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20 Best Day Trips from Krakow in 2024 (By Train, Bus, Car or Tour!)

• April 1, 2023

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If you’re wanting to extend your trip to Krakow beyond the city’s attractions, it’s time to start thinking about the many different day trips from Krakow you can do!

You’re in luck, too – most of the day trips from Krakow can be done by train or public transport ! If not, though, there’s always the option to take a day trip tour from Krakow before you have to resort to hiring a car.

From painted villages and mountaintop castles to emerald green lakes , fast-growing cities and horrifying history , there is a day trip from Krakow to suit every type of traveller – regardless of your budget.

On my first visit to Krakow I stayed in the city for five days and four nights. This meant that I had a couple of opportunities to break out of the city and take some day trips! I opted to visit Rzeszow and Zakopane , but it was so tricky narrowing down the many day trips available to just two.

I did a tonne of research into the Krakow day trips to make my decision, and there’s no point in that research going to waste! That’s why, today, I’m sharing my top picks for the very best day trips from Krakow – by train, bus, car or tour!

Top tip: The currency in Krakow (and all of Poland) is the Polish Zloty (PLN), but I have listed most of the prices in this post in Euros to keep everything simple.

Which is the Best Day Trip From Krakow For You?

It can definitely be overwhelming to choose from 16 different day trips from Krakow! If you’re in a hurry and just want answers, fast, here are my top picks for the best day trips from Krakow!

Best Day Trips from Krakow, Poland

1. zakopane.

The mountain town of Zakopane is one of the very best day trips from Krakow. It’s at the base of the Tatra Mountains , right on the Slovakian border, and you simply won’t believe how beautiful this area of Poland is!

Before travelling to Krakow, I didn’t even know that Poland had a mountain range, so I was blown away to discover this gorgeous area. 

Zakopane is a popular destination year-round . In summer, visitors flock to the area to embark on epic hikes around the mountains, and in the colder months Zakopane is home to some Polish Christmas Markets and excellent skiing!

Whilst you’re on your Zakopane one day trip from Krakow you absolutely have to eat some of the local cheese, Oscypek , which is absolutely DELICIOUS and sold all over town.

You can’t visit Zakopane without getting the cable car up to the top of the mountain. The views from the top are awe-inspiring!

Although there are lots of tacky tourist attractions at the top of the mountain, I recommend walking just five minutes or so and you’ll find yourself far away from all the other tourists with epic views all to yourself.

How to Get to Zakopane from Krakow

If you’re visiting Zakopane on a day trip from Krakow, you can get there by either train, bus or guided tour. 

The train and the bus both take a similar amount of time (around 2 hours and 30 minutes ). The bus costs around €4 each way, and the train costs around €5.30 each way.

The main issue with doing this is that you’ll be limited to staying in Zakopane, which is a very small town. Unless you’re going hiking, there’s probably not enough to do there to fill an entire day.

For this reason, I chose to go on this full-day tour because it meant I was able to explore Zakopane as well as nearby areas and some thermal pools without the stress of using public transport. It includes includes transportation, local cheese tasting, a cable car ticket in Zakopane and entry to the thermal pools! You can read my full review here .

Click here to check availability and current prices!

2. Wieliczka Salt Mine

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is probably the easiest of all of these day trips from Krakow since it’s just a short bus ride from the city. This makes it really easy to fit into your Krakow itinerary !

The Wieliczka Salt Mine has been welcoming tourists since 1772, so it’s no wonder that it’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular places to visit in Poland! Salt was produced from the mine from the 13th century up until 2007!

You’re able to explore parts of the salt mine on guided tours, which last for two hours and lead you through the labyrinth of underground tunnels and salty attractions, including sculptures made from salt!

The Wieliczka Salt Mine also contains an epic underground lake and four extravagant salt chapels.

You’ll need to buy a ticket from their website to visit the salt mine, which costs 100 PLN (€21.30) for a foreign language tour. Be careful when you’re buying your ticket – don’t accidentally book a Polish guided tour!

How to Get to Wieliczka Salt Mine from Krakow  

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is super easy to visit on a day trip from Krakow – you can get there by either bus or train. The bus takes around 30 minutes, and the train takes around 20 minutes.

This guided tour runs trips visiting both Wieliczka Salt Mine and Auschwitz in one day, which is ideal if you’re short on time but want to experience two of the very best day trips from Krakow.

3. Auschwitz Birkenau

Over 1 million people a year visit the two death camps, Auschwitz and Birkenau, to pay their respects to the approximately 1.3 million people who suffered unimaginable horrors here during the holocaust. 

There’s no doubt that a visit to Auschwitz is not a fun or lighthearted day out. It’ll probably be one of the most emotionally draining days of your life, but everybody who visits says that it is unmissable. Visiting a Nazi concentration camp isn’t exactly supposed to be fun.

It’s a good idea to briefly read about Auschwitz during the war before you visit so that you have some context.

The two sites are 3km apart, and it takes 30-40 minutes to walk between the two. However, there are also free shuttle buses that transport tourists between the two camps. Of course, if you have booked a guided tour, your tour guide will arrange for your transportation.

It’s essential to book your visit to Auschwitz in advance . Since such a huge number of visitors to Krakow (and elsewhere in Poland) visit Auschwitz every day, the queues to book guided tours (which are mandatory in summer) can be over two hours long. For this reason, you absolutely need to either book in advance or join a guided tour from Krakow to skip the queues.

How to Get to Auschwitz from Krakow

This exceptionally rated tour costs €38 and includes your entry tickets, transportation from Krakow and a knowledgeable guide. Make sure you book as far in advance as possible to secure a spot on the tour of your choice. Places sell out far in advance!

Click here to book your place!

If you want to visit Auschwitz independently, note that you should still book an entry ticket in advance to avoid queues . You can catch the public bus from Krakow to Auschwitz, which costs around €3 each way and takes two hours.

There’s also the option to catch the train from Krakow to Auschwitz in about 1 hour and 50 minutes, and tickets cost around €6 each way.

Some people who are limited for time combine visiting Auschwitz and the Wieliczka Salt Mines in one day. This guided tour visits both places in one day.

Zalipie has got to be the cutest village in Poland , and it’s still a hidden gem so it’s the perfect place to visit if you want to get off the beaten path in Poland. 

In this small village, you’ll find a collection of tiny wooden cottages all painted with beautiful flower motifs and lots of bright colours.

The tradition of painting the cottages in Zalipie started over a century ago when the women of the village decided to paint over any faults on their cottage with bright paint they made from the fat of the dumplings they cooked. 

The tradition has been passed down through generations, with today’s residents taking inspiration from nature and local folklore and incorporating this into their art. 

On a day trip to Zalipie don’t miss paying a visit to the House of Maralek , where you’ll learn more about the village’s fascinating tradition. You can even join in on an art workshop! You’ll spend most of your time in Zalipie outdoors, this is one of the best day excursions from Krakow.

Since Zalipie is so tiny you really don’t need to spend a full day here. A couple of hours will be plenty . For this reason, if you visit early in the day you’ll be able to return to Krakow in time to visit a few attractions in the city on the same day.

How to Get to Zalipie from Krakow

Zalipie is around 90km from Krakow, and there is no way to get there directly by public transport. You’ll need to either join a tour or hire a car . This tour costs €42.50 and lasts 6 hours – which includes around three hours spent in Zalipie, a tour guide, and return transportation by minibus.

Book your place here!

Top tip: this tour will only run if there are a minimum of two people booked on to it, so if you’re a solo traveller there’s a possibility it may not go ahead. It may be worth trying to convince another solo traveller to join you to guarantee your trip!

Visiting Warsaw is probably the most gruelling day trip you can take from Krakow, as the train takes around 2.5 hours each way , but if you’re not afraid of getting out of bed early and you only have a few days to discover Poland, it’ll be well worth it. If you have extra time to spare, Warsaw is one of the best weekend trips from Krakow!

The capital city of Poland has enough to keep you occupied for a few days by itself, but if all you have is one day then you’ll have to focus on the city’s star attractions. Don’t miss the colourful Market Square in the Old Town, the Warsaw Uprising Museum and the Royal Castle. 

Warsaw is one of the best places to visit in Poland in the winter since there’s so much to do indoors!

The best way to round off your day trip to Warsaw from Krakow is by checking out the view from the 30th-floor viewing deck at the top of the Palace of Culture and Science . This is the tallest building in Poland, and is viewed as Stalin’s “parting gift” to the nation.

How to Get to Warsaw from Krakow

If you want to visit Warsaw in one day, you’ll need to book your train tickets as far in advance as possible . I was planning to do this day trip from Krakow, but I looked two days in advance and the trains I needed to take were already fully booked!

Since you’ll need to use the express Krakow to Warsaw train for this trip, you’ll unfortunately have to pay a premium. Single tickets in 2nd class cost around €36 , so you’re looking at around €72 just on transportation for the day. Yikes!

Another suggestion for an unusual day trip from Krakow is the small city of Rzeszów, which is the perfect size to be able to explore thoroughly in one day. The city also doesn’t see too many international tourists, so a visit to Rzeszów feels like a taste of the “real” Poland .

Start your visit to Rzeszów at the City Hall and Market Square, the most beautiful part of the city. The buildings that line the square are painted in beautiful pastel colours and look like the idea of a Polish Old Town you were probably dreaming of when you planned your trip. 

From the Market Square, head over to the 3 Maja pedestrian street, probably the most beautiful area of Rzeszów’s Old Town, and do some window shopping. 

For a bit of history, don’t miss the imposing Rzeszów Castle and the Lubomirski Summer Palace just across the road. Spend the rest of the day enjoying pierogi, strolling the city and paying a visit to the Revolutionary Act Monument.

Getting to Rzeszów from Krakow

It’s straightforward to get to Rzeszów from Krakow via public transport. It’s one of the easiest train trips you can do from Krakow! You can catch the train or the bus . The train is far quicker and takes around 90 minutes . The bus takes around 2 hours and 20 minutes.

Rzeszów is one of my favourite train trips from Krakow, and I did this train journey myself. The views out of the window over the Polish countryside were stunning! Some train services do sell out, so it’s better to book your tickets at least a few hours in advance, and you can get them here .

7. Energylandia

If you’re into amusement parks, you should definitely head to Energylandia, the biggest in Poland!

This amusement park contains a water park as well as a huge theme park, which includes a range of adrenaline-inducing roller coasters.

There’s also a family zone with rides that are more suitable for young kids, so if you’re visiting Krakow as a family this could be the ideal day trip for you.

Entry tickets cost 149 PLN (€31.50) for adults and 99 PLN (€21) for children. Their website often has ticket discounts and deals, so it’s worth checking if any deals are running before you buy!

How to Get to Energylandia from Krakow

The Energylandia website has information regarding shuttle bus services to and from the park from Krakow, which cost 29 PLN (€6.15) per person for a return ticket. You can find out more about the bus service here .

8. Katowice

Known as Poland’s industrial capital , this city in the mining region of the country is changing rapidly, so now is a great time to visit before it’s changed completely! The majority of the best things to do in Katowice are all located in the city centre. This makes it easy to see the city in one day. 

The Silesian Museum, which is housed in a former coal mine, is an unmissable attraction in the city and teaches visitors all about the history of the Silesian region.

It’s also worth paying a visit to Spodek , an arena that looks like a massive UFO, and the Nikiszowiec district, a residential area of the city that still looks as it did over 100 years ago. 

How to Get to Katowice from Krakow

If you’re wondering where to go from Krakow by train, Katowice is one of the best day trips from Krakow by train since it’s so easy to get to. Direct trains run between the two cities and take around 1 hour and 54 minutes each way. 2nd class tickets cost around €3.30 each way.

Although travel in Poland is cheap overall, the low price of train tickets for this day trip option make it one of the cheapest day trips from Krakow!

9. Wadowice

This small town in Southern Poland can easily be done as a half-day trip from Krakow , which is ideal if you’re short on time. It’s famous for being the birthplace and hometown of Karol Wojtyla, the man who later became Pope John Paul II.

The most popular thing to do for visitors to Wadowice is to visit Pope John Paul II’s former home , which nowadays is a museum. The museum consists of four floors and 16 zones telling the story of Pope John Paul II’s life, as well as the original flat itself, which is decorated as if the Wojtyla family was still living there. 

Although the museum focuses on Pope John Paul II, it also documents what Wadowice was like in the inter-war years, and tells the story of the town’s Jewish population during WW2.

Whilst you’re in Wadowice you should also definitely stop by a cafe to sample Kremówka , a Polish cream pie.

It’s humorously referred to as the “Papal pie” after a story was published from Pope John Paul II’s youth. Apparently, the future pope ate eighteen Kremówkas when competing against a friend to see who could eat the most. Despite this tremendous effort, the eighteen were not enough and he did not win!

How to Get to Wadowice from Krakow

To get to Wadowice on a day trip from Krakow, you can drive there, catch the bus or train, or join a guided tour. Buses depart frequently from Krakow MDA (bus station), and the train departs from Kraków Łagiewniki, taking around 1 hour and 20 minutes .

If you’re looking for a tour, this tour is great value for money as it combines a trip to Wadowice with Kalwaria , a pilgrimage town established in 1601 and famous for its complex of 42 churches and chapels.

Click here to check tour availability and prices!

10. Lanckorona

This village is just about as far off the beaten path as you can get, which makes it the perfect day trip from Krakow for adventurous travellers.

It’s hardly the traditional day trip filled with must-visit attractions, but if you want to see traditional village life in Poland , this is a wonderful destination for you.

On arrival in Lanckorona, stroll through the village and check out the old wooden houses before stopping off at one of the adorable coffee and ice cream shops for a sweet treat.

If you’re feeling energetic, take the steep walk out of the village to find the Lanckorona castle ruins and enjoy the views you’ll be rewarded with over the surrounding area.

Lanckorona is the perfect palace to visit during the summer and autumn when the village comes alive and lots of local families visit for a relaxed day out. However, it’s worth remembering that, since it’s such a small place, there are not too many tourist attractions there.

Lanckorona is ideal if you’re looking to take a relaxed walk, see Polish village life, and spend some time away from the city.

Getting to Lanckorona from Krakow

The easiest way to get to Lanckorona is to drive, but if that’s not possible you can catch the train. The journey to Kalwaria Zebrzydowska Lanckorona station takes around 70 minutes, and then you’ll need to take a taxi for the final 9 minutes to the village.

11. Dunajec River Gorge

Running through the Pieniny Mountains in Southern Poland and Northern Slovakia, the Dunajec River is stunning, and easily one of the most beautiful day trips from Krakow.

The most popular way to explore the river is on a rafting trip, which is the ideal way to spend a summer afternoon!

Unlike white water rafting, rafting on the Dunajec River takes place on wooden rafting boats and is a very relaxing activity suitable for everybody. From your place on the raft you’ll be able to take in the stunning surroundings of the Dunajec River, which includes thick woodlands and towering mountains. 

Rafting tours generally run from April to October and include two to three full hours of rafting around 15km down the river. 

How to Get to Dunajec River Gorge from Krakow

To enjoy rafting at the Dunajec River your best bet is to join a guided tour like this one . The tour includes your return transportation from Krakow, a few hours of rafting down the river with your expert guide, and lunch at the pretty resort town of Szczawnica. This is a full-day trip, lasting between 8 and 9 hours, and costs €55 .

Click here to check availability and book!

12. Ojców National Park

If you want to explore the natural beauty surrounding Krakow, you can head just 24km away to Ojców National Park, one of the best day trips from Krakow!

Ojców National Park is the very best day trip you can take from Krakow if you’re on a tight budget. You can expand your time in Krakow on a budget by doing all the Krakow free activities and visiting Ojców. You get there by hiring a bike or taking the bus, and entry to the park is free!

Once you’re at the national park, you can spend the entire day cycling, hiking or picnicking, making it a very budget-friendly day out. 

As well as relaxing nature, you’ll also find a few castles in the national park, which are referred to as the “ Eagles’ Nest Castles “. You won’t be able to follow the 25-castle route in its entirety on your day trip, but you can definitely pay a visit to the renaissance Pieskowa Skała castle. 

If castles aren’t your thing, the best thing to do in Ojców National Park is to go hiking, and there are plenty of well-marked trails in the park to choose from.

How to Get Ojców National Park from Krakow

Since Ojców is so close to Krakow, you can choose to either cycle there or catch the bus. The bus departs from Czarnowiejska in Krakow, taking 48 minutes to get to Ojców. Tickets cost around €1 each way.

13. Ogrodzieniec Castle

It’s big, it’s romantic, and it looks straight out of a medieval fantasy book – Ogrodzieniec Castle is one of the more unusual day trips from Krakow, but those who do make the journey there will be rewarded with a fascinating castle to explore.

You can visit the Ogrodzieniec Castle all year round, but this is probably one of the best winter day trips from Krakow as you’ll find the castle covered with snow with barely any other tourists in sight. 

Although it has been rebuilt numerous times, the original castle on the site was built in the 14th century . Nowadays, it’s part of the “Eagles Nest” trail of castles in the area, has featured in an Iron Maiden music video, and more recently was used as a filming location for Netflix’s “The Witcher” series. 

Entry tickets to the castle cost €4 for adults and €2.80 for children. You can purchase them on arrival at the castle.

How to Get to Ogrodzieniec Castle from Krakow

At around 70km from Krakow, the drive to Ogrodzieniec Castle takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes . If you don’t have your own method of transportation, the only other way you’ll be able to see the castle without spending over five hours of the day on public transport is by joining a tour.

This 10-hour tour visits three of the Eagles Nest Castles, including Ogrodzieniec Castle.

14. Babia Gora National Park

Another fabulous hiking day trip from Krakow is to Babia Gora National Park, which is the perfect mountainous escape from the city. Babia Gora National Park also offers knockout views of the Tatra Mountains National Park, so you get to experience the beauty of both national parks in one day trip!

The highest peak in the national park is Babia Gora vel Diablak , which stands at 1725 metres, and this is the most popular place to hike in the national park.

There are several different trails to the top, of varying distances and difficulty, so it’s worth doing some prior research to pick one that meets what you’re looking for.

If you don’t fancy hiking to the summit, there are plenty of more moderate hikes in the Babia Gora National Park, where you’ll still find breathtaking scenery and viewpoints. 

The weather at Babia Gora National Park is infamous for being unpredictable, so if you’re visiting here make sure you pack the right things – warm clothing, hiking equipment and waterproofs are a must!

How to Get to Babia Gora National Park from Krakow

This day trip is one you’ll have to do independently , as at the time of writing there are no guided tours to the area and getting there by public transport is tedious. You’ll need to hire a car to visit Babia Gora National Park. The drive is around 80km and will take you around 1 hour and 45 minutes from Krakow.

If not, you’ll have to catch the train from Krakow to Sucha Beskidzka and then get a taxi for the final 17 miles to the national park.

15. Morskie Oko

At 1,395m above sea level, the lake of Morskie Oko is arguably the most popular place to visit in the Tatra Mountain National Park. Surrounded by steep mountains and crystal clear waters, there’s no doubt that it’s one of the most naturally beautiful places in Poland!

The 9km Morskie Oko hike takes around 2.5 hours, and you can visit the lake at any time of year. For the best, clearest skies you’ll want to visit in summer. Unfortunately, though, everybody else visits Morskie Oko in summer too, so expect heavy crowds! 

The best way to avoid the crowds is to visit outside of the school summer holidays, on a weekday, and either early in the morning or later in the afternoon. If you’re visiting in winter, keep in mind that the lake is frozen over from November to May.

Swimming is forbidden in the lake, but its staggering beauty means the hike up to it will still be worth it! 

How to Get to Morskie Oko from Krakow

If you’re a confident driver, the easiest way to get here by far is to hire a car. However, it’s also pretty convenient to catch the shuttle bus that runs between Krakow and Morskie Oko. 

The bus departs Krakow at 7am, arriving at Morskie Oko at around 9am, then departs back for Krakow at 4:45pm, arriving in the city at 7pm. Return tickets cost €12.50 . The bus will drop you off at the trailhead, and then you’ll be able to embark on the Morskie Oko hike from there.

Home to an incredibly well-preserved old town , the southeastern city of Tarnów is a quick and easy city to visit on a day trip from Krakow. The city was one of the first Polish cities to be occupied by the Nazis in WW2, and you’ll be able to find out more about the occupation at the town’s many museums.

The best place to start your visit to Tarnów is the Main Square, which is surrounded by renaissance-style houses, the red-brick Tarnów Cathedral and the gothic-style Town Hall.

Next, head to the Jewish Quarter, where you’ll find plenty of plaques documenting the history of the Jewish community in Tarnów, which was tragically destroyed during the Nazi occupation.

This area of Poland is famous for its wooden churches , and there are a couple that you can walk to from the city, so if you have time to spare it’s definitely worth checking them out. 

Since the city feels like a mini version of Krakow, one of the best things to do in Tarnów is to wander aimlessly, looking at the beautiful buildings and exploring its medieval alleyways.

Unlike Krakow, you’ll find hardly any other tourists here, so it’s the perfect getaway from the crowds.

How to Get to Tarnów from Krakow

Tarnów is one of the best places to visit near Krakow by train since the train journey is direct and takes just 1 hour and 11 minutes from Krakow Główny station. Second class tickets cost €3.80 each way, and you can get them here .

17. Ostrava, Czechia

I bet you didn’t know that you can do a day trip to Czechia from Krakow, but it’s possible! Ostrava is the third-largest city in Czechia, and it’s the perfect day trip from Krakow if you want to dip your toes into another country.

Ostrava is famous for being a coal-mining city, and the national monument of Dolni Vitkovice is the most famous coal mine of them all. You can tour the mine, its blast furnace, and check out its Bolt Tower (christened by Usain Bolt). Cool, right?

Tie in your trip to Dolni Vitkovice with a visit to the Landek Park Mining Museum, where you can explore an underground coal mine. For more (!!) mining related learning, head over to the Michal Coal Mine for a guided tour.

For cool views of the city, and a non-mining activity in Ostrava, you’ll want to head up the New City Hall Viewing Tower. Round off your day trip to Ostrava with some authentic Czech beer. It’d be rude to leave without trying some, right?

How to Get to Ostrava from Krakow

The direct train from Krakow to Ostrava takes 2 hours and 15 minutes . Tickets cost around €10 each.

18. Bielsko-Biala

We’re getting truly off the beaten path here, and heading to Bielsko-Biala, one of the best non-touristy cities to visit near Krakow. Most tourists have never heard of Bielsko-Biala, but it’s actually known within Poland as “Little Vienna”.

As you walk around you’ll notice the Viennese influence on the architecture here. It almost feels like you’re exploring Vienna on a day trip from Krakow – but you haven’t even left Poland!

The Old Town is absolutely stunning, but completely free of tourists. It’s like wandering around Krakow’s old town, but without having to share with with thousands of others. Nice, right?

Once you’ve polished off your Bielsko-Biala sightseeing, head to the outskirts of the city to take the cable car up to Szyndzielnia mountain. The views up there are gorgeous!

How to Get to Bielsko-Biala from Krakow

You can reach Bielsko-Biala from Krakow by bus or train. The direct bus journey takes 1 hour and 45 minutes and costs around €7 . If you want to travel to Bielsko-Biala by train, you’ll need to take two trains, but the journey still takes less than 2 hours and costs €10 each way.

19. Cieszyn

Another Czech day trip option from Krakow is Cieszyn, which was divided by the Poland-Czechia border in the 1920s. You can actually visit both the Polish and Czech side of the town on your day trip.

The main thing to do in Cieszyn is just vibe – it has a huge coffee culture that all but invites you to kick back with a cup of coffee and relax. Wander around the charming Old Town, head up to Castle Hill and explore the Museum of Cieszyn Silesia, one of the oldest museums in Central Europe.

How to Get to Cieszyn from Krakow

Getting to Cieszyn from Krakow is quite the mission for a day trip, so this could be a better suggestion for a weekend trip from Krakow, but I wanted to include it in this list just to be complete.

The easiest way to get to Cieszyn from Krakow is via bus, which takes around 3 hours and tickets cost €7.50 each way.

Kielce is such an underrated city trip from Krakow!

One of the main attractions in Kielce is the Palace of the Kraków Bishops, which houses the Museum of Kielce Village. This museum gives you a glimpse into the traditional way of life in the area and features exhibits on local crafts, folk art, and architecture.

Another must-visit during your time in Kielce is the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity. This stunning neo-Gothic church has an impressive collection of stained glass windows and intricate wood carvings.

How to Get to Kielce from Krakow

This is another one of the many great day trips from Krakow by train, since you can catch a direct train to Kielce from Krakow in 1 hour and 30 minutes. Tickets cost around €10 each way.

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Ella Moore is the founder of Many More Maps. Growing up just 45 minutes away from Liverpool, Ella has spent years exploring the city inside out. In her teenage years, she was introduced to the music of The Beatles, and the rest, they say, is history! Today, she stands as a leading authority on Beatles tourism in Liverpool, helping over 40,000 people a month to plan their dream trip to the city.

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19 Ideas for Amazing Day Trips from Krakow

When you plan your trip to Krakow be sure to set some extra days in your itinerary for a few day trips from Krakow. The area surrounding the second-largest Polish city is packed with attractions, some of them are among the best places to visit in Poland, and you simply don’t want to miss them!

There are a variety of attractions nearby: historical places, wonders of nature, UNESCO-listed monuments, industrial heritage, and more, and you can see them all as Krakow day trips!

Together with a help of fellow travel bloggers, I put together a list of the best day trips from Krakow. As you can see, there are plenty of different places to choose from and I’m sure everyone will find interesting places to visit near Krakow.

Planning a trip to Krakow?

Here are the highly-rated hotels, tours, and services recommended for your trip:

Accomodation:

• Ventus Rosa Boutique Aparthotel (9.3/10)
• PURO Kraków Kazimierz (9.4/10)
• Leonardo Boutique Hotel Krakow Old Town (9.0/10)

Tours and activities:

• Krakow Old Town Guided Walking Tour
• Krakow: Kazimierz, Jewish Ghetto and Schindler’s Factory
• Day Trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine

Internet: Stay connected with Airalo eSim card – click here to get yours!

Airport Transfer: Airport Transfer: Use Welcome Pickups for a smooth ride from the airport to your accommodation in Krakow. Click here to book the airport transfer.

Insurance: Get insured for your trip to Poland with SafetyWing

Car rental: Compare prices and find the best deals on rental cars in Poland on Discover Cars .

Table of Contents

How to go on day trips from Krakow

Many of the places described below are easily available by public transport (although, in a few cases this might not be the best option). You can check train and bus connections from Krakow here .

Some of the places, especially more remote ones, are reachable only by car so your best option would be renting one in Krakow. Check the best rental car options here.

There are also many highly-rated tours available from Krakow and in many cases, they are the best way to discover Krakow’s surroundings, especially if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of driving yourself or navigating the public transport.

Best day trips from Krakow

I think Auschwitz-Birkenau doesn’t need an introduction or explanation. The former concentration and extermination camp operated by Nazis during World War 2 was the most tragic place of that kind, where around 1,3 million people lost their lives, the majority of them were Jews.

Today Auschwitz is the world-known symbol of the war’s cruelty that should never be repeated.

During your visit to Auschwitz, you will visit two places: Auschwitz I Museum and Auschwitz-Birkenau II Memorial. In the first one, you will see the well-preserved camp’s grounds with the whole infrastructure: barracks, watchtowers, etc. You will also learn more about the place in the museum, where you will also find numerous objects that used to belong to the victims arriving at Auschwitz.

Birkenau is where the trains with people arrived and more barracks and crematoriums were located. Today this is more of a vast space that was partly destroyed, which helps you realize what a large camp this was.

During your Auschwitz tour , you will learn more about the camp as well as its victims and survivors. These are devastating stories to hear so be prepared to shed a tear or two.

Even if this might be one of the most somber and tragic places you will ever go to, I believe everyone should visit Auschwitz at least once. It will not be a mentally easy trip and most likely it will leave you heartbroken and confused yet this is one of the must-visit places in Poland.

Fortunately, you can go to Auschwitz as one of the day trips from Krakow since Oswiecim (the town where the former Nazi concentration camp is located) is located only some 70 km away.

You can go there independently by public transport but there are also numerous tours to choose from and I would recommend that option. The train station is some 30 minutes walking from the Auschwitz I site where you start your visit to the concentration camp.

In the peak season, it’s sometimes hard to get tickets as an independent visitor, especially if you plan your trip last minute, yet tours have them guaranteed.

Distance from Krakow : 70 km How to get there: trains and buses are available but the best option is a tour

Recommended tours from Krakow:

• From Krakow: Auschwitz-Birkenau Full-Day Trip with Pickup
• Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum and Memorial Guided Tour from Krakow
• From Krakow: Ticket to Auschwitz-Birkenau with Transfer

Wieliczka and Bochnia Salt Mines

Wieliczka Salt Mine , together with Auschwitz, are among the most popular Krakow day trips and you also shouldn’t miss both of them during your trip to Krakow. Wieliczka is even easier to get to than Auschwitz since it’s located only 15 km from the center of Krakow and you can get near the mine by public transport (although tours are also available if you don’t want to deal with navigating tickets, schedules etc).

Wieliczka Salt Mine is one of the oldest operating salt mines in the world – salt was excavated here continuously from the 13th century until 2007. There are nine levels, the lowest one at 327 meters below the ground, and the total length of underground corridors is around 250 km (however you will see only around 3 km of corridors during your visit).

In 1978 Wieliczka Salt Mine was included in the first UNESCO World Heritage List (later the salt mine in nearby Bochnia was added to this inscription).

Besides the historical aspect, Wieliczka Salt Mine is a truly beautiful place, with numerous chambers, chapels, and underground lakes. There are also numerous impressive sculptures carved from salt.

Once you are done visiting Wieliczka Salt Mine but would like to learn more about the salt excavation in the region, you can go to the nearby mine in Bochnia. It is the oldest mine in Poland, operating between 1251 and 1990. During your visit, you will be able to take a boat through the underground flooded chamber – it’s the only attraction of that kind in the world.

Distance from Krakow: 15 km How to get there: trains and buses are available, you can also go on a tour

• From Krakow: Wieliczka Salt Mine Half-Day Trip
• Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour from Krakow
• From Krakow: Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine Full-Day Trip with Pickup

Read more about Wieliczka in my article “Visiting Wieliczka Salt Mine near Krakow, Poland”.

• Are you planning a trip to Poland? Be sure to join my Facebook group about traveling in Central Europe and be part of the amazing community of like-minded travelers. Click here for the access!
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Recommended by Jakub from tymrazem.pl

How about a city that has not changed its urban layout since the Middle Ages? Tarnów is such a place, and it is just over an hour’s drive from Krakow. You can get there by car, train or bus.

The aforementioned city layout is not the only thing that makes it worth visiting Tarnów. A nice main square, a beautiful town hall, interesting museums (including the only exhibition about the Gypsy in Poland), and castle ruins are waiting for you.

If you are interested in Jewish history, you should visit the Old Bathhouse, see the synagogue bima, or the huge Jewish cemetery.

The city is associated with blackthorn („tarnina” in Polish), so when you are here, be sure to try the tincture of this fruit or tea, which you can buy in various places. A visit to the city should begin with a visit to the Tourist Information on the Market Square, where you will receive all the tips for your stay.

Tarnów is also a great place for wine fans! There are many vineyards around the city concentrated in the EnoTarnowskie project. Each of the vineyards offers unique wines, and often also accommodation, tasting, and other forms of spending free time.

Distance from Krakow: 90 km How to get there: by train (more frequent) or bus

Recommended tour from Krakow: Tarnow private tour from Krakow

Zalipie is one of the most unique villages in Poland, known for its beautifully painted houses and other structures. The tradition to decorate the buildings started at the end of the 19th century when local women started putting inside the houses flowers made of blotting paper, cutouts, or straw spiders as well as painting flowers both inside and outside.

Today there are over 20 colorfully decorated houses and a few painted fences, wells, and shrines in Zalipie. This is not an ethnographical museum as such but a regular yet beautiful village. Still, for a small fee, you can visit some of the houses to see the inside decorations too. There is also a small museum where you can attend painting workshops.

Distance from Krakow: 85 km How to get there: by car or with a tour

• From Krakow: Guided Tour of Zalipie and Niepołomice
• Zalipie Painted Village Private Tour from Krakow

Dunajec River Rafting

Dunajec River Rafting is among the best things to do in Poland and one of the biggest attractions of Polish mountains, with the starting point located a bit over 100 km away from Krakow. The trip on the Dunajec river goes through the gorge in Pieniny National Park, right at the border with Slovakia .

You will be going on a traditional wooden raft from which you will admire beautiful views of the mountains with the most famous ones being Trzy Korony and Sokolica.

The trip starts in Sromowce-Kąty and you have two destinations to choose from: Szczawnica (the rafting length is 18km and the time is 2h15min) and Kroscienko (23km and 2h45min). Dunajec River Rafting is available only between April 1st and October 31 (with the exception of two holidays: the first day of Easter and Corus Christi).

Distance from Krakow: 110 km How to get there: by bus to Szczawnica, by car or with a tour

• Dunajec River Full-Day River Rafting Tour from Krakow
• Dunajec River Rafting, Cable Car and Castle Niedzica: Private Tour

Recommended by Paulina from ukeveryday blog

Zakopane is an ideal day trip from Krakow to one of the best winter destinations in Poland. Due to several bus services between Krakow and Zakopane, it is really easy to organize this kind of trip. You can choose from various transport companies like Majer Bus or MAXBUS ZAKOPANE and within 2 hours, you will be exploring the lovely town of Zakopane.

Its scenic location, surrounded by the Tatra Mountains will make you fall in love with this place. Visit Kasprowy Wierch and Gubalowka to see spectacular views of the town. Make sure to also walk around Zakopane to admire traditional houses and try delicious Polish food.

During winter Zakopane is full of white snow so you can always find impressive ice sculptures, snow castles, or snow labyrinths in the town. One of the popular attractions is also Upside Down House or the big sign of Zakopane, where you can take photos with a beautiful background of mountains.

Distance from Krakow: 130 km How to get there: by bus or with a tour

• Kraków: Zakopane Tour with Thermal Pool
• Zakopane and Tatra Mountains Day Tour from Krakow
• Zakopane PRIVATE TOUR from Krakow

Morskie Oko

Recommended by Sean from LivingOutLau

If you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Krakow, one of the best day trips you can take from Krakow is to Morskie Oko.

Situated in the heart of the Polish Tatra National Park, Morskie Oko is the biggest lake in the park. The lake was originally called Rybie Jezioro, or Fish Lake in English, because of the high number of fish that lived in the lake.

Nowadays, visitors can see a few different species of fish swimming inside the crystal clear lake. Surrounding Morskie Oko are breathtaking swiss pines that add to its stunning natural beauty, quite the contrast to the chaos of Krakow.

Getting from Krakow to Morskie Oko is not the easiest feat. The trailhead of Morskie Oko is situated 2 hours away from Krakow, and then visitors must hike to Morskie Oko , which is another 2 hours. The trail is super easy, but you can get one of the horse-drawn carriages to minimize your hiking time.

Distance from Krakow: 150 km How to get there: by car or with a tour

• From Krakow: Morskie Oko Lake Tour in the Tatra Mountains
• From Kraków: Morskie Oko and Zakopane Tour

UNESCO Wooden Churches

One of the lesser-known UNESCO World Heritage sites in Poland are the wooden churches located in the Carpathian region south of Krakow (there are included in the UNESCO list together with similar churches in Ukraine ). There are eight of them (and eight more in Ukraine) awarded by UNESCO and many more without this title yet equally beautiful and interesting.

You can visit some of the wooden churches on one of the day trips from Krakow and learn more about the history, culture, and architecture of the region. Some of the churches date back to the 14th and 15th centuries which is pretty impressive considering they are made of wood.

If you are looking for a unique place to add to your Poland itinerary you should definitely consider the UNESCO wooden churches.

Distance from Krakow: 170 km How to get there: by car or with a tour

The area south of Krakow is where you will find many of the Polish mountain ranges and national parks so if you enjoy hiking you can easily hit a trail as one of the Krakow day trips. The most popular (and the highest) Polish mountains are Tatras which were already mentioned above but they are not the only option.

Other mountains you can consider include Gorce, Pieniny, or Beskidy (a few different ranges) – all of them are parts of the Carpathian mountains.

Distance from Krakow: 70-150 km, depending on the destination How to get there: by car

Ojców and Castles in Jura

Recommended by Ania from The Travelling Twins

Anyone visiting Krakow will want to take day trips to see the beautiful countryside and stunning castles in the area. Ojców is a charming village with a stunning castle and a beautiful National Park.

The place is only 27 km from, and it is easily accessible by public and private buses from Kraków.

Ojców National Park is a great place to start your day. The park has many hiking and biking trails, caves, and a castle to explore.

If you want to see more castles, head towards nearby The Trail of the Eagles’ Nests with over 20 medieval castles. Some of the most famous are Pieskowa Skała which is located only 40 minutes from Krakow or Ogrodzieniec (a 1-hour drive)

Pieskowa Skała is located on a limestone cliff and was built in the 14th century. It was later expanded and rebuilt in the 16th century, and you can still see some of the original features. Next to the castle, you will “Maczuga Herkulesa” – a limestone rock that is said to have been left there by Hercules. The castle has a museum, part of the Wawel Museum, a garden labyrinth, and a great restaurant.

Ogrodzieniec is the largest castle in Jura, and it has an eventful history. It was first built in the 13th century but was later expanded and fortified. The castle was captured by the Swedes and destroyed. It was finally abandoned in the 19th century. Today, you can explore the castle ruins and the surrounding park.

Ogrodzieniec is one of the most charming ruins castles in Poland . The place is well managed and has great shows, including knight’s fights and bone fires. On weekends you can try here archery or throwing the medieval ax.

Both of these day trips are sure to be a hit with anyone visiting Krakow. So get out there and enjoy all that this beautiful region has to offer!

Distance from Krakow: 65 km to Ogrodzieniec How to get there: by car or with a tour

• From Krakow: Trail of the Eagles’ Nests Day Tour
• Ojcow National Park: Full-Day Trip from Krakow
• From Krakow: Ojcow National Park and Pieskowa Skala Castle

Czestochowa

Czestochowa is known as the holiest place in Poland, the spiritual heart of the country, visited by a few million pilgrims each year (the biggest celebrations are always on the 15th of August).

The city got this title thanks to the Jasna Góra Monastery with the “Black Madonna” miraculous painting. But the whole monastery is an interesting place to visit. Besides the famous painting (that is hidden in the chapel), you can also go to the beautiful main Basilica, and visit the 600th-Anniversary Museum and the Treasury (where you will be intimidated by the wealth that belongs to the church).

You should also climb the monastery tower for the panorama of the city and beyond. If you have time you should also walk a bit into the city as it’s a nice place to visit.

Just outside of Czestochowa you will find the impressive ruins of the Olsztyn castle and some beautiful rock formations of Kraków-Częstochowa Upland (this was always my favorite place to go to when I studied and lived in Czestochowa).

Distance from Krakow: 150 km How to get there: by train or with a tour

• From Krakow: Full-Day Wadowice & Czestochowa Tour
• From Krakow: Czestochowa – The Black Madonna
• Czestochowa the Black Madonna Day Tour from Krakow

Lancut Castle and Rzeszow

Lancut Castle is among the most beautiful castles in Poland and one of the very few that still have the original interior (most of the places all over the country were robbed during and after World War 2). Originally it dates back to the second half of the 16th century but it really flourished under the rule of the Lubomirski family when the building was changed into the palace-manor style with fortifications around (they were changed into the garden later).

Today you can visit the castle inside and be impressed with the beautiful interiors, furniture and decor. Once you are done with the castle don’t miss the largest carriage collection in Poland (it is included in your ticket) and the nearby synagogue from the mid-18th century, one of the most beautiful buildings of that kind in the country.

On the way back to Krakow you can stop in Rzeszow , the capital of the Subcarpathian province and a surprisingly nice city. For me, the biggest highlight of Rzeszow was the quirky Monument to the Revolutionary Act (a concrete masterpiece) but the city offers many more attractions: a lovely Market Square with one of the most beautiful town halls in Poland, some really beautiful townhouses, and a nice castle originally from the 15th century.

The best thing to do in Rzeszow is to simply wander around the center and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city.

Distance from Krakow: 180 km How to get there: by train or by car

Recommended tour from Krakow: Eastern Castles and Przemyśl City

Read more about Lancut Castle and Rzeszow in my articles:

• Visit Lancut Castle – One of the Most Beautiful Castles in Poland
• Is Rzeszow Worth Visiting? What to See in Rzeszow, Poland

Sandomierz is one of the prettiest towns in Poland, popular among local tourists yet hardly any international visitors get there. It is also one of the oldest towns in Poland, with a history dating back to the 10th century, with numerous and diverse attractions.

You will find there impressive architecture and historical places, beautiful nature, and some amazing local culinary scenes. On the Market Square, you will see one of the most beautiful town halls in Poland, dating back to the 14th century and with a peculiar mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.

Be sure to stop in the Cathedral to see its stunning interior and frescoes. If you would like to escape the crowds (that are very likely to be in Sandomierz after a popular TV show was filmed there) you can go to one of the nearby gorges or Pepper Mountains.

Distance from Krakow: 160 km How to get there: by car

Recommended tour from Krakow: One-day tour to royal city Sandomierz, private tour from Krakow

Read more about Sandomierz in my article: Visit Sandomierz, Poland – One of the Prettiest Towns in the Country

Solec Zdroj

Recommended by Karolina from Polish Foodies blog

You may be surprised that Poland is a pretty amazing destination for a spa holiday!

If you are in Krakow, you may either take a day trip to the Tatra Mountains or go to one of the thermal baths in the Zakopane area. Alternatively, you may visit a less-popular destination which is Solec Zdrój.

This lovely spa town is famous for one of the world’s best sulfur water. The mineral baths in Solec Zdroj are open all year round. You can choose from indoor and outdoor pools, as well as relax in the sauna and wellness area.

If you are taking a day trip from Krakow to Solec Zdroj, be sure to stop by in Pacanów. It’s the hometown of Koziołek Matołek, a famous cartoon character. Visit European Fairytale Centre to get to know more about this billy goat. If you get hungry, eat delicious Polish food at Kuźnia Smaków restaurant. They serve delicious naleśniki (Polish crepes) and grilled trout!

Distance from Krakow: 85 km How to get there: by car

The road to Kielce from Krakow will take you less than two hours, but this time is worth the effort! You can cover it by train, bus or car.

Kielce is the capital of the Świetokrzyskie region, nice and a compact city. There are as many as 5 nature reserves on its territory that impress tourists both during the day and at night!

The central part of Kielce is occupied by Castle Hill with a beautiful, baroque palace. Some say that it is one of the most beautiful baroque palaces in Europe.

The city also has many examples of interesting architecture from other periods, and one of the city’s landmarks is the UFO-shaped bus station , which has been awarded many times in architectural competitions.

Kielce also has interesting museums, a botanical garden, and the Geoeducation Center. The city is located in the Holy Cross Mountains Geopark with the UNESCO Geopark status.

Kielce is a good starting point for exploring the region, but also a great proposition for the weekend.

Distance from Krakow: 110 km How to get there: by train

Katowice is such an easy yet underrated day trip from Krakow, located only 80 km away. The capital of the Silesia province and the center of the mining region, the city has always been known as the industrial heart of Poland and today you can visit many of the heritage places (in Katowice itself and in nearby cities): mines, adits, shafts and more.

In recent years, Katowice went through a major revitalization process and it’s a great destination for culture-lovers, offering some interesting museums (like the Silesian Museum, located in the former coal mine), concert venues, exhibitions, and some great street art.

Fans of architecture, especially the 20th-century one, will appreciate Katowice too as the city has some beautiful modernist buildings as well as Spodek – the famous arena that looks like a giant UFO. You can also visit Nikiszowiec, the most beautiful residential area of Katowice where everything is made of red bricks (it’s a bit outside of the center but worth a detour).

Distance from Krakow: 80 km How to get there: by train or by bus

Recommended tour: Katowice Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour

Read more about Katowice in my article “Katowice – the most underrated city in Poland”.

Bielsko-Biala

Bielsko-Biala is often referred to as “little Vienna “, mostly thanks to the architecture from the turn of the 19th and 20th that resembles the one in the capital of Austria. Even if the place dates back to the Middle Ages, the city became one only in 1951 when Bielsko and Biala were connected.

Due to its long history, Bielsko-Biala is full of attractions and beautiful architecture, and in general, it’s a nice city to wander around and enjoy the atmosphere.

Once you are done with the sightseeing in the center, you can go to the southern outskirts of the city and take the cable car to the top of Szyndzielnia mountain from where you can admire the beautiful panorama of Bielsko-Biala and Beskidy mountains.

Distance from Krakow: 100 km How to get there : by bus

Cieszyn is one of my favorite places to visit in Poland and definitely worth a day trip from Krakow, especially if you would like to visit more than one country. For centuries it was one city, the former capital of the Duchy of Teschen , but the history had different plans for the place and in 1920 it was divided by the Polish-Czech border.

Today you can easily visit both the Polish and Czech sides and jump between the border and countries. The majority of Cieszyn attractions are located on the Polish side though.

You can wander around the beautiful center, visit the second-oldest Polish museum and go to the castle hill where you can see the 11th-century rotunda that is present on the Polish 20 zloty bill.

The Czech side is a bit different as it’s developed mostly after the division of the city yet it’s still interesting. Cieszyn is like Central Europe in a nutshell, with a multicultural atmosphere and numerous cafes to relax in.

Distance from Krakow: 150 km How to get there: by bus

Read more about Cieszyn in my articles:

• Visit Cieszyn – reasons to fall in love with this beautiful city
• Cieszyn, Poland – Central Europe in a nutshell
• Cieszyn/Český Těšín – the most confusing place I’ve ever visited

Lanckorona is one of the most picturesque towns you can find near Krakow, known also as the city of angels. The place is known for its wooden architecture (with most of the buildings dating back to the 19th century) and the slow travel and artistic vibe.

And these are the main reasons to visit Lanckorona, to enjoy the small-town atmosphere, visit artists’ studios or drink coffee in the beautiful surrounding – a perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of the busy city.

While you are in Lanckorona you can also stop in the nearby Kalwaria Zebrzydowska (only 5 km away) with the UNESCO-listed monastery and Calvary.

Distance from Krakow: 40 km How to get there: by bus or with a tour

Krakow day trips – map

Further reading

I published many articles about Poland that you might find useful when planning your trip there. Here are some of them:

• 37 Amazing Things to Do in Krakow, Poland
• 20 Great Places to Visit As Day Trips from Warsaw, Poland
• Visiting Auschwitz – How to Plan the Auschwitz Tour
• 17 Amazing Things to Do in Lublin, Poland
• The Complete Guide to Visiting Slownski National Park, Poland
• Visit Grudziadz – One of the Hidden Gems of Poland
• 19 Amazing Things to Do in Gdansk, Poland
• Visit Sandomierz, Poland – One of the Prettiest Towns in the Country
• Visiting Malbork Castle, Poland – the Largest Castle in the World
• 25 Amazing Things to do in Wroclaw, Poland
• and many more!

If you are looking for articles about a specific destination – check out the map with all the articles I’ve published (and their locations). You can also join my Facebook group about traveling in Central Europe and ask your questions there.

Travel Resources

Below you can find the brands I trust and use when planning trips:

• You can find the best accommodation options at Booking . They have many discounts and excellent customer service. Click here to look for the place to stay in Krakow
• I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip. You can find a great selection of tours at Viator or Get Your Guide .
• To always stay connected I use Airalo eSim cards – click here to get yours!
• For transportation and booking tickets online , I usually use 12Go or Omio
• Looking for the airport pickup ? Check Welcome Pickups!
• Never travel without travel insurance , you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. You can check the insurance policy for Poland here.
• If you plan to rent a car during your trip to Poland check Discover Cars to compare prices and find the best deals
• Make sure to have the offline map always installed on your phone, they can save you so many troubles. I always use the free app Maps.Me .

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

• Sign up to my newsletter or follow me on Bloglovin to get updates about the new posts
• Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
• I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Poland too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. Thank you!

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14 Best Day Trips from Krakow by Distance

Planning a  trip to Krakow ? The city, steeped with history and tourist attractions, will keep you busy but it’s worth exploring the Polish countryside and medieval towns with these amazing day trips from Krakow .

Find your excursion beyond Krakow and choose from this wonderful list organised by distance from Krakow to make planning a doddle!

Explore The Best Day Trips From Krakow

ŁAGIEWNIKI | 8KM FROM KRAKOW

A visit to the Divine Mercy Sanctuary in Łagiewniki will fill a morning nicely. In the early 20th Century, the Catholic mystic Faustina Kowalska lived here when it was just a monastery. She helped to institute the Divine Mercy devotion and a large basilica was built to honour this in 2002.

For those who are not religious and do not intend to attend Mass at the monastery or visit St Faustina’s tomb (a pilgrim was miraculously healed after praying there in 1981), they may visit her former cell to see how the nuns live or take a leisurely stroll among the sculptures in the garden. If you are lucky, you might have the place to yourself if there are no pilgrim groups, just as I did. 

HOW TO TAKE A DAY TRIP FROM KRAKOW TO LAGIEWNIKI

BY CAR:  Takes 13m via DW776.  Click for directions from Krakow to Lagiewniki .

BY LOCAL TRANSPORT:  Take the #8, #19 or #22 tram from Kraków’s old town in the direction of Borek Fałęcki (two zones) and alight at Łagiewniki ZUS after 15-20 minutes.

ORGANISED TOUR:  A visit can be combined with a stop at the former Kraków ghetto and Oskar Schindler’s factory.   Click to book a day trip from Krakow to Lagiewniki

WIELICZKA SALT MINE | 14km from Krakow

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is a UNESCO World Heritage site one of the world’s oldest operating salt mines excavating table salt from the 13th century until 2007.

Wieliczka Salt Mine reaches down 327m and extends in horizontal levels for over 287km, however, the public can only go down the top 135m involving almost 800 steps and over 2 km of winding corridors. The tour takes you around the different chambers, salt lakes, and the St Kinga chapel where you will be aghast at the detailed salt statues carved by the miners.

If you fancy staying longer than a day trip from Krakow, you can stay at the mine’s health spa. The therapeutic microclimate of salt excavations is a winning formula for your mental and physical well-being. 

HOW TO TAKE A DAY TRIP FROM KRAKOW TO WIELICZKA SALT MINE

BY CAR:  Takes 22m via Wieliczka to Daniłowicza.  Click for directions from Krakow to Wieliczska Salt Mine .

BY TRAIN:  Journey takes 40 minutes. Take a train from Krakow to Wieliczka Kopalnia Soli. The trains are not direct, you will need to get 2 trains.  Check current travel times with PKP Intercity . From Wieliczka Kopalnia Soli it takes 2 minutes by foot to reach Wieliczka Salt Mine.

ORGANISED TOUR:  Click to book a day trip from Krakow to Wieliczka Salt Mine

AUSCHWITZ-BIRKENAU | 69km from Krakow

Be prepared for an emotional day trip from Krakow to Auschwitz-Birkenau. The tour takes you around the two sites of Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II (Birkenau). The first site is brick buildings housing living quarters, torture rooms, medical testing, and, of course, gas chambers. You’re taken on a short bus ride to Birkenau where the trains arrived for selection and those chosen to stay to work lived in stable-style barracks. There are 4 huge crematoriums at Birkenau where the death occurred on a mass scale.

Following the liberation, some of the survivors went back to Auschwitz-Birkenau and agreed that it should be turned into a museum to tell the world what atrocities happened there, this opened in 1947 to the public. Whatever your reasons for  visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau , it is important to learn about the genocide that took place. Visiting the museum of the largest Nazi German concentration and death camp will leave a lasting memory etched in your mind.

HOW TO TAKE A DAY TRIP FROM KRAKOW TO AUSCHWITZ-BIRKENAU

BY CAR:  Takes 1h via A4.  Click for directions to Oswiecim .

BY TRAIN:  Train journey takes approximately 1h 50m. Direct trains from Kraków main station to Oswiecim. Services depart daily.  Check current travel times with PKP Intercity . Once you reach Oswiecim, it will take 25 mins to walk or 10 mins by bus.

ORGANISED TOUR:  Click to book a day trip from Krakow to Auschwitz-Birkenau.

LANCKORONA | 36km from Krakow

One of the greatest things about  Lanckorona  – is that it’s small and compact. You can park your car and explore this charming village on foot.

Interestingly, Lanckorona acquired city rights quite early, in 1366, but lost it in 1934 and to this day has only the status of a village.

Around the main square, you will find lookalike houses from XIX century with extended roofs – that is the result of the old law that the property line finishes with the roofline. One of the houses has an interesting regional museum which is worth the visit. Others have tiny coffee shops and ice cream parrels and shops with souvenirs – different kinds of angels because  Lanckorona is known in Poland as the City of Angels.

So if you are looking for a one-day trip outside Krakow, where it will be nice, nice, and delicious, Lanckorona will hit the spot. 

HOW TO TAKE A DAY TRIP FROM KRAKOW TO LANCKORONA

BY CAR:  Takes 40m via Zakopianka and DK52.  Click for directions to Lanckorona .

BY TRAIN:  Total journey takes approximately 1h 9m. Direct trains from Kraków Main Station to Kalwaria Zebrzydowska Lanckorona then 7 minutes in a taxi to Lanckorona. Services depart every three hours, and operate every day.  Check up-to-date times with PKP Intercity .

ORGANISED TOUR:  Click to book a day trip from Krakow to Lankorona

ZALIPIE  | 74km from Krakow

The beautiful Zalipie is a perfect day trip destination from Krakow and best to approach it by car. The place is also called ‘ the painted village of Poland ’ and attracts visitors from abroad as well. 

At the beginning of the 20th century, a local artist started to paint floral patterns on her house. This building is nowadays the museum. Following her lead, other villagers decorated their houses, fences, and other surfaces with colourful plant motives too, and they even held a yearly festival to paint their homes.

Although there are several newer and not painted buildings in the village, the older houses and stables are full of stunning paintings, and it’s definitely worth visiting.

HOW TO TAKE A DAY TRIP FROM KRAKOW TO ZALIPIE

BY CAR:  The journey takes 2 hours via Opatowiec on road 79. You cross the Vistula River by a tiny ferry (Ulscie Jezuickie – Opatowiec) before reaching the village.

Without the ferry journey, it will take 1h 25m (106km) via A4.  Click for directions to Zalipie .

BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT:  There is no direct connection, the fastest way to get a train from Krakow to Tarnow (1h 18m) and then a taxi (38 minutes) to Zalipie.  Check up-to-date travel times with PKP Intercity .

ORGANISED TOUR:  Click to book a day trip from Krakow to Zalipie

DUNAJEC RIVER GORGE | 76km from Krakow

Dunajec River Gorge forms a border river between Southern Poland and Slovakia and runs through the Pieniny Mountains making the drive an attractive part of the trip. The best time to visit Dunajec Gorge is from June to September although it is open throughout the year.

One of the best ways to enjoy Dunajec River Gorge is to go sunbathing on 15km (2-3 hours) ride on a traditional Polish wooden raft with scenic views of the dense forest and mountain tops.

Rafting, kayaking, canoeing, and hiking can also be done by thrill-seeking tourists. Kayaking downstream the river is suitable for novice adventurers. Takes between 2 to 3 hours and is available from April to October.

Visitors can also go walking and cycling along the riverside. I suggest booking your tour operator online to enjoy a smooth journey and skip the ticket line. Kroscienko and Dunaicem are two nearby towns for accommodation should you wish to stay on longer.

To see some ancient artworks I will suggest stopping at Niedzica Castle. A daring guest is always welcome to stay here overnight. 

HOW TO TAKE A DAY TRIP FROM KRAKOW TO DUNAJEC GORGE

BY CAR:  Takes 55m via A4.  Click for directions from Krakow to Dunajec Gorge .

BY TRAIN:  There is a couple of routes you can take but the fastest option is 1h 45m. Direct train from Kraków Główny to Bogumiłowice then a 28-minute walk to Dunajec (2.3km).  Check up-to-date travel times with PKP Intercity .

ORGANISED TOUR:   Click to book a day trip from Krakow to Dunajec River Gorge

KATOWICE | 80km from Krakow

Katowice  is one of the most underrated cities in Poland. As the centre of the mining region, the city has been always known as the industrial capital of Poland and due to the major changes in the last few years, this is one of the most interesting places to visit in Poland.

Many of the attractions are located in the centre and can be easily seen during the day. Don’t miss Spodek – the famous arena that looks like a giant UFO. The nearby Silesian Museum, located in the former coal mine, is worth a visit too – it’s modern, interactive, and gives you a great overview of this unique region. Be sure to go up to the mining tower too to see the panorama of the city. If you have time you should visit Nikiszowiec – the prettiest residential area of Katowice.

HOW TO TAKE A DAY TRIP FROM KRAKOW TO KATOWICE

BY CAR:  Takes 55m via A4.  Click for directions from Krakow to Katowice

BY TRAIN:  The journey takes 1h 54m. Direct trains from Kraków Main Station to Katowice.  Check up-to-date travel times with PKP Intercity .

ORGANISED TOUR:  Click for day trip from Krakow to Katowice

TARNOW | 93km from Krakow

As a city in southeastern Poland, Tarnow is a mid-size city east of Krakow.  Reached easily by car, Tarnow is a city well worth visiting.  Tarnow has a main square that has a museum describing its rich history.

Historically, the city is known for being among the first occupied cities during World War 2 and having the first transport of prisoners to Auschwitz from its’ train station.  Today, Tarnow still has remnants throughout the city reminding visitors of the war.  

Visitors can walk the main thoroughfare, Ulica Walowa, which leads down from the hill all the way to the city’s tallest basilica and down to the train station. Tarnow’s Old Town in the city’s main square is a great place to sit down and have a traditional Polish beer. A few sites to visit in Tarnow include the Dunajec River where you can visit a castle or take a raft down the river.  Saint Martin’s Peak up on a hill is a popular spot that overlooks the entire city and region and has spectacular views, especially in the evening. 

HOW TO TAKE A DAY TRIP FROM KRAKOW TO TARNOW

BY CAR:  Takes 1h 8m via A4.  Click for directions from Krakow to Tarnow .

BY TRAIN:  Journey takes 1h 18m. PKP Intercity runs direct trains from Kraków Main Station to Tarnow. Services depart every 30 minutes and operate every day.  Check up-to-date travel times with PKP Intercity .

ORGANISED TOUR:  Click to book a tour of the Polish countryside including Tarnow

ZAKOPANE | 110 km from Krakow

Take a day trip from Krakow to the town of Zakopane located in the extreme south of Poland, on the border with Slovakia where you can enjoy a refreshing breath or air and relax in the beautiful nature. Whilst Zakopane is mostly used as a base for visitors interested in hiking or winter sports activities such as skiing and snowboarding, the town is far from lackluster.

The main street of Zakopane, Krupówk, is lined with local Polish restaurants, shops, carnival rides, and performers. Zakopane is also the home to Oscypek, a type of cheese made with sheep milk exclusively in the Tatra Mountains region of Poland. Don’t forget to give that a try when you are in Zakopane!

If you want to take to the Tatra mountains at your leisure, there is a cable car from Zakopane Kuźnice to Kasprowy Wierch every day. Best to get there early to avoid the queues, especially in high season. A funicular railway also operates from Zakopane to Gubałówka taking 3.5 minutes to get to the height of 1122 m giving you a tremendous panorama vista of Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains.

Another way to take in the tremendous mountain views is from the geothermal pool in Aqua Park Zakopane. The park offers adventure tubes, a wild-river ride, hydro massage, hot tubs, saunas & waterfalls. 

HOW TO TAKE A DAY TRIP FROM KRAKOW TO ZAKOPANE

BY CAR:  Takes 1h 45m via Zakopianka.  Click for directions from Krakow to Zakopane .

BY BUS:  Takes 2 hours from Jubilat Shopping Mall to Zakopane. Buses depart hourly,  check current times on e-podroznik .

BY TRAIN:  Journey takes 2h 24m. Direct trains from Kraków Main Station to Zakopane. Services depart every 20 minutes, and operate every day.  Check up-to-date travel times with PKP Intercity .

ORGANISED TOUR:  Click to book a day trip from Krakow to Zakopane

TATRA NATIONAL PARK  | 110 km from Krakow

One of the most underrated destinations in Poland is the Tatra National Park, it is only a 2-hour journey from Krakow. It’s the perfect place if you love hiking, nature, and beautiful scenery.  Known as the “Mini-Alps”, Tatra National Park borders the Slovakian Tatra National Park, both of which were listed as UNESCO biosphere reserves in 1993.

In the Tatra National Park, there are over 270km of marked hiking trails that vary in difficulty.  One of the most popular hikes in the summer is  Morskie Oko , which is the largest lake in the Tatra Mountains, and the hike one way takes around 2 hours. There’s a lovely chalet at the base of the lake that serves amazing Polish food for lunch or you can bring food.

If you are feeling ambitious hike to Czarny Staw Lake which takes about an hour round trip from Morskie Oko. This lake feeds into Morskie Oko and has stunning views from above. Visiting the Tatra National Park was a highlight of my time in Poland and I urge you to visit!

HOW TO TAKE A DAY TRIP FROM KRAKOW TO TATRA NATIONAL PARK

HOW TO GET TO ZAKOPANE:  For details on how to arrive by car, train and bus, see above ‘ How to take a day trip from Krakow to Zakopane ‘

Once in Zakopane, you can take a 20-minute bus ride to the entrance of Tatra National Park.

ENTRANCE FEE:  Small fee to enter Tatra National Park, children under 7 years go free.

ORGANISED TOUR:  Click to book a day trip from Krakow to Tatra National Park

GORLICE | 125 km from Krakow

Gorlice, a lovely town in the Southeast of Poland , is where a few significant events in European history took place. The so-called “Battle of Gorlice” was one of the deciding battles of the First World War.

Gorlice is also famous for its many inventions. Crude oil has leaked from the soil for centuries and locals found a way to get it out of the ground and use it. First oil mines were built right here. The kerosene lamp was invented in the city too.

Gorlice is otherwise a charming town with fine gastronomy and a few great cafés. The main square is picturesque and you can climb the City Hall tower for great views of it.

Amazing nature lies all around and offers great opportunities for discovering the region of the Beskid Hills. Apart from forests and meadows, many cute villages surround Gorlice and offer more sights to see.

HOW TO TAKE A DAY TRIP FROM KRAKOW TO GORLICE

BY CAR:  Takes 2h via A4.  Click for directions from Krakow to Gorlice .

BY BUS:  The journey takes 3h 45m including a 1-hour transfer at Nowy Sącz

BY TRAIN:  Fastest route takes 2h 50m. Trains from Kraków Płaszów Railway Station to Gorlice Zagórzany, change at Stróże. The trains do not run daily for this whole route so best to  check up-to-date travel times with PKP Intercity .

RZESZÓW | 168 km from Krakow

Rzeszow, the capital of the Podkarpackie Province in southeastern Poland, is one of the best day trip destinations from Krakow that is rarely visited by tourists, which adds to the charm of this city. Its main square may be smaller than Warsaw’s or Krakow’s but it has a lot to offer in terms of the local vibe. It is here you will probably see true Polish culture as the square is frequented by more locals than tourists. It is also here that you can try the local brew at Stary Browar Rzeszowski and some delicious  traditional Polish food  at Wesele. At the Rzeszow Underground Tourist Route, one gets a glimpse of the city’s history. A walk through the Aleja Pod Kasztanami, The Chestnut Trees Avenue, is an exploration of the grandeur of Polish architecture with its historic villas. If you ever have the chance to stay until nightfall, then be sure to check out the Rainbow Bridge.

HOW TO TAKE A DAY TRIP FROM KRAKOW TO RZESZOW

BY CAR:  Takes 1h 40m via A4.  Click for directions from Krakow to Rzeszow .

BY TRAIN:  The journey takes approximately 2h 12m. Direct train from Krakow Glowny to Rzeszow hourly.  Check up-to-date travel times with PKP Intercity .

OSTRAVA, CZECHIA | 170 KM from Krakow

Ostrava may not seem like an obvious day trip from Krakow since it’s across the border, but it’s only a two-hour drive away. Once a rather depressing coal mining town, Ostrava has recently reclaimed this industrial heritage and created some unique tourist attractions. The most impressive is Dolni Vitkovice, an abandoned steelworks complex transformed into a conference centre and museum.

Another interesting area to walk around is Poruba, which was built in the 1950s by the Communist government. It was built to be social housing for workers, but in an ornate style, as palaces for the common people. And back in the city centre, be sure to take the elevator to the top of the Town Hall clock tower for epic views! Ostrava is not  as vegan-friendly as most Polish cities , but its sole vegan restaurant, Black Kale, is a good place to stop for lunch.

HOW TO TAKE A DAY TOUR FROM KRAKOW TO OSTRAVA, CZECHIA

BY CAR:  Fastest route takes 1h 53m via A4 and A1 and includes tolls.  Click for directions to Krakow to Ostrava .

BY TRAIN:  The journey takes approximately 3h 29m. Direct trains from Kraków Główny to Wroclaw Główny Services depart every three hours and operate every day.  Check up-to-date travel times with PKP Intercity .

WROCLAW | 270KM from Krakow

Venture for a long day trip from Krakow to the beautiful and whimsical Wroclaw. Situated 3.5 hours by train west of Krakow, Wroclaw is a long but worthwhile day trip. Wroclaw is known for its impressive Market Square and Gothic Old Town Hall, featuring an ornate astronomical clock.

The Old Town of Wroclaw is remarkable. The architecture is beautiful and there are adorable dwarf statues scattered all over the city. Spend your day discovering the various  things to do in Wroclaw  including meandering the Old Town, seeing the old-timey lamplighters on Cathedral Island, and even visiting a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Centennial Hall.

HOW TO TAKE A DAY TOUR FROM KRAKOW TO WROCLAW

BY CAR:  Takes 2h 50m via A4.  Click for Directions to Wroclaw .

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11 day trips from Krakow: what to do near Krakow

Let's embark on a day trip near Krakow ! While exploring Krakow, it's worth taking a day or two to discover nearby destinations. But what are the best places to visit around Krakow?

In this article, I suggest 11 fascinating places to explore, including the Auschwitz camp, Zakopane, Sandomierz, Zalipie, Czestochowa, and Wadowice. By visiting these towns and villages, you'll enrich your stay in Krakow with a true discovery of the region!

Auschwitz day trip from Krakow

What to do near krakow visit wieliczka salt mines, day trip from krakow to zakopane, zalipie: a charming village near krakow, visit around krakow: sandomierz, the little rome of poland, excursion from krakow to tarnów, explore pieniny national park, visit a village near krakow go to chocholow, visit wadowice from krakow, czestochowa: a "divine" day trip from krakow, discover katowice.

No visit to Krakow is complete without paying respects at the Auschwitz camp , located in Oswiecim, a small town 37 miles away. It's an ideal day trip from Krakow, and you can easily return in time for dinner.

Upon arrival, you'll first explore the Auschwitz museum , which is installed in the former "blocks" of the concentration camp. The main exhibition explains the mechanics of deportation, exploitation, and killing on a large scale. Other exhibits are dedicated to specific populations or minorities and the role of industrialists in the Nazi machine.

Next, you'll visit Birkenau , another part of Auschwitz. Here, the vast land surrounded by barbed wire extends as far as the eye can see. The inmates were crammed into unhygienic barracks and threatened by the smoke from the crematoria, where thousands of human beings were gassed. You'll see the prisoners' beds, latrines, ruins of the crematoriums, and the railway line that took the convoys to the camp for "selection" to decide who died immediately and who was granted a "right to survive."

Visiting Auschwitz from Krakow is a tough but necessary experience that leaves psychological traces and indelible memories. Whether you choose to visit with a guide or on your own, I offer plenty of advice on how to organize your Auschwitz visit : how to get there, book tickets, and plan your visit.

To get to Auschwitz from Krakow, you can travel on your own (preferably by bus or car) or book a guided tour. I recommend one of these three tours offered by reputable agencies. Regardless of your choice, your visit inside the camp will be conducted by an accredited guide from Auschwitz, which ensures professionalism and sensitivity:

• Auschwitz Tour by SeeKrakow .
• Tour of Auschwitz-Birkenau by Comfort Tours Cracow S.C.
• Visit Auschwitz with Krakow Booking .

A visit to the Wieliczka Salt Mines is another excellent excursion idea near Krakow that can be completed in half a day, as it's only 12.5 miles away.

Salt mining has been a significant industry in this area for centuries, and the mines were in operation until 1996. The underground tour, led by a guide, allows you to explore a small, safe section of the extensive network of galleries that make up the Wieliczka Salt Mines. You'll see underground chambers, chapels, and even sculptures made entirely of salt.

This day trip from Krakow is a stunning experience that I highly recommend!

Wondering how to get to Wieliczka ? Aside from the salt mines, there isn't much to see in Wieliczka, and the visit to the mine is always done with a guide. So, I suggest booking a guided excursion from Krakow that includes transportation and a visit to the salt mines.

For a change of scenery, head south from Krakow to the Tatras, a mountain range that marks the border with Slovakia. There's a charming village there called Zakopane that's very popular with mountain lovers.

From Zakopane, you can take a cable car up to 6,562 feet to Kasprowy Wierch and enjoy the stunning views of the peaks. You can stroll through the craft market on Krupówki Street and purchase oscypek, a traditional cheese. You can also admire the unique local architecture that features wood, inspiring the "Zakopane style," with exquisite wooden churches to visit like the Jaszczurówka Chapel.

Zakopane is also an excellent starting point for a hike to Morskie Oko , considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the world.

If you're searching for things to do around Krakow, consider visiting Zakopane for a day or a few days to explore more walking opportunities. Check out my article on visiting Zakopane for plenty of tips.

How to get to Zakopane? You can find more details in my article about the city, but note that Zakopane is only around 62 miles from Krakow and accessible by car or bus for a low price (takes 2h15) from the Krakow bus station.

You can also book a tour with a guide through agencies like Intercrac or Thousand Miles Cracow Adventure Company .

If you're looking for something unique to visit around Krakow, consider Zalipie , a picturesque village located 50 miles away. In the late 19th century, the women of the village began to paint the interior of their houses.

Initially, the interior of the houses were painted to conceal soot, but it gradually turned into a decorative art, spreading to the exterior walls, wells, and fences. Felicja Curylowa, the most famous artist of the village, decorated her entire farm with flowers, and after her death in 1974, the house was transformed into a museum by a craft cooperative.

The tradition of painted houses is continued through an annual competition held since the mid-20th century, which is quite challenging considering Zalipie is a small village with only about 1000 inhabitants.

To visit Zalipie from Krakow , having a car is advisable as it takes less than 1.5 hours to get there. Alternatively, you can book an excursion with a guide proposed by Poland Active Krakow that takes half a day.

Sandomierz is another city worth visiting around Krakow, also located in the same direction as Zalipie but further away, around 99 miles. It is situated on the banks of the Vistula and built on seven hills, earning it the nickname of "little Rome of Poland".

Although no comparison can be made from an architectural perspective, it is an interesting city to explore. A day trip to Sandomierz from Krakow is possible, but it might be a tight schedule considering the distance. You can also consider staying overnight and making a stop in Zalipie on the way.

With a population of 25,000, Sandomierz has remained largely unindustrialized, which contributes to its charm. There are many well-preserved landmarks , including a 14th-century old town and numerous churches (as Poland is a predominantly Catholic country). Don't miss the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary and the Dominican convent of Sandomierz with its 12th-century St. James church.

Make sure to visit the pretty little market square (known as "Rynek" in Poland) and explore the remains of the 14th-century castle or the medieval underground passages beneath the old town, where merchants used to store wine, salt, and herring.

How to get to Sandomierz? To reach Sandomierz, it is best to have a car since public transport from Krakow is a bit challenging (more than 5 hours by train with one change!). It takes an average of 2.5 hours by car on the DK79.

Tarnów is a city located 56 miles from Krakow , which can easily be combined with a visit to Zalipie in one day.

Tarnów was heavily impacted by World War II: in the past, half of the city's population was Jewish. Most of the Jewish inhabitants were exterminated in the forest in the Zbylitowska Góra area, a few miles away. The survivors of this massacre were forced to live in a ghetto and then deported to Auschwitz or Belzec.

Today, Tarnów boasts a beautiful cathedral, the ruins of a castle, and a very popular park (Strzelecki Park) with the mausoleum of General Bem, considered a Polish national hero for his role in the defense of his homeland.

How to get to Tarnów? There is an intercity train between Krakow and Tarnów, which connects the two cities in less than an hour. You can buy a ticket online . It is also possible to reach Tarnów by car via the DW973 in just over an hour.

Earlier, I mentioned Zakopane, but if you enjoy nature outings and are looking for more ideas for visits around Krakow, you can explore the Pieniny region , located in southern Poland not far from Zakopane.

It is a mountainous area that boasts the Czorsztyn Castle, a ruined castle built around the 14th century, which overlooks the lake of the same name. There are plenty of hiking opportunities, and a popular activity is freshwater rafting on wooden rafts on the Dunajec River.

The Dunajec Gorge in particular is very popular, and you can also cross the border into Slovakia and walk on a pathway built above the treetops at Bachledka.

How to get there? Czorsztyn Castle is about 75 miles from Krakow, which takes just under 2 hours on the DW968. If you do not have access to a vehicle or do not want to deal with logistics, there are excursions from Krakow to visit the Pieniny region. For example:

• This excursion from Connect Krakow focuses on the Pieniny Park and offers rafting and crossing the border with Slovakia to walk on a pathway above the treetops;
• This tour from Krakow by Connect Krakow includes Zakopane, entrance to Pieniny National Park, and a rafting trip;
• This tour from Krakow by Legendary Krakow includes Zakopane, Chocholow, and a rafting trip on the Dunajec.

You can find more information about the area on the Pienines website .

If you want to visit an authentic village near Krakow, head to Chocholow , located about 62 miles south of Zakopane.

The village, which has just over a thousand inhabitants, is known for its wooden houses, but especially for its thermal baths , a large complex of eight pools of thermal water at 97°F, including a mix of indoor and outdoor pools. There is also a salt grotto, sauna, hammam, equipment for having fun in the water such as slides, volleyball nets, and basketball baskets, and a play area for children.

How to get to Chocholow? By car, it takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes on the DW958. If you don't have a car, there are plenty of options to visit Chocholow according to your preferences:

• A day dedicated to the Chochołowska Spa to enjoy the thermal water and relax, via Legendary Krakow agency;
• Hiking to Morskie Oko, stopping in Zakopane, and entrance to the Chocholowska Thermal Baths via Legendary Krakow ;
• Tour combining Zakopane and an entrance to the thermal baths , via Legendary Krakow.

If you're looking for a unique experience near Krakow, consider visiting Wadowice , located about 31 miles away. The city is known for being the birthplace of Pope John Paul II, making it a popular destination for both religious pilgrims and curious travelers. The former family home of the pope has been converted into a museum and draws thousands of visitors each year (check out the website of the John Paul II Family Home for more information).

In addition to the museum, Wadowice also boasts a beautiful basilica and a nearby theme park that is sure to please families with children. The park features miniature cityscapes, medieval villages, a "dragon" universe, a dinosaur-themed park (Dinolandia), a Luna park, an educational farm, and other unique attractions, such as a garden depicting Pope John Paul II's image, complete with an observation tower for aerial views.

How to get to Wadowice? You can reach Wadowice by car in about an hour via the DK44 or DK52. Alternatively, you can take a direct bus operated by Polregio , which takes about 1.5 hours.

Day trips from Krakow to Wadowice are more about the connection between the city and Pope John Paul II than the theme park ;) There are in particular:

• A half-day excursion exploring Wadowice and key places in the history of John Paul II ;
• A full-day tour combining Wadowice and Czestochowa, which is also a major pilgrimage center.

Czestochowa is, like Wadowice, a major center of pilgrimage .

While it is a fairly important and dynamic city - being a large university center with over 40,000 students - Czestochowa attracts between four and five million pilgrims every year . But what makes it so popular?

Since the 14th century, there has been a monastery known as Jasna Gora , which has transformed over time into a true fortress that has withstood the torments of history. Today, it is at the heart of a large sanctuary .

Inside the basilica, you'll find an icon of the Virgin known as the "Black Madonna of Częstochowa" , for which many people are willing to wait in long lines. It owes its black color to the gradual evolution of the hue of the paint with which it was made. It is said to have been painted by St. Luke himself, on a board from the table where the Holy Family (Jesus and his parents, Mary and Joseph) ate.

Pope John Paul II visited the shrine several times, and the Holy See decided to donate some of the pope's relics to the shrine, which contributes to its popularity.

Like many Polish cities, Jews were also very present in Czestochowa before the Second World War (with a quarter of the population being Jewish), but were literally decimated by the Nazis. Today, a Jewish cemetery remains with some 4500 graves.

How to get to Czestochowa : It takes just under 2 hours to travel to Czestochowa from Krakow via intercity train (tickets available here) . If you prefer to drive, expect a similar travel time via the DK94 and then the DK91.

You can also take an excursion, either a combination of Czestochowa + Wadowice , or a whole day dedicated to Czestochowa depending on the time and budget you have!

The last city on my list of ideas for day trips from Krakow is Katowice! It is the capital of the Silesia region , making it an important city. You can visit a museum that tells the story of the region, a large cathedral that was built in the 20th century, and a beautiful park named after Tadeusz Kościuszko.

Near the city, you will find the largest park in Poland , the Silesian Regional Park of Culture and Recreation, which features a zoo, a rose garden, a planetarium, an open-air museum where you can learn more about traditional wooden architecture (ethnographic park), and a small amusement park with around 40 rides, including 3 roller coasters.

How to get to Katowice? By car, it takes less than an hour on the A4 from Krakow. By train, it takes about 1 hour (tickets available here) .

I hope you have enjoyed my suggestions for what to do around Krakow ! As you can see, it is easy to find an idea for a day trip from Krakow, whether it is just for a few hours (Zalipie, Wieliczka) or for a longer period of time. This is an opportunity to get to know Poland better, a country with no shortage of interesting places to explore.

Hello! On this blog, I share my photos, insights, and travel tips from journeys in France and around the world. I launched this blog in French in 2014 and began translating some articles into English in late 2022. I have a special passion for solo travel! In March 2023, I was blessed with my son James, and I've already begun introducing him to the joys of traveling as a solo mom with a baby.

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8 Best Day Trips from Krakow

By Vanessa Holmes · Last updated on March 3, 2024

Poland’s second largest city, Krakow, spreads over the Vistula River and offers a great range of top attractions. The city boast historic Old Town architecture, green forested parks, traditionally Jewish districts, castles and stunning bridges. To truly experience what Poland has to offer, however, consider venturing out for a few day trips from Krakow.

You’ll be able to explore mountain towns, national parks, religious and historic landmarks, and important cultural destinations. There are countless places to visit from Krakow that you can get to and from within a single day. As you plan your next trip, be sure to include a few of these incredible day trips from Krakow in your itinerary.

Map of day trips from Krakow

8. Ogrodzieniec Castle [SEE MAP]

A little more than an hour’s drive north of Krakow is Ogrodzieniec Castle. Although this castle is now in ruin, it is a beautiful landmark with plenty of history. The castle was built in the 14th century, and it is perched atop a large hill to provide sweeping views over the Kraków-Częstochowa Upland.

It was largely destroyed in the 17th century during Swedish occupation, and it features in many legends and myths in Polish culture. You can tour the remains of Ogrodzieniec Castle, take in the views, and even see the remains of the torture chamber in the structure.

Getting to Ogrodzieniec Castle

• A number of buses run directly to Ogrodzieniec from Krakow MDA each day, and the journey usually takes around an hour. Once you arrive, it is a good idea to take a short taxi ride to the castle. Otherwise, it takes about 30 minutes to walk there.
• From the center of Krakow, it takes about an hour to drive to Ogrodzieniec. Just head northwest out of the city and hop on the DK94 until Olkusz. Here, take the DW79. Once you reach Ogrodzieniec, you’ll see signs pointing you to the castle. If you want to see more spectacular medieval castles, on your way back to Krakow, stop off at Ojcow National Park and visit its castle, or that of Pieskowa Skala.

7. Tarnow [SEE MAP]

Directly east of Krakow is Tarnow, a beautiful city well worth a day of exploration. The town square is the heart of the city, and it’s the place you’ll want to spend most of your time. The town square is medieval, with the layout and many of the buildings dating back to the 14th century.

The Town Hall is the landmark building in the square, and you can head inside to check out a staggering collection of Polish armor as well as beautiful paintings. Tarnow is also home to a number of historic Jewish sites as well as three traditional wooden churches, the oldest of which was constructed in the 15th century.

Getting to Tarnow

• To get to Tarnow from Krakow by public transport couldn’t be simpler; trains usually take less than an hour from one city to the other. From Krakow Plaszow, trains depart very regularly, and once you arrive, it is just a 15-minute walk to the city center.
• By car, it is just as easy; the A4 connects one city to the other. From the center of Krakow, head south out of the city center and hop on the A4 heading east to Tarnow. The journey takes about an hour. After visiting the city, you could combine your trip with a stop at the spectacular Wieliczka Salt Mine, which lies along the A4 on the way to Krakow.

6. Benedictine Abbey of Tyniec [SEE MAP]

Just under 16 km (10 miles) from Krakow is the village of Tyniec, which is best known for being home to the Benedictine Abbey of Tyniec. The abbey is perched above the banks of the Vistula River, and it is now a religious site as well as a tourist destination.

The Benedictine Abbey of Tyniec was first founded in the 1040s, and it remains the oldest monastery in all of Poland. If you visit, you’ll be able to tour most of the rooms in the abbey, talk with some of the monks who still live and work there and enjoy amazing views over the Vistula from the abbey itself.

Getting to Benedictine Abbey

• Due to its proximity to Krakow, there are a number of ways to get to the Benedictine Abbey of Tyniec. From the city center, for instance, it is just under half-an-hour away by public transport. You can either walk or take a tram to Most Grunwaldzki stop, where you then take bus 112 to Tyniec. Here, you’ll see signs to the Abbey.
• Some people opt instead to cycle to the Abbey; this is a particularly lovely way to get there, and it only takes 45 minutes. The journey takes you through the scenic Bielansko-Tyniecki Park. Simply cycle along the path that hugs the northern banks of the Vistula River and cross over once you see signs to the Abbey. On the way back you could stop by Krakow Zoo.
• If you have more time on your hands, you could take a scenic boat trip down the Vistula River to the Abbey. This takes around an hour and a half, and boats depart from right next to Wawel Royal Castle.
• On the other hand, you may want to simply take a taxi if you’re a bit pressed for time. From the city center, it only takes 20 minutes to Tyniec and should cost around 60zl.
• Yet another way to enjoy the Abbey’s sights is to take a sightseeing cycle tour to Tyniec, passing through Wolski Forest on the way and stopping off at various historical and cultural landmarks as you go. Once you arrive, you’ll get to explore the church, visit the museum, and learn all about the Abbey from your guide.

5. Auschwitz-Birkenau [SEE MAP]

East of Krakow is Auschwitz-Birkenau, a former Nazi concentration camp from World War II. There are many tours that take visitors to the camp for a day from Krakow, and it is a must-see destination for those interested in WWII history.

Although it can be a sad and reflective visit, it is important to learn about this dark time in Europe’s history. Auschwitz-Birkenau is home to a large State Museum, and many of the structures remain in place. You can see where prisoners lived, worked and died in horrific ways under the Nazi regime.

Getting to Auschwitz-Birkenau

• There are a couple of ways to get to Auschwitz-Birkenau by public transport. By bus, it takes around an hour and 45 minutes to two hours. The buses regularly depart from Krakow main station and will drop you off right next to Auschwitz. Another option is to take an hour and a half train ride to Oswiecim station, which is two kilometers from Auschwitz. From here, you can either walk for half-an-hour or take a short taxi or bus ride to the somber site.
• By car, it only takes an hour to reach Auschwitz-Birkenau, although this does include tolls. After heading north out of Krakow city center, hop on the DK7 heading west before continuing on the A4 to just outside Chrzanow. Here, take the 933 to Oswiecim, where you’ll find signs directing you to Auschwitz-Birkenau. There is a car park at the entrance for you to park at.
• Yet another option for visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau is to take a guided tour. This is very popular with a lot of people, as having an expert on hand really means you learn a lot about the concentration camp’s horrific past. In addition to this, your knowledgeable guide will teach you about the history of the Holocaust as well as WWII in a moving and unforgettable tour.

4. Czestochowa [SEE MAP]

Czestochowa is a religious destination where many pilgrims come to worship. In particular, the monastery of Jasna Góra in Czestochowa is a holy place and a significant destination in the Roman Catholic Church. Jasna Góra Monastery is a shrine to the Virgin Mary, and it is also home to a number of important religious and historic relics.

The Black Madonna of Częstochowa, for example, is said to have been painted by St. Luke the Evangelist during or just after Jesus’ lifetime. The monastery was founded in the 14th century, and today more than three million religious pilgrims visit Czestochowa each year.

Getting to Czestochowa

• From Krakow main station, there are a few direct trains to Czestochowa every day; they generally take about an hour and a half in total to reach the popular pilgrimage site. They don’t depart that regularly, however, so another alternative is to take the bus from the same station in Krakow. The bus journey takes about three hours. As such, it is a good idea to plan your trip to Czestochowa well in advance.
• To drive there takes around two hours, but this does at least mean you’re guaranteed a reliable form of transport there and back. After heading north out of the city center, hop on the DW794 and keep on it until you reach Staromiescie. Here, change onto the DK46, which will take you all the way to Czestochowa.
• To avoid all the hassle of driving or taking public transport, many people opt instead to take a guided tour. These not only take you around Czestochowa’s religious sites, but also to the 16th century Pieskowa Skala Castle, which lies along the historic and scenic Trail of the Eagles’ Nests.

3. Ojcow National Park [SEE MAP]

Just 30 minutes north of Krakow is Ojcow National Park, a destination named after the town and castle ruins of Ojcow. The National Park is the smallest in Poland, but its proximity to Krakow makes it a popular day trip spot.

Two rivers run through the park, creating lush valleys amidst countless cliffs, ravines and caves. Incredible limestone rock formations are major attractions, and miles of hiking paths offer plenty of outdoor recreation options.

You can also see an abundance of wildlife, including beavers, badgers, bats and well over 100 varieties of birds. There are also several castles within the park’s borders, allowing visitors to explore the ruined Gothic castle of Ojcow as well as the preserved Renaissance castle at Pieskowa Skała.

Getting to Ojcow National Park

• While it is possible to visit Ojcow National Park from Krakow by public transport, buses depart quite infrequently, so it is a good idea to check the schedule in advance. From the Nowy Klepartz bus stop in the city center, the journey takes about 40 minutes, and you want to get off at Kazimierz Castle. From here, you’ll find lots of paths snaking their way into the national park, and there are lots of signposts to guide your way.
• To get to Ojcow National Park by car also takes about 40 minutes. Once you’ve headed north out of the city center, take the DW794 to Skala, where you’ll see signs to the national park and parking at Kazimierz Castle. Once you arrive, you can explore the beautiful nature at your leisure. After you’ve had your fill, you could drive half-an-hour further to visit the spectacular ruins of Ogrodzieniec Castle.
• To pack as much into your day as possible, it is well worth taking a guided tour to Ojcow National Park. In addition to exploring its incredible landscapes, your expert guide will also take you to two impressive medieval castles, where you’ll learn more about the area’s fascinating history.

2. Zakopane [SEE MAP]

Head south of Krakow, and you’ll get to the mountain resort of Zakopane. This destination is a winter wonderland and one of the most popular ski destinations in all of Poland. In the heart of the Tatra Mountains, you can ski or snowboard during the winter months. Whatever the season, however, Zakopane is the ideal day trip getaway spot.

The city is well known for the beauty of its wooden villas, dating from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Some of these now house museums, while others have been converted into hotels, or remain in private hands. Hiking options are plentiful in the Tatra National Park, and the Krupówki promenade is a beautiful shopping destination.

Getting to Zakopane

• Lying two hours to the south of Krakow, Zakopane is easily reachable by public transport. From Krakow MDA – the main bus station – buses regularly leave for Zakopane, and the journey takes about two hours in total. On the way, you pass through some lovely scenery. Once you arrive at Zakopane Plac PKP, it’s then a 15-minute walk to the center of town.
• It takes a similar amount of time to drive to Zakopane. You’ll follow almost exactly the same route the bus takes. From the city center, head south across the Vistula River and take the 776, before continuing on the S7 for just under an hour. After this, take the DK47 for another 45 minutes; this will lead you right to Zakopane. You can either park the car and explore the center on foot, drive to some of the nearby viewpoints in the surrounding mountains, or go for a hike in the magnificent nature all around you.
• Another option for visiting Zakopane is to join a sightseeing tour. As well as taking you around the center of town, the tour also includes a ride on a funicular to the top of Mount Gubalowka and a trip to the Tatra Museum to learn more about the local history and culture.

1. Wieliczka Salt Mine [SEE MAP]

One of the most popular day trips from Krakow is visiting the Wieliczka Salt Mine. Don’t expect a rustic salt mine, because Wieliczka is unlike anything else on the planet. As you walk along saline corridors completely underground, you’ll be able to see entire churches and ballrooms carved from salt. It is even possible to spend the night in the salt mine, and the accommodation is more like an upscale resort than a camping experience.

Getting to Wieliczka Salt Mine

• From the center of Krakow, Wieliczka Salt Mine is just half-an-hour away by public transport, and it’s not too complicated to get there. Bus 304 departs regularly from Galeria Krakowska; the stop you want to get off at is called Wieliczka Kopalnia Soli. From here, you’ll see signs pointing you to the mine just a short distance away.
• Alternatively, you can take the train from Krakow main station to Wieliczka Rynek-Kopalnia – the stop you want to get off at. The train journey takes around 20 minutes. Once you arrive, it’s about a ten-minute walk to the mines, and you’ll certainly see signs telling you where to go.
• It is just as easy to visit Wieliczka Salt Mine by car, although it might actually take you longer than public transport, depending on the traffic. Head east out of the city center to the Botanical Gardens and follow the road next to it south across the Vistula River. Here, you want to head southeast on Wielicka, which you then have to follow until you see signs for the mines. After visiting the mines, it is well worth stopping by the scenic village of Tyniec, which is only a 20-minute drive away and lies on the outskirts of Krakow.
• One of the easiest ways to visit the salt mines is to take a guided tour. With a professional guide on hand, you’ll learn all about its fascinating history. They’ll take you around all the main sights, explaining everything as they go.

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16 Great Day Trips from Krakow in 2024

Are you planning to visit Krakow, one of the most beautiful cities in Poland? With its charming old town, bustling market square, and stunning architecture, it’s no wonder that Krakow is a popular tourist destination. But did you know that there are also many fantastic day trips you can take from Krakow to explore the hidden gems of Poland? In this blog post, we’ll take you through some of Krakow’s most breathtaking day trips that will leave you wanting more. 

Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or looking to explore Polish culture, these exciting Krakow day trips have something for everyone. So grab your map and plan where to go from Krakow for your next adventure in Poland! 

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Visiting Kraków

First, let’s talk about Krakow itself. This vibrant city has a rich history and culture, with many landmarks and attractions to discover. From the iconic Wawel Castle to the moving Jewish Quarter, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Krakow .

But don’t limit yourself to just one city. There are endless possibilities for day tours from Krakow that will only enhance your travel experience. As you venture out on these day excursions from Krakow, you’ll not only get to see more of the country but also gain a deeper understanding of its history and culture. With so many places near Krakow to choose from, you’ll find destinations with unique charm that will captivate you in different ways.

Krakow is a culturally rich city that offers a wealth of things to do and places to see. You can easily spend days or weeks in the city and not run out of activities. If you have the luxury of spending close to a week or more in Krakow, we recommend taking advantage of several excursions available to tourists. There are plenty of places to visit around Krakow to build an exciting itinerary around all types of interests.

During our travels to Poland, we stayed longer in Krakow than in any other Polish city. That allowed us to schedule several day trips while staying in this fantastic Polish city. You’ll find excursions from Krakow that last anywhere from a half-day to a full day or even multiple days.

Our recommended Day Trips from Krakow that follow feature several tour companies known for delivering quality tours.

Best car rentals from Krakow

The easiest, fastest, and most convenient way to travel on a day trip from Krakow is in a private rental car from Discover Cars.

If you don’t want to drive, public transportation and tour options are listed below for most trip destinations.

Tours and day trips from Kraków

If you’re interested in what to see around Krakow, you have many day trip options from the historic city. Some last several hours, while others are full-day experiences. No matter the time available in your Krakow itinerary, you’ll likely find one or more options below that can fit into your schedule.

1. Auschwitz Birkenau

Distance from Krakow: 71 km

The Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp has become an important historical site and destination for tourists. As the largest Nazi concentration camp during World War II, it serves as a reminder of the atrocities committed by the Nazis.

The historic site at Auschwitz-Birkenau is the grounds of former concentration camps where mass exterminations were conducted. Of the nearly 1.3 million political prisoners and Jews sent to this area, almost 1.1 million perished from gas chambers, infection, medical experimentation, and starvation. The tragedy here came to a close in January 1945 upon the arrival of Soviet troops.

Visitors can take a day trip to Auschwitz from Krakow to learn about the history and pay their respects to the victims. This trip provides an educational experience and allows visitors to reflect on the past and gain a deeper understanding of human nature.

The trip usually includes transportation, a guided tour of the camp, and time for personal exploration. It is a somber yet important journey for those who want to understand the impact of World War II.

Tours of Auschwitz are available from Krakow, and transportation and guided experiences are provided. If you book a tour or visit on your own, you should secure tickets in advance.

The tour experience typically takes about 1.5 hours for the Auschwitz visit and another hour to visit Birkenau. During your visit, you’ll witness the barracks and prison cells, see photographs, and learn the magnitude of the tragedy that occurred at these locations.

Tips to visit Auschwitz Birkenau

• Get tickets in advance
• Bring shoes that are comfortable for walking, and that can get dirty
• Be prepared for a very unsettling experience.
• Visiting the memorial is not recommended for children under 14 years of age

Day Trip From Krakow to Auschwitz-Birkenau Logistics

🚗   BY CAR : From Krakow, head west towards the A4 motorway, following signs for “Katowice”. Continue on the A4 for about 45-50 kilometers, then take the exit towards Oświęcim. Once off the A4, follow local signage directly to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum in Oświęcim. The trip covers approximately 75 kilometers (47 miles) and takes around 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. Click for directions from Krakow to Auschwitz-Birkenau. 🚌  BY BUS : Direct buses to Oświęcim or the Auschwitz Museum are available from the Krakow Bus Station (Dworzec Autobusowy MDA), located near the train station. 🚇    BY TRAIN : Trains to Oświęcim, the nearest town to Auschwitz, depart from Krakow Main Train Station (Kraków Główny) and take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Upon arrival in Oświęcim, the museum is a short taxi or bus ride or a 2-kilometer walk away. 🎟️    BY TOUR : The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum Guided Tour private tour includes entrance tickets and an English-speaking guide. Click to book a private tour from Krakow to Auschwitz-Birkenau.

2. Czestochowa

Distance from Krakow: 151 km

If you’re interested in day trips from Krakow by train, consider visiting Czestochowa. During our last visit to Krakow, our final day trip excursion was to Czestochowa to see the famed icon of the Black Madonna at the J asna Gora monastery .

Background on Czestochowa and Jasna Gora

A few notes about the Jasna Gora monastery: it is the most important pilgrimage site in Poland and the 3rd most visited site of its kind in the world. On the grounds are a fortified Paulite monastery and the revered holy icon of the Black Madonna, which is only unveiled twice daily.

The history of the Black Madonna icon includes an association with St. Luke the Evangelist, who many believe was the icon’s author. The image was discovered in the year 385 in Jerusalem and made its way to Czestochowa in 1384. The Byzantine-style icon depicts the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus and pointing to him as the source of salvation. There are scars on Mary’s cheek that are claimed to be remains of sword marks from Bohemian robbers who looted the shrine in the year 1430 on Easter Sunday.  

This image is honored as miraculous for defending the monastery when Swedish troops attacked during the great Deluge. Afterward, King Jan Kazimierz proclaimed the Mother of God the Queen of the Polish Crown on April 1, 1656. 

Our experience at Jasna Gora

We took a 1.5-hour train ride from Krakow. Once we got off the train, we found a taxi and took it to the monastery. Our tour was booked in advance, so we just had to find our private tour guide and were on our way.

At the site, we saw the great basilica, an armory, and the treasury, which holds votive offerings made to the Black Madonna since the 14th century. We also walked to the top of the 106-meter-high bell tower to see beautiful views of Czestochowa.

During our visit, entrance into the chapel containing the famous icon was initially restricted because it turned out the Prime Minister’s son was a newly ordained priest and was celebrating his first mass here.

Finally, after that mass concluded, we were allowed to enter. And it felt a bit like our experience at a Flogging Molly concert where we were nearly crushed – that’s another story. People were pushing – we finally made our way fairly close to the icon, and it was beautiful to see this historic treasure.

The icon is only unveiled at specific times, so check the monastery website before your visit.

Some things to know: Due to the sacred character of the places, pilgrims should be in suitable clothes and behave appropriately in Jasna Gora. You’ll also want to reserve your visit in advance.

Czestochowa Fun Fact – Latest Pope Statue in the World

A fun fact item for your time in Czestochowa – when you’re in town, you can see the tallest pope statue in the world. It is a 13.8-meter-tall statue of Pope John Paul II. The statue was funded by a businessman who believed the pope played a role in rescuing his son from a drowning tragedy in 2010. As a thank you, Leszek Lyson commissioned and funded this statue. The statue itself has had controversy from complaints surrounding the quality of the sculpture. Nevertheless, it’s another thing to see when you’re in Czestochowa.

The American Czestochowa Pilgrimage

On a related note, people in the United States participate in an annual pilgrimage walk that venerates the icon of Our Lady of Czestochowa . The American Czestochowa, as it is known, is near Doylestown, Pennsylvania. Annually, a 60-mile walk takes place from St. Peter and Paul Church in Great Meadows, New Jersey, and over four days, thousands of pilgrims journey on this pilgrimage.

Day Trip From Krakow to Czestochowa Logistics

Day Trip From Krakow To Czestochowa Logistics 🚗   BY CAR : Heading north from Krakow on the A4 motorway. After approximately 25 kilometers, take the exit onto the DK1 road (also known as E75) towards Katowice. Continue on DK1, following signs for Czestochowa. The journey covers about 140 kilometers (approximately 87 miles) and takes around 2 hours under normal traffic conditions. Click for directions from Krakow to Czestochowa. 🚌  BY BUS : Buses run frequently between Krakow and Czestochowa, departing from the Krakow Bus Station (Dworzec Autobusowy MDA). A Krakow to Jasna Gora bus trip may take a similar amount of time to the train, around 2.5 to 3 hours, but can be more direct and sometimes quicker depending on traffic conditions. 🚇    BY TRAIN : Trains depart regularly from Krakow Main Train Station (Kraków Główny) to Czestochowa, with the journey taking approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on the service chosen. Check the Polish State Railways (PKP) website or at the station for the most current schedules and ticket prices. 🎟️    BY TOUR : Enjoy a day trip from Krakow to visit the famous Black Madonna in Czestochowa – Rated five stars on Viator. Click to book the Czestochowa Black Madonna Private Day Tour from Krakow. .

3. Jura Upland

Distance from Krakow: 109 km

Travel north of Krakow to reach one of the unique areas in Poland. The Kraków-Częstochowa Jura Upland region spans a 160-kilometer, featuring castles, caves, cliffs, limestone rocks, karst formations, streams, and valleys. This region is the largest protected area in the country and features eight official parks.

Poland’s Jura region is characterized by its topographic limestone formations, hardened through millennia by volcanic processes. This geologically active area includes over 900 caves home to 19 bat species.

Beyond the bounty of nature in the area, tourists are attracted by the chain of castles known as “Orle Gniazda” (Eagles’ Nests). These historic ruins blend perfectly into the natural surroundings. The Eagles Nest Trail (Szlak Orlich Gniazd) is the top hiking trail in Poland and provides a path connecting the castle ruins. 

This is a top destination from Krakow for nature lovers. Within the region’s Natural Parks, there is even a desert area called the Błędówska Desert.

Day Trip From Krakow to Jura Upland Logistics

🚗   BY CAR : Head northwest on the A4 motorway. After approximately 20-30 kilometers, take the exit towards the DK79 road, which leads directly into the heart of the Jura Upland. The drive to the central areas of the Jura, such as Ojców National Park or the popular climbing spots near Kraków-Częstochowa Upland, typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, covering a distance of around 25 to 50 kilometers (15 to 31 miles), depending on your specific destination within the Jura Upland. Click for directions from Krakow to Jura Upland. 🚌  BY BUS OR TRAIN : There is no direct public transportation route. While it is possible to travel by bus and train, such a journey requires a combination of transportation services. 🎟️    BY TOUR : Consider the Castles Tour by The Eagles’ Nests Trail and visit many and visit many medieval palaces and fortresses along the route. Click to book a private day trip tour for Castles Tour by the Eagles Nests Trail.

4. Katowice

Distance from Krakow: 82 km

If you ask people if Katowice is worth visiting, you might get many negative responses, noting it is unattractive and industrial. However, many tourists who venture against negative stereotypes come away pleasantly surprised when visiting this Polish city. Today, the town is revitalized from its industrial past and offers lots to do for tourists.

The top things to do in Katowice include:

• Cathedral of Christ the King – visit the largest cathedral in Poland
• Nikiszowiec – visit the former settlement of local coal miners
• NOSPR – the acoustics in this world-class concert hall are first-rate, and it’s where you can hear the Polish National Radio Symphony Orchestra
• Silesia Park – this huge city park includes a gondola, planetarium, and many trails.
• The Silesian Museum – learn about the region’s history in this interactive museum
• Spodek – It’s a great venue that somewhat resembles a flying saucer. Attend a concert or performance here to enhance your visit to Katowice.

Lestat (Jan Mehlich), CC BY-SA 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/ , via Wikimedia Commons

Day Trip From Krakow to Katowice Logistics

🚗   BY CAR : Begin your journey by heading west from Krakow on the A4 motorway, a major route directly connecting these two cities. The A4 is a toll road, so be prepared for toll booths. The drive is relatively straightforward, spanning approximately 80 kilometers (about 50 miles) and taking around 1 to 1.5 hours under normal traffic conditions. Click for directions from Krakow to Katowice. 🚌 BY BUS: Numerous bus companies operate between Krakow and Katowice, leaving from the Krakow Bus Station (Dworzec Autobusowy MDA). The bus trip can be shorter than the train, sometimes taking around 1.5 hours. 🚇   BY TRAIN: Trains depart regularly from Krakow Main Train Station (Kraków Główny) to Katowice. Depending on the train type and service chosen, the journey typically lasts about 2 hours. Check the Polish State Railways (PKP) website for current schedules and fares. 🎟️    BY TOUR : Enjoy Katowice by booking the Katowice Old Town Highlights Private Walking Tour. Click to book your Katowice private walking tour.

Distance from Krakow: 116 km

Located on the Silnica riverbank and encircled by forests, Kielce offers travelers several landmarks, monuments, and churches. Nature lovers will enjoy the city’s five nature reserves.

This city is very accessible for tourists with its marked route. It’s a great getaway from Krakow for Polish arts and culture. 

Stroll on Sienkiewicza Street to browse the shops along the route and enjoy food from the many restaurants.

Key attractions in Kielce include:

• Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary – Dating back to 1171, the church has a gold-appointed sanctuary, a Gothic triptych depicting the coronation of Mary the Mother of God, and an underground crypt.
• Karczowka Hill – Enjoy scenic views from the hilltop. You can also visit a 17 th -century monastery that sits on the hill.
• Museum of Toys and Play—This museum Features a display of toys from Poland and the world spanning many eras. Thousands of items are displayed, including dolls, dollhouses, folk toys, model airplanes, cars, and trains. It’s a toy lovers’ paradise.
• The Palace of the Krakow Bishops—This 17 th -century building was originally a summer residence for bishops. Today, it is a museum. Inside are frieze murals, interiors from the 17th to the 18th century, portraits of 50 bishops, and an Italian-style garden.

Day Trip From Krakow to Kielce Logistics

🚗   BY CAR : Take the A4 motorway east from Krakow towards Tarnow. After approximately 25 kilometers, exit the A4 and merge onto the E77/7 road, heading north towards Skawina and then towards Krakow’s outer ring road. Continue on this route, following the signs for Kielce. The journey stretches approximately 110 kilometers (about 68 miles) and typically takes 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic. Click for directions from Krakow to Kielce. 🚌  BY BUS : Several bus companies run services between Krakow and Kielce, departing from various locations in Krakow, including the main bus station (Dworzec Autobusowy MDA). 🚇    BY TRAIN : Trains depart frequently from Krakow Main Train Station (Kraków Główny) to Kielce, offering a journey that typically lasts around 2 to 3 hours, depending on the service chosen. The Polish State Railways (PKP) operates these services, and you can check their website for the most up-to-date schedules and ticket prices. 🎟️    BY PRIVATE TRANSFER : Book a Private Transfer from Krakow to Kielce.

6. Łagiewniki

Łagiewniki, located on the outskirts of Krakow, is an ideal destination for a day trip, especially for those interested in spiritual and religious sites. This district is renowned for housing the Sanctuary of Divine Mercy, a major pilgrimage site for Catholics worldwide. The sanctuary is dedicated to the Divine Mercy devotion, based on the writings of Saint Faustina Kowalska, a Polish nun and mystic.

Visitors can explore the modern basilica with its striking tower, the chapel where Saint Faustina’s relics are kept, and a serene park filled with walking paths and religious statues. Additionally, Łagiewniki’s tranquil atmosphere provides a peaceful retreat from Krakow’s bustling city center. The sanctuary also offers masses and prayer services in various languages, catering to international pilgrims.

The accessibility of Łagiewniki, just a short drive or public transport ride from central Krakow, combined with its profound cultural and spiritual significance, makes it a compelling destination for visitors seeking reflection, inspiration, or simply to explore an important aspect of Polish religious heritage.

Day Trip From Krakow to Łagiewniki Logistics

🚗   BY CAR : From the center of Krakow, you would typically head south, following the signs to Wieliczka via the Zakopianka road (part of the national roads 7 and 79) but diverting towards Łagiewniki before reaching Wieliczka. The journey usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 10 kilometers (around 6 miles), depending on your starting point and traffic conditions. As you approach, follow the signage directing you to the Sanctuary of Divine Mercy, which is the main landmark of Łagiewniki. Click for directions from Krakow to Łagiewniki. 🚌  BY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION : The most straightforward way to reach Łagiewniki, particularly the Sanctuary of Divine Mercy, is by tram or bus. From the city center of Krakow, you can take tram lines such as 8, 10, 19, or 24 directly to the Łagiewniki stop. Alternatively, several bus lines also serve the area, offering regular services throughout the day. The journey by tram or bus typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes, depending on your starting point and the traffic conditions. Once you arrive, the sanctuary and the surrounding area are within a short walking distance from the tram or bus stop. Public transportation not only provides a hassle-free way to visit this significant religious site but also allows you to experience the city like a local. 🎟️    BY TOUR : Consider a private city tour following John Paul II sites in Krakow. You can follow the steps of Saint John Paul II to Wadowice, Kalwaria Zebrzydowka, and Lagiewniki. Click to book Private Catholic Tour about John Paul II, St. Faustina & The Divine Mercy Shrine.

7. La nckorona

Distance from Krakow: 34 km

Lanckorona’s roots go back to Casimir III the Great, who established the town in 1336. Today, it bears the nickname “The City of Angels.”

Key attractions include the Lanckorona Market Square, the Museum of Antoni Krajewski, the Church of the Birth of St. John the Baptist, the Regional Museum, 19 th -century wooden houses, and Lanckorona Castle, which sits in ruins today.

Lanckorona is a charming and quiet town that provides a peaceful alternative for a day trip from Krakow. If you want to get away from the busier pace of Krakow for a day, Lanckorona offers a quiet option.

Day Trip From Krakow to Lanckorona Logistics

🚗   BY CAR : Head south from Krakow on the A4 motorway. After approximately 10 kilometers, take the exit toward Skawina via the DK44 road. Continue on the DK44, following the signs towards Skawina and then further towards Kalwaria Zebrzydowska. As you approach Kalwaria Zebrzydowska, look for signage directing you to Lanckorona. The turn-off for Lanckorona will be onto a smaller, local road that winds through the picturesque countryside and leads directly to the village. The total distance from Krakow to Lanckorona is about 40 kilometers (approximately 25 miles), and the journey typically takes around 1 hour, depending on traffic. Click for directions from Krakow to Lanckorona. 🚌  BY BUS : Start your journey at the Krakow Main Bus Station (Dworzec Autobusowy MDA), where you can catch a bus headed towards Wadowice or Sucha Beskidzka, making sure it stops in Lanckorona. The bus journey typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the specific route and traffic conditions. Buses run with varying frequency throughout the day, so it’s advisable to check the current timetable and plan your trip accordingly. Some services may require a transfer in Skawina or another nearby town, adding to the travel time. Purchasing tickets in advance, either online or at the bus station, can help ensure a smooth trip. 🚇    BY TRAIN : There is no direct train connection. 🎟️    BY TOUR : Consider a Wadowice & Kalwaria Zebrzydowska & Lanckorona Tour. This tour includes a UNESCO site, the birthplace of Pope John Paul II, and the picturesque town of Lanckorona. Click to book a day trip for Wadowice & Kalwaria Zebrzydowska & Lanckorona Tour.

8. Morskie Oko

Distance from Krakow: 110 km

Morskie Oko is the famed lake, which translates to “Eye of the Sea.” The Wall Street Journal has listed it as one of the five most beautiful lakes on Earth. The lake itself sits in the middle of the Tatra National Park, and the surrounding mountains are known for offering the best hiking in Poland. 

Our experience at Morskie Oko

Our day trip from Krakow turned out to be 14 hours long, starting bright and early at 7 a.m. On this day, we would go to Morskie Oko and Zakopane.

After a two-hour drive from Krakow, we arrived in the Tatra mountains for our first stop, Morskie Oko. However, it would take a bit more time to get to this attraction.

Once our van arrived at a parking area, our trek to Morskie Oko began. From this area, it’s another 8 kilometers to the lake. You have two options. One is to walk, which takes people an average of 2.5 hours one way. The other option is what we chose, and that’s to ride in a horse-drawn covered wagon. As you make your way toward the lake, you will see beautiful views of the Tatras.

During our trip, the horse carriage was not available to be pre-booked. So we knew we would arrange that upon our arrival in the area. There was also an extra 10% charge if you wanted to pay by credit card, so we were sure to have the cash to avoid the additional fee.

Even if you choose the horse-drawn wagon, you’ll still walk about 1.5 kilometers from where the horses stop. It’s not a long walk, and you’ll arrive at the largest lake in the Tatra Mountains. Now, since we are from the States, our reference points for large lakes include Lake Tahoe in California and the Great Lakes of the Midwestern United States. This lake is nowhere near the size of those mammoth lakes of the USA, but it is still the largest lake in the area and is immensely beautiful.

We walked up to the lake and looked across the mountains on the other side, which still had patches of snow in June. Fish were jumping out of the clear green-colored water. At its lowest point, the lake is 51 meters deep. 

The sculpting processes of the last ice age formed it. Glaciers slowly carved the basin, which filled with water over time. Today, much of the sediment that formed the lake is washed away, and in places, you can see up to 15 meters down through the water.

The name Morskie Oko came down through time as a famous description of the lake by tourists. The native Highlanders who lived in the mountains had called it Rybi Staw or Fish Pond, a reference to the native brown trout that lives in the lake.

Swimming in the lake, fishing, or boating is not permitted. There is a lodge at the lake’s edge where you can get a drink or a bite.

For people with extra time to devote to visiting this lake, there is a hostel called Stanisława Staszica, which has 77 beds. So if staying in this area is of interest, you’d want to look at booking a room in advance of your visit.

The lake attracts over a thousand visitors daily during the busy summer months. Morskie Oko is a popular location and a wonderful place for nature lovers to visit.

Day Trip from Krakow to Morske Oko Logistics

🚗   BY CAR : Head south towards Zakopane via the Zakopianka road (road number 7, then transitioning onto road number 47). This scenic route takes you through the picturesque landscapes of the Lesser Poland Voivodeship. Upon reaching Zakopane, follow the signs towards Poronin, then take the road towards Łysa Polana. This is the last stretch before reaching the entrance to the Tatra National Park at Palenica Białczańska, which is the nearest parking area to Morskie Oko. From there, you’ll need to embark on a 2 to 3-hour hike, as vehicles are not allowed beyond this point, to reach Morskie Oko itself. The drive from Krakow to the parking area near Morskie Oko covers approximately 100 kilometers (about 62 miles) and takes roughly 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. 🚌 BY BUS: Buses frequently depart from the Krakow Main Bus Station (Dworzec Autobusowy MDA) and offer a direct route to Zakopane, taking 2 to 2.5 hours. (See train section for additional info) 🚇    BY TRAIN : Trains are available from Krakow Main Train Station (Kraków Główny) but may take longer due to transfers. Upon arriving in Zakopane, transfer to a local bus headed for Palenica Białczańska, the starting point for the trek to Morskie Oko. This last leg of the journey takes approximately 30 minutes. From Palenica Białczańska, Morskie Oko can be reached by a 2 to 3-hour hike along a well-marked trail. 🎟️    BY TOUR : Take a Morske Oko private tour from Krakow. Click to book a day trip from Krakow to Morske Oko – Rated 5 stars on Viator.

8b. Chapel of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Distance from Krakow: 108 km

Our next stop isn’t a day trip destination in itself but a nice add-on if you’re traveling to Morskie Oko. Consider stopping at Herz-Jesu-Kapelle if you love churches and folk architecture.

We stopped at the Chapel of the Sacred Heart of Jesus on our way to Morskie Oko in Jaszczuroka. Built in 1904 in the Zakopane style, it is a worthwhile stop in the area.  

Outside, the structure has a steep roof, on top of which sits a small bell tower. The natural-looking wooden construction blends in with the natural forest environment.

Inside, the wooden chapel has a wood-carved altar, and the building has colorful stained-glass windows—an impressive folk art style of architecture.

Day Trip from Krakow to Herz-Jesu-Kapelle Logistics

🚗   BY CAR : Head south on the Zakopianka road (part of the national roads 7 and 47), the main route leading directly to Zakopane from Krakow. This scenic drive through the Lesser Poland Voivodeship offers beautiful views of the Polish countryside and the Tatra Mountains as you approach Zakopane. The journey covers approximately 100 kilometers (about 62 miles) and typically takes 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions, especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends. Upon arriving in Zakopane, follow the local signage to navigate the town to the Herz-Jesu-Kapelle. Parking might be limited closer to the chapel, so be prepared to park a short distance away and walk. Click for directions from Krakow to Herz-Jesu-Kapelle.

9. Ojców National Park

Distance from Krakow: 20 km

Not too far from Krakow, you can visit Ojców National Park . It’s part of the historic route, the Trail of the Eagle’s Nest, an ancient defensive area. Today, it’s a great family-friendly getaway to explore nature among more than 50 kilometers of trails.

Ojców is Poland’s smallest National Park and can be visited annually. It features more than 400 caves and over 7,000 animal species. Admission is free. Notable attractions to visit at the park include:

• Hercules Club and Krakow Gate rock formations
• Hiking trails – the park offers nearly 50 kilometers of trails spanning various levels of difficulty
• King Łokietek’s Cave
• Pieskowa Skala Castle 
• Ojców Castle – visit the ruins of this once-important defensive structure

Nearby, the village of Ojców is also worthwhile to visit. The key feature here is the castle Gora Zamkowa. Also interesting is the Chapel of St. Joseph the Worker, which sits by a rock formation suspended over the river below.

Day Trip from Krakow to Ojców Logistics

🚗   BY CAR : Head northwest from Krakow on the DK79 road. The drive is relatively short, covering approximately 25 kilometers (about 15 miles), and typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Upon arrival, several parking areas are near the park’s main entrances and attractions. Click for directions from Krakow to Ojców National Park. 🚌  BY BUS : Several bus lines operate from Krakow to Ojców, with departures from the Krakow Bus Station (Dworzec Autobusowy MDA) located near the Krakow Main Train Station (Kraków Główny). The journey to Ojców National Park takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the specific bus service and traffic conditions. Buses usually drop passengers off at various stops within or near the park, providing convenient access to the park’s main attractions. It’s advisable to check the current bus schedules and routes before your trip, as service frequencies can vary, especially on weekends and holidays. 🎟️    BY TOUR : Enjoy a private Ojców National Park tour that includes a visit to Ogrodzieniec Castle. Click to book a day trip tour from Krakow to Ojców National Park – Rated five stars on Viator.

10. O grodzieniec Castle

Distance from Krakow: 66 km

Located on the Trail of the Eagles’ Nest in the Jurassic Highland area, the Ogrodzieniec Castle (Zamek Ogrodzieniec) is worth a day trip from Krakow. The castle is set in a picturesque location near impressive inselbergs and offers stunning views.

The ruins of this 14th-century structure can be visited today. The grounds have 14 sections to explore. In the small museum, you can also learn about the equipment and weapons used by the knights. 

Various events are hosted yearly at the castle grounds, from medieval folk dancing to knight battle reenactments and ghost tours.

Day Trip From Krakow to Ogrodzieniec Castle Logistics

🚗   BY CAR : Head west from Krakow on the A4 motorway. After about 40 kilometers, take the exit towards Zawiercie/Śląsk on road DK79. Continue on DK79, following the signs for Zawiercie and then towards Podzamcze, the village where Ogrodzieniec Castle is located. The total distance from Krakow to Ogrodzieniec Castle is approximately 80 kilometers (about 50 miles), and the drive usually takes around 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. As you approach Podzamcze, clear signage will direct you to the castle. Parking is available near the entrance. Click for directions from Krakow to Ogrodzieniec Castle. 🚌  BY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION : Traveling from Krakow to Ogrodzieniec Castle by public transportation involves a combination of train and bus services. Begin your journey at Krakow Main Train Station (Kraków Główny), taking a train towards Zawiercie, the nearest major town to Ogrodzieniec Castle. The train journey can take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the service selected. Upon arriving in Zawiercie, transfer to a local bus that heads towards Podzamcze, the village where Ogrodzieniec Castle is located. The bus ride from Zawiercie to Podzamcze is relatively short, usually around 20 to 30 minutes. Buses may not run very frequently, so it’s essential to check the latest schedules in advance and plan your trip accordingly. Once you arrive in Podzamcze, the castle is within walking distance from the bus stop. 🎟️    BY TOUR : Enjoy a private Ojców National Park tour that includes a visit to Ogrodzieniec Castle. Click to book a day trip tour from Krakow to Ojców National Park – Rated 5 stars on Viator.

11. R zeszów

Distance from Krakow: 168 km

Rzeszów was once the private town of the Lubomirski family. Today, the city offers many things to do.  

Popular attractions in Rzeszów:

• Franciszek Kotula Ethnographic Museum – see traditional folk costumes and displays of woodcarvings
• Lubomirski Castle – Dating back to the 16th century, this castle sits at the edge of the old town 
• Market Square and Old City – featuring the historic 16 th -century City Hall
• Sanctuary of Our Lady of Rzeszów
• Underground Tourist Route (Rzeszów Cellars): Journey through history dating back to the Middle Ages as you pass 25 cellars and 15 underground corridors.

Day Trip From Krakow to Rzeszów Logistics

Rzeszów is just over 165 kilometers away from Krakow. The journey by car takes just over 90 minutes. Train service is available via the Rzeszów Główny railway station.

🚗   BY CAR : Head east from Krakow on the A4 motorway. The journey spans approximately 160 kilometers (about 100 miles) and typically takes around 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. The A4 is a toll road, so be prepared for toll booths along the way. Keep following the A4, with clear signage guiding you all the way to Rzeszów. Upon approaching Rzeszów, look for exit signs to guide you into the city. Click for directions from Krakow to Rzeszów. 🚌  BY BUS : numerous bus companies run direct routes from the Krakow Bus Station (Dworzec Autobusowy MDA) to Rzeszów. 🚇    BY TRAIN : Start your journey at Krakow Main Train Station (Kraków Główny), where you can catch one of the frequent services operated by Polish State Railways (PKP) . The train journey to Rzeszów takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on the type of service chosen. Trains offer a comfortable ride, allowing you to relax or work during the trip. 🎟️    BY PRIVATE TRANSPORT : Click to book a Krakow to Rzeszow Private Transfer with a Private Driver.

Distance from Krakow: 83 km

The town of Tarnów lies to the east of Kraków. Its historic town is one of the best preserved in the country, though it doesn’t have the same crowds as larger cities. The 14th-century market square features an iconic Town Hall. This off-the-beaten-path destination is very walkable and offers art galleries, historical monuments, museums, and cultural venues.

Places of note to visit in Tarnów include:

• Cathedral Basilica of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary
• Ethnographic Museum in Tarnów – hosts the first worldwide permanent exhibition on “The History and Culture of Roma People.”
• Małopolska Wooden Architecture Trail – Stretching over 1,500 kilometers, this route includes 237 architectural examples, from churches and chapels to granaries and manor houses.
• Tarnów Diocesan Museum – the oldest diocesan museum in Poland
• Tarnów’s Jewish Cemetery – one of the oldest and largest in Poland

Wine lovers will relish a trip to Pogórze, just south of Tarnów. You’ll find over a dozen small vineyards featuring tours and wine tastings here. It’s a wonderful place for a day in the beautiful Polish countryside.

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway while visiting Kraków, Tarnów is an excellent choice.

Day Trip From Krakow to Tarnow Logistics

🚗   BY CAR : Head east on the A4 towards Rzeszów. The journey to Tarnów is straightforward and covers approximately 80 kilometers (about 50 miles), with an estimated travel time of around 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions. The A4 is a well-maintained toll road, so be prepared to pay a toll for this segment of your journey. The exit to Tarnow is clearly marked, and you should take the appropriate exit off the A4 to enter the city. Click for directions from Krakow to Tarnow. 🚌  BY BUS : Several bus companies operate direct routes from the Krakow Bus Station (Dworzec Autobusowy MDA) to Tarnow. Buses might offer a more economical option and, depending on the service, can be comparable in travel time to the train. 🚇    BY TRAIN : Trains depart frequently from Krakow Main Train Station (Kraków Główny) and provide a fast, comfortable journey that takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. The Polish State Railways (PKP) operates these trains and offers various types of services, from slower regional trains to faster intercity options. 🎟️    BY TOUR : Schedule a tour of Tarnow with pick-up from Krakow, private transportation, and a licensed English tour guide. You’ll explore Old Town to see its old medieval walls, Tarnow Square, remnants of the Old Synagogue, historic monuments, and the Jewish cemetery. You’ll also have time to explore the city on your own and have lunch before heading back to Krakow. Click to book a Tarnow private tour from Krakow – Rated 5 stars on Viator.

13. Wadowice

Distance from Krakow: 49 km

Wadowice is most famous as the birthplace of Karol Wojtyła (Pope John Paul II). This, along with the nearby monastery of Kalwaria Zebrzydowska (a UNESCO World Heritage site), makes this city a popular destination for pilgrims.

Places of note to visit in Wadowice include:

• Birth Home of Karol Wojtyła – today a modern multi-media museum
• Discalced Carmelites Monastery and St. Joseph Sanctuary
• Energylandia – the largest amusement park in Poland features carousels, rollercoasters, and water attractions
• Municipal Museum
• St. Mary Basilica – the church where young Karol Wojtyła was baptized

Day Trip from Krakow to Wadowice Logistics

🚗   BY CAR : Head west out of Krakow on the A4 motorway. After a short distance, take the exit toward the DK44 road, signposted for Skawina. Continue on DK44, following the signs for Skawina and then Wadowice. The distance from Krakow to Wadowice is about 50 kilometers (approximately 31 miles), and the drive usually takes around 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Click for directions from Krakow to Wadowice. 🚌  BY BUS : Buses depart regularly from the Krakow Bus Station (Dworzec Autobusowy MDA), located near the Krakow Main Train Station (Kraków Główny). The journey to Wadowice takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions. These buses provide a direct route to Wadowice, making it an accessible and convenient option for travelers looking to visit the birthplace of Pope John Paul II. 🎟️    BY TOUR : Book a private tour from Krakow to visit Wadowice and the Sanctuary of Divine Mercy – John Paul II. Click to book a private tour from Krakow to Wadowice – Rated 5 stars on Viator.

14. Wieliczka Salt Mine

Distance from Krakow: 14 km

Rock salt has been mined in Wieliczka since the 13th century up through the 20th century. This industrial salt mining operation is the oldest of its kind in Europe. The Wieliczka Salt Mine is just 13 kilometers southeast of Krakow’s city center.

Prime Tours picked us up at our hotel early in the morning. We had booked our tickets in advance. Upon arrival, we were able to go directly inside the mine.

To reach the main attraction, you must descend a curving stairway with nearly 400 steps. That takes you to level one of the mines. Overall, we traveled about 800 degrees deep as we continued to make our way through the mine.

Way underground, more than 300 meters deep, is one of the most amazing things you’ll ever see. There are impressive galleries that contain artworks made entirely from salt. Overall, there are nearly 2400 chambers connected to the winding underground tunnels.

Unique artistry made of salt in Wieliczka

Once you descend into the underground labyrinth, you enter a world of carvings that appear to belong to a Tolkien novel. Everything you’ll see is made out of salt. The walls are salt. The floors are salt. And all the magnificent artistic creations were made from salt.

Statues, chapels, religious and biblical scenes, and homages to Poland’s historical past are chiseled into the salt rock. Notable artworks include a life-size statue of Pope John Paul II and a salt sculpture of Da Vinci’s The Last Supper.

The main attraction is the Chapel of St. Kinga – dedicated to the Hungarian Princess Kinga, who claimed to have brought salt mining to Poland. Legend has it that she had cast her engagement ring from Prince Boleslaw of Krakow into a Romanian mine. Later, she told miners in Wieliczka to dig in a particular spot where the previously discarded ring appeared. The St. Kinga chapel is adorned with chandeliers created from rock salt. Some call this area the best acoustic space in the world.

An entire church is underground made out of salt – altar and all. We saw an impressive dining room carved into the salted walls.

The creations you see were not made by professional artists but by the miners themselves. Absolute masterpieces.

Underground in these mines, the temperature is a cool, steady 14 degrees Celsius—not so cool that you need a jacket.

Today, Wieliczka is no longer an active mining operation. It is – a unique place to see.  

The entire tour, from our hotel pick-up until our return, lasted about 4 – 2.5 hours in the salt mine.

Things to Know before your visit to the Wieliczka Salt Mine

A few things to know – during our visit, there was an additional charge for using a camera in the mines. 

And on the subject of cameras, it is dark in the mines, so having a camera that can take good photos in meager light will serve you well.

Visitors get a headset to listen to their tour guide while in the mine.

Fun facts about the Wieliczka Salt Mine

• The mine is as deep as the Eiffel Tower is tall. There are 178 miles of tunnels throughout the mine.
• The mine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the first 12 established by UNESCO.
• There are four chapels located within the mine.
• Salt Origin – many people believe that table salt comes from the sea, but white table salt is rock salt and almost always comes from salt mines. 
• Wellness Complex – The mine was a wellness center where, for around $40 a night, you could spend extra time breathing some of the cleanest air in the world.

Day Trip from Krakow to Wieliczka Logistics

🚗   BY CAR : For driving from Krakow to Zakopane, start by taking the Zakopianka road (part of the national roads 7 and 79) southeast out of Krakow. The distance to Wieliczka is roughly 14 kilometers (about 9 miles), making it a quick trip, typically around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic. As you approach Wieliczka, clear signage will guide you to the Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Poland’s most visited attractions. Click for directions from Krakow to Wieliczka Salt Mine. 🚌  BY BUS : You can catch one of the several direct buses from different locations in Krakow, including a stop near the Krakow Main Train Station, which will drop you off close to the mine. The bus ride takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes. 🚇    BY TRAIN : One of the easiest ways is to take a train from Krakow Main Train Station (Kraków Główny) to the Wieliczka Rynek-Kopalnia station. Trains run frequently throughout the day, and the journey takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Upon arrival, the salt mine is a short walk from the station. 🎟️    BY TOUR : Click to book a Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour – Rated 5 stars on Viator.

15. Zakopane

Distance from Krakow: 105 km

Zakopane is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Poland. This mountain resort is close to the Slovakian border at the southern end of Poland and is at the highest elevation of any town in Poland. Zakopane is known for wintertime skiing and summertime hiking and holds the nickname “the winter capital of Poland.”

Zakopane is famous for old folk traditions, including the Gorale Highlander’s heritage. People here speak a local dialect, and you’ll likely see locals dressed in traditional folk attire.

Zakopane – A popular tourist destination

Zakopane enjoys a vacation reputation for its wooden villas, which date back to the late 19th century. These villas inspired authors, composers, painters, and poets to frequent the area.

We have heard for years that this place is a must-stop. Well, in winter, we suspect it’s fantastic. During the summer, it is a popular tourist destination. The main street, Krupówki Street, was lined with stall after stall of vendors selling food items, souvenirs, and clothing. You’ll find all sorts of locally made goods for sale, including sheepskin coats, sweaters, wool slippers, and traditional wooden walking sticks. If you’re into shopping, it might be up your alley. 

One of the things that Zakopane is known for, however, is the smoked cheese made of salted sheep milk. It’s called and is a cheese variety exclusive to Poland’s Tatra Mountains region. You have to try it when you’re in Zakopane.

More activities in Zakopane

For folks who enjoy outdoor activities, Zakopane attracts skiers from November through March. During the warmer months, outdoor activities enjoyed here include cave exploration, cycling, swimming, and tennis. For tourists, there is strolling the streets, enjoying street performers, and entertainment in the area.

Zakopane has at least nine local museums, art galleries, and theater companies. A Krakow to Zakopane day trip is a great itinerary destination while you’re visiting Krakow.

Day Trip From Krakow to Zakopane Logistics

🚗   BY CAR : The most popular route is via the Zakopianka road (part of the national roads 7 and 47), which leads directly to the heart of the Tatra Mountains. Begin your journey by heading south from Krakow, following the signs for Zakopane. The distance from Krakow to Zakopane is approximately 100 kilometers (about 62 miles), and the drive usually takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions, which can be heavy, especially during weekends and holiday periods. As you approach Zakopane, the road might become more congested as it narrows and winds through mountainous terrain. Click for directions from Krakow to Zakopane. 🚌  BY BUS : Direct buses to Zakopane depart frequently from the Krakow Bus Station (Dworzec Autobusowy MDA), located near the Krakow Main Train Station (Kraków Główny). The bus journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions, which can vary, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends. 🚇    BY TRAIN : you can take a train from Krakow Main Train Station to Zakopane, although this option might involve a longer travel time or a transfer at Nowy Targ. 🎟️    BY TOUR : Click to book a private day tour to Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains from Krakow.

Check out Zakopane trips from Krakow from these great options below:

16. Zalipie

Approximately 90 minutes from Krakow, you’ll find one of the most colorful villages in Poland. Zalipie is known for its flower painting tradition. You’ll see these beautiful artworks everywhere – from homes to walls, barns, fences, and clothing.

The painted village of Zalipie is unique. More than 30 homes are adorned with flower paintings. The style of painting goes beyond recreating flowers in art. Painters express their vision of all things floral upon the myriad canvases they use.

The village is lush and green and provides a wonderful atmosphere for relaxation. Spend some time viewing the beautiful flower folk art, and then get a paintbrush to make your floral souvenir to remember your visit.

Day Trip From Krakow to Zalipie Logistics

🚗   BY CAR : Head east from Krakow on the A4 motorway. After approximately 50 kilometers, take the exit toward Tarnów. From Tarnów, continue on the national road 73 towards Dąbrowa Tarnowska. Follow the signs directing you to Szczucin, and then take the local roads leading to Zalipie. The total distance is about 120 kilometers (approximately 75 miles), and the drive usually takes around 2 hours, depending on traffic. Click for directions from Krakow to Zalipie. 🚌  BY PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION : Reaching Zalipie from Krakow by public transportation requires a combination of bus and possibly a short taxi ride due to the village’s rural location. Start by taking a bus from Krakow to Tarnów, the larger city closest to Zalipie. Buses depart regularly from the Krakow Bus Station (Dworzec Autobusowy MDA), with the journey to Tarnów taking approximately 2 hours. Upon arriving in Tarnów, you may need to transfer to a local bus heading towards Zalipie. Since direct bus services to Zalipie can be infrequent and vary by day, it’s advisable to check the latest schedules in advance and plan accordingly. In some cases, taking a taxi from Tarnów to Zalipie for the final leg of the journey might be the most practical option. 🎟️    BY TOUR : Click to book a private tour – Zalipie Painted Village Private Tour From Krakow. Rated 5 stars on Viator.

Reduce Stress – Book a Day Trip with a Tour Company

Booking the tours in advance took the stress off our vacation. Our tour guides from Prime Tours handled related scheduling and tickets. Our local drivers spoke English and were cordial and accommodating.

Should I get travel insurance for Poland?

We often consider travel insurance for an additional layer of security and peace of mind. Similar to insuring your auto and property, you can also get insurance for luggage, personal belongings, and health while traveling.

We are fans of Travel Insurance from World Nomads – one of the biggest names in the travel insurance market.

You can also explore coverage at reasonable rates with a travel insurance plan from Travel Insurance Master , among the biggest travel insurance providers.

Where to stay in Kraków

Our accommodation was at the Platinum Aparthotel . It was conveniently located just off the market square and easily accessible to the Old Town within a 15-minute walk.

Great Day Trips from Krakow Podcast

For your listening, we discuss our four-day trips from Krakow, Poland, in our podcast episode “4 Great Day Trips from Krakow, Poland.”

Read about more things to do in Krakow

Krakow – 11+ outstanding places you must in see in Krakow Market Square

Krakow – Outstanding Places You Should Visit in Krakow Poland

Books to help you learn about the area

Get ready for your visit to the city with some reading:

Krakow – Know Before You Go

⏰ Time Zone: Central European Standard (GMT+1) (March to October is GMT+2)

✈️ Closest Airport: Kraków John Paul II International Airport (KRK)Airport

💰 Currency :  Polish Złoty

🔌  Electricity Socket:  In Poland, you’ll encounter two types of plugs: type C and type E. Type C consists of two round pins, while type E has two round pins and a hole for the socket’s male earthing pin. The electricity supply in Poland operates at 230V voltage and 50Hz frequency . For visitors from other countries, you’ll need this  universal travel adaptor .

Closing Thoughts – Best Day Trips From Krakow

In conclusion, Krakow is a city with a rich history and culture, making it a popular tourist destination. However, if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the town for a day, there are plenty of unique places to visit near Krakow. From beautiful castles and charming towns to breathtaking natural landscapes, these Poland excursions from Krakow offer a refreshing break from the busy city life.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Krakow, add some of these nearby destinations to your itinerary for an unforgettable experience. Happy travels! Places to visit near Krakow await you.

 Thanks for reading this article about amazing day trips from Krakow. We hope to see you at the places where we go.

Julie & Art

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Art Dobrucki is a travel writer and podcast host for The Places Where We Go. With his wife Julie, they bring their travel stories to curious travelers to inspire adventures. Art is also a composer and keyboardist with several albums to his credit. Check out more information on our About Us page.

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Incredible Places to Visit Near Krakow ...just when you thought you've seen it all!

Krakow  is an extraordinary city to visit. With its beautiful buildings, interesting museums and the great atmosphere it is definitely an essential while  visiting Poland . But what if you’ve already seen everything that the city offers? Does it mean that you have to be at a loose end? Of course not! There are so many  amazing places near Krakow worth visiting !

• amazing  towns 
• beautiful  castles
• incredible  natural monuments and sights

Are you ready to start your trip?

Towns near Krakow

There are so many  beautiful towns  less than an hour away from Krakow.

Explore their amazing architecture, fun attractions and one of a kind atmosphere!

Just about  an hour away from Krakow  lies a beautiful city of  Tarnow . With its  extremely well-preserved Old Town, one of the prettiest market squares in Lesser Poland  and unique buildings, Tarnow is incredibly worth seeing.

It also has a rich  Jewish history , which is plainly visible while walking around the pretty little streets of this town.

Make sure you see  The Old Synagogue Bimah, Strzelecki Park  and  Tarnow Cathedral  –  you won’t regret it!

Bimah of the Old Synagogue in Tarnow – the only part left after the war (source: dariusz79 – Flog)

Strzelecki Park – look how green and amazing! (source: Tarnów ON-LINE)

How far from Krakow?

• 83 kilometers
• 1 hour 12 minutes

It’s a very important place in Lesser Poland.  Wadowice  is a  hometown of Karol Wojtyla , later  Pope John Paul II . You can visit his home, see how he lived before he became a priest.

You should also see the  Town Museum , which features an interactive, multimedia exhibition on the pope’s life and Wadowice at the time of his childhood.

Finally, go to  Kawiarnia Mieszczańska  and taste kremówka – local and the pope’s favorite delicacy!

The exterior of the House of John Paul II (source: Polska The Times)

Market Square and the church in Wadowice at night

• 52 kilometers

Ready for a pop of color? Go to  Zalipie  – the most colorful village in Poland ! See painted cottages, painted houses, painted church, painted everything!

So colorful! (source: malopolska.pl)

Admire the most creative  flower patterns , listen to interesting stories and see the way people lived a few decades ago.

Indulge in the  colorful fairytale  and take a lot of pictures!

If you want to know some more about this amazing village, we have a great  post about Zalipie  that will tell you everything you need to know to go there.

• 116 kilometers
• 1 hour 30 minutes

Are you curious how Polish villages looked  in the nineteenth century ? Now you have a chance to see it for yourself! See  Lanckorona , a village known for its well preserved 19th-century wooden houses in its center.

The houses are beautiful and surely take you to the past. You should also make sure to see the ruins of  Lanckorona Castle , in which many of important historical events happened.

Little wooden houses make you feel like you’re in the nineteenth century //source: IRART

Ruins of Lanckorona Castle (source: naszezamki.pl)

• 37 kilometers

Kalwaria Zebrzydowska

Is one of the most popular places to visit near Krakow.  Kalwaria Zebrzydowska  is an important Catholic and spiritual center in Poland. Go and admire its special atmosphere and architecture.

With its immense  Bernardine Monastery , which contains impressive  16th- and 17th-century paintings  in its cloister, small shrines all around the town and paths of prayer, it is the perfect place to  meditate and clear one’s mind .

Bernardine Monastery in Kalwaria Zebrzydowska (source: veturo.pl)

The interior of the church – look how rich and beautiful it looks! (source: ricardo1- flog)

• 40 kilometers

If you are wondering about things to do around Krakow, you should definitely take a look at  Zator ‘s attractions! Not only does it have a beautiful market square with a town hall, but it has a special attraction –  Energylandia Amusement Park .

It is a huge complex with an enormous area of  26 hectares , which includes  over 30 various  modern and advanced devices, roller coasters, you name it!

Nothing but fun! (source: Youtube)

Ready to have some fun?

• 56 kilometers
• 1 hour 8 minutes

Castles near Krakow

Old, stunning, immense. When looking for places to see near Krakow, the most fascinating places of interest are castles. There are so many of them in the Krakow area!

Ready to feel the spirit of old-time Poland?

Pieskowa Skała Castle

A Renaissance castle located on a limestone cliff in  the valley of river Prądnik . It was built in the first half of the fourteenth century.  The Pieskowa Skala Castle  is one of the best-known examples of a defensive Polish architecture.

Let it charm you with its gardens, courtyard an one of a kind atmosphere!

It’s like a fairytale! (source: Polskie szlaki)

• 29 kilometers

The Royal Castle in Niepołomice

This gothic castle in  Niepołomice  was built in the fourteenth century and then rebuilt in the sixteenth century. This huge building called 'the second Wawel'  was the residence of most Polish kings and queens. It is known for its Italian gardens.

Visit the castle and listen to amazing stories about the events that took place here and changed Polish history!

You can feel the atmosphere of a medieval court! (source: groupon)

• 24 kilometers

The Ogrodzieniec Castle

I bet you’ll be amazed by this great building.  The Ogrodzieniec Castle , built in the eleventh century is an example of  incredible medieval architecture .

Its stark-looking walls take you to medieval Poland.

Make sure you see this fairytale-like castle and  feel the magic !

Isn’t it gorgeous?

• 64 kilometers
• 1 hour 20 minutes

The Benedictine Abbey in Tyniec

Founded in the 11th century it has been repeatedly transformed and expanded, notably in the 15th and 17th centuries.  The Abbey  is situated on a rocky promontory overlooking the  Vistula River . The place can be accesed free with our Krakow Museum Pass!

So magically located! (source: Magiczny Kraków)

See the everyday life of the monks, listen to  Gregorian chants , sung daily by the monks in the church and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

• 15 kilometers

Krakow nature

Now something for  nature lovers . If you’re looking for  interesting sights near Krakow , you’re lucky! There are so many wonderful places where you can admire nature, breath fresh air and take a break from the city life.

I’m sure you have never seen things like these!

Ojcow National Park

Once you enter  Ojcow National Park , you will see  one of the most scenic views located near Krakow .

The area is rich in  tall limestone structures  that have adopted distinctive shapes not to be seen anywhere else.

The park invites you to indulge in its greenery!

If you want some more information, check out our  post about Ojcow National Park .

Don’t wait!

Truly nature’s miracle! (source: Polskie Szlaki)

Look at those rocks!

• 26 kilometers

Pradnik River Valley

If you’re interested in  geology , this is definitely a proposition for you. You can gain information about all kinds of rocks and eras.

But if geology isn’t really your thing, you still will be amazed by the  Pradnik River Valley , it looks totally unforgettable!

Beautiful valley

• 6 kilometers

King Lokietek Cave

Is said to have sheltered  King Władysław I Łokietek , for whom it was named. It is also the largest cave in  Ojcow National Park  area.

Definitely worth seeing!

Kind of spooky, isn’t it? (source: crazy nauka)

• 21 kilometers

The Devil Bridge in Czerna

Ruins of the bridge in  Czerna , built in the seventeenth century. Legend has it that once a year all devils, evil ghosts and witches meet here to have a debate.

It’s a great proposition for fans of spooky stories and also – nature lovers.

See any devils? (source: moto opinie)

• 31 kilometers

What are places near Krakow worth seeing?

As you can see, there is no need for you to sit bored in a hotel. There is so much to see and do around Krakow, many nice attractions, great sights.

Whether you’re a fan of history, nature or just good fun, you’ll surely find something for yourself!

Are you inspired to explore sights near Krakow? Or maybe you’ve been to these places?

Let us know in the comments! :)

I'm Kamila. I moved to Krakow to study English and German at Jagiellonian University, because I love everything that's connected with these languages. Writing for Discover Cracow and sharing what I know with the visitors makes me really glad and excited!

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10 Best Day Trips from Krakow: Salt Mine, Auschwitz, & Cities

When planning a trip to Poland’s second-biggest city, have a few extra days to your itinerary for several day trips from Krakow. The city makes it a great base to explore some of the best historical landmarks and cities in Poland you want to take advantage of. 

Some of the best places to visit near Krakow include historical towns, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, mining towns, and charming villages. Thus, there is something for everyone.  

Where to go from Krakow by train? Almost everywhere. Most of the Krakow trips listed below are easily accessible by public transport. For some, consider joining organized tours for easy logistics or renting a car for more flexibility and comfort. All the details on how to get to a particular destination are written below each spot. 

Moreover, plenty of highly-rated excursions from Krakow make traveling easier if you feel uncomfortable driving in a foreign country or navigating public transport. 

This post includes affiliate links to products, which earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps to fund my blog and bring more authentic articles to you 🙂   Learn more

Best day trips from Krakow

Nowa huta neighborhood.

While Nowa Huta is part of Krakow city, the area’s historical significance of being a Soviet utopian district is worth spending at least half of the day if you love Communist architecture and history. 

The former industrial hub has well-planned residential buildings and at least 250 bunkers underneath its vast area. It was a symbol of socialist brilliance where the functionality of the city was a prime goal to make residents who worked at its steel plant happy with wide streets, grand apartment buildings with big courtyards, and recreational areas. 

Today, Nowa Huta reinvents itself with new and old cafes, bars, and fascinating museums housed in former Soviet bunkers. The most significant landmarks here are the administrative building and the bomb shelter of the steel plant. 

You can only visit it via booking the tour , but unlike the ruined sanatorium town of Tskaltubo in Georgia or the Soviet Bunker in Tbilisi , seeing a well-preserved building of the 1960s with its almost fully intact interior and furniture gives you the feeling and idea of what it looked like back in the day, and fascinating bunker is absolutely worth it.  

Besides, Nowa Huta has more exciting spots to offer to those who want to venture this far from the city center, so I have a dedicated guide to all the best things you can do here to include it in your Krakow itinerary .

How to get to Nowa Huta

Located 8 km from the city center, the best way to get to the area is by tram number 4 or 10. The journey takes around 30 minutes, so you need to get a 40-minute tram ticket. If you are starting the Nowa Huta exploration with the Steel Plant administrative building, take tram No.4 to the final stop called Kombinat. Otherwise, hop off both trams at Central Square.

Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp

Auschwitz-Birkenau doesn’t need any introduction. This former extermination and concentration camp run by Nazis during WWII is the most tragic place, where around 1.3 million (reported) people died, and the majority were Jews.

Enlisted as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a visit to Auschwitz includes the Auschwitz Museum and Birkenau Memorial. The Auschwitz Museum has well-preserved brick barracks that once were used by the Polish military. Now, it is turned into a museum showcasing personal items confiscated from the prison arrivals, photos of inmates, a maquette of a gas chamber, etc. 

Birkenau is an even bigger space, which was later added to the Auschwitz camp to bring victims directly and to provide more barracks and crematoriums. Today, the Birkenau is partially destroyed as a result of camp liquidation to conceal the atrocities of the Third Reich. However, the barrack frames and fireplace chimneys do help you visualize the size of the camp. 

Whether you tour the camp on your own or with a museum-provided educator, you’ll hear/read devastating stories of its victims and how they were treated, making it one of the emotionally wrecking day trips from Krakow, which obviously is not for everyone. If you can handle it, I highly recommend putting aside one day for the visit. 

How to get from Kraków to Auschwitz

Auschwitz-Birkenau is around 70 km away from Krakow. While there are several ways to get there, which I explain in my detailed Auschwitz guide , joining an organized tour is the best option. Several companies offer day trips from Krakow to Auschwitz, and this is the one we used . 

Wieliczka Salt Mine

Together with Auschwitz, a visit to Wieliczka Salt Mine is the most popular Krakow day trip. Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is one of the oldest operating salt mines worldwide that worked from the 13th century until 2007. 

A guided visit includes walking through tunnels and admiring statues carved from salt rocks. The mine has nine levels, with the lowest at 327 meters below the ground. The total length of the mine corridors is around 250 km, but you only walk 3 km during the tour. 

Apart from the historical significance, Wieliczka Salt Mine is a stunning place worth adding to your Krakow day trips itinerary. With several chambers, chapels, and statues, it is mesmerizing to see and admire the craftsmanship of humanity. And passing by several underground lakes adds another dimension and charm to the place. 

Once done touring the mine, you can walk around the tiny town of Wieliczka to see beautiful buildings and monuments depicting the mining industry and heritage of the area. 

How to get from Krakow to Wieliczka Salt Mine

The distance between the city and the mine is only 13 km, which takes around 30 minutes by car without traffic. The mine is also connected to public transport, making it one of the most accessible day trips from Krakow by train. 

Several trains depart from Kraków Glowny to Wieliczka Rynek-Kopalnia train station each day. The journey takes, on average, 23 minutes, but there are faster ones that get you there in 15 minutes, too. Check the train schedule here . 

However, if you prefer to join an organized tour, I recommend booking this one provided by Discover Cracow.  

Tip : If you don’t have much time to spare for individual tips, you can combine day trips from Krakow to Auschwitz and salt mines by joining an organized tour. 

If you are looking for interesting cities around Krakow, Katowice is an easy and underrated option for a day trip. The capital of the Silesia region, Kawotice, has always been known as the industrial heart of Poland with its vast amount of mines. 

The city is an excellent destination for culture lovers, offering fascinating museums, architecture, concert venues, street art, and exhibitions. There are plenty of things to do in Katowice , making it ideal for weekend trips from Krakow, but if you don’t have that much time, you can also visit its most important landmarks within a day. 

The Silesian Museum is a must-visit to learn more about Katowice’s history and mining heritage, as well as walk through its charming neighborhood of Nikiszowiec, featuring brick residential places initially built for the workers at the mine. 

And if you are a fan of modernist architecture, Spodek, the famous concert venue that looks like a UFO, is another city highlight. 

How to get from Krakow to Katowice

Katowice is 80 km away, making it one of the easiest day trips from Krakow by car or train. If you prefer to drive a car , expect around an hour from Krakow to Katowice, depending on traffic. 

The cities are also well-connected by train system with daily trains departing from 6 am. The fast trains will get you there in about 47 minutes. Check the train schedule here . 

In southeastern Poland, Tarnow is a mid-size city that has mostly kept the same layout since the Middle Ages. 

Tarnow’s main square is home to a beautiful town hall, fascinating museums showcasing the city’s history, and an exhibition about Gypsy in the country. Those interested in Jewish history can visit the Old Bathhouse, the synagogue bima, or the enormous Jewish cemetery. 

Historically, Tarnow is known for being one of the first occupied cities during WWII and being among the first to transport prisoners to Auschwitz concentration camps. 

When walking from the train station to the main square, notice the tallest basilica of the city before admiring the beautiful Art-Nouveau buildings lining up Krakowska Street. 

And if you are up for a short hike, Saint Martin’s Peak offers beautiful views of the city and the region. 

How to get from Krakow to Tarnow

Tarnow is around 80 km from Krakow and, like many other cities in Poland , is well connected to the train system. While you can get there by car, the train might be cheaper and faster. 

Daily trains depart from Krakow’s main train station to Tarnow from early morning, taking around 50-60 minutes to get there. 

This unique village in Poland was the most exciting Krakow day tour I was looking forward to. Zalipie, known for its gorgeously painted houses, is one of the less-known day trips from Krakow because of slightly challenging access via public transport. 

The tradition of embellishing the buildings started at the end of the 19th century when a local artist painted floral patterns on her house. Following her lead, other locals began decorating their houses and fences with colorful floral motives. 

The village has more than 20 decorated houses, along with wells, shrines, and fences. Zalipie is not an ethnographical village museum; it is a regular residential area, but there are a few houses turned into museums and a community center you can visit for a small fee. 

How to get from Krakow to Zalipie

Due to its remote location and scarce public transport, the best and most convenient way to get from Krakow to Zalipie is by car . Located around 108 km, it takes an average of 1:30 hours one way.  

However, with some planning beforehand, it is also doable by using a train and then a local minibus. Read my detailed post on Zalipie village and how to get there.

Alternatively, a few companies offer an organized tour if you want to avoid driving or navigating the transport. 

Those looking for a less-crowded city with interesting attractions such as charming tiny dwarf statues scattered across the city, a beautiful market square featuring Gothic Old Town hall with an ornate astronomical clock, and gorgeous architecture, consider a day trip from Krakow to Wroclaw. 

Even though it is a slightly long journey, venturing this far to visit Wroclaw is entirely worth it. The city offers a handful of fascinating things to do , such as historical landmarks, small islands, and an impressive Centennial Hall, one more UNESCO World Heritage Site in Poland. 

And if you happen to be in Poland in winter , Wroclaw has one of the most beautiful Christmas Markets that also won a few awards in previous years. 

How to get from Krakow to Wroclaw

The distance from Krakow to Wroclaw is 274 km, and the journey takes at least 3 hours by car. Therefore, your best option is to take a train that runs several times a day starting very early in the morning. 

A fast train will get you there in 2:46 hours, but an average train journey is from 3 to 3:20 hours, depending on the type of train.  Check the train schedule here

Like Wroclaw, a day trip from Krakow to Warsaw is relatively long but doable if you are up to start your journey early in the morning. 

Warsaw, the capital of Poland, is the country’s most visited destination, alongside Krakow. While you can easily spend a few days seeing some of the iconic Warsaw attractions to deep dive into the city’s history, one day can also be fine if that’s what you have. 

Warsaw was completely destroyed during WWII and rebuilt afterward; therefore, today, it is one of the most modern cities with skyscrapers, but its old charm is preserved through the reconstructed Old Town. 

Wander the streets to explore and admire colorful houses, visit the Royal Castle, a former royal residence of Polish monarchs turned into a state museum, and walk through a fortress, Warsaw Barbican, to name a few. 

For panoramic skyline views, go to the top floor of the Palace of Culture and Science, a massive Soviet-era building. 

There are several interesting museums in Warsaw , including the POLIN Museum, to learn more about Jewish history and the tragedy of the Holocaust, the Neon Museum showcasing the beautiful neon signs that once graced the streets of the city, and the Museum of Life in the Polish People’s Republic, exhibiting household items used during the Communist era, etc. 

How to get from Krakow to Warsaw

Located nearly 300 km from Krakow, the trip will take you a minimum of 3:30 hours by car, making a train travel most convenient and fast between two cities. Several trains depart from Krakow Central train station to Warsaw early in the morning, with an average time of 2:20 to 2:40 hours.  Check the train schedule here

Other options for Krakow day trips

While I have yet to do these day trips from Krakow myself, I still decided to give you the other options for your information and possibilities. 

Those who love snow-covered mountains should consider day trips from Krakow to Zakopane and Tatra Mountains. Zakopane is a favorite winter destination among locals who want a ski getaway over the weekend. Due to its popularity, regular buses run between the towns, making it easy to navigate public transport that takes around 2 hours to get there. 

Even if your trip doesn’t fall in winter, you can still enjoy the tranquil mountain resort town to get closer to nature and away from the hustle and bustle of busy Krakow. 

If you want to avoid public transport or car driving, a few companies offer Zakopane day trips from Krakow . 

Did you know you can take a few day trips from Krakow to Slovakia? The Poland-Slovakia border is only 108 km from Krakow, taking around 2 hours to get there. 

Obviously, the best way to explore Slovakia would be by renting a car and self-driving; however, depending on where you want to go, some companies also offer day trips from Krakow to Slovakia and its sights closer to the Polish border. 

One such spot is the Slovakia Treetop Walk in the folk village of Ždiar. Since it’s close to Zakopane, many companies combine a Tatra Mountain resort town visit with the Treetop Walk in Slovakia . 

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21 Best Kraków Day Trips by Distance & Travel Time

Kraków, Poland, is an incredible city , and you can spend loads of time just exploring the city and all of the interesting — and delicious — things you’ll find there.

It’s also a great base for day trips. Access world heritage sites, national parks, and towns linked to the country’s World War II history. I’ve been twice now, and can’t wait to return to tick off even more fun to be had around this fantastic Polish city.

Check out 20 of the best Kraków day trips to plan for when you’re in this part of Poland so that you can say you saw the best this region has to offer.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links below may be affiliate links, including links through the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program . As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . At no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I won’t recommend something I have not used/would not use myself, and any income earned supports the upkeep of this site.

How many days in Kraków is enough?

Three days in Kraków is enough for an introduction to the city. Spend your first two days checking out the highlights around Kraków, like Kraków Old Town and Wawel Royal Castle, and dedicate one day to the best Kraków day tours.

What are the best day trips from Kraków?

The best day trips from Kraków are:

• Wieliczka Salt Mine
• Auschwitz-Birkenau
• Ojców National Park
• Niepołomice Forest
• Częstochowa

There are so many other wonders from Poland’s most popular base, especially if you want to get off the beaten path.

I’ll include specific information about each day trip highlighted as far as how to get there. Generally, you’ll be choosing from public transportation, a self-drive to the site you have in mind, or a guided tour.

If you do rent a car, book one through an aggregator like Hotwire  or  Priceline  to find the best deals. As with most things, planning ahead during high seasons (e.g. school holidays, summer) will always lead to cost-savings for you.

Interested in a map of all of the trips I’ll highlight here? Follow the Google link below:

GIMME MY MAP OF KRAKOW DAY TRIPS!

Distance:  13 kilometers (8 miles) Travel Time: 25-45 minutes

Tyniec is technically within Kraków’s city limits, but as it’s not on most tourist itineraries, I’m including it here as an off-the-beaten-path day trip. An essential stop once you’re here is the Benedictine abbey. The abbey was founded by King Casimir the Restorer, a Polish duke known for leading Poland through some turbulent times, in 1044.

Hours at the cliffside monastery vary throughout the year, so make sure to check out hours of operation before you plan a trip. Even if all you do is explore the grounds, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the Wisła, or Vistula, River while you’re there.

To get from Kraków to Tyniec, hop on bus 112 to get to within a half mile of the abbey. Arriving by bike is another popular option. It should only take you about 45 minutes at a leisurely pace. A taxi will get you there most efficiently.

Interested in a guided experience? Check out these tours:

2. Wieliczka Salt Mine

Distance:  14 kilometers (8.5 miles) Travel Time: 25-40 minutes

Wieliczka Salt Mine, or the Wieliczka Kopalnia Soli, is admittedly a little bit strange to start. On your tour of this UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll encounter various scenes of kings and queens and the like, all made out of salt . You may think it’s a little bit cheesy at first glance.

When you really think about it, though, this is one incredible place and a must-stop on holidays to Kraków.

The scenes you’ll see have been carved out of salt by both miners and contemporary artists, but the mine also served a practical purpose.

Fun fact: As one of the world’s oldest salt mines, Wieliczka was producing table salt until 2007.

Your visit will take you down 327 meters, or over 1,000 feet, into the mine. The highlight of any tour there is St. Kinga’s Chapel. That scene took 30 years to create. Impressive, right?

Can you do Auschwitz and salt mines in one day? You can do Auschwitz and salt mines in one day, but it really depends on your stamina. The two sites aren’t far from one another, but a visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau can be emotionally taxing.

I would recommend splitting the two up into separate day trips if both are on your list.

To get to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, take a train from Kraków Główny, the main station in Kraków’s city center, to the Wieliczka Rynek Kopalnia train station. Times are available on the  PKP website , but generally, trains leave every half hour. You’ll be about a 10-minute walk to the main entrance of the site once you’re there.

For bus riders, catch bus 304 from the main station to the Wieliczka Kopalnia Soli stop. Timetables are available on the  MPK website . You’ll be a five-minute walk away from the bus stop to the main entrance of the site once you’re there.

Wieliczka is only about a half hour’s drive from Kraków for those interested in a self-drive. Once you’re there, you’ll have three car parks to choose from, two on Dembowskiego Street and one on Danilowicza Street.

For those looking for a guided tour — that’s what I did with my mom! — see some highly-rated options below:

3. Ojców National Park

It’s the smallest national park in Poland, but don’t let that dissuade you from a visit to Ojców National Park . In addition to communing with nature, you’ll be near some fantastic historical sites, as well.

Start at the Pieskowa Skała Castle , a well-preserved 14th-century castle that is now a museum for visitors to peruse artifacts from the 15th to 19th centuries.

Fun fact: The castle is named after the cliffs that surround it. Those cliffs are made of limestone in the valley of the river Prądnik.

Nearby Ojców Castle is also worth a look, although it’s not as well-preserved as the above. Despite that, you’ll have some great views from the castle of the wooden homes that surround the site.

If you’re into caves, the Wierzchowska Górna Cave is just three miles away. It’s the largest in the region, and once held a trove of artifacts from the Neolithic period. They’ve since been uncovered in excavations.

How do I get to Ojców National Park from Kraków? You can get to Ojców National Park from Kraków by driving yourself there. Just be prepared to pay for parking upon arrival. If a self-drive sounds challenging, you can take a Unibus from the Nowy Kleparz stop to Kazimierz Castle. You won’t add much travel time on that route.

Interested in a guided tour of the area? Tours focus on trips to the region’s castles, but if you don’t mind missing out on some hiking, check out the options below:

4. Lanckorona

Distance:  38 kilometers (24 miles) Travel Time: 45 minutes

Lanckorona is known for its wooden architecture and tranquil ambiance that takes you back to a different time. Visits here are about leisure and taking in your surroundings in a traditional Polish village.

Stroll the cobbled streets, hit up a bakery or two, and see the ruins of an old castle. Pop into one of several ceramic shops near the main market square to get an idea of the local wares.

To get to Lanckorona from Kraków, drive yourself or take a scenic train ride to Kalwaria Zebrzydowska. From there, you can take a short bus ride or taxi into town.

As visits to Lanckoron likely won’t take you all day, this is an easy one to combine with Kalwaria Zebrzydowska, especially if you’re taking the train. You’re unlikely to find guided tours to this one but it’s small enough to explore on your own.

5. Kalwaria Zebrzydowska

Distance:  39 kilometers (24 miles) Travel Time: 45-55 minutes

Kalwaria Zebrzydowska is a popular addition to day trips to the village of Lanckorona described above and Wadowice, the birthplace of Pope John Paul II.

This town is known for its monastery and over 40 additional chapels and places of worship that make this such an important pilgrimage site for Polish Catholics.

If you’re here during Holy Week, the week leading up to Easter, expect large crowds and lots of competition for guided tours that include religious sites like Kalwaria Zebrzydowska. If Poles are serious about anything, it’s Catholicism and vodka.

To get to Kalwaria Zebrzydowska from Kraków, take a direct train, hire a car, or take one of the many guided tours that include all of the big religious sites within their itineraries.

For guided tours that include trips to Kalwaria Zebrzydowska, check out the options in my next Kraków day trip below.

6. Wadowice

Distance:  52 kilometers (32 miles) Travel Time: 1 hour-1 hour 15 minutes

Even if you know very little about Poland, you likely know that Pope John Paul II is a local celebrity in these parts.

The town of Wadowice, his birthplace, is then an important pilgrimage for Poles and travelers curious about the appeal. While you’re there, you can take a guided tour of the home, now a museum, where the future pontiff was born. Access information about guided tours and seasonal hours on the  museum’s website .

It isn’t all a papal visit, though. Wadowice is worth your time all on its own. Stroll the cobblestone streets and marvel at the architecture around you.

Once your hunger strikes, sample the pope’s favorite pastry, the kremówka, or Napoleonka, a layered puff pastry that really should make any Polish itinerary. The Kawiarna Mieszczańska serves up a classic.

To get to Wadowice from Kraków, you can take a bus from the main train station to get to Wadowice in just over an hour. Timetables are available on the  MPK website , but generally, buses leave every half hour. You’ll want to get off at Wadowice ul. Pilsudskiego, but you’ll know that when you get there.

Those interested in driving to Wadowice will also get there in a little over an hour. Once there, you’ll find several car parks around town.

For those looking for guided day tours, see some highly-rated options below:

7. Lipnica Murowana (1 hour 35 minutes)

Distance:  57 kilometers (35 miles) Travel Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Lipnica Murowana is a small village that gets its claim to fame as the closest stop to Kraków along the Wooden Architecture Route in the Malopołska region. The six different trails that together make up the route cover over 900 miles across Poland and Ukraine.

The draw here is the more than 250 wooden churches, chapels, cottages, and houses, all beautiful in their own right. Let’s start with St. Leonard’s Church in Lipnica Murowana.

This Gothic beauty dates back as far as 1143 if you believe what is inscribed into the church walls. Paintings and frescoes depict what you’d expect: the Crucifixion, the Last Judgement, and the Last Supper.

If you’re interested in more stops along the Wooden Architecture Route, there are eight wooden churches with UNESCO World Heritage Sites status, including St. Leonard’s Church, along that route.

The seven remaining UNESCO wooden churches are:

• St. Michael Archangel’s Church in Binarowa
• St. Michael Archangel’s Church in Dębno 
• Saints Philip and James Church in Sękowa
• St. Michael Archangel’s Church in Brunary
• St. Paraskevi Church in Kwiatoń
• Protection of Our Most Holy Lady Church in Owczary
• St. James Church in Powroźnik

You can get to Lipnica Murowana from Kraków by car or on a guided tour. A self-drive will allow you the most efficient access to both the village and any stops you’d like to make along the way. That’s what makes this one of the best Kraków day trips by car. There is no direct access via public transportation.

Guided tours are another option. Here are a few:

8. Niepołomice Forest

Distance:  58 kilometers (36 miles) Travel Time: 55 minutes

Niepołomice Forest, or Puszcza Niepołomicka, is your taste of wilderness just under an hour from the city. Explore where the buffalo still roam — OK, in this case, it’s European bison — in this forested landscape with a variety of winding hiking trails.

Just don’t expect to get too close. The beasts roam in a protected area of the park.

The trails are open for trekking, though. The five-mile red path is the most popular, as it takes you above the reserve and the bisons’ breeding ground. You can also walk the original Royal Road on the 8.7-mile green trail or pay your respects to locals killed during World War II along the 7.5-mile blue trail.

Most of the highlights are within an hour’s drive of the city center. The best way to get to Niepołomice Forest from Kraków is on a self-drive. You’ll be able to plan out your day and any hikes most efficiently that way.

Guided tours aren’t an option for the forest, but it’s small enough to explore on your own. If you’re relying on public transport on your Poland trip, Niepołomice, the town with the easiest access to the forest, is accessible on bus 301. From there, it’s just a 20-minute walk to the forest.

9. Ogrodzieniec Castle (1 hour 25 minutes)

Distance:  62 kilometers (39 miles) Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Ogrodzieniec Castle in the village of Podzamcze has had a bit of a tourism boost in recent years thanks to The Witcher and Henry Cavill’s leather pants. It was attacked by the Nilfgaardian army in the first season thanks to some Hollywood magic.

Fine. His pants had nothing to do with it, but they did have something to do with me agreeing to watch that confusing show in the first place.

In any case, if you time things right, you may come across some Medieval reenactments while you’re there. The ruins are a popular spot for live shows.

The castle is also part of the Trail of the Eagles’ Nests that runs between Kraków and Częstochowa. The trail is a popular route with castle-seekers, as you’ll get 25 medieval castles and watchtowers across about 100 miles of picturesque scenes, some in better shape than others. Olsztyn Castle is another popular stop, but I’ll get into that a little later.

You can travel from Kraków to Ogrodzieniec Castle by driving there from the city or joining a guided tour. Any public transportation options drop you far enough away from the ruins that you’ll still need to grab a cab for the last bit.

Guided tours are a popular option. Here are some good ones:

10. Auschwitz-Birkenau

Distance:  68 kilometers (42 miles) Travel Time: 1 hour 5 minutes-2 hours

I’ve written at length about this one and how meaningful a visit to Auschwitz can be.  Check out my guide to visiting the former Nazi concentration camp, along with reasons why you should tune out the noise about this day trip as anything other than a must-see while in Poland.

You’ll find additional information on that post on the cost of a visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau memorial and museum, guided tours, and how to get there on Kraków day trips to Auschwitz.

11. Katowice

Distance:  79 kilometers (49 miles) Travel Time: 50 minutes-1 hour 5 minutes

Katowice, the capital of the Silesia province, is known for its innovative architecture and impressive art scene. Start at the Silesian Museum , an expansive art museum with great views from the observation deck at the top. From there, explore quirky Nikiszowiec, once a self-contained city but now officially a part of Katowice.

Nikiszowiec began as a coal miners’ settlement, and you can still see evidence of that in the multi-family homes that housed the workers back in the day.

If you’re aching for some green space, head to Kościuszko Park. Find the Church of St. Michael Archangel while you’re there. The wooden church is one of the oldest structures in Katowice, on top of just being lovely.

To get to Katowice from Kraków, you can take a direct train from Kraków Główny to the stop near the Silesian Museum. You can also take a bus to the city center in town.

Interested in a guided experience? Here are some options:

Distance:  85 kilometers (53 miles) Travel Time: 45 minutes-1 hour 15 minutes

Tarnów is worth visiting for its well-preserved historic center alone. It feels almost like a miniature Kraków here, just without the throngs of people you’re likely looking to escape in your day trips from the city.

Visit an Old Town that hasn’t changed since the 14th century, lined with Renaissance-style buildings. It’s this whimsical scene that has earned Tarnów the nickname the “Pearl of the Renaissance.”

Seek out somber reminders of the town’s history as a Jewish center in Poland. The Jewish Quarter is home to an old building that used to operate as a mikvah, or Jewish ritual bathhouse. If you’re missing out on Polish craft breweries in this list, you can grab a pint here in Tarnów at Trzech Kumpli.

You can get from Kraków to Tarnów easily via train or bus. The train will get you there faster than the bus and even if you drove yourself. Grab a PKP Intercity train from Kraków Główny and head directly to Tarnów for a breezy train ride.

Guided tours are limited in Tarnów, but that’s because the town is so easily explored on self-guided tours.

13. Bielsko-Biała

Distance:  97 kilometers (60 miles) Travel Time: 1 hour 45 minutes-2 hours 30 minutes

Bielsko-Biała is firmly off the beaten path when it comes to day trips from Kraków, Poland, but that only means you won’t have to share this little Vienna with many other tourists.

Note: I didn’t make that Vienna bit up, by the way. The town has been compared to a miniature version of the Austrian city thanks to its architecture and familiar Old Town.

Wander along the Biała river, admire all of that Viennese influence, and check out the museum in the old Sułkowski Castle on Chrobry Square. The museum building, built in the 14th century by local aristocrats at the time, is impressive all on its own. Once inside, you’ll find galleries dedicated to Polish artists and the town’s textile past.

To get to Bielsko-Biała from Kraków, take a bus, hire a car, or drive yourself. If you’re all for public transportation, make sure to check timetables ahead of your travel. Most of the operators only leave every other hour to Bielsko-Biała.

If you love long train rides, you can also catch a train to Bielsko-Biała. You’ll need to connect in Katowice and set aside at least two-and-a-half hours for the trip.

You won’t find many guided excursions in this town. You’ll just need to choose your own adventure.

14. Zakopane

Distance:  109 kilometers (68 miles) Travel Time: 2 hours-2 hours 30 minutes

A Zakopane day trip from Kraków is often a priority for travelers to Poland. If you’re able to linger, this town in the Tatras Mountains certainly deserves more of your time, especially if you’re a winter sports enthusiast or here for some epic hiking.

Zakopane is a popular destination no matter the season. In the summer months, it’s popular for those looking for some fresh air, with hiking trails galore. In the winter, it’s all about ski season.

It’s also the base for exploration of Tatra National Park . A popular trail in the park leads you to the Morskie Oko, the largest lake in the Tatra Mountains. Keep in mind that despite its length — budget at least two hours of hiking time — this is a very popular hike. Starting early will give you the best experience.

Note: If you’re unable to hike, there is also the option of a horse-drawn carriage up to the lake, as well. Keep reading for tips on getting to the park, as you’ll still need to get to the base of the trail for this option.

If you’re staying in town, you can still have yourself a fine adventure.

Peruse the tchotchke shops on Krupówki Street, ride the cable car — or hike if you’re ambitious — to the lookouts of Gubałówka Mountain, and admire the architecture on Kościeliska Street, the oldest street in town.

Don’t forget to try some oscypek, a smoked cheese made of sheep’s milk that’s only produced in this region of Poland. It’s savory and delicious and tastes like my childhood.

To get to Zakopane from Kraków, driving yourself is best. Zakopane day trips from Kraków are about a two-hour drive from Kraków. Car parks are available throughout town, including on the popular Krupówki Street.

There is a train that will get you there from Kraków Glówny, too, but the journey approaches three hours long depending on the route. That’s definitely pushing it on a day trip. If you’re visiting for a longer stay, it could make for a more scenic option.

Interested in day tours? Here are my highly-rated picks:

15. Pieniny National Park

Distance:  113 kilometers (70 miles) Travel Time: 2 hours

If the city hasn’t been as picturesque as you’d like, visit Pieniny National Park, or Pieniński Park Narodowy, and the Dunajec River Gorge.

It’s a no-brainer for those looking for something a bit more unique, as well, thanks to opportunities for traditional wooden raft trips down the river.

Cyclists will love the available bike paths through the river gorge and the national park. You’ll see views of the cliffs and vegetation on your ride, which is even better when it’s time for fall colors. The park extends into Slovakia if you’re interested in seeing the other side.

You can get to the Dunajec River Gorge from Kraków by driving yourself there or booking a guided tour.

Driving to the Dunajec River Gorge will offer the most flexibility. I wouldn’t recommend public transportation for this one.

I’m all about budget-friendly travel, but traveling via train could take up to four hours with the train switching involved. Any buses that could get you close would involve a taxi to get the rest of your way.

Guided tours are popular in this region of the country, as many include rafting trips on the river. I’d recommend this as the route to go over public transport due to time savings. For those interested in the guided tour, see some highly-rated options below:

16. Niedzica Castle

While you’re exploring the Dunajec River Gorge, it’s easy to tack on a visit to the Niedzica Castle Museum . The interior exhibits are interesting enough, but it’s a great spot to take in the views of the surrounding river gorge. The spot is so picturesque that it’s been the inspiration for both fairytales and gothic novels.

The castle, also known as Dunajec Castle, has been on this site since at least 1326. It was built by Kokos of Brezovica, a Hungarian aristocrat, after which it exchanged hands for the decades that followed. I imagine this often happens with castles.

The Polish Ministry of Culture fixed up the place by the 1960s to make the museum space more destination-worthy, but the views here are worth a trip alone.

Follow my instructions for travel to the Dunajec River Gorge if you’re wondering how to get to the castle. Tours are limited out this way, but some companies promote the possiblity of castle views with their rafting trips in the gorge.

Distance:  117 kilometers (73 miles) Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes-1 hour 45 minutes

This small village in southern Poland is surrounded by forests and views of the Świętokrzyskie Mountains, the oldest range in Poland. If the mountains have been calling you, access them at Świętokrzyski National Park, home to plentiful hiking, and biking trails.

The Kadzielnia Nature Reserve is even closer to town if you’re interested in hikes to limestone quarries.

If you’d rather stick to the city, don’t miss Castle Hill and its Palace of the Kraków Bishops and the UFO-shaped bus station. It’s fully functional and unmistakably UFO-like.

A visit to any Polish town wouldn’t be complete without a trip to a market square. The square in Kielce has been here since the 14th century, narrowly surviving a fire in 1800. You can see evidence of that blaze in the middle of the square where the old town hall used to be.

You can travel from Kraków to Kielce by train. PKP Intercity trains into town leave Kraków Główny hourly. Driving yourself or hiring a car is another option, but the train actually saves you 10-15 minutes of travel time. That’s what makes this one of the best train trips from Kraków.

Kielce is compact enough to explore on your own. You won’t find many guided tours here.

18. Częstochowa

Distance:  148 kilometers (92 miles) Travel Time: 1 hour 35 minutes-2 hours

Częstochowa is a popular pilgrimage-type day trip for the Catholic faithful. The highlight is Jasna Góra Monastery, dedicated to the Virgin Mary and Our Lady of Częstochowa. You may know her as the “Black Madonna.”

She goes by that moniker because of the color of her skin, but it got that way because of a fire in the shrine rather than a reflection of a Middle Eastern complexion.

In any case, the image is credited with all kinds of miracles, a reason why so many tourists flock here to pay their respects.

While you’re in Częstochowa, you’ll have easy access to Olsztyn Castle and the Trail of the Eagles’ Nests. You’ll only see ruins of the defensive walls today, but it isn’t hard to imagine how imposing the site was when it came onto the scene in the 14th century.

It takes a little over two hours to get from Kraków to Częstochowa if you drive yourself. The TLK train from Kraków Główny is faster at about an hour and 40 minutes.

For a guided tour to Częstochowa, check out these options:

19. Cieszyn

Distance:  152 kilometers (94 miles) Travel Time: 2 hours 10 minutes-2 hours 40 minutes

Country hoppers may like the idea of this one. You’ll be on the border of the Czech Republic in this scenic town, a reason why the town is a popular stop for travelers going from Prague to Kraków or vice versa.

In fact, the borders are so loose here you may not realize you’re having a Czech beer until you’re done with that Czech beer.

Highlights in Cieszyn include the Polish ruins of Castle Hill, or Góra Zamkowa, including the Piastowska Tower, also known as the Piast tower in Cieszyn. The Old Market Square is also worth a visit before you cross over to the Czech side. No, seriously. It’s that easy.

The ways to get from Kraków to Cieszyn include bus, train, or self-drive. Driving there cuts off about half an hour from your trip. The bus is the second fastest, while the train isn’t recommended here. Due to the stops involved, it would take over four hours to get to Cieszyn by train.

Cieszyn is small enough to explore on your own, so you won’t find many options for guided tours here. That only makes day trips here more exciting if you ask me.

20. Rzeszów

Distance:  168 kilometers (104 miles) Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes-1 hour 45 minutes

Tourists don’t often prioritize Rzeszów because it may feel just like another big Polish city. Dig a little deeper and you’ll find quite a bit to fill a full day from Kraków.

Start with the impressive Main Square, complete with a statue in honor of national hero Tadeusz Kosciuszko and tunnels underneath. Finish with a monument worth the trip alone.

The 1974 Revolutionary Act Monument is known for its leaf-shaped design, and locals either love it or hate it. Is it more like donkey ears? Maybe you see something else entirely? In any case, it represents the sacrifices made in battles in and around Rzeszów.

Rzeszów is also a great base for Łańcut Castle, about 20 minutes east of the city. If you’d like to add that to your trip, a hired guide or self-drive is best for efficiency’s sake. Don’t miss the collection of carriages inside.

There is a direct bus between Kraków and Rzeszów that picks up from the MDA Bus Station. That bus will get you into town in a little over two hours. A direct train from Kraków Główny or a car ride will get you there a little faster.

If you’d like to arrange for a car hire to Rzeszów, here are a few options:

Distance:  294 kilometers (183 miles) Travel Time: 2 hours 5 minutes-3 hours 20 minutes

Can you do a day trip from Kraków to Warsaw? You can do a day trip from Kraków to Warsaw, but it’s pushing it in terms of the best use of your time. It’s just over two hours if you take the high-speed train, but a cursory visit to the city may not be as impressive as more time spent in Warsaw .

I’m not even one to judge you based on what you should do with your time, but Warsaw is simply one of those places that take some time to warm up to.

I’d hate for you to choose this one just because you’re ticking things off a list and hate your visit because you missed out on some of the charm in Poland’s capital city.

With limited time, visit the reconstructed Old Town and stroll Castle Square, or Plac Zamkowy. The Warsaw Rising Museum is fantastic, but budget at least a few hours to make a visit worth it.

If you’re making this trip happen despite my warnings, there is a high-speed from Kraków to Warsaw. You can get there in as little as 2 hours and 5 minutes on that journey. I wouldn’t recommend driving yourself unless you’re staying overnight. A self-drive would take you well over three hours.

Here are a few guided options if that all sounds like a lot of work:

Kraków Day Trips: FAQs

What day trips from kraków are good for avoiding crowds.

Day trips from Kraków that are good for avoiding crowds include smaller towns like Lanckorona and Kalwaria Zebrzydowska or natural wonders like Ojców National Park.

What are the best day trips from Kraków by train?

The best day trips from Kraków by train include Wileczka Salt Mine, Katowice, and Tarnów. Kraków’s main train station is well-connected to the rest of the country for longer train journeys, too, so you’ll be spoiled for choice when deciding where to go from Kraków by train.

What are the options for a family-friendly day trip from Kraków?

Options for a family-friendly day trip from Kraków include Wieliczka Salt Mine, Ojców National Park, and Zakopane, especially if you’re a family of winter sports enthusiasts .

What are the best places to visit near Kraków?

The best places to visit near Kraków are Wieliczka Salt Mine, the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, and Zakopane.

That said, what you enjoy on a day trip may differ from what I like, which is a mix of history and nature. For a breezy day trip with little to do but admire Old World charm, Lanckorona may be more up your alley.

The best day trips Kraków has to offer have something for every type of traveler.

With more time, you can plan weekend trips from Kraków to a variety of places further afield. Wrocław, Sandomierz, Babia Góra National Park at the southern end of the country would all make fantastic multi-day excursions. I know I’d love to spend quite a bit more time in my Motherland in the coming years!

Ready for Excursions from Kraków?

Your Flight: I use a variety of tools to find cheap airfare, but if you’re looking to book during a particular period of time, especially during busy times (e.g. school breaks), you should use Skyscanner .

It’s a great tool for when you’re more flexible, too, as it allows you to compare travel based on length of travel, departure date, etc.

There are infrequent deals from the United States and throughout Europe to Warsaw and Kraków, Poland’s main transportation hubs. It’s then not a bad idea to follow airlines on social media that fly there, like the major American carriers or LOT Polish Airlines .

For adventurous folks who travel on the reg, I also subscribe to  Going , formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights. You’ll get cheap flight deals from your home base straight to your inbox. 

Your Accommodations: For highly-rated accommodations in Kraków, check out my guide to the best hotels in Kraków. We generally use Booking.com for trips to Europe for the cheapest rates with Hotels.com as a comparison tool. My favorite Airbnb alternative these days is Vrbo .

Seeking even more wallet-friendly accommodations? Try  Hostelworld . Their picks are heavily vetted and reviewed to offer you a safe experience on a budget.

Etc.: For general travel goodies, visit my Favorite Things page. For more information on planning your travel more generally, visit my Travel Tools page.

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Agnes Groonwald

10 thoughts on “21 Best Kraków Day Trips by Distance & Travel Time”

I would love to go to Poland one day and see all these different areas of the country :) Great photos and ideas!

Krakow seems like a great place to base yourself for day trips to interesting places.

You just made me discover such interesting places! I really want to visit Auschwitz once in my life and the view in Zakopane looks fantastic!

Both are very special, in different ways. Hope you’re able to get out there once we’re able to travel!

I still haven’t been to Poland but this makes it that much higher on my list!! Great tips, thank you so much :)

It’s such a friendly place, too. Can’t wait to go back myself!

I need to visit Krakow ASAP when we can travel again the Zakopane day trip looks epic!

The mountains are gorgeous! Soooo much to see. :)

This all sounds so great. We have studied the Wieliczka Salt Mine extensively and would love to visit one day. We did not make it to the concentration camps while in Germany, but maybe I should heed your advice and give them a try.

I’d love to hear more about this. What did you study it for? It’s a very interesting place!

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The EPIC 2 Days In Krakow Itinerary: Best Of Krakow

Not sure what to do in Krakow in 2 days?

Unlike the capital of Poland (Warsaw) which was nearly obliterated during World War II, Krakow did not suffer the same fate due to a timely surrender. Consequently, over a thousand years of history in Krakow is well-preserved , offering visitors a unique but overwhelming experience.

Kazimierz, Krakow Old Town, Wawel Castle, Vistula River, Krakow’s numerous attractions might intimidate visitors at first , especially if they have only two days in Krakow. That is why we have written this 2 days in Krakow itinerary to help you plan your trip to Krakow!

Planning A Trip To Krakow Last Minute?

Make sure you book your tours, places to stay, and airport transfers ahead of time to ensure availability!

Our recommended airport transfer in Krakow:

• Electric Car Transfer between Krakow and the Airport (SUPER cheap!)

Our recommended tours in Krakow :

• Auschwitz-Birkenau Tour with Pickup & Lunch Options (Must-do!)
• Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour (SUPER unique experience!!)
• Zakopane and Thermal Springs Tour with Hotel Pickup (Best day trip from Krakow!)

Our recommended places to stay in Krakow:

• Hotel Wawel Queen (Luxurious and affordable!)
• Hotel Estera (Amazing value-for-money!)
• Mundo Hostel (Our favorite hostel in Krakow!!)

How Many Days In Krakow Is Enough?

If you are planning a trip to Krakow, you must wonder how many days to spend in Krakow. After all, this is a city that was once the royal capital of Poland. Its historic center (Old Town) of Krakow has over a thousand years of history and it is one of the  first UNESCO Heritage Sites in the world .

So is two days in Krakow enough? Most likely, yes.

While there are many amazing things to do in Krakow, they are all located in or next to Old Town Krakow. If you are staying in Krakow Old Town (or even just right outside it), you will be able to walk to the furthest attraction in Krakow in just 20 minutes. Krakow is an extremely walkable city!

Though it is possible to spend 2 days in Krakow and see all the majority of the attractions, you might want to spend more time in Krakow if you prefer a slower pace of travel. If you have the choice, we recommend you to 3 or 4 days in Krakow to really get a feel of this historic city.

Because we are the type of travelers that like to sit in the park and people-watch and catch sunsets next to a river, we spent about 5 days sightseeing in Krakow. We really enjoyed this quaint little city and recommend anyone to spend a bit more time in Krakow if possible.

If you need help determining how much time to stay in Krakow, check out our full guide here !

How To Get To Krakow Old Town

If you have a short visit to Krakow, you will probably arrive at  John Paul II Kraków-Balice International Airport , Krakow’s international airport. From here there are many ways to get to the historic center of Krakow, or sometimes referred to as Krakow City Center.

Train From Krakow-Balice International Airport To Krakow Old Town

The best way to get from Krakow Airport to the city center (Old Town Krakow) is via train. Visitors can find trains departing every hour from Krakow Lotnisko (Krakow Airport Train Station) to Krakow Glowny (Krakow Main Station).

The journey takes about 20 minutes and costs 12 PLN (at the time of writing). The first train departs at 5:18 AM and the last one departs at 12:27 AM (at the time of writing).

You can buy the train tickets in a machine before you board (cash/credit card), on the train in a machine (cash/credit), or with the conductor (cash only). Make sure you purchase your ticket ASAP once you board or you might get fined!

Double-check with the  official train schedule site here  for up-to-date information!

Bus From Krakow-Balice International Airport To Krakow Old Town

If you are traveling to Krakow on a budget, there are two buses that depart from Krakow International Airport to the historic center.

These buses take around 50 minutes to get from Krakow’s airport to Krakow Glowny (Krakow Main Station) and the duration can vary dramatically depending on the time of the day, especially during rush hour. The fare is 4 PLN at the time of writing.

Get the  Krakow City Pass  for free rides on buses and trams in Krakow as well as free admission to over 40 Krakow museums!

The two buses that run from Krakow-Balice Airport to Krakow Glowny Wschod are:

• Bus number 208
• Bus number 902

These buses take the exact same route and both end at the Krakow main station next to Krakow Old Town, so you don’t have to worry about missing your stop. The only difference is that 208 runs in the daytime and 902 runs at night.

If you are arriving in Krakow at 3 AM at night, though there won’t be any trains, you will still have buses to take you to the city center.

Buses To Krakow

If you are traveling on land to arrive at Krakow, then you have plenty of bus companies to choose from. We highly recommend  FlixBus , a reputable company with an easy user interface. Each bus is equipped with a toilet and free WiFi. Their timeliness, affordability, and comfort are unmatched.

If you are not short on time, you could arrive at a cheaper airport in Poland like Warsaw Airport, spend  one day in Warsaw  exploring, and then take the bus to Krakow. The bus will arrive at Krakow Glowny, so you are a short walk away from Krakow Old Town!

Traveling to Krakow with family or a group of friends?  Check out this easy private transport from Krakow Airport to the city center!

Things To Do In Krakow In 2 Days

Our itinerary for Krakow is designed so that you minimize your commute time and maximize the number of attractions you can visit. It is not the only way to go about your trip, but we highly recommend you to follow this step-by-step.

Day 1: Krakow Old Town, Wawel Castle, Kazimierz (Jewish Historic Quarter)

1. join a krakow free walking tour (2.5 hours).

If you only have two days in Krakow, then joining a tour is a must . Tours are a great way to get lots of information in a short period of time, and they are led by local professionals who have tons of knowledge.

At LivingOutLau, we want to give you the best value for your money. That is why we highly recommend the free walking tours in Krakow.

Run by local professionals, the tour guides earn their living by the tips that they get at the end of the tour. As a result, each tour guide puts the best of his or her ability to ensure the participants leave with newfound knowledge.

The tour company we suggest is called  Walkative! Free Walking Tour .

Having participated in their free walking tours in Krakow and Warsaw, we were extremely pleased and would recommend this walking tour company to anyone.

At the end of the tour, the tour guide gives you a small cheat sheet to Krakow. The cheat sheet features some of Krakow’s best attractions such as restaurants, bars, nightclubs, museums, and other tourist activities!

This 2.5-hour Krakow free walking tour will cover the basics of Krakow, from its thousand years of history to the historical buildings that have withstood the test of time. Visitors will learn about the medical city walls, check out the Main Market Square with St. Mary’s Church and the Cloth Hall, learn about Wawel Castle, and much more!

The best thing is that this is all free! If you did not enjoy the free walking tour, you don’t have to tip a single penny!

Don’t like that much walking?  Check out this guided cycling tour  or  segway tour  instead!

2. Try Authentic Polish Cuisine

After your long free walking tour in the morning, you must be hungry for some lunch. Luckily, as one of the most-visited Polish cities, Krakow is inundated with delicious traditional Polish restaurants .

✅ Pro Tip: If your budget allows, we recommend you go on a  Krakow food tour.  It is the best way to sample some of the most popular local dishes and learn how they are made.

There are many Polish dishes that you must try when visiting Krakow, such as

• Pierogi (Polish dumplings)
• Bigos (Hunter’s Stew)
• Zurek (classic Polish sour rye soup) , our personal favorite.

Pierogies are something that we didn’t quite fancy at first, but they quickly grew on us as we spent more time in Poland. Known as Polish dumplings, it is not quite what we imagined them to be.

Unlike the Asian variance where the inside filling is usually meat and vegetable, pierogies usually have potatoes, cheese, or sweet berries inside. It is a dish that can be both a starter, a main course, or a dessert, depending on what you decide to stuff it with.

We aren’t a big fan of the potato ones, but the cheese ones are nice. Surprisingly, the sweet pierogies are our favorite type of pierogies!

Bigos, or Hunter’s Stew in English, is the national dish of Poland and it did not disappoint. It is exactly what we thought Polish cuisine was (before visiting Poland ) – lots of meat, bold flavors, and hearty.

Made of various chopped meat stewed with sauerkraut and shredded fresh cabbage, Bigos is the perfect dish for meat-lovers .

Though Bigos is one of our favorite Polish dishes, it certainly isn’t No. 1. The number 1 spot unwaveringly goes to zurek.

A soup made from the fermentation of bread and rye flour, it has a unique taste that we have never tasted anywhere else before. Various meats such as sausages, ham, bacon are cooked with the soup. Sometimes, you will even find vegetables such as potatoes and mushrooms.

Its savory and slightly sour taste makes zurek a great appetizer. Travelers might find zurek in a traditional bread bowl as well, and depending on which and how much ingredient is inside, zurek can certainly be the main part of a meal.

If you are looking for a nice Polish restaurant in Krakow, we would recommend  Pod Aniołami Restaurant . Its charming decor and great selection of meat are perfect for meat lovers. They also serve some of the best pierogies in Krakow!

If you want a pierogi-specialty restaurant, check out  Pierogarnia Krakowiacy  on the upper west side of the Old Town. Its wide selection of pierogies is perfect for anyone giving them a try for the first time.

Lastly, check out  Kuchnia U Babci Maliny , our favorite restaurant in Krakow. Its quirky and homey decor combined with affordable, delicious, and big-portioned food is irresistible! It is the perfect place to try some grandma’s cooking!

3. Explore Wawel Castle and Wawel Cathedral

Located on the southern tip of Krakow Old Town is Wawel Hill, home to the biggest attraction in Krakow – Wawel Castle and Wawel Cathedral .

Considered the most culturally and historically important site in Poland, the Wawel Castle (sometimes referred to as Wawel Royal Castle) is a must on any Krakow itinerary. The Wawel Castle and the historical buildings on Wawel Hill are some of the first established UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world.

Once the royal residence of the kings of Poland and the symbol of Polish statehood , Wawel Castle is now one of the country’s finest museums .

It is said that the castle dates back to the 970 A.D., and the earliest examples of Romanesque and Gothic architecture do hint at that time period. In fact, Wawel Castle represents all European architectural styles of the medieval, renaissance, and baroque periods!

It is a historic landmark in Krakow that has withstood the test of time.

The Wawel Castle grounds are free to enter , perfect for anyone traveling in Krakow on a budget. Don’t miss out the arcaded Wawel Castle Courtyard , a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture., which is also free to enter.

Inside the architectural complex where the Wawel Castle resides, visitors will also find numerous other buildings of significance, such as the Wawel Cathedral.

Also known as  The Royal Archcathedral Basilica of Saints Stanislaus and Wenceslaus , Wawel Cathedral is the Polish national sanctuary and coronation site of Polish monarchs for over 900 years.

The main part of the Wawel Cathedral is free to enter, but a ticket is required for the Royal Tombs, Cathedral Museum, and Sigismund Bell Tower .

At the time of writing, the admission cost to these additional parts of the Wawel Cathedral cost 14 PLN. The Sigismund Bell Tower alone is worth the small entrance fee as visitors can see one of the largest church bell systems in Poland. It takes 12 bellringers to swing the 30-ton bell!

At the top of the Sigismund Bell Tower, visitors are also blessed with gorgeous views of Krakow Old Town and the Vistula River.

✅ Pro Tip: If you are visiting during peak season (summer) or on the weekend, we suggest you reserve your Wawel Cathedral ticket online  and save the headache of waiting in the queue. It even comes with a guided tour!

Check the official opening hours  of Wawel Castle, Wawel Cathedral, and the extra exhibits before your visit. Depending on the day of the week, the open hours vary drastically. For example, the Cathedral Museum is closed on Sundays!

Can’t get enough of Wawel Castle? Besides the stunning castle grounds, jaw-dropping courtyard, and the Wawel Cathedral, there are multiple museums in Wawel Hill .

These include the State Rooms, Crown Treasury and Armoury, Art of the Orient. Ottoman Turkish Tents, The Lost Wawel, The Church of St. Gereon, Wawel Recovered, Sandomierska Tower, and more! 

Before you leave Wawel Castle, make sure you don’t miss the Wawel Dragon next to the Vistula River. A famous dragon in Polish folklore, the Wawel Dragon statue breathes out fire every 5 to 10 minutes!

4. Visit Kazimierz, The Historic Jewish Quarter

The Kazimierz neighborhood in Krakow is one that is filled with tragic stories. During World War II, all Polish Jews were transported to Kazimierz, the Jewish ghetto , before getting sent off to the death concentration camps.

As a result, many of the houses were left empty. Eventually, poor and homeless people took advantage of this and moved in, often bringing crime-related activities with them. Kazimierz was considered one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Krakow.

Nowadays, that reputation no longer exists. Kazimierz is dotted with trendy coffee shops, boutiques, synagogues, and some of the best nightlife in Krakow . Its hipster and vibrant community is quite different than that of the Old Town.

There are some notable attractions in Kazimierz that you should visit, such as the Church of Corpus Christi, the Galicia Jewish Museum, and the Old Synagogue. Of course, don’t forget to try out a Zapiekanka, or Polish Pizza, from one of the cafes! 

5. Finish Your Day In Krakow Old Town

Finish off your day exploring  UNESCO World Heritage Krakow Old Town , arguably the most famous sightseeing spot in Krakow. Your morning free walking tour will briefly touch upon the Old Town, but there are many places you have yet to see.

Take this time to explore St. Mary’s Basilica and its exemplary Polish gothic architecture . With foundations dating back to the 13th century, it is one of the oldest landmarks in Krakow! Though the exterior of the church is spectacular, the interior is where the money is at!

Its ornate decor, drop-dead gorgeous stained glasses, and immaculate details in every corner will leave you awestruck. It is certainly one of the most beautiful places in Poland!

Visitors can also climb the bugle tower, where a trumpeter performs the trump call every hour on the hour. This trumpet call was traditionally used to warn against foreign invasion. The call ends abruptly every time to honor the moment the bugler was shot by an arrow in the Mongol invasion.

Don’t forget to take some time and admire the epic views of Krakow Main Square from the tower. If you are following this Krakow itinerary, make sure you don’t miss it before it closes. The St. Mary’s Basilica is usually open until 6 PM daily, but its opening times are known to change.

Refer to the  St. Mary’s Basilica official site  for information on how to visit the Bugle Tower, Bell Tower, and up-to-date opening hours!

Spend some time wandering around the Main Square (Rynek Glowny), the largest medieval town square in Europe . Dating back to the 13th century, the Main Square is dotted with gorgeous historical buildings and glimpses of the past.

The horse carriages in the square are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Krakow, though a bit controversial. Nevertheless, their majestic presence adds to the overall ambiance of the main square.

There are a few streets that exemplify the glory of Krakow Old Town, such as  Grodzka  and  Florianska . Don’t miss those charming streets on your Krakow trip!

Last but not least, spend your night enjoying some of the best nightlife in Krakow . Krakow’s nightlife is some of the best in the world and is often compared to that of Prague. The only difference is the nightlife in Krakow is much more affordable (and Polish vodka is slightly better than Absinthe).

Traveling alone? Or want to find a nice group to go out with?  Check out this pub and club crawl!

Day 2: Day Trip To Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial And Museum

No Krakow itinerary is complete without a visit to the solemn Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum . As the largest German Nazi concentration camp and extermination center in World War II, over 1.1 million men, women, and children lost their lives there.

A visit to this  UNESCO World Heritage Site  reminds us of the destruction of mankind if left unchecked. It shows us what happens when we dehumanize another ethnic group.

Visitors can learn about the Holocaust, the largest genocide in the world , through the exhibits and historic buildings at Auschwitz-Birkenau.

Your day trip to Auschwitz will last about 7 hours, with around 3 hours for transit (there and back) and 4 hours in the museum. There are two parts to your Auschwitz visit, the first one at the Auschwitz 1 concentration camp and the second one at Birkenau.

No matter what you do, don’t skip out on this famous Polish site!

How To Visit Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial And Museum From Krakow (Independently)

Because Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum is located a 1.5-hour drive away from Krakow, you need to properly plan your day trip to Auschwitz, especially if you don’t plan on taking a tour from Krakow.

When it comes to public transportation, you have the option of bus or train. Buses are cheaper than trains but tend to be a bit slower, taking about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Depending on the bus company, you might even be dropped off far from the actual museum, because the buses tend to drop you off at the Oswiecim train station or bus station. We recommend taking  Lajkonik buses , because they drop you off in front of the Auschwitz Museum.

Trains take around 1 hour and 15 minutes to get from Krakow to Oswiecim, the town where the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum is located. From there, it is a 20-minute walk to the museum.

If you decided to DIY your Auschwitz visit, make sure you purchase a ticket well in advance. Visitors are allowed to enter without a guide (at certain hours of the day) for free, but a guide is essential to learning about the tragic events that happened at Auschwitz.

Make sure you reserve your ticket well in advance (and tour guide) if you plan on visiting Auschwitz on your own. You can do so on the  official Auschwitz-Birkenau website here . If you do not make a reservation in advance (and you are lucky), you can join a tour that isn’t full yet, but that rarely happens.

Getting an Auschwitz Guided Tour (From Krakow)

Because arranging your own visit to Auschwitz is a huge headache , we highly recommend you to get a tour before you arrive . Not only are Auschwitz tours cheap , but they provide you with transportation, tickets to Auschwitz, and a professional guide .

There are many small tour companies in Krakow that will offer tours to Auschwitz. However, with your short stay in Krakow, it is going to be difficult to find an Auschwitz tour for the next day, especially in the language you prefer.

That is why we HIGHLY recommend you to book your Auschwitz tour prior to arriving in Krakow.

More Time? Add These Attractions To Your Krakow Itinerary

1. stroll around krakow planty & check out the barbican of krakow.

If you spend a lot of time in Krakow Old Town, you might find it a little too overbearing. Luckily, surrounding Krakow Old Town is a beautiful park known as Krakow Planty.

Krakow Planty is the perfect place to just relax. Sit on one of the benches, sip on your cup of coffee, have yummy ice cream, people-watch, or just admire the beautiful scenery (especially during autumn).

Krakow Planty is the home to the Barbican of Krakow , a defense gateway from the 1490s that was part of the medieval city’s wall. It is now part of Krakow’s Historical Museum.

2. Visit the Rynek Underground Museum (1.5 Hours)

If the free walking tour of Krakow only sparked your interest in the history of Krakow, head over to the Rynek Underground Museum located in the main square of Krakow Old Town.

Located underneath the surface of the bustling Main Square of Krakow Old Town, Rynek Underground Museum is one of the best hidden gems in Krakow.

Visitors will find artifacts that were discovered during the excavation of the historic center and exhibits detailing the rich history of Krakow. Through multimedia presentations such as architectural holograms, AR technology, archeological games, and projections, the museum keeps it interactive for everyone in the family!

Because this museum closes late at 7 PM or 8 PM (except on Tuesdays), it is a good activity after your visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau. However, admission is free on Tuesdays.

3. Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory

The Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory is a former metal item factory and now houses a permanent exhibition called “Krakow Under Nazi Occupation 1939-1945”. Here visitors will learn about the tragedy that was brought upon the Polish citizens.

The museum is dedicated to Oskar Schindler , a German entrepreneur and member of the Nazi party. He is credited with saving about 1,200 Jews by employing them to work in his factory (instead of getting sent to concentration and death camps).

This museum is worth it (and free on Mondays) if you want to learn more about the Nazi’s occupation and the Jews. It is a great place to visit in Krakow if you have more time.

4. Wieliczka Salt Mine

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is a  UNESCO World Heritage Site  dating back to the 13th century. It earned its title by being one of the oldest operating salt mines in the world . The Wieliczka Salt Mine illustrates the historic development of salt mining techniques.

Discontinued in 2007, the Wieliczka Salt Mine is now an official Polish Historic Monument. Visitors can visit up to a maximum depth of 135 meters below ground, where there is a saline lake, chapels, and statues.

Wieliczka Salt Mine is located about 30 minutes away from Krakow by car. If you are spending 3 days or more in Krakow, you can visit it on one of your extra days.

5. Town Hall Tower

Town Hall Tower is another landmark situated in the main square of Krakow’s Old Town. Though it is technically considered a museum, there is very little information, especially when compared to the other ones we’ve highlighted on our Krakow itinerary.

Most travelers visit the Town Hall Tower for the spectacular views from the top of the tower. Visitors can look out a glass window after climbing over 110 steep steps and have excellent views of the Old Town.

There is a small entrance fee for the Town Hall Tower, which might not appeal to budget travelers.

Where To Stay In Krakow, Poland

Since most of the Krakow attractions are located in Krakow Old Town or Kazimierz, it is recommended to stay in one of those areas to maximize your time.

If you want more options on where to stay in Krakow, make sure you check out our  Krakow accommodation guide !

Best Hostel In Krakow –  One World Hostel

One World Hostel in Krakow is one of our favorite hostels in Krakow. Spanning a total of two floors in a historical building, One World Hostel has both dormitory-style rooms and private rooms.

The dormitory rooms are spacious and each guest is provided his or her own locker, so security and comfort are not an issue here. Its most outstanding feature is the complimentary breakfast. Unlike most hostels that only serve toast on bread, the breakfast at One World Hostel is diverse and delicious.

Guests can have eggs, cold-cut meats, cereal, and much more to prepare for their day in Krakow!

Best Hotel In Krakow –  Hotel Unicus Palace

Hotel Unicus Palace is a 5-star hotel located in Old Town Krakow. Within a 4-minute walk are some of the best attractions in Krakow, such as the main square, St. Mary’s Basilica, and the Cloth Wall. The lush Krakow Planty is only located 1.5-block away, giving guests the perfect serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the Old Town.

However, you might not need to visit Krakow Planty for your daily escape, because this luxury hotel in Krakow will offer you comfort beyond your imagination.

Each stylish room features modern decor, and the rooms are so clean you can eat off the floor (not that we would recommend it).

Guests will also have access to the wellness center, where they will find an indoor pool, a hammam, and a hot tub. It is the perfect place to soothe your aching limbs after a long day of walking around Krakow or exploring Auschwitz.

Best Time To Visit Krakow, Poland

When it comes to the best time to visit Krakow, it all depends on what you are looking for. Generally, the summer months (June to August) are the best months to visit Krakow , as the weather is at its most pleasant. Many of the city’s festivals also occur during the summer.

However, it is unbelievable how crowded Krakow can be during the summer. Long queues, high prices, and the risk of not being able to secure tickets for some of Krakow’s attractions are some things you need to worry about when visiting Krakow in the summer.

That is why our favorite time to visit Krakow is during late spring (April to May) or early autumn (September to October) . At these times, the weather is still pleasant enough for a nice stroll in Krakow Planty or relaxing by the Vistula River. The summer flocks are gone and the charm of historic Krakow returns. Prices are also generally cheaper.

Winter is generally not a good time to visit Krakow or Poland. The temperature hovers around freezing and you can’t feel your face when you go out. The only pros of visiting Krakow in the winter are cheaper prices and winter celebrations. Christmas in Krakow is a magical time!

Krakow Itinerary FAQs

How to get around krakow, is 2 days enough in krakow, can you do krakow on a weekend.

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This is the end of our Krakow 2-day itinerary! We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip to one of the most culturally-enriching eastern European cities! Any questions? Let us know in the comments!

Disclaimer: Some of the links above are affiliate links. That means if you book or make a purchase through the links, we will earn a small commission at  no extra cost to you ! The money will help run this site! Thank you !

World Traveler, Travel Blogger, Photographer

LivingOutLau

Sean is the founder of the travel blog, LivingOutLau. He has been to over 30 countries in over 5 years of travel. Every day, he is traveling and sharing his discoveries of the world through exceptional travel guides on his blog!

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25 Things to Do in Krakow for the Perfect Visit

Krakow is one of those cities that tends to polarize travelers. Some love it and stay for several weeks, others quickly jump ship to nearby Wroclaw or Warsaw, or maybe even hop the border to Germany or the Czech Republic. 

Yet whether you love it or hate it, you can’t deny Krakow is probably Poland’s most traveler-friendly city. Public transport is fantastic, things are cheap, the city is beautiful and clean, the nightlife is raging and there is a ton of things to do in Krakow.

If you’re planning on heading to this historic city, here’s a blueprint to help you hit the ground running without missing any of the best that Krakow has to offer.

25 Things to do in Krakow, Poland

Table of Contents

Krakow’s Old Town is gorgeous and always brimming with activity – most of the action centers around the main square.

Make the most out of your time in Krakow with a 3-day museum and transport pass that gives you complimentary access to 40 top museums, tram travel, and a 24-hour bus ticket.

You’ll also enjoy discounts at select restaurants, shops, and other activities with your pass.

Get your Krakow Museums and Transport Official Pass

1. Old Town Walking Tour

This a free walking tour in Krakow (there are a few). You can choose to go at 10 AM or 2 PM (there’s also a 4 PM slot between March and October). I definitely recommend getting the 10 am spot, as the sun can be pretty heavy in the afternoon.

This particular tour will take you through Krakow’s beautiful Old Town (it really is beautiful).

Like most of Europe, there is so much history here and the guide will unravel Krakow’s story right from the Middle Ages to the present day.

The tour takes around 2.5 hours, so make sure you have walking shoes on. The meeting point is between the St. Florian’s Gate and Barbican – just show up.

Cycle the scenic streets on this Sightseeing Bike Tour of Krakow . Led by a local guide, pedal past the city’s top attractions, such as Jagiellonian University, Wawel Castle, the Jewish quarter and more.

Learn about the area’s rich history and architecture as you go, stopping to relax with a traditional Polish lunch. After an afternoon of exploration, your tour concludes at your original departure point.

2. Underground Museum

As you’ll already be around the Old Town, spend the afternoon wandering Krakow’s Underground Museum. Literally, underneath the main square, the museum is a collection of exhibits that illustrate the city’s entire history.

It’s pretty snazzy (and cozy) so there’s a 300 person limit at any one time. Especially in the busy season, make sure to book in advance. You can do it online or pre-purchase tickets at the Cloth Hall in the main square (ask, it’s not hard to find).

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Poland (Travel Guide)

3. Lunch at Moaburger

This was one of my favorite places to eat around the main square. The burgers are huge, fresh and delicious, the french fries are superb, and the ample sauce tops everything off nicely.

Not exactly Polish, but will definitely hold your stomach down for the rest of the day.

4. Check out Galeria Krakowska

A little shopping to end the afternoon. I was super impressed by this mall. It’s 3 stories of non-stop shopping, all your favorite brands, and the prices are good too.

I visited Krakow near the beginning of my Eurotrip, so ended up buying quite a few supplies here.

Also if you have any housekeeping to do, such as buying a sim card or grabbing a few groceries, this is a pretty good place to do it. Not a bad place to enjoy a coffee and do some people watching as well!

You could also take a Communism Tour in a Genuine Trabant Automobile in the afternoon or a Krakow WWII Private tour to learn about the cities role in the war.

5. Dinner at Smakołyki

This is a Polish cafe that serves slightly spruced-up versions of traditional Polish dishes. The menu is a melting pot of deliciousness, and even after three visits here you probably won’t have tried everything you wanted to (I hadn’t – that’s for sure).

The pancakes are awesome if you’re looking for breakfast, but I prefer to head here later in the day when I’m ready for something heavy. I easily go through three courses here, every time. Find them at Straszewskiego 28.

Are you a foodie? You can not visit Krakow without going on a Krakow Evening Food Walking Tour .

Treat your taste buds to fresh local smoked cheese and “pierogies , “ the famous stuffed dumplings filled with meat and potatoes while walking through the evening-lit streets of Krakow.

Enjoy a cold Polish beer in one of the many hidden haunts along the main market square. The Krakow Evening Food Walking Tour last 2.5 hours and is filled with many great local eats!

You’ll probably be exhausted (and full!) after that, so head home for some shuteye and rest up for the next day. There’s a lot to see in Krakow , you’ve barely scratched the surface of your Krakow itinerary.

6. Walking Tour Jewish Town

The cool thing about Krakow’s walking tours is they don’t try and cram everything into one afternoon – things are split into several tours meaning you can take a different tour each day.

The Jewish Tour is another one of their free tours, which runs every day at 10 AM, 1:30 PM (plus a 5 PM between March and October). Again, I’d recommend the first or the last spot to avoid the heavy sun.

Kazimierz is a charming little area of Krakow where the Jews, after being shunned by much of Europe, finally found a home. In fact, Kazimierz is still considered one of the most important places in Jewish history.

The Jewish population was allowed to flourish here due to Krakow’s religious tolerance back in the day, meaning the Jewish community grew to be quite large and prominent.

This walking tour takes about 2.5 hours and you’ll see a lot of interesting corners of Kazimierz, plus the stories that go with them.

The meeting point is in front of the Old Synagogue on Szeroka Street. Again, just show up.

7. Lunch at Gossip Cafe

Not far from Kazimierz is Gossip Cafe. This is a boutique coffee shop on Zwierzyniecka 4, along the main road and not hard to find at all. It’s small, so you may have to wait, but most times I was able to find myself a seat.

The menu is a collection of healthy choices made fresh daily, with smoothies, juices, classic breakfasts, and a few traditional Polish choices too.

Definitely one of the best places in Krakow for a brunch or a quick coffee break.

Don’t leave home without:  Lonely Planet Poland (Travel Guide)

8. Walk the riverside

Krakow’s riverside is gorgeous. During the summer you’ll find many students sitting on the grass banks studying, people rollerblading and riding bikes, some doing yoga under the trees, and many people simply enjoying an afternoon stroll.

The river is huge so it’s a good way to spend a slow afternoon and people-watch, or simply sit on the banks and enjoy some time out.

I spent many afternoons here, recovering from long nights out, reading books, meeting up with friends. In my opinion, it’s one of the best places in Krakow.

9. Wawel Castle and Cathedral

Another popular thing to do when in the riverside area is to visit the Wawel Castle , the home of much of Poland’s old royalty in the olden days.

Today it’s been transformed into an art and culture museum that’s always teeming with visitors.

Depending on the time of year, not all areas are accessible, and there is also a limit to the number of people allowed in.

Try to head there earlier in the day if you really want to visit. The impressive Wawel Cathedral is right behind it – also worth checking out.

10. Dinner at Pod Temida

You can’t leave Poland without eating at a bar mleczny. Literally translated as “milk bar”, these are workers’ canteens from the Socialist era, that were set up to ensure all workers were able to get access to a nutritious meal.

It was usually included in the worker’s salary, so they would just show up, get fed quickly and head back to work.

These milk bars flourished all through the 1900s and are still popular today – now run as cheap canteens open to the public. If you’re looking for cheap, delicious, traditional Polish food, a milk bar is hands down the best place to get it.

My favorite is Pod Temida, which is right in the middle of the action on Grodzka 43. Try the blueberry dumplings, known as pierogi – they’re amazing.

Alternatively, consider an evening food walking tour to sample all the popular local favorites or a Polish Folklore Show and Dinner with traditional food and dancing.

11. Nowa Huta

While Krakow is famous for its action-packed center, there’s a lot more to the city than that. One of the best places to get a glimpse of what else it has on offer is Nowa Huta.

This is a part of Krakow that not many tourists see, but it’s an important part of the city that you shouldn’t miss. If you jump on tram number 4, you’ll be there in 25 minutes (head to the Plac Centralny stop).

The history here though is rather fascinating. Nowa Huta was planned and built by the Soviet Union in the late 40’s, designed to be a model socialist era city – a rival opposite to the cute and artsy Krakow. The buildings are all almost identical, and the city laid out in generic blocks to give it that Soviet feel.

The wide streets and colorless buildings are a stark contrast to the Krakow most people know, something you’ll notice quite quickly before you even get off the tram.

What can you do there? Wander the “Plac Centralny” central square, check out the Nowa Huta Museum, see if there are any exhibitions at the Nowa Huta Culture Centre, take a look at the Ludowy Theatre and the Arka Pana Church.

My visit to Nowa Huta was quite rushed near the end of my trip, so I kind of just scrambled around the town. Book a Nowa Huta Tram and Walking Tour to ease your stress.

I would have loved to have taken a tour here if I’d had the chance, there is so much history to see and learn about.

12. Lunch at Max Grill

Max Grill is a little open-air grill in Nowa Huta. It has a street food feel to it, and you can see the guys flame grilling piles of meat right behind the counter.

It’s cheap, easy and delicious, and has the grill firing well into the night. Definitely worth a visit! Find them at Jana Pawła II 232.

13. See the Steelworks

One of the icons of Nowa Huta was the massive steelworks, which employed almost 40,000 people at its height.

In fact, the name Nowa Huta actually translates to “new steel mill”, as these steelworks were intended to be the Socialist era symbol that Nowa Huta was known for.

Take the number 4 tram and go another two stops and you’ll get there (if you’re unsure, ask – everyone knows where it is). You’re not actually allowed inside the steelworks anymore, but it’s cool to see what the town was built around.

14. Grab a beer at CK Browar

One of the better places to wind down with a drink in Krakow is CK Browar. This is a huge pub/restaurant at Podwale 6/7 that brews their own beer. There are lots of brews to choose from, so it’s great to come in a group if possible and share a few pitchers (or just drink a lot, that works too).

It’s popular to come here for dinner before a night out, and most groups indulge in a multi-liter tower of beer to go with their meal.

It’s almost always busy, so try to show up early to get a seat. Experience the craft beer culture of Kraków on a small-group, 3-hour walking tour.

15. Spend the Night Out

Not ready for the night to die young? Nightlife in Krakow is an animal of its own, and travelers from all over Europe come here just for the parties. Kazimierz turns into a total hipster bar-hopping town after sundown, and there are many traditional bars and clubs in the main square.

I won’t name any specific places, because the truth is there is just too many – Krakow has the highest density of bars and pubs in the world.

There is also a pub crawl every night if that’s your scene. The town pops almost every night of the week, just put on your dancing shoes and show up.

With such a variety of bars and clubs, it can often be difficult to choose the best nightlife venues in Krakow. Guarantee a great night in Poland’s capital on a Krakow Club and Bar Crawl .

This is a great choice for travelers looking to meet like-minded people. Your evening experience includes a 1-hour open bar, free shots in each venue, a photographer, and VIP entry to one of Krakow’s hottest nightclubs.

16. Visit Auschwitz & Birkenau

The most popular day trip out our Krakow itinerary is to the Auschwitz concentration camp. This is one of the most well known of the German concentration camps where over a million people were killed during the Nazi regime.

Today, it serves as a memorial of the crimes committed against the Jews and other minorities during the war and post-war era. A place where you can better understand exactly what went on during those years.

To get there, simply catch the train to Oswiecim from Krakow’s main train station. It should cost you 15.60 PLN (about 3.5 EUR). From Oswiecim, you can simply walk to Auschwitz – about 25 minutes away – or catch a bus if you prefer.

There’s bound to be a lot of other travelers making the same day trip, so it shouldn’t be hard to figure out.

If you are not up for doing this adventure alone, book an Auschwitz – Birkenau Guided Tour . Make your visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum as easy as possible on this tour from Krakow.

In a small group limited to eight people, you’ll travel to the former Nazi concentration camp in a comfortable minivan before embarking on a shared guided tour of the complex.

Entry to Auschwitz is free, but there is a quota on the number of visitors so you should reserve in advance for the time slot that you want. You can do that online here .

You’ll need around 90 minutes for the Auschwitz site and maybe another 90 minutes for Auschwitz II-Birkenau. Make time to see them both and be prepared for a humbling and reflective experience.

Other Krakow Tours Worth Checking Out

• Wieliczka Salt Mine Guided Tour from Krakow
• Zakopane and Tatras Mountains Day Tour
• Pieskowa Skala Castle and Czestochowa Day Tour
• In the Footsteps of John Paul II Day Tour from Krakow
• Lagiewniki – Wadowice – Kalwaria Zebrzydowska Day Trip
• Full-Day Warsaw Trip from Krakow by Train

Krakow Travel Tips

Where to stay in krakow.

I stayed in Krakow for five weeks and  I Couchsurfed the first week (the Couchsurfing community is very active) and stayed in an Airbnb quite far outside the center for the remainder.

As mentioned the public transport is excellent so there was no need for me to stay within the city center for the length of the visit I did.

On a shorter trip, however, close to the center is probably where you want to be. If you’re on that backpacker vibe, there is an endless number of hostels, and you can find some decent private rooms too.

I’d recommend staying at Hotel Kazimierz in the Kazimierz area, which is a little chicer and less bloated with tourists.

We have put together a shortlist of hotels we recommend in Krakow based on luxury: Sheraton Grand Krakow , mid-range: Hotel Astoria , and hostel: Moon Hostel . All hotels are located no more than .05 miles from Krakow’s main center allowing you to be located in the best area of town to experience Krakow.

Read reviews and check prices with our  Hotel Search Engine , that gives you the best hotel deals found across the web. Our search engine pulls results from all of the major booking places, including Expedia, Hotels, Booking and more. All the options, all the deals, all in one place and just for you.

Getting Around in Krakow

Getting around Krakow is incredibly easy. The tram system runs until 11 PM (there is a night service too which is less frequent) and reaches most corners of the city. Simply get on board and buy a ticket at the self-service machines (they’re in English). A ride will cost you less than a euro.

If you’re feeling lazy, in a rush, or need a ride home after a big night out, grab an Uber. Uber is efficient and surprisingly cheap in Krakow. I used it regularly and it was always great, most drivers speak English and ride only cost about 10-15 PLN (2.50-3.50 EUR).

If you plan to use local transport and trams, be sure to purchase a  Krakow Museums and Transport Official Pass  to check off the best things to do in Krakow.

If you are interested in exploring Europe by train then check out our Ultimate Guide to Eurail Pass Train Travel in Europe.

Basic Information for Visiting Krakow

• Currency – Poland uses the Polish złoty (pronounced zwoh-tay). A lot of major banks are in Poland and it’s easy enough to get cash from the ATM. Also, paying with tap-tap credit cards is hugely popular here. You’ll see currency converters around the main center too, although I never had the need to use them.
• Language –  The official language here is Polish. Most people speak at least basic English, and a lot of the younger crowd speak quite well. It’s rare to find people who are fluent though. A little Polish will go a long way.
• Safety – Krakow is considered a very safe city to navigate both during the day and at night. Knowing this, we encourage you to get out and see the city at night when it is lit up, especially the Wawel Castle. There is also a lively street culture with dancing that happens at night and you shouldn’t miss it.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Brendan is a former accountant turned full time traveler from Auckland, New Zealand. He is the blogger behind Bren On The Road and the founder of Missing Wanderer . His travels have taken him across every continent since he first started his journey in 2011. He lives and breathes budget travel , and writes to educate others on how to see the world on small budgets.

More on Poland:

• 15 Best Things to Do in Warsaw, Poland
• Ultimate Guide to Eurail Pass Train Travel in Europe
• When is the Best Time to Visit Europe?
• Travel Insurance for Europe Vacation: Do I Need It?
• Best Places to Fly a Drone in Europe
• Viking River Cruises in Europe-What to Expect

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Travel planning resources, about guest writer.

Guest writers for Divergent Travelers offer insider tips and information on destinations that they are experts in. It is important to us that we are able to have the highest level of travel information available to you from local writers and experienced travelers.

9 thoughts on “25 Things to Do in Krakow for the Perfect Visit”

Krakow is so lovely! I visited with my mom last year as part of our effort to retrace our family history. Now I’m already talking to my fiancé about returning so we can research his family history.

My time in Kraków was cool, but in sommer it is too noisy and overcrowded. However I fell in love with Warsaw during winter months.I visited the city last winter and it was magical! I really liked how Nowy Świat and Krakowskie Przedmieście was looking with all of those Christmas lights and decorations, all covered in snow. I also spend wonderful night in New Orleans, nice place to eat something or relax by great pole dancing shows.

I am heading to Krakow tomorrow and this post definitely covered it all! Thanks fort helpful info!

Love to hear that! Have an amazing trip. 🙂

Wow, Krakow looks amazing! I go to Poland quite often, but usually stay in Warsaw. Well, Krakow is on my list, I will for sure visit it during my next trip to Poland! Warsaw is also a very nice place, there are also tens of fantastic places. As it comes to eating out my favorite restaurant is a place called “Akademia”. They specialize in Polish food, but they do everything with a very modern approach. Their food is really delicious, and the restaurant itself is very elegant and nice. I love visiting them 🙂

Great tip for Warsaw, thanks for sharing! Yes, def put Krakow on your visit list, it’s a charming city.

lovely article. I also did food tour there. enjoyed it.

Great information not found elsewhere & as we have 3 days in Krakow – ideal article 🙂

Glad to hear you found the information useful! Krakow is a fantastic city, enjoy.

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• 20 Must Visit Attractions In...

33 Must-Visit Attractions in Krakow

Krakow , the second largest city in Poland , delivers fairytale views, with the towering Wawel Castle, as well as people-watching meccas such as Florianska Street and the Market Square. Dark times in the city’s recent history are evident in the Jewish ghetto memorial and Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp and green spaces such as Planty Park offer plenty of headspace. Get some inspiration with our guide to things to do in Krakow before planning a trip with Culture Trip to these amazing destinations .

Did you know you can now travel with Culture Trip? Book now and join one of our specially curated small-group tours to adventurous destinations around the world.

1. Market Square

2. Wawel Castle

4. Barbican

Building, Museum

5. St Florian's Gate

6. Ko?ciuszko Mound

7. Florianska Street

Architectural Landmark

Cutting through the very heart of the northern half of the Old Town district, the bustling drag that is Florianska Street hosts craft beer bars, souvenir emporiums and vodka tasting joints. You’ll need to be in the mood for ambling and taking in the atmosphere during the high season, as it’s often packed with tourists making their way from St Florian’s gate to the Market Square.

8. The Sukiennice

9. St Mary's Basilica

10. The Jewish Quarter

Set within walking distance of the Old Town, the historic Jewish Quarter (also known as Kazimierz ) was once a separate city in its own right, founded in the 15th century, and considered a model Jewish community. Jews were forcibly moved to a ghetto shut off from the rest of the city in 1941. Today, it retains a unique vibe with its crumbling tenement blocks, great synagogues and cool bohemian beer joints.

11. The Dragon's Den

Natural Feature

12. Vistulan Boulevards

Natural Feature, Architectural Landmark

As the winding courses of the Vistula River snake through the heart of Krakow, its banks host wide spaces of greenery, ad hoc summertime markets, beer bars and bobbing boat cafes. Hire a bike or go jogging, stop and watch passing boats on the river, or stroll along as you decide what to see in Krakow next.

13. Slowacki Chamber, Wieliczka Salt Mines

14. Auschwitz-Birkenau

Memorial, Museum

15. Wawel Cathedral

Cathedral, Church

16. Cmentarz Rakowicki

17. Ojców National Park

Forest, Park, Ruins

19. Plac Bohaterów Getta

20. Market Hall Unitarg

Market, Polish

21. Oskar Schindler’s Factory

22. museum of stained glass, 23. museum of contemporary art in krakow.

Museum, Shop

24. Lost Souls Alley

25. lovers' bridge.

Colorful, lovable and entertaining all at once, Krakow’s version of the so-called Lovers’ Bridge (a phenomenon that has spread right across the continent since first being coined in Paris) finds its home on Father Bernard’s Footbridge. Everyone knows how it works: couples come to attach a padlock on the bridge and throw the key into the Vistula below in the hope that it will cast their union in iron. A little soppy? Perhaps, but just check out the views of the river and Podgórze district across the water. Oh, and Forum Przestrzenie is always close by for an al fresco beer.

26. Wódka Café Bar

Bar, Cafe, Beer, Polish, Coffee

27. Pharmacy Museum

28. Rynek Underground

Market, Museum

Galeria Plakatu

A Haven for graphic designers, art lovers and culture buffs alike, the Polish Poster Gallery is a fantastic place to get inspired. Hosting over 2,500 Polish posters and promoting the culture around them, the petite gallery is a grass-roots organization dedicated to understanding the graphic history of the city. Covering areas like painting, theater, cinema, literature and food, the posters here are all-encompassing in their artistic merits!

Nothing short of an institution on the Krakow nightlife scene, this almost all-night watering hole is always packed out with locals, visitors and students alike. Some of the city’s cheapest vodka and beer flows from behind the bar, while plates of hearty pierogi dumplings and tartar offer some welcome late-night indulgence. Just don’t expect a smile at the bar!

29. Alchemia

Bar, Polish

30. Shop for antiques at Plac Nowy

31. church of corpus christi.

Church, Monastery

Additional words by Eliza Marin.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Food & Drink

Meet the irishman who revived one of kraków’s traditional milk bars.

Restaurants

The best polish restaurants in kraków.

Places to Stay

The best budget stays in krakow, poland.

The Best Luxury Hotels in Kraków

The Best Spa Hotels in Krakow, Poland

Bars & Cafes

The best late-night bars in kraków, poland.

Hip Apartments in Krakow You'll Want to Call Home

The Best Late-Night Eats in Krakow

Guides & Tips

The top 12 museums in krakow.

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How to Spend Hours in Krakow@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@

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Home » Travel Guides » Poland » 25 Best Things to Do in Kraków (Poland)

25 Best Things to Do in Kraków (Poland)

UNESCO World Heritage city, Kraków was the throne of the Polish monarchs for half a millennium up to the 17th century. After being ransacked by the Mongols in the 13th century the Old Town was built anew, and the layout has barely changed since then.

Kraków was at the height of its powers in the 1300s during the reign of Casimir III the Great. He founded Kraków University where Copernicus would later study, as well as the district of Kazimierz, once a separate city home to one of Europe’s biggest Jewish communities.

The sweeping Main Square in the Old Town tells you all you need to know about Kraków’s wealth and authority in Medieval Times, while the royal castle and cathedral on Wawel Hill convey the full might of the Polish monarchy.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Kraków :

1. Stare Miasto (Old Town)

Kraków’s oldest quarter is a planned city drawn up in 1257 just after the Mongol invasion laid everything to waste.

The whole city was encircled by walls, now a belt of parkland, and hoisted above its southernmost point was the mighty royal ensemble on Wawel Hill.

A day in the Old Town will fly by as you drift from churches to atmospheric squares, tempting specialty shops to museums.

The simple act of going for meal or a drink can be a historical journey, descending into cellars with Gothic vaults.

A couple of things we won’t talk about later are the tower of the former town hall, now an observation platform on the Main Square.

But also pop into a bakery for a ring-shaped obwarzanek krakowski, a slightly sweet bun not too different from a bagel.

Recommended tour : Old Town Guided Walking Tour

2. Rynek Główny (Main Square)

One of the largest Medieval squares in Europe, Kraków’s central marketplace has been the commercial, social and administrative focal point of the city since the middle of the 13th century.

This grand plaza measures 200 metres by 200 and was laid out in the years after Kraków was razed by the Mongol invasion, so is also an enduring piece of Medieval urban design.

A few of the monuments on this list are on or near the square, like the Cloth Hall and St Mary’s Basilica.

At the borders of the Main Square are long rows of townhouses.

And although these took on Neoclassical facades at the turn of the 20th century, the buildings within are usually far older.

See for instance Wierzynek, a restaurant going back to Medieval times, and where the Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV and Elizabeth of Pomerania celebrated their wedding in 1364.

This square is also covered in the previously recommended walking tour.

3. Wawel Castle

A monument of immeasurable national importance, the UNESCO-listed Wawel Castle completes an ensemble with the cathedral on its lofty perch above the Old Town.

The castle has architecture of every style from Romanesque to Baroque and was the seat of the King of Poland from the 13th century to the 17th century.

A fallow period then arrived, after the capital was moved to Warsaw and the castle was damaged by the Swedish invasion in the 1650s.

But since the 1940s Wawel Castle has been a national museum, presenting the riches of the Polish monarch through sumptuous interiors, painting by Veronese, Lucas Cranach the Elder and Domenico Ghirlandaio, Gobelin tapestries and a marvellous treasury and armoury.

One piece that must not be missed is Szczerbiec, the coronation sword for almost every monarch from 1320 to 1764.

Recommended tour : Skip The Line Wawel Castle Guided Tour

4. St Mary’s Basilica

Built on the foundations of an earlier church also levelled by the Mongols, this Brick Gothic wonder is from the beginning of the 14th century, and would be reworked over the next few decades.

The St. Mary’s Trumpet Call is played from the top of the taller of the two towers, on the hour every hour.

This is in memory of the 13th-century city trumpeter sounding the alarm for the Mongol attack.

He was shot in the throat mid-way through the call, which is why the tune breaks off abruptly.

Within, the stained glass windows and the gold stars on the blue background in the vaults are sublime.

But the star of the show is the largest Gothic altarpiece in the world.

Completed in 1484, it was carved over seven years by German sculptor Veit Stoss, with lime-wood sculpted figures up to 2.7 metres high.

5. Wawel Cathedral

A monument of real national importance, Wawel Cathedral is the site of the coronation and burial of numerous Polish monarchs, national heroes and cultural figures.

The current building was completed in the 14th century after the previous two were destroyed or burned down.

And because of its many royal burial chapels, the cathedral has taken on a captivating variety of styles.

Sigismund’s Chapel, the funerary chapel for the last of members of the Jagiellonian line, is a wonder of 16th-century Tuscan Renaissance architecture: Under a golden dome the chapel is rich with detailed carved ornamentation, stuccowork and tomb monuments by some of the leading sculptors of the day.

The cathedral’s status is also underlined by the mausoleum to the Polish patron saint St Stanislaus, in which his silver sarcophagus rests under an exuberant canopy with gilded columns.

Included in : Skip The Line Wawel Castle Guided Tour

6. Kazimierz

South of the Old Town is a district that was a separate city for 500 years up to the 19th century.

Kazimierz was founded by Casimir III the Great, taking his name and bestowed the status of a Royal City.

After a fire in Kraków at the end of the 15th century King Jan I Olbracht moved the entire Jewish population to Kazimierz, which ballooned as it took in Jews expelled from cities throughout Europe.

They occupied a space within an interior wall, dividing Kazimierz between Jewish and ethnic Poles.

And although that wall was pulled down more than 200 years ago, the eastern streets of Kazimierz have a Jewish flavour that has been revived since the late 1980s.

A lot of Schindler’s List was filmed in this neighbourhood, which once again has synagogues, bookshops, restaurants and bars for a small but dynamic Jewish community.

Top rated tour : Kazimierz District Jewish Heritage Tour

7. Franciscan Church

This monastery church took shape in the aftermath of the Mongol Invasion, and was consecrated around the middle of the 13th century.

It was the first example of Kraków’s hallmark brick and sandstone architecture, even if only the rib vaults remain from that initial building.

The church suffered a near-catastrophic fire in 1850, but that handed an opportunity to the artist Stanisław Wyspiański to work his magic.

The founder of the Young Poland movement, Wyspiański produced eight Art Nouveau stained glass windows for the apse and choir, and painted stunning murals with geometric and floral motifs in the transept.

These are accompanied by more traditional paintings in the nave and chancel, by the landscape and historicist artists Władysław Rossowski and Tadeusz Popiel.

Included in:  Bike Tour of the Old Town, Kazimierz, and the Ghetto

8. Cloth Hall

One of the symbols for Kraków, the Cloth Hall has existed in some form since the 1200s, and the Renaissance monument at the centre of the Main Square today is from the 1500s.

A trading hall for 800 years, the cloth hall testifies to Kraków’s position in the middle of Central Europe’s Medieval commercial network.

Most of the goods sold here came from the east, like spices, silk, wax and leather.

The Cloth Hall is still a market, and if it doesn’t quite have the same cachet, it’s the first place to come if you’re stuck for gift or souvenir ideas.

You can idle past stalls with handmade lace, amber jewellery and wooden handicrafts, and then head upstairs for the Sukiennice Museum.

Mainly for Polish 19th-century painting, there are individual rooms devoted to Romantics like Piotr Michałowski, Academic artists in the vein of Henryk Siemiradzki and Realists like Józef Chełmoński.

9. Royal Road

On this themed walk through Kraków’s Old Town you’ll be treading the same path as Poland’s monarchs, as you follow the route of Medieval coronation processions north to south through the city.

The path begins at the Church of St Florian just past the Barbican, then passes through that mighty defence and heads into the city along Floriańska Street and down the east side of the Main Square.

You’ll go past a host of cherished landmarks like St Adalbert’s Church, the Wielopolski Palace and the Church of Saints Peter and Paul.

Then you’ll begin that dramatic climb to the top of Wawel where the coronation ceremony would take place at the cathedral.

Suggested tour: Old Town “Royal Route” Walking Tour

10. Manggha

You may not have counted on immersing yourself in Japanese culture in Kraków, but that’s just what’s on the menu at this museum across the water from Wawel.

The museum and cultural centre was the initiative of film director Andrzej Wajda: He became enamoured of Japanese art after viewing the collection assembled by art critic Feliks Jasieński in the 1940s.

More than four decades later Wajda, on receiving a film prize, opted to donate the money to set up a new museum for the collection.

Manggha opened in 1994 and Japanese architect Arata Isozaki’s airy, oscillating design has dated very well.

There are now 7,000 pieces in the collection, counting woodcuts, paintings, ceramics, furniture and samurai armour; Emperor Akihito paid a visit back in 2002.

11. Polish Aviation Museum

East of the old town, the old Kraków-Rakowice-Czyżyny Airport dates back to 1912 and was commissioned for the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

Soon after the airport closed in 1963 a museum opened on the site, initially using the airport’s old hangars.

They are now complemented by an exhibition hall that opened in 2010 and has lots of multimedia and hands-on exhibits.

The Polish Aviation Museum is regularly listed as one of the best in the world, with more than 200 aircraft including fighter jets, bombers, gliders, helicopters and engines from both sides of the Iron Curtain but especially MiGs, Yaks and Sukhois.

Rarest of all though are the Polish pre-war aircraft like the PZL P.11, the only surviving example in the world.

Book online : Polish Museum of Aviation Ticket

12. Stained Glass Workshop and Museum

More than a static museum, this attraction allows you to watch stained glass craftsmen making use of centuries-old skills.

The workshop was founded by the architect Stanisław Gabriel Żeleński in 1902 and moved into the current premises that he designed in 1906. This studio was intended as a gathering place for Poland’s top glass painters, who were in high demand during the Art Nouveau years.

More than 200 windows produced by this workshop adorn buildings around Krakow today, most famously in Wawel and at the Franciscan Church.

Guided tours in English are on the hour, and will bring you through beautiful exhibitions of stained glass and into the studio where you can see pieces being created.

13. Planty Park

In the 1820s when Kraków was a partially independent Free City, the Medieval fortifications that once enveloped the Old Town were dismantled on the order of Franz I, Emperor of Austro-Hungary.

The moat was also levelled off and the whole four-kilometre belt was planted with English landscape gardens.

Planty Park is a welcome green buffer between the Old Town and the newer quarters beyond.

The northern bend is best for sightseers, as this is where the last vestiges of the old defences have been kept.

The imposing Kraków Barbican, with its menacing ring of machicolations is here and is an outpost for the Florian Gate behind.

These were both saved from demolition after a professor at the university petitioned the Republic of Kraków senate.

Explore by bike : Bike Tour including Planty Park

14. Schindler’s Factory

You may be aware that a lot of Steven Spielberg’s 1993 movie Schindler’s List was filmed in Kraków.

And since 2010 it has been possible to go inside the administration building of the enamelware factory he took over after the invasion in 1939. Your main motive for coming is for the branch of Kraków Historical Museum.

Here you can peruse accounts of Schindler’s book-cooking that helped save more than 1,000 Jewish lives, the original desk from Schindler’s office, his “list” and photos of survivors.

But there’s also a wider exhibition about the occupation of Kraków in the Second World War: You’ll find reconstructions of a dwelling in the ghetto, underground tunnels used by the resistance and basements where Jews would be hidden, all with genuine artefacts from the 40s to add some depth.

Recommended tour : Oskar Schindler’s Factory Guided Tour

15. Rynek Underground

Also maintained by the Historical Museum is a museum beneath the Main Square, recapturing life in Kraków’s Old Town 700 years ago.

The attraction is an archaeological site with a total area of 6,000 square metres, showing the foundations of the previous Cloth Hall.

In these galleries are footbridges over archaeological digs, as well as electronic displays, touch-screen computers and holograms.

A trove of artefacts has been uncovered four metres under the city, like Tatar arrowheads, clay figurines, leather shoes, dice, beads, medallions and a 693 kg lump of commercial lead.

There’s much more besides, like real graves from an 11th-century cemetery, reconstructions of workshops and maps to explain the complicated flow of goods in and out of the city when it traded with the Hanseatic League.

Online tickets : Guided Tour of Rynek Underground

16. Museum of the Jagiellonian University – Collegium Maius

In the Old Town you can make an intensive 30-minute tour of Collegium Maius, the oldest building for the Jagiellonian University.

Established in the 1300s, this is also Poland’s oldest university building, reconstructed in the Late-Gothic style in the following century.

Copernicus was a student here at the end of the 1400s, and there’s a room with instruments and globes from the time he was alive, so there’s a good chance he laid his hands on them.

On the whirlwind tour you’ll scurry through lecture rooms, ceremonial halls, professor’s quarters, a fantastical library and a museum, which has the oldest globe in the world to depict the Americas.

17. Kościuszko Mound

Tadeusz Kościuszko was a Polish national hero, lauded for his resistance efforts against Prussia and Russia as they divided up the former Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth at the end of the 18th century.

In 1794 he led a doomed but spirited insurrection against Russia, begun on Kraków’s Main Square.

After Kościuszko died his body was interred beneath this 34-metre-high mound, in the style of rulers from Poland’s distant past.

The mound was completed in 1823 and is at the top of the Sikornik hill 326 metres above sea level.

At the base of the mound are the walls of a military citadel erected by Austrians in the mid-19th century.

In the defences is the Neo-Gothic Blessed Bronisława chapel, offering entry to the mound, which you can climb on a winding path to look west to Kraków’s Old Town.

Included in this (highly recommended!) tour: Tour by Electric Car & Optional Schindler’s Factory

18. Krakus Mound

We’ve talked about the 19th-century burial mound for Tadeusz Kościuszko, but if you want to see a real pagan tumulus it’s a manageable trip to the south of the city near Kraków Krzemionki station.

This site is shrouded in mystery, as for hundreds of years it was assumed to be the 2,100-year-old burial place of the Celtic King Krakus, legendary founder of the city.

But excavations have yet to reveal a grave, and the most recent artefacts buried in the mound have been dated to between the 8th and 10th centuries.

It may instead have had an astronomical function, as it forms an axis with the sun and another mound, Wanda, at sunrise on the morning of the Celtic festival of Beltane.

19. Corpus Christi Church

Casimir III the Great founded this Gothic basilica in the Kazimierz district in 1335. And while the original pointed arches and vaults are still in place today, the fittings and decoration are almost all from the Mannerist and Baroque period.

Corpus Christi has some of the finest and most harmonious Baroque ornamentation in Poland.

The stalls in the choir are exceptional, carved in 1624-32 and embellished with sculptures and paintings of saints.

The altar was completed in 1637, and gleams with giltwood that surrounds paintings by the Venetian court artist Tommaso Dolabella.

Give yourself a few minutes to inspect the beautiful chapels in the northern and southern aisles.

20. Ghetto Heroes Square

The Podgórze district, opposite Kazimierz on the right bank of the Vistula was the location for the Kraków ghetto, from 1941 until it was “liquidated” in 1943. The largest public space, previously known as Plac Zgody, was filled throughout that time with people trying to get some relief from the cramped conditions in the surrounding tenements.

Haunting photographs from the deportations show furniture and bundles of belongings abandoned on the square: Unspeakable tragedies happened on this place, whether it was families being separated for the last time or executions.

When the square was redesigned in 2005, 70 large chairs were installed on the square in memory of the victims of Kraków ghetto, driving home the sense of emptiness and recalling the images of the deportations.

Available tour : Jewish Quarter & Ghetto Private Walking Tour

21. Vistulan Boulevards

The Vistula is a river that has been repeatedly moulded by humans over the last millennium.

The wide riverbanks today are man-made and set aside for recreation, with bicycle paths, quays for cruise boats and stops for the city’s “water tram” service.

These shallow grassy embankments slope down from a retaining wall as an anti-flood measure that has proved very effective down the years.

The project began in the 19th century, and the boulevards are appreciated as much by Cracovians as by tourists breaking away from the crowds at Wawel and the Old Town.

You could begin your trip at Salwator by Kościuszko’s burial mound in the west and won’t have to leave the riverside until the second bend at Kazimierz.

22. Saints Peter and Paul Church

Completed in just 20 years at the start of the 17th century, this Mannerist and Baroque church was the work of Italians, both inside and out.

Giovanni Maria Bernardoni finalised the initial plan, which was modified by another Italian Giovanni Battista Trevano, who was responsible for the dome, facade and much of the interior.

The facade is fashioned from dolomite and has statues of saints in its niches and on the pedestals in front.

Yet another Italian Giovanni Battista Falconi produced the vibrant ornamental stuccowork in the interior, as well as the scenes from the life of St Peter and St Paul in the apse.

The church has also had a Foucault’s Pendulum since 1949. This is hung from a height of 46.5 metres, and if you visit on Thursday morning there are demonstrations on the hour showing earth’s rotation.

23. Dragon’s Den (Smocza Jama)

Burrowing through Wawel is Poland’s most famous cave, a karst formation known to all for its legendary dragon.

You can meet a sculpture of this dragon in front of the entrance, installed in 1972 and even breathing fire.

According to folklore the dragon was slain by King Krakus before he founded the city.

At the entrance to the cathedral there are bones hanging from a chain dating to the Ice Age and claimed to belong to the dragon.

The cave itself isn’t to be taken too seriously, but is a light-hearted detour if you’re overwhelmed by all the history of the Old Town.

You’ll enter from the courtyard of the castle to venture through three chambers measuring 276 metres before being deposited by the Vistula at the bottom of the hill.

24. Plac Nowy

Compared to the Main Square in the Old Town Kazimierz’s central square feels a bit rough around the edges.

But that’s exactly the point, as Plac Nowy is exactly the place to be to tap into Kraków’s bohemian side.

At night you can flit from one cafe or bar to the next, while the markets that fill the square change by the day.

Come by on Saturdays for antiques or Sundays for clothes.

The rotunda in the centre of the square was a big kosher butcher for Kazimierz’s Jewish community up to 1939. Now it’s traced with food stands, selling Zapiekanka, an open-faced French bread pizza piled with mushrooms, cheese and hot ketchup.

25. Tyniec Abbey

Ten kilometres southwest of the Old Town, but still belonging to Kraków, Tyniec is a village on a limestone canyon by the Vistula.

You’ll know why you made the trip when you catch sight of the towers of this Benedictine Abbey posted on the clifftop.

This is a functioning monastery, but you can go on a guided tour and visit a small museum, displaying objects from recent excavations.

Tyniec Abbey dates to the 11th century, and has been left with a Baroque design after being ransacked by Tatars and Czechs in the 1300s and then the Swedes in the 17th century.

You can come for concerts and vespers at the church in the summer, while there’s a little cafe on the belvedere, and a gift shop selling items of specialty food and cosmetics made by the monks.

25 Best Things to Do in Kraków (Poland):

• Stare Miasto (Old Town)
• Rynek Główny (Main Square)
• Wawel Castle
• St Mary's Basilica
• Wawel Cathedral
• Franciscan Church
• Polish Aviation Museum
• Stained Glass Workshop and Museum
• Planty Park
• Schindler’s Factory
• Rynek Underground
• Museum of the Jagiellonian University - Collegium Maius
• Kościuszko Mound
• Krakus Mound
• Corpus Christi Church
• Ghetto Heroes Square
• Vistulan Boulevards
• Saints Peter and Paul Church
• Dragon’s Den (Smocza Jama)
• Tyniec Abbey

Kraków on a budget: how to tour Poland's cultural capital on the cheap

Jul 4, 2022 • 8 min read

These top tips can help you have a low-cost visit to Kraków © Mariia Boiko / Shutterstock

Home to a beguiling centuries-old medieval center, terrific museums, award-winning boutique hotels and many of the country’s best restaurants, the most popular city in Poland can be hard on your wallet if you really live it up. Yet getting the most out of your visit to Kraków needn’t have you drifting into insolvency, Poland overall is not a massively expensive destination. 

Picking less pricey days to visit the most popular attractions, making the best use of public transport, staying in inexpensive accommodations and eating and drinking local can all help you make the most of your stay while simultaneously immersing you in Polish culture. Here is how to visit Kraków on a budget.

Take public transport to/from the airport

Unless your evening flight to Kraków gets delayed – or you have to be at the airport between midnight and 4am – save the taxi fare by taking a bus or  train to/from the airport. The easiest way to travel is by train between Kraków Glowny (main train station) and Kraków Lotnisko (John Paul II International Airport). These run twice-hourly (first/last departures are 3:48am and 11:40pm from the train station and 4:17am and 11:08pm from the airport). A one-way ticket costs 9zł and the journey takes 20-30 minutes. 

The airport is also served by bus lines 208 and 209 from Kraków’s main bus station between 4:30am and 10:30pm (5zl, 45 minutes), and night bus 902 that runs hourly at five minutes past the hour from 11:05pm to 4:05am.  If you have no choice but to go by taxi, note that Uber and Bolt rides cost less than official taxi rides (from 45zł as opposed to from 75zł), but are less reliable.

Distances in the Old Town are perfectly walkable 

If you enjoy keeping fit while on the road, exploring Kraków on foot should help you towards your fitness goals. Old Town is wonderfully walkable, as is Kazimierz, and strolling between the two takes around 20 minutes. Morning runners will appreciate the ring of parkland surrounding Old Town.

Visit Kraków during the shoulder months

Accommodation prices shoot up by at least 25% during the summer high season, so consider traveling off-season. By far the cheapest time to come to Kraków is in the winter (with the exception of the Christmas/New Year period), but it can be bitterly cold.  Shoulder seasons (mid-March to May and September to mid-October) are a good compromise, allowing you to combine moderate room rates with mild weather and relatively few visitors.

Get to know Kraków’s trams and buses

Public buses in Kraków are not hugely useful unless you want to visit a few attractions in far-flung corners of the city, but trams are inexpensive and really handy for reaching sights in Nova Huta, Podgórze  and Kazimierz neighborhoods if you’re based centrally. 

Single tickets (2.80–6zł) can be purchased either directly from the driver or from ticket machines at most tram stops; prices vary, depending on the zone and on whether the ticket is valid for 20, 40, 60 or 90 minutes. If you have a blitzkrieg approach to sightseeing, you may wish to buy a 24/48/72-hour travel card for 15/24/36zł; seven-day travel cards also available (48zł).

A new bike-share scheme is coming

While Old Town is wonderfully walkable, if you want to combine some daily exercise with getting to attractions further out (sights in Kazimierz, Nova Huta and Podgórze), you may wish to make use of Kraków’s bicycle rental schemes. Following the demise of Wavelo – Poland’s first city bicycle rental scheme – during the pandemic, the City of Kraków is due to launch a new bicycle rental scheme in late 2022, which will include regular bikes and electric bicycles, with a subscription service and docking stations all over the city. 

Dine out on Kraków’s street food

If daily fruit and veg are not a deal breaker for you, it’s possible to happily subsist for days on some of Kraków’s best street food. Grab an obwarzanek or two (Kraków bagel topped with poppy seeds or sesame seeds) from a stall pretty much on every street corner in Old Town for 2.50zł, chow down on superlative kielbasa (signature Polish sausage; 10zł) from the van in front of the market on ul. Grzegorzecka, and try the zapiekanka (10zł) – Poland’s answer to pizza – a half-baguette topped with cheese, mushrooms and ketchup at Plac Nowy in Kazimierz.

Stay in hostels

If you’re looking to stay centrally – in Old Town, or in Kazimierz – then hostels are a terrific budget option. Some offer dorms only; others may have inexpensive singles or doubles as well as cooking facilities and communal hangout spaces; others are for women travelers only. Best of all, most offer free breakfast and have knowledgeable staff who organize inexpensive tours and nights out and can recommend the best cheap places to eat and bars. 

Kraków’s top hostels include Mundo , Draggo House and Greg and Tom’s Party Hostel . Check in advance whether you’re booking yourself into a crush-a-beer-can-against-your-forehead party hostel or a sociable, laid-back spot to meet fellow travelers (sometimes the clue’s in the name!).  

Or find room shares and short-term lets

If privacy and having a space of your own takes precedence over saving money by sleeping in a hostel dorm, look into online room-share options and short-term self-catering apartments for rent (they are especially plentiful in Old Town and Kazimierz and are even cheaper outside those two popular neighborhoods), the latter particularly good value if you’re traveling with several friends. 

In summer, student dorms are typically rented out as cheap hotel rooms, though they’re located outside of Old Town. Other budget digs to look out for include private rooms for rent (look out for "noclegi" signs in the window).

Take advantage of museum passes and discounted entry

Even if you don’t take advantage of free admission offered by different museums on different days, if you’re planning on doing some intensive sightseeing, it’s well worth purchasing multi-venue tickets for Museum of Kraków and Kraków National Museum branches online.

Take public transportation to Auschwitz and Wieliczka Salt Mine

While the most notorious Nazi death camp and an underground cathedral carved out of salt are not in Kraków proper, visits to these two sights are the most popular day trips from the city. Virtually every hotel and hostel offers long day tours to both for around 300zł, which may be worth considering if you’re really short on time.

But if time is not a factor and you wish to absorb your experiences in peace rather than share them with a busload of other visitors, set aside a day for each (it’s more than worth it) and use public transport. 

To get to Auschwitz, 66km (41 miles) west of Kraków, take a bus (8–9 times daily, 1.5–2 hours) from Kraków’s central bus station for 20zł, or one of several daily trains to Oswiecim (13zł, approx 2 hours), then walk for 25 minutes, rather than pay 170zł for a day tour. Getting to Wieliczka, 16km (10 miles) southeast of the city, is even easier: hop on one of the half-hourly trains from Kraków Glowny train station (6zł, 20–30 minutes), then walk for 10 minutes. 

Skip the expensive city tours in favor of wallet-friendly ones

As befitting a city of its stature, Kraków offers countless themed tours that cater to all budgets. Boning up on the city’s history and culture ahead of your trip and skipping the standard tours is an obvious money saver. However, a number of tours are extremely worthwhile and offer cultural immersion and the opportunity to see Kraków from an unusual angle. 

Free Walking Tour  offers excellent daily walking tours of Kraków’s Old Town, as well as the themed Macabre Kraków, Jewish Kraków, Street Art, WWII Kraków and Nova Huta Kraków that are nearly gratis. While there is no official fee for the tour, it’s customary to tip the guide at the end. We recommended a tip of around 20zł (US$5), though more generosity is always appreciated.

Drink the tap water

Kraków tap water is potable and doesn’t taste as if you’re sipping from a swimming pool. So keep your reusable flask refilled and that way you’ll be hydrated and do your bit for the environment.

Eat at a dirt-cheap bar mleczny (cafeteria)

If you’re afflicted with nostalgia for the Communist era, you’ll be thrilled to disover that you can combine your passion with a quest for some of Kraków’s cheapest eats. Throwbacks to the pre-Iron Curtain era, Kraków’s historic “ bar mleczny ” are dirt-cheap cafeteria, popular with locals, where you can fill up on soup, pierogi and juice without crossing the 10zł threshold. There’s a branch at Grodzka 43 in Old Town and another at Starowiślna 29, at the northern end of the Kazimierz neighbourhood.

Shop at produce markets and best-value supermarkets

If you’re staying in self-catering accommodations or a hostel with a guest kitchen, you can save your pennies for more memorable dining or cultural experiences by cooking for yourself at least part of the time. Some of Kraków’s cheapest fresh produce is found at local markets, such as Stary Kleparz . 

Additionally, look out for Kraków’s (and Poland’s) least expensive supermarket chain, Biedronka , with one handy branch in the Old Town and another in the shopping center adjoining Kraków’s main train station.

Save your partying for happy hour

In Kraków, keep an eye out for happy hour in most bars, when you can take advantage of discounted tipples and two-for-one deals. Even better, head for a branch of Pijalnia Wodki I Piwa – a popular local chain of old-school bars dotted around Old Town, with another branch in Kazimierz.

The decor is identical (and probably won’t make many of your Instagram photos) but they serve up uniformly cheap beer (from 8.50zł per pint), vodka (7.50zł per shot), wine, cocktails (16zł), coffee (5zł), soft drinks and shots (5zł individual; 12zł for a “kamikaze” flight of four), along with bar snacks (sandwiches, steak tartare, and zurek – sourdough soup) and a healthy dose of 1960s nostalgia.

Daily costs in Kraków

Hostel dorm: 25–35zł Basic room for two:  90–150zł Tram ticket: 3zł Dinner for two in a local restaurant: 30–40zł Beer: 9zł Coffee: 5zł

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Open houses to update public on high speed rail construction in Fresno, Hanford and Merced

T he California High Speed Rail Authority is hosting a few meetings this week to update you on rail stations and other construction efforts.

Crews say the future train stations are currently under advanced design in Hanford, Fresno and Merced.

And you have a chance to see the conceptualized renderings.

The first open house takes place Tuesday night in Hanford from five until seven at the Hanford West High School Cafeteria.

You can find information on the meetings in Fresno and Merced, below:

High-Speed Rail Fresno Station Open House

Date: Wednesday, May 1, 2024

Time: 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Location: DoubleTree by Hilton Fresno Convention Center

High-Speed Rail Merced Station Open House

Date: Thursday, May 2, 2024

Location: Merced Senior Community Center

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Midwest tornadoes cause severe damage in Omaha suburbs

The Associated Press

Gopala Penmetsa walks past his house after it was leveled by a tornado near Omaha, Neb., on Friday. Chris Machian/Omaha World-Herald via AP hide caption

Gopala Penmetsa walks past his house after it was leveled by a tornado near Omaha, Neb., on Friday.

OMAHA, Neb. — A tornado plowed through suburban Omaha, Nebraska, on Friday afternoon, damaging hundreds of homes and other structures as the twister tore for miles along farmland and into subdivisions. Injuries were reported but it wasn't yet clear if anyone was killed in the storm.

Multiple tornadoes were reported in Nebraska but the most destructive storm moved from a largely rural area into suburbs northwest of Omaha, a city of 485,000 people.

Photos on social media showed heavily damaged homes and shredded trees. Video showed homes with roofs stripped of shingles, in a rural area near Omaha. Law enforcement were blocking off roads in the area.

Hundreds of houses sustained damage in Omaha, mostly in the Elkhorn area in the western part of the city, police Lt. Neal Bonacci said.

Police and firefighters are now going door-to-door helping people who are trapped.

Omaha Fire Chief Kathy Bossman said crews had gone to the "hardest hit area" and had a plan to search anywhere someone could be trapped.

"They're going to be putting together a strategic plan for a detailed search of the area, starting with the properties with most damage," Bossman said. "We'll be looking throughout properties in debris piles, we'll be looking in basements, trying to find any victims and make sure everybody is rescued who needs assistance."

Damaged houses are seen after a tornado passed through the area near Omaha, Neb., on Friday. Chris Machian/Omaha World-Herald via AP hide caption

Damaged houses are seen after a tornado passed through the area near Omaha, Neb., on Friday.

Omaha police Lt. Neal Bonacci said many homes were destroyed or severely damaged.

"You definitely see the path of the tornado," Bonacci said.

In one area of Elkhorn, dozens of newly built, large homes were damaged. At least six were destroyed, including one that was leveled, while others had the top half ripped off.

There were dozens of emergency vehicles in the area.

"We watched it touch down like 200 yards over there and then we took shelter," said Pat Woods, who lives in Elkhorn. "We could hear it coming through. When we came up our fence was gone and we looked to the northwest and the whole neighborhood's gone."

His wife, Kim Woods added, "The whole neighborhood just to the north of us is pretty flattened."

Dhaval Naik, who said he works with the man whose house was demolished, said three people, including a child, were in the basement when the tornado hit. They got out safely.

KETV-TV video showed one woman being removed from a demolished home on a stretcher in Blair, a city just north of Omaha.

Omaha Police Chief Todd Schmaderer said there appeared to be few serious injuries, in part because people had plenty of warning that storms were likely.

The exact link between tornadoes and climate change is hard to draw. Here's why

"We not upon by a sudden storm," Schmaderer said. "People had warnings of this and that saved lives."

The tornado warning was issued in the Omaha area on Friday afternoon just as children were due to be released from school. Many schools had students shelter in place until the storm passed. Hours later, buses were still transporting students home.

Another tornado hit an area on the eastern edge of Omaha, passing directly through parts of Eppley Airfield, the city's airport. Officials closed the airport to aircraft operations to access damage but then reopened the facility, Omaha Airport Authority Chief Strategy Officer Steve McCoy said.

Severe weather damage to Eppley Airfield in Omaha, Neb., can be seen from the Lewis and Clark Monument in Council Bluffs, Iowa on Friday Anna Reed/Omaha World-Herald via AP hide caption

Severe weather damage to Eppley Airfield in Omaha, Neb., can be seen from the Lewis and Clark Monument in Council Bluffs, Iowa on Friday

The passenger terminal wasn't hit by the tornado but people rushed to storm shelters until the twister passed, McCoy said.

Flight delays are expected Friday evening.

After passing through the airport, the tornado crossed the Missouri River and into Iowa, north of Council Bluffs.

Nebraska Emergency Management Agency spokesperson Katrina Sperl said damage is just now being reported. Taylor Wilson, a spokesperson for the University of Nebraska Medical Center, said they hadn't seen any injuries yet.

Before the tornado hit the Omaha area, three workers in an industrial plant were injured Friday afternoon when a tornado struck an industrial plant in Lancaster County, sheriff's officials said in an update on the damage.

The building just northeast of the state capital of Lincoln had collapsed with about 70 employees inside and several people trapped, sheriff's officials said. Everyone was evacuated, and three people had injuries that were considered not life-threatening, authorities said.

Sheriff's officials say they also had reports of a tipped-over train near Waverly, also in Lancaster County.

Two people who were injured when the tornado passed through Lancaster County were being treated at the trauma center at Bryan Medical Center West Campus in Lincoln, the facility said in a news release. It said the patients were in triage and no details were released on their condition.

The Omaha Public Power District reported that nearly 10,000 customers were without power in the Omaha area.

Daniel Fienhold, manager of the Pink Poodle Steakhouse in Crescent, Iowa, said he was outside watching the weather with his daughter and restaurant employees. He said "it looked like a pretty big tornado was forming" northeast of town.

"It started raining, and then it started hailing, and then all the clouds started to kind of swirl and come together, and as soon as the wind started to pick up, that's when I headed for the basement, but we never saw it," Fienhold said.

The Weather Service also issued tornado watches across parts of Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas. And forecasters warned that large hail and damaging wind gusts were possible.