Krakow

Poland

Krakow is a historical and cultural gem with a beautiful Old Town, Wawel Castle, and a vibrant atmosphere. Its rich history and charming streets make it a captivating destination for tourists.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay3 days
Budget$50/day
Mid-range$70/day
Luxury$300/day

Known For

KrakowCracowCracovieKrakówMałopolskaLesser PolandOświęcimAuschwitzWieliczkaSalt MineZakopaneTatra Mountains

🇵🇱 Country Information: Poland

CapitalWarsaw
CurrencyPolish złoty (zł)
Language Polish , English (common in tourist areas), German, Russian
Phone Code+48
Electricity230V (Type C, E)
Tap WaterSafe to drink

Tipping

  • Tipping is customary in restaurants (5
  • 10% for good service) and for taxi drivers (rounding up)
  • It's also common to tip hotel staff, hairdressers, and tour guides

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are widely available, especially in cities and larger towns
  • Credit cards are widely accepted, particularly in urban areas; cash is still useful for smaller establishments and rural areas
  • It's good to have some cash, but don't carry large amounts
  • No black market for cash

Cultural Norms

  • Punctuality is important, especially for appointments
  • It's common to greet people with a handshake
  • When visiting someone's home, it's polite to bring a small gift
  • Dressing neatly is appreciated, especially in formal settings or when visiting churches

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. While same-sex marriage and civil unions are not recognized, Poland has some legal protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation. Public attitudes can vary, but generally, major cities are more accepting.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • The legal drinking age is 18
  • Drug laws are strict, and possession of even small amounts can lead to severe penalties

Special Laws

  • Public consumption of alcohol outside designated areas is prohibited
  • Jaywalking can result in a fine
  • Smoking is prohibited in many public indoor spaces

Common Phrases

NoNie (nyeh)
YesTak (tahk)
HelloDzień dobry (jen DOH-bry)
PleaseProszę (PROH-sheh)
GoodbyeDo widzenia (doh vee-DZEH-nya)
Excuse mePrzepraszam (pshe-PRAH-sham)
Thank youDziękuję (jen-KOO-yeh)

Climate

Climate Zone: Continental Warm

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Pierogi must_try

These traditional Polish dumplings are filled with various ingredients, such as meat, cheese and potato, or sweet fillings like fruit. They are boiled

Obwarzanek street_food

A twisted, chewy bread ring similar to a pretzel or bagel, dusted with toppings like poppy seeds, sesame seeds, or salt. It's a traditional and ubiqui

Kotlet Schabowy must_try

Poland's version of a schnitzel, this is a breaded and pan-fried pork loin cutlet. It is commonly served with mashed potatoes and mizeria, a creamy cu

Żurek regional_speciality

A traditional sour rye soup made from fermented rye flour (żur), often containing potatoes, sausage (kielbasa), and hard-boiled eggs. It is a hearty a

Zapiekanka street_food

An open-faced sandwich made from a sliced baguette or long roll, topped with mushrooms, cheese, and other ingredients, then baked until the cheese mel

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum Entry Pass/Guided Tour Attraction
Book at least 2 months in advance, especially for guided tours.

Entry passes, particularly guided tours which are highly recommended, have limited capacity and frequently sell out weeks in advance, especially during peak season.

🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead

Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour Tickets tour_or_activity
Book 1–3 months in advance.

This is one of Poland's most popular attractions, with tours running at set times and capacity. Booking ahead secures your preferred time slot and language tour.

Intercity Train Tickets (e.g., Warsaw to Krakow) Transport
Book 1–4 weeks in advance for best prices and seat availability.

While trains run frequently, booking in advance secures significant discounts (Promo tickets) and guarantees a seat, especially when traveling during busy periods.

Wawel Royal Castle State Rooms and other premium exhibits Attraction
Book 1–4 weeks in advance.

Certain exhibits, like the State Rooms or Wawel underground, have restricted entry quotas and timed tickets, which can sell out, especially during high season.

Fun Facts

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