can assure you that they are two completely different experiences.

The visit without a guide can leave you all the time you want to visit, to contemplate what happened, but it assumes that you already have an excellent knowledge of the place and its history. Otherwise you wouldn’t be able to make the most of the visit.

I recommend the visit with the guide to everyone, it is an absolutely intimate and touching experience, which anyone should do at least once in their life. Especially if it is your first visit to Auschwitz.

There are excellent guided tours from Krakow, organized by licensed and certified local guides, which allow you to visit both Auschwitz and Birkenau in a day and learn a lot about the history of the place and the stories of the prisoners.

Guided tours are inexpensive and include comfortable round-trip transportation, which optimizes your time and saves you the hassle of planning your visit.

The number of people visiting Auschwitz has grown tremendously in recent years, and this has led to regulations, so today anyone who wants to visit Auschwitz needs to book a timed ticket online (with or without a guide) far in advance.

These restrictions do not apply to tours organized by local guides, who take care of booking for you, even with little advance notice.

Things to know before you go from Krakow to Auschwitz

When planning your visit to Auschwitz you must take into account that, according to the new regulations of the Auschwitz Museum, it is mandatory to book and pay for the visit in advance.

The reservation must be made on the official website of the Auschwitz Museum and is valid for both the Auschwitz Concentration Camp and the Birkenau Extermination Camp.

During peak periods, such as June to September or December to February, it may be necessary to book well in advance. Even if you want to visit the camp on your own, without a guide, you will still need to book your ticket in advance.

If you decide to join one of the pre-arranged Auschwitz tours from Krakow, you won’t have to worry about a thing, as your guide will book for you. This is a good choice even when the availability on the official website is over.

I don’t recommend going without a reservation, as admission in these cases is at the discretion of the museum management. However, to have a chance you should go early in the morning and ask for the possibility of being included in one of the day tours.

If you go on your own I recommend that you check the bus or train timetables in advance. Once it happened that some friends of mine got stuck there after they missed the last bus of the evening because the schedules were suddenly changed due to some road works. They were lucky because it was summer, in winter with a temperature of a few degrees below zero it would not have been pleasant.

You can check the timetable of the bus from Krakow to Auschwitz here and train schedules from Central Station in Krakow to Oswiecim Station (Auschwitz) here.

For those with limited time there are guided tours from Krakow that allow you to visit Auschwitz – Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mines on the same day. I advise you to dedicate at least one day each, but if you really can’t, this could be a good solution.

The Krakow Salt Mines stand as an unmissable and captivating attraction during a trip to Krakow, and embarking on a day trip from Krakow to the Salt Mines is a must for any visitor. This extraordinary masterpiece of ingenuity and craftsmanship has been meticulously carved by generations of skilled miners over the centuries. From its awe-inspiring underground cathedrals to the intricate salt formations, the Krakow Salt Mines are a testament to human dedication and creativity.

Once inside the mines, you’ll be awe-struck by the stunning salt formations, underground chapels, and even an otherworldly lake, all testaments to the incredible artistry and perseverance of the miners who toiled to create this underground marvel. Going from Krakow to the Salt Mine, especially the most famous one, namely the Wieliczka Salt Mine, is pretty easy!

There are numerous convenient options available to suit every preference. If you desire a seamless experience, guided tours offer convenient round-trip transportation from Krakow, ensuring guaranteed entry and tickets, with no queuing or any hassles. Additionally, you’ll benefit from a wealth of insights and expert commentary throughout the tour. Alternatively, you could opt to go on your own, either by car or public transport, and then purchase a ticket for one of the available tours on the spot (keep in mind that these tours have fixed times and limited availability).

Whichever option you choose, rest assured that this guide on how to visit the Salt Mines from Krakow will provide a handy and easy overview of all the best choices!

Krakow Salt Mines: Things to Know Before You Go

The Krakow Salt Mines are a must-visit attraction in Poland, drawing millions of visitors each year. The most famous among them are the Wieliczka Salt Mines, situated just a few kilometers from Krakow. However, there is another gem to explore, the Bochnia Salt Mine, which is equally stunning and holds the distinction of being the oldest salt mine in Poland, dating back to the 12th century. Both the Wieliczka and Bochnia Salt Mines hold the prestigious title of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, boasting unrivaled beauty in the world. Their grandeur and magnificence are truly unparalleled.

The most famous and visited of the Krakow Salt Mines is undoubtedly the Wieliczka Salt Mine, renowned for its underground salt cathedral, incredibly richly inlaid rooms, and vastness of salt and underground chambers that visitors can explore, making it one of the most beautiful mines in the world. Conveniently located just a few kilometers outside Krakow, the Wieliczka Salt Mine is easily accessible for tourists.

On the other hand, the Bochnia Salt Mine is farther away and requires arranging transportation in advance to reach it, or visitors can opt for a guided day trip from Krakow. Here too you can take part in an interesting 2-hour guided tour taking you more than 200 meters underground. During the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to experience a thrilling ride on the miners’ train and even take a short boat trip on the underground lake located in the depths of the mine. For those who have already visited the popular yet crowded Wieliczka Salt Mines, Bochnia can be a delightful and worthwhile alternative.

Since the Krakow Salt Mines are vast underground labyrinths with dimly lit tunnels, guided tours are the only way to explore them. The knowledgeable guides play a crucial role in making the visit enjoyable and safe. Surprisingly, the tunnels are quite spacious, and usually the experience doesn’t trigger claustrophobia even for those who may be sensitive to enclosed spaces. The mines are equipped with various amenities, including stairs, elevators, restrooms, and even restaurants and bars deep within the earth. This makes the visit suitable for visitors of all ages, ensuring a comfortable and pleasant experience.

If you opt to venture on your own, it’s advisable to secure a skip-the-line ticket or arrive well in advance of the guided tour’s start time to avoid the typically long ticket queues.

How far is the Wieliczka Salt Mine from Krakow?

The Wieliczka Salt Mines are located about 16 km southeast of the Krakow city center.

This means that it is quite easy to get from Krakow to the Salt Mines and has probably contributed greatly to making Wieliczka one of the most famous things to see in Poland.

The ancient splendor and wealth of the medieval city of Krakow was mainly due to its proximity to the Wieliczka and Bochnia Salt Mines. The precious salt that was mined there was traded with merchants from afar in the Main Market Square in Krakow.

Bus from Krakow to the Wieliczka Salt Mine

An easy way to get from Krakow to the Wieliczka Salt Mines is by public bus.

You can take bus no. 304 at the Dworzec Główny Zachód stop, located near the Galeria Krakowska, near the Central Railway Station.

You can easily find the stop by walking along Pawia street, on the left side of Galeria Krakowska when coming from Krakow’s Old Town.

Bus line 304 takes you to the city center of Wieliczka, but you have to get off at the Wieliczka Kopalnia Soli stop, from which you can reach the Daniłowicz Shaft with a few minutes’ walk, where the tours of the Tourist Route start.

It is usually quite easy to realize that you have arrived at your destination, because most of the people on the bus get off at that stop.

If, on the other hand, you have to go to the Regis Shaft (where the experiences of the Mining Route start) then you have to get off shortly after, at the Wieliczka Rynek stop.

The bus ticket can be bought at the bus stop (there are automatic ticket machines). You must buy a ticket valid for Zones I + II (Strefa I + II). The journey from Krakow to the Salt Mines takes approximately 35 minutes, so choose a 50-minute ticket (single trip). The ticket price is 4.60 zł.

Bus 304 leaves Krakow to the Salt Mines every 10 minutes on weekdays and every 20 minutes on Saturdays and Sundays. You can check the bus timetable here.

Remember that at the end of your visit to the Salt Mines you will exit the Regis Shaft, which is about 500 meters away from the Daniłowicz Shaft. To take the return bus from Wieliczka to Krakow you have to go back to Dembowskiego Street, where you will find the bus stop. You have to wait for the bus on the opposite side of the outward journey.

Train from Krakow to the Wieliczka Salt Mine

Another way to get from Krakow to the Salt Mines is to take a suburban train from the Central Railway Station (Krakow Główny).

The suburban trains are operated by the company Koleje Malopolskie (KMŁ or KMAL), it is good to know this because each railway company requires its own specific ticket and has its own specific timetables.

You can take the train from Krakow to the Wieliczka Salt Mines at Krakow Central Railway Station. It usually leaves every 30 minutes. In about 20 minutes you will reach the station called Wieliczka Rynek Kopalnia, where you will have to get off.

The Wieliczka Rynek Kopalnia Railway Station is approximately 500 meters from the entrance to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, which is a 10-15 minute walk.

The train ticket can be purchased directly at the station at the automatic ticket machines or at the ticket offices. The ticket price is 3.50 zł one way.

Guided Tours from Krakow to the Wieliczka Salt Mine

The best way to visit the Salt Mines from Krakow is to book a guided tour that departs daily from Krakow city center and includes round-trip transport, skip-the-line ticket and full tour with an official guide in your language of choice (there are tours in English , Spanish, Italian, German, French, Russian and Polish).

It is a great way to visit the Salt Mines comfortably and saving time. The prices are not expensive and are worth every penny.

If you are short on time, you may want to opt for an advantageous combo tour that allows you to visit the Krakow Salt Mines and Auschwitz on the same day. This tour is designed to save you time and money, and allows you to join a full guided tour of the Auschwitz and Birkenau Concentration Camps and a full tour with an official guide to the Wieliczka Salt Mines.

How to get to the Wieliczka Salt Mine by Car

A good way to explore the surroundings of Krakow is to go with your own car, or rent one in Krakow. The prices are quite affordable and the roads are in good condition.

If you want to go to the Wieliczka Salt Mines by car you can take the Wielicka street which runs through the districts of Kazimierz and Podgorze and goes towards the intersection with the A4 motorway.

From here continue along the DK94 road for a few kilometers, then follow the signs to the Wieliczka Salt Mines or Wieliczka Centrum.

In the area around the Wieliczka Salt Mines there are several paid parking lots.

How to go to the Bochnia Salt Mines from Krakow

The Bochnia Salt Mines are located about 43 km from Krakow. They are part of the same geological formation as the Wieliczka Salt Mines, and are one of the oldest salt mines in the world, as well as being the oldest trading company in Poland.

The Salt Mines of Bochnia are much less touristy and popular than those of Wieliczka, but no less interesting. These mines have remained active for centuries, from the early 1200s to 1990s and, similar to those of Wieliczka, some major halls have been decorated by miners and open to visitors.

The tour of the Bochnia Salt Mines includes several underground halls, including a church and the famous Ważyn Chamber, the largest chamber, which today is a sanatorium (where you can sleep in a special microclimate, which is believed to be beneficial for breathing) with sports fields (basketball, volleyball, soccer, badminton) and even a restaurant. On special occasions it turns into a suggestive venue for events, conventions, concerts or shows.

The unmissable attraction of the Bochnia Salt Mines is the Underground Ferry Crossing: you can sail on a small underground salt lake in the heart of the mine.

The Bochnia Salt Mines can be visited on a guided day tour from Krakow, or you can rent a car and drive there on the A4 motorway.

Tips and Frequently Asked Questions

Wieliczka Salt Mine or Bochnia Salt Mine, which one is better to visit?

If it is your first time in Krakow, I recommend you to visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine, it will be a truly unforgettable experience.

The Bochnia Salt Mines offer a more authentic experience, they are much less crowded, but also a little less charming. They are a perfect destination for those who have already visited Wieliczka at least once.

What is the best time to go and how to dress?

You can go there all year round, in winter it will be pleasant because the temperature in the mine will be even milder than outside.

In the summer, keep in mind that the temperature in the mine is stable around 14-15 °C, so bring something warm to wear.

It is very important to wear comfortable shoes: you will walk for at least a couple of kilometers, there are over 800 steps and some parts of the path may be slippery.

Is it better to book a guided tour from Krakow or go on your own?

The reservation of the visit is not necessary, however the Krakow Salt Mines can only be visited with an official guide. There are tours in several languages, so you need to inquire about the expected time of your tour and go there a few hours in advance, as the queues for the ticket office are usually very long.

Booking a guided tour from Krakow is undoubtedly the best solution if you want to visit the Krakow Salt Mines comfortably and without worrying about queuing, planning transport etc., because you have everything included: return transport from Krakow, skip-the-line ticket and full guided tour with official guide in the language of your choice.

The Wieliczka Salt Mines with their mysterious and evocative halls, the sculptures made over the centuries by the passionate and devoted work of the miners, the underground lakes and the impressive underground cathedrals, are undoubtedly one of the must-see on a trip to Poland.

The Wieliczka Salt Mines are located near Krakow, making them the perfect destination for a day trip suitable for the whole family. That’s why I thought I’d write a complete guide for you with all the information you need to plan your visit to the Wieliczka Salt Mines.

Where are the Wieliczka Salt Mines located?

The Wieliczka Salt Mines are located near Krakow, in the south of Poland, approximately 16 km from the city center of Krakow. This makes them easy to visit on a day trip, there are great guided tour options, or you can go there on your own by train or bus.

What makes the Wieliczka Salt Mines a must see in Krakow?

The Wieliczka Salt Mines are a masterpiece of ingenuity, art and creativity that is unique in the world. These mines have been Poland’s main source of wealth for centuries, as well as the oldest Polish industry, owned directly by the King.

From the 12th century to the end of the 19th century, the Wieliczka Salt Mines worked at full capacity, employing thousands of miners and even donkeys and horses, which were used for work in the mine.

The tons of salt produced each day were brought to Krakow, where they were traded for precious goods, fabrics, carpets, precious stones, spices and fragrances from the Far East. Krakow was right on a very important trade route, and its Main Market Square swarmed day and night with merchants from everywhere.

If Krakow flourished as a rich medieval city full of wonderful works of art, this is mainly due to the wealth from the Wieliczka and Bochnia Salt Mines, as salt was considered a very valuable and expensive commodity.

Over the centuries, about 300 km of tunnels, horizontal passages and chambers have been excavated, reaching a depth of 327 meters in the heart of the earth.

Over time, miners began to decorate the empty chambers of the mine’s upper levels, sculpting statues, inscriptions, chandeliers and even creating underground chapels and a huge cathedral carved out of salt.

Since ancient times the mines have attracted visitors from all over the world. In ancient travel diaries, the Wieliczka Salt Mines are listed as one of the main wonders of Krakow and Poland. Among the visitors there are important names such as Nicolaus Copernicus, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, Fryderyk Chopin, Dmitri Mendeleyev, Pope John Paul II, the former U.S. President Bill Clinton and many others.

The Wieliczka Salt Mines were active until the late 90s, today the salt is no longer extracted with the mining method, but there is a modern plant (called “saltworks“) that extracts the salt from the water that flows into the mine and that is collected and pumped out, otherwise it would end up dissolving the entire mine.

Since 1978 the Wieliczka Salt Mines have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the first protected sites in the world.

What to see and do in the Wieliczka Salt Mines

The Wieliczka Salt Mines have welcomed visitors since 1722, attracted by the magnificence of its halls, the splendor of the underground cathedrals and the incredible and mysterious natural wonders of the underground world.

The Wieliczka Salt Mines are an underground labyrinth of over 300 km of tunnels, spread over 9 levels and largely unexplored and inaccessible to the public.

A small part of the mine, about 3.5 km of tunnels (2% of the total), is accessible to visitors who can explore the wonderful chambers, underground lakes and amazing masterpieces carved in salt by the miners.

The so-called Tourist Route is the original visitor route, which allows you to visit the mine in total safety: the halls and galleries are very large, you won’t even feel like you’re underground. The path winds through paved tunnels, solid wooden walkways and stairways that allow you to move between the levels of the mine.

Get ready for a long, but suitable for everyone, walk. Descend from the Daniłowicz Shaft, it is about 380 steps to reach Level I of the mine, about 64 meters deep. From there you will walk around 3.5km through a breathtaking path. The route is sufficiently illuminated and safe, there are also some points where the guide will allow you to rest for a while and where you can find toilets, bars and a souvenir shop.

During your visit to the Wieliczka Salt Mine you will see some of the most famous rooms, first of all the St Kinga’s Chapel, a huge and amazing cathedral carved in salt.

St. Kinga’s Chapel is the largest underground cathedral in the world, located 101 meters underground and capable of holding over 400 people. It took over 30 years of work to build this chapel. Here everything is made of salt: the floor you walk on, the statues, the bas-reliefs, even the chandeliers are made of salt and crystal.

The chapel is dedicated to St. Kinga (also known as St. Cunegunda), patroness of Poland and Lithuania, as well as patroness of the miners of the Wieliczka Salt Mine. She was the daughter of King Béla IV of Hungary and she dedicated her life to helping the poor. During the visit to the mine her guide will tell you many legends about her.

The St. Kinga chapel was completed in the late 1800s and today is also used for concerts and ceremonies, thanks also to its particular and excellent acoustics.

There are over 20 magnificent chapels in the Wieliczka Salt Mines and as many impressive halls, such as the scenic Michałowice Chamber with its breathtaking wooden architecture and the Stanisław Staszic Chamber, located about 130 meters below ground level.

You will also be able to see scenic underground lakes and rivers, their salinity is very high (much higher than that of famous salt lakes, such as the Dead Sea).

Along the way, the official guide will tell you the history of the mine and many mythological legends about miners. You will also be able to see the tools, trains and machinery used by the miners to extract the salt from the mine.

Over 125 meters deep you will even find a restaurant, the Karczma Górnicza (Miner’s Tavern), which serves simple traditional Polish dishes, cooked with salt from the mine. Eating in the depths of the earth will surely be an unforgettable experience!

How to visit the Wieliczka Salt Mines

The Wieliczka Salt Mines can only be visited on a guided tour. There are several tours per day, in different languages. Official guides take you to discover the wonders of the mine, tell you stories and legends and make sure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

There are two different types of tour routes in the Wieliczka Salt Mines: the Tourist Route and the Miners Route. The classic tour itinerary is the one called Tourist Route, and it is the one that allows you to visit the magnificent and breathtaking halls of the mine.

The Miners’ Route instead starts from the Regis Shaft and is more a game experience than a cultural visit. You will have to dress like a miner, and they will take you to a different area of the mine, where there are no decorated rooms, but rough, dark and dusty mine.

Here you will learn how to move by the light of the lamp and do some typical mining tasks, such as testing the air in the mine and finding the right route underground, using the methane tester or other tools. It is an RPG that takes place in groups of 20 people, but I would recommend it only to those who have already seen the classic route (Tourist Route) at least once.

The classic tour of the Krakow Salt Mine starts from the Daniłowicz Shaft and lasts approximately 2 hours. During the visit you will walk around 3.5 km of mine tunnels and climb around 800 steps. At the end of the visit you will be brought back to ground level by an elevator in the Regis Shaft.

Tours start at set times, so make sure you arrive on time for your visit time. Keep in mind that ticket lines are usually very long and can take up to an hour.

From Krakow there are pre-arranged guided tours that allow you to easily visit the Krakow Salt Mines and include ticket, full visit with official guide (in a language of your choice between English, Spanish, Italian, German, French, Russian, Polish) and return transport.

What to Expect from Visiting the Wieliczka Salt Mines

Once you enter the Daniłowicz Shaft, you will pass through a series of heavy wooden doors. This is a system that prevents outside air from entering and ruining the mine.

After you leave the last heavy door behind you, you will arrive in a dimly lit room, with walls and ceilings made of huge wooden poles.

The Wieliczka Salt Mines are practically entirely made of salt and wood. Due to the microclimate of the mine and the high salinity, the wood becomes solid as a rock.

From Daniłowicz Shaft you will begin your descent to the heart of the earth, to discover the secrets of the mine. You will descend approximately 380 wooden steps, until you reach Level I, where the labyrinth of tunnels begins.

The first room you come across is the Copernicus Grotto. Copernicus was one of the earliest visitors to the mine, and to celebrate this famous guest here is a salt sculpture of him.

Along the way you will encounter different tools and machinery that were used by miners for their work. In addition to machinery, horses and mules were also used. Horses were used to move heavy loads.

You will follow the old mine train tracks, there is also an ancient station that once served to transport visitors and miners around the mine.

The Wieliczka Salt Mine hides, among the myriad of rooms and galleries, some incredible wonders of nature: the Crystal Caves are a complex of caverns covered in sparkling halite crystals. These caves were formed thanks to the particular microclimate of the mine and are a unique case in the world. They are not accessible to visitors: to visit them it is necessary to obtain specific study and research permits.

Continuing along the path you will come across the Chapel of St. Anthony, dating back to the 17th century, in Baroque style and subsequently the Janowice Cave, where the legend of the Polish prince Boleslao V the Chaste and the Hungarian princess Kinga (Cunegonda) is represented.

According to legend, Princess Kinga was very religious and therefore she remained chaste even after marriage. The girl threw her engagement ring as a sign of devotion to God and it was found set in a salt crystal in the place where the Krakow salt mines now stand.

Going down to the Level II you will discover the magnificent main chapels, including the Holy Cross Chapel, with its characteristic wooden architecture, and the huge and famous Chapel of St. Kinga.

From here the path continues along various halls, until it descends to the lowest level that can be visited. You will be able to see underground lakes and rivers and reach the Level III, located 135 meters below the ground level. Here is the Grota Józefa Piłsudskiego, which can only be reached via an underground lake.

This is the deepest point of the visit, after which you can spend some time visiting the Mine Museum or having something to eat at the tavern located 125 meters below the ground.

The last part of the route winds through a series of tunnels that allow you to reach the elevator and then exit the mine by going up through the Regis Shaft.

How to get to the Wieliczka Salt Mines from Krakow

The Krakow Salt Mines can be easily visited by booking a convenient guided tour from Krakow, which includes round-trip transport, skip-the-line ticket and full guided tour with an official guide in the language of your choice.

Otherwise you can go there on your own, taking a bus or train from Krakow. Bus 304 leaves near Krakow Central Railway Station and leaves at a stop located just a few hundred meters from the entrance to the Wieliczka Salt Mine.

If you prefer to go by train, you can take one of the suburban trains which from Krakow Central Railway Station take you to Wieliczka Rynek Kopalnia Railway Station in about 20 minutes. The station is located approximately 500 meters from the entrance to the Wieliczka Salt Mine.

If you have a car, or if you want to rent one, it will be quite easy to get to the salt mines from Krakow. Just follow Wielicka street in the direction of the A4 motorway and from there go straight to Wieliczka.

You can find more information on how to get from Krakow to the Wieliczka Salt Mines here.

What are the best Wieliczka Salt Mine tours from Krakow

The easiest and most comfortable way to visit the Wieliczka Salt Mines is to book a guided tour from Krakow.

Guided tours include round-trip transport from Krakow city center, skip-the-line ticket and guided tour usually available in several languages, such as English, German, Spanish, French, Italian, Russian and Polish of course.

If you are looking for an even more peaceful and comfortable experience you could book a guided tour with round-trip transport from your hotel in Krakow, and maybe even add a dinner at the best restaurant in Wieliczka, the Karczma Pod Wielka Sola, which serves excellent local specialties.

If you are short on time, you may want to opt for a combo tour that allows you to visit Auschwitz and the Wieliczka Salt Mines on the same day. The tour is planned so that you can easily visit both, but if you have the opportunity to visit the two places on two different days, in my opinion, it is better. Visiting both on the same day could be a bit tiring.

Wieliczka Salt Mines Tickets and Prices

Wieliczka Salt Mines tickets can be purchased at the ticket office located near the entrance to the Tourist Route, or purchased in advance online.

The regular ticket price for the Wieliczka Salt Mine is 93 PLN. For children it is possible to get a reduced ticket, at the price of 73 PLN. Admission is free for children up to 4 years old.

Students up to the age of 26 and with a valid student card can get a reduced ticket for the price of 84 PLN.

Prices may be higher (eg 100 PLN for a regular ticket) during the high season (eg July to September).

Keep in mind that entry is only possible with a guided tour, led by an official guide. This is because it is a mining site, and it is a labyrinth of nearly 300 km of tunnels. The visits are organized in small groups and are held at fixed times.

Make sure you arrive early enough for your tour as queues for tickets can be very long. In winter, dress warm, as you may have to wait a long time in the cold (same goes for waiting for the bus or train back to Krakow).

If you decide to go on your own rather than go on a guided tour from Krakow, you may want to book your skip-the-line ticket online so you can avoid queuing for tickets.

Frequently Asked Questions

These are some of the information you might find useful to know before visiting the Wieliczka Salt Mines.

How deep are the Wieliczka Salt Mines?

The depth of the Wieliczka Salt Mines is 327 meters below ground level.

However, not all 9 levels of the mine can be visited, so the maximum depth that visitors can reach is 135 meters below ground level.

What are the opening hours of the Wieliczka Salt Mines?

The opening hours of the Wieliczka Salt Mines are:

• from 07.30 to 19.30 in the summer
• from 8.00 to 17.00 in the winter

In some periods (e.g. from January to April) the opening hours are from 10.00 to 15.00 on weekdays and from 9.00 to 17.00 on holidays and Saturdays.

In any case, remember that you can only visit the mine during the scheduled tour times. There are several tours in English per day, and some in other languages as well.

Opening hours may change without notice, better check the official website of the Wieliczka Salt Mines before you go.

What are the Wieliczka Salt Mines also called?

The Wieliczka Salt Mines are often referred to in different ways, which may confuse you. Often they could be called Krakow Salt Mines or Kopalnia Soli Wieliczka or Krakow Salt Caves.

It may also happen that you simply find it written in other languages, such as zoutmijn wieliczka, saltgruven wieliczka or wieliczka saltgruva, salzmine wieliczka. Don’t worry, it always refers to the Wieliczka Mines.

Is it possible to combine the tour to Auschwitz and Wieliczka Salt Mines from Krakow?

Yes, even if I don’t recommend it. The ideal would be to visit them on two different days, so as to be able to make the most of each visit.

However, it could be a good solution for those short on time. There are excellent tours to Auschwitz and Wieliczka Salt Mines from Krakow that allow you to visit both places on the same day, saving you a lot of time and money.

A practical guide on how to Visit Auschwitz, either independently or with convenient guided tours from Krakow and nearby major cities. This comprehensive guide provides practical advice for planning your trip, choosing the type of visit that best suits your preferences and organizing transportation from Krakow to Auschwitz. Additionally, you’ll find valuable tips from locals on how to make the most of your experience while being mindful of your budget.

Visiting Auschwitz is an essential experience that everyone should undertake at least once in their lifetime. Auschwitz stands as a solemn symbol of the depths of evil that human beings can inflict upon one another. A visit to Auschwitz provides a unique and somber opportunity to bear witness to the horrors of the past and listen to the harrowing stories and testimonies of what transpired within the camp. This profound experience is made possible by the dedicated work of official guides, also known as educators, who diligently preserve the voices of the survivors and the evidence found in historical documents over the years.

Situated just over 60 km from Krakow, amidst anonymous countryside villages and forests, Auschwitz and Birkenau rank among the most infamous concentration camps in WWII history. Today, they have become the most significant Holocaust museum worldwide and hold a place of paramount importance among historical museums in Europe, leading to their designation as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Where is Auschwitz?

The Auschwitz Concentration Camp is located in the town of Oświęcim, in southern Poland, approximately 60 km from Krakow and 30 km from Katowice.

Auschwitz is the name given by the Nazi Germans to the town of Oświęcim during the occupation of Poland in the Second World War. Initially, there was a barracks that belonged to the Polish army, which was later converted into a concentration camp in May 1940. This became known as Auschwitz I, the main camp of a series of sub-camps built subsequently.

What is the difference between Auschwitz and Birkenau?

The Auschwitz Concentration Camp is made up of a series of camps built in the area around Auschwitz. The main camp is the one called Auschwitz I, located just outside the city center of Auschwitz.

Here was the administration and some of the most famous blocks, such as Block 11, also called “death block”, where torture and executions of political prisoners took place, and Block 10, where Nazi doctors carried out their cruel experiments.

The second main camp was built in 1941 near the village of Brzezinka, which the Germans had renamed Birkenau. Birkenau camp was built for Russian prisoners, but was later designated as the main site for the extermination of Jews. The Birkenau Extermination Camp is also known as Auschwitz II, and was the most atrocious camp of the Auschwitz death machine, equipped with 4 crematoria running day and night, as well as many mass graves in the surrounding area.

The Birkenau Extermination Camp is the largest of the Auschwitz camps. It is a boundless expanse of blocks, many of which are no longer visible today.

A third main camp was built in an area west of Auschwitz, called Monowitz. Here one of the largest German chemical companies, IG Farben, was building a huge factory, called Buna, for the production of synthetic rubber.

A forced labor camp, called the Monowitz Buna Labor Camp, or Auschwitz III, was built around the factory site. Here prisoners able to work were sent to forced labor. Today practically nothing remains of the Monowitz camp.

How to get from Auschwitz to Birkenau?

The visits to Auschwitz start from the main camp of Auschwitz I, where the ticket offices are located and where in the blocks there are most of the installations that allow you to better understand the history of the place.

Afterwards you can reach the Birkenau camp, located about 3 km east of the Auschwitz I camp.

There are free shuttles that allow visitors to move from one camp to another. If you are visiting with a guided tour, just follow the instructions of the guide, who will come with you to the Birkenau camp where the guided tour will continue.

If you are visiting Auschwitz on your own, the shuttles leave in the square in front of the ticket office of Auschwitz I and in the square in front of the main gate of Birkenau.

How to get to Auschwitz?

Auschwitz is easily accessible from Krakow and Katowice. There are also guided tours from Wrocław, which is over 190 km away.

Most people visit Auschwitz from Krakow, from which there are many options to get to and prices are generally inexpensive.

There are guided tours from Krakow, organized by specialized licensed guides, which include round-trip transport and guided tour in the language of your choice (there are official guided tours in English, German, Spanish, French, Italian and Polish, and sometimes even in Russian).

If you decide to visit Auschwitz on your own, then you must book and pay for the ticket in advance on the Auschwitz Museum website and plan your travel according to the tour times you have booked.

You can get to Auschwitz from Krakow by bus, train or car.

Buses from Krakow to Auschwitz leave from the Bus Station located near the Krakow Central Station and take approximately 1.5 hours to arrive in front of the ticket office of the Auschwitz I camp.

Trains from Krakow to Auschwitz depart from Krakow Central Station and arrive at Oświęcim station, which is over 2km away from Auschwitz I camp. From there it is about 30 minutes on foot, or you have to take a local bus or a taxi. The train ride takes from 1 hour and 40 minutes to almost 3 hours depending on the type of train.

To get from Krakow to Auschwitz by car you can follow the A4 motorway or one of the many secondary roads. If you don’t have your own car you can rent one in Krakow, booking it online the prices are quite inexpensive. Or you can book a private transfer with driver, for groups or families it could be a convenient solution.

There are also guided tours from Katowice, which is just 30 km away. And if you want to visit Auschwitz from Wrocław you can book a private tour.

How much does it cost to visit Auschwitz and Birkenau?

There are several ways to visit Auschwitz: there are guided tours from Krakow, or you can book a visit for individual visitors.

To visit Auschwitz you need a personalized entry pass. If you go with a guided tour you don’t have to worry about a thing, your guide will take care of everything. If you go on your own then you must book your visit in advance, choosing whether to visit Auschwitz and Birkenau without a guide or join a guided tour for individual visitors.

The Auschwitz ticket for individual visitors who intend to visit without a guide is free, but the number of tickets available is limited. In addition, access to individual visitors without a guide is only granted at certain times, depending on the time of year.

There are two types of guided tours for individual visitors, the 3.5 hour classic tour, which is the most popular, and the 6 hour “study tour”, which is primarily for history buffs and researchers.

The individual ticket for the 3.5-hour guided tour costs 75 zł (approximately € 16.70).

Students under 26 with a suitable student card, people over 75 and disabled with suitable documentation, can book a reduced ticket at the price of 65 zł (approximately € 14.50).

The individual ticket for the 6-hour “study visit” costs 115 zł (approximately € 25.65).

Prices for guided tours from Krakow vary depending on the company that organizes them and the time of year and include round-trip transport from your hotel in Krakow, skip-the-line admission ticket and full tour of Auschwitz and Birkenau with an official guide in the language you prefer. If you book in advance you’ll usually get better prices.

How can I visit Auschwitz and Birkenau with an Official Guide?

You can visit Auschwitz with an official guide by joining one of the guided tours from Krakow (or from Katowice or Wroclaw) or by purchasing a ticket for a group guided tour for individual visitors well in advance.

The guided tour of Auschwitz is the most complete and interesting experience you can have there, because the official guides (also called educators) are much more than just guides.

Each official guide has studied the official documents of the Auschwitz archives for many years, and has spent a lot of time together with former prisoners. They are often grandchildren or relatives of survivors. This will allow you to hear the stories of the people who have been imprisoned in that hell.

By booking your guided tour you will have to choose the language you prefer. There are tours every day in English and other languages, conducted in small groups, each with a guide speaking your chosen language.

How can I visit Auschwitz and Birkenau without a Guide?

Visiting Auschwitz with a guide is highly recommended, but you may want to visit the camps on your own, without a guide.

This may give you more flexibility, allowing you to focus your visit on a few specific things, or to experience a more intimate and introspective visit.

Personally I have visited Auschwitz and Birkenau dozens of times, both with and without a guide. I would recommend the visit without a guide only to those who have previously visited the camp with a guide, or who are really expert on the subject.

You have probably studied the history of Auschwitz at school or university, perhaps you have read some books or seen some movies. Maybe, just like me, you’re a history buff and think you know enough about it. I assure you that when you walk through the Auschwitz gate you will find that you know nothing about it.

The visit with the guide will make you discover aspects that you will not read in any book and you will never see in any documentary or film.

However, self-guided tour is possible for individual visitors who request an entry pass well in advance on the official Auschwitz Museum website. The entrance ticket is free for self-guided visitors.

The entry passes available are very limited and for individual visitors it is only possible to visit Auschwitz at certain times.

There is also the option to book a self-guided tour from Krakow, which includes round-trip transportation and skip-the-line ticket for individual entry. Prices are definitely cheap.

Is it mandatory to book a tour in advance?

In recent years the number of people visiting Auschwitz has increased considerably, which is why the management of the Auschwitz Museum has decided to strongly regulate visits to the Auschwitz and Birkenau camps.

This is the reason why if you want to visit Auschwitz you must necessarily book your visit in advance.

During peak periods, such as in summer (especially from July to September) and between December and February, it is important to book well in advance (at least 2 months in advance is recommended) to find tickets available.

Booking the ticket for the guided tour from the Museum’s official website requires you to pay the full amount of the ticket in advance. This is why many people choose to book the guided tour with reputable operators such as GetYourGuide or Civitatis, which in addition to including round-trip transport from your hotel also offer a free cancellation guarantee.

Even if you want to visit Auschwitz on your own, without a guide, you will still need to book your entrance ticket in advance.

What if I have not booked a tour in advance?

You are visiting Krakow and would like to visit Auschwitz, but you only found out now that you should have booked your visit a few months ago. Don’t worry, it happens to a lot of people.

Unfortunately, you cannot visit Auschwitz without a reservation. For safety reasons and to allow visitors to have a respectful visit, without creating crowds that would not be appropriate to the place, the ticket offices are increasingly strict in compliance with this rule.

But I have good news for you! You may want to check if there are any availabilities for this guided tour from Krakow, this is because licensed tour agencies can request guided tours for their clients, regardless of availability for individual visitors.

If the tour I just recommended is fully booked, you can check out other tours on GetYourGuide or Civitatis, which are reliable operators that allow you to book your tour online and safely.

What to Expect on a Visit to Auschwitz and Birkenau

A visit to Auschwitz has nothing to do with a sightseeing trip or even a visit to a museum. It’s nothing funny and it’s not a place to take a few selfies to put on Instagram. It is a visit to the place where over 1.5 million people were horribly killed.

The visit starts from the Auschwitz I Concentration Camp, you will enter from what was once the prisoners’ reception, from here you will continue through the main gate, the one with the sadly famous inscription Arbeit Macht Frei, work sets you free.

Once you go through the gate you will be beyond the double lines of electrified fences, barbed wire and watchtowers. The buildings you see are the blocks of the concentration camp, many of which housed the prisoners, others had a very specific function.

During your visit to Auschwitz your guide will take you to see some of the most significant blocks and explain what happened there.

Many blocks show documents, maps and objects that help to reconstruct the history of the camp. There are rooms full of glasses, others full of shoes or suitcases. They are part of the objects found in the camp warehouses, once belonging to the killed prisoners. Other blocks have been preserved in their original condition.

During your visit to the Auschwitz I camp you will also see the perfectly preserved gas chamber and the adjacent crematorium.

The visit continues to the Birkenau camp, an immense expanse of barracks. You will walk up the ramp where the trains arrived, about a kilometer long, until you reach the ruins of the crematoria destroyed by the fleeing Nazis.

The visit takes around 3.5 hours in total, which means you will have to walk the entire time. The concentration camps of Auschwitz and Birkenau extend over a rather large area, however the pace of the visit is calm and suitable for anyone.

Important Things You Should Know Before You Go

• When you visit Auschwitz you will find yourself mostly walking outside, although you will often enter to visit the various blocks. So keep in mind that in case of bad weather, you may have to spend a lot of time in the rain. Bring a k-way or something similar with you.
• If you visit Auschwitz in winter, be aware that it can get quite cold. Average temperatures in January and February could easily drop below freezing. There may also be a lot of snow, so consider dressing appropriately.
• The temperature is quite similar to that in Krakow, so it shouldn’t be a problem to pack something warm. Remember to wear comfortable, warm and possibly waterproof shoes. Especially in Birkenau you will often walk in mud.
• Remember that it is essential to book your visit to Auschwitz in advance. You can rely on the excellent guided tours that include transportation and a full guided tour, or if you want to go on your own you will also have to worry about planning transport from Krakow to Auschwitz and vice versa.
• You must arrive at least 30 minutes before the start time of your tour, otherwise you risk not being admitted. Find out in advance about the updated bus or train timetables, so as not to have bad surprises.
• Security is quite strict, you will have to go through metal detectors and they may ask you to show your ID and proof in case you have purchased a reduced ticket.
• Only very small bags are allowed, which do not exceed the dimensions of 30x20x10 cm. Any other bags or suitcases must be left in the car or on the bus, which could be a problem if you are traveling on your own.
• There are some lockers where you can leave your bags for a fee, located near the ticket offices. However, availability is limited.
• It is allowed to take photographs in both Auschwitz and Birkenau, but you cannot use flash or tripod. In some parts of Auschwitz I it is not allowed to take photographs, these places are well signposted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here you will find the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions for those planning a visit to Auschwitz.

Which is the nearest airport to visit Auschwitz?

Many people visit Auschwitz during a trip to Eastern Europe, perhaps during an Interrail. Others come on purpose to visit Auschwitz.

The best choice is to travel to Krakow, which has an excellent international airport and a train station that connects it to major European cities.

Krakow offers a wide choice of accommodation, restaurants and entertainment and from here you can easily book a guided tour to Auschwitz.

I would also like to visit the Wieliczka Salt Mines, is it possible to do it on the same day?

I recommend visiting Auschwitz and the Salt Mines in two different days, in order to dedicate to each visit the right time and the right calm it deserves. However, if you are short on time, then it might be a good solution to book this combo tour that allows you to visit Auschwitz and the Wieliczka Salt Mines on the same day.