This blog may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy for more info.
Planning a trip to Kraków? You’re in the right place!
Kraków quickly became one of our favorite European cities. From strolling the storybook streets of the Old Town and its food scene to diving deep into WWII history at Auschwitz and Schindler’s Factory, every moment felt meaningful. But it was only after multiple trips that we found all of the best things to do (and what to avoid), which is why we wrote this blog so you can have the best time possible.
We’ve put together this detailed itinerary that balances Kraków’s best tours, local eats, and easygoing exploration. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, this guide is packed with everything we loved most. Let’s get into it!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Kraków was take this organized tour to Auschwitz. This was an eye-opening experience, and while it certainly isn’t lighthearted, we felt like it was an essential part of visiting Kraków. We learned so much from our guide, making this all the more impactful!
Check out the 3,200+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Itinerary Overview
This itinerary focuses on Kraków’s most atmospheric neighborhoods, the historic Old Town, and the culturally rich Kazimierz district. You’ll also venture beyond the city for meaningful day trips to two nearby UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine. It’s a well-balanced mix of local exploration and powerful historical experiences.
Kraków is incredibly easy to navigate, especially if you enjoy exploring on foot, since most of the city’s top sights are within a 15- to 20-minute walk. For anything farther out, public trams are efficient and easy to navigate, while taxis and rideshare apps are both affordable and widely available. Many tours also include hotel pickup or depart from central meeting points, making day trips and guided experiences hassle-free.
Day 1: Start with a private walking tour through Kraków’s Old Town. Then head underground to the Rynek Underground Museum for a glimpse of medieval Kraków beneath the Main Square. In the evening, explore the Kazimierz district on a guided food tour filled with traditional bites.
Day 2: Spend the day visiting two of Poland’s most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites on a guided tour to Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine. After getting back to Kraków, grab dinner and a drink at one of our favorite Polish restaurants in the city.
Day 3: Enjoy a relaxed morning to revisit your favorite spots or wander Kraków at your own pace. In the afternoon, take a guided tour through Schindler’s Factory and the Plaszów concentration camp. Finally, Cap off your trip with live music and cocktails at Harris Piano Jazz Bar.
Day 1
Breakfast – Charlotte
Start your day with breakfast at Charlotte, a relaxed French-style bakery on Plac Szczepański just a few minutes from the Main Square. We found the sourdough, croissants, and house-made jam to be standouts, and paired with fresh coffee, a great start to the day. Aim to arrive around 8:30 am so you have time to enjoy your meal before the walking tour begins at 10 am.
Morning – A private walk through Krakow’s Old Town
After breakfast, it’s just a 5-minute walk to the meeting point at Matejko Square for this private Old Town walking tour. We recommend choosing the 3-hour option starting at 10 am for the most complete experience. This tour is a fantastic introduction to Krakow’s historic center, giving you a deeper appreciation of the city right from the start. It’s easy to walk right past some of the coolest history in the city if you don’t know what you’re looking for, so we think this experience is a must for anyone visiting.
We started at the Barbican, a medieval fortress and historic entrance into Old Town, then followed the Royal Route down Floriańska Street. Our guide shared stories behind the gorgeous pastel buildings—some funny, some downright weird—and pointed out spots we never would’ve noticed on our own, like the knife stuck above the gate of St. Mary’s Basilica (yes, there’s a legend for that!).
The Main Market Square was a highlight. We ducked inside the Cloth Hall for a peek at the artisan stalls, then paused to watch a trumpeter play from the church tower, a quirky Krakow tradition that happens every hour.
What really makes this Kraków walking tour special is the one-on-one attention. We could ask questions, linger at places we liked, and skip anything that didn’t interest us. It felt like walking the city with a local friend, one who knows all the best stories! It was the best introduction to the city we could have asked for.
Book this private tour here and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go!
Lunch – Szara Gęś w Kuchni
After your walking tour wraps up at Wawel Castle, take a 10-minute stroll back to the Main Square for lunch at Szara Gęś. This elegant spot offers a modern twist on classic Polish dishes, all with a front-row view of the square.
We recommend the duck confit pierogi and beetroot soup, both local favorites. If the weather’s nice, try to grab a table outside or by the window for some excellent people-watching. It’s the perfect place to relax and refuel after a busy morning.
Afternoon – Step below the square and into the past
From lunch, it’s just a quick 2-minute walk across the Main Square to the Rynek Underground Museum. Tucked beneath the bustling plaza, this immersive museum takes you back to medieval Krakow with excavated pathways, ancient market stalls, and even a reconstructed blacksmith’s workshop. It’s a fascinating way to see how the city was built, literally, layer by layer.
We recommend booking the 2:40 pm timeslot to give yourself plenty of time before the evening food tour. You can easily spend 60 to 90 minutes here, and tickets tend to sell out in advance, so be sure to reserve early. Full-price entry is 40 PLN (around $11 USD), and the museum is open daily except the second Monday of the month. Definitely double-check that before you go, so you don’t show up to locked doors!
Dinner/Early evening – Feast your way through Kazimierz
End your day with a delicious deep dive into Kraków’s culinary scene on this small-group food tour through Kazimierz, the city’s historic Jewish district. We recommend booking the 5:00 pm tour slot since it gives you plenty of time at the museum and then time to get to the start. From the museum, it’s about a 25-minute walk or a quick 15-minute taxi ride. Either way, it’s worth the trip.
Led by a local guide, this tour was a full-on feast. We lost count after dish ten, but highlights included pierogi, crispy potato pancakes, smoky sausages, and a few street food snacks we never would’ve tried on our own. There were even a few surprises (who knew pickled herring could be so good?). Between bites, we sipped on Polish vodka and local craft beer, because what’s a proper food tour without drinks?
What we really loved was how personal it all felt. The small group made it easy to ask questions, chat with the guide, and actually take our time enjoying the food. Plus, the places we visited were ones we never would’ve stumbled upon ourselves, and were all local favorites.
And it’s not just about the food. As we walked through the streets of Kazimierz, our guide shared the neighborhood’s history, local legends, and cultural tidbits that made each dish more meaningful. By the end, we weren’t just full, but left with a new appreciation for Polish cuisine and Krakow’s Jewish heritage.
Book this tour with HUNDREDS of 5-star reviews here, before it sells out!
Evening – Grab a drink and unwind at Alchemia
Just a 6-minute walk from the end of the food tour, Alchemia is the perfect spot to wind down your evening. This bar is one of Kraków’s most iconic hangouts, moody, a little mysterious, and packed with charm.
We loved the cozy, mismatched interiors and the laid-back vibe. Whether you’re in the mood for a vodka, a local beer, or even just a hot tea, it’s a great place to soak up the atmosphere of Kazimierz after dark. If you’re lucky, you might even catch some live jazz in the back room.
Related Read: Need a great hotel for your trip? Our where to stay in Krakow guide is a must-read!
Day 2
Morning/Afternoon – Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine
Today, you’ll be going on our must-do experience while in Kraków. This full-day tour combines visits to two of the most significant sites in the region, Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine.
The day starts early at 7:00 am, with free hotel pickup and drop off, making the logistics super easy. It also includes lunch if you opt to book that with the tour.
Walking through Auschwitz-Birkenau was incredibly moving. Seeing the barracks, the railway tracks, and rooms filled with personal belongings is something that no book or documentary can prepare you for. It’s heavy, but necessary.
One moment that really stuck with us was standing inside one of the original buildings, listening to our guide quietly explain how daily life unfolded for prisoners there. It was heartbreaking, but we were grateful for how respectfully and clearly the guide approached everything.
After a break for lunch, we visited the Wieliczka Salt Mine, a surreal and beautiful change of pace. The underground cathedral carved entirely out of salt was jaw-dropping, and we couldn’t stop talking about how something so massive and ornate could exist below the surface. The contrast between the two sites made the day feel both reflective and uplifting. It was a nice way to end what would have been an otherwise incredibly heavy day emotionally.
With over 3,200 five-star reviews, this tour is popular for a reason. It gave us a much deeper understanding of Poland’s past and culture, and we’re so glad we didn’t miss it.
Check availability and book Kraków’s most popular tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Dinner – Laid-back comfort food at Sioux
After a full day, we were craving something relaxed and easy, and Sioux hit the spot. This casual restaurant sits right on the Main Square, and its mix of hearty Polish-inspired dishes and familiar comfort food was exactly what we needed. Think grilled meats, crispy potato wedges, fresh salads, and fast, friendly service that doesn’t require too much brainpower after a long day.
We grabbed a table on the terrace and loved watching the Main Square come alive under the evening lights. If you’re following a similar schedule, we suggest booking a table around 8:00 to 8:30 pm to give yourself time to decompress after the tour. It’s not fancy, but it’s exactly the kind of laid-back, satisfying dinner that wraps up the day just right.
Day 3
Early morning – Free time to explore or revisit your favorite spots
This final morning is all about enjoying Kraków at your own pace. We loved having this little window of unscheduled time to revisit the places that stuck with us most. You might take a quiet stroll through Planty Park, which loops peacefully around the Old Town, or wander the Main Square before the crowds roll in. If you haven’t gone inside St. Mary’s Basilica yet, now’s a great time. Its stunning interior is well worth a look.
This is also your chance to grab any last-minute souvenirs or gifts (we’re big fans of the amber jewelry and handmade ceramics). Or, just find a sunny bench or a cozy café and take a few minutes to soak in the atmosphere before saying goodbye.
Brunch – Gossip Cafe
Tucked between Old Town and Kazimierz, Gossip Café is one of our favorite brunch spots in Kraków. You’ll find everything from classic eggs and pancakes to vibrant smoothie bowls and fully loaded bagels—basically, something for every kind of brunch lover.
We suggest getting here around 9:30 am, which gives you plenty of time to enjoy a slow meal before heading out for the afternoon tour. It starts at noon, and depending on whether you take a taxi or the tram (details below), you may need more or less time.
Afternoon – Schindler’s Factory, Kraków’s ghetto, and Plaszów Camp
From Gossip Café, it’s about an 11-minute taxi ride to the starting point of this tour. If you prefer public transport, take tram number 20 from Teatr Słowackiego toward Mały Płaszów P+R and get off at Zabłocie. From there, it’s a 7-minute walk—just be sure to allow at least 30 minutes in total if going by tram.
For the final day, we think this 5-hour guided tour is a powerful and educational way to end your time in Krakow. It’s just as important as visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau and something you’ll be glad you did.
It begins at Schindler’s Factory Museum, where interactive exhibits and personal stories paint a vivid picture of life in Krakow during Nazi occupation. The museum itself is incredibly well-curated, and we found ourselves drawn in by the details.
The rooms were especially haunting and recreated the atmosphere of wartime Krakow. From there, the tour continues through the city to see haunting remnants of the Jewish ghetto, including a preserved section of the Ghetto Wall and Ghetto Heroes Square.
You’ll end the day at the site of the former Plaszów Concentration Camp, where your guide shares its tragic history with compassion and clarity. The final stop is Krakus Mound, offering a quiet, panoramic view over Kraków. We came away from this tour with a much deeper understanding of the city’s WWII history, and it’s one we would absolutely recommend to anyone visiting Krakow.
Check availability and book this tour in advance here!
Dinner – Old Town Restaurant and Wine Bar
After your afternoon tour, take a 10–15 minute taxi ride back to the Old Town for your final dinner in Krakow. We chose Old Town Restaurant and Wine Bar, and it was the perfect way to end the trip. Just a few blocks from the Main Square, it strikes the perfect balance between refined and cozy.
The menu features elevated versions of Polish classics like duck breast with cherry sauce and a creamy mushroom soup that we’re still thinking about. The wine list is excellent too (hence the name), and our server was great at suggesting pairings to go with our dishes. We recommend making a reservation for around 7:00 pm to give yourself enough time after the tour ends.
Evening – Jazz night at Harris Piano Jazz Bar
If you’re up for one last night out, head just three minutes down the street from dinner to Harris Piano Jazz Bar, tucked away just off the Main Square. This intimate cellar venue is one of Kraków’s best spots for live music, with nightly jazz performances. We grabbed a drink, settled into a table, and enjoyed some incredible jazz. It was the perfect final touch to our trip!
Shows usually start around 9:30 pm, so you’ll have plenty of time to wander over after dinner. We definitely recommend going if you’re in the mood to end your Kraków visit on a high (and smooth) note.
Related Read: Find yourself with extra time? Check out our favorite things to do in Krakow here and add these top activities to your itinerary!
Where to Stay in Kraków
Now that you have the perfect 3-day itinerary for Kraków, you need to find somewhere comfortable to stay! To help narrow down your options, I’ve put together three fantastic hotels for a luxury, mid-range, or budget stay.
Luxury – $$$
Located in Old Town Krakow, Hotel Stary is fit for a luxurious traveler! Equipped with a rooftop terrace, spa, sauna, and two pools, you might not want to leave. The rooms are spacious and have a relaxing, yet high-end decor, ranging from single rooms to luxury suites.
Prices are lower during the winter, but during peak travel seasons a room starts at about €240 a night. Check availability and reserve your stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Hotel Batory is a family-run hotel within walking distance to Old Town and the Main Market. The rooms are comfortable and have a cozy, classic design. You can get a twin, double, or triple room, starting at about €130 per night. Since this is a family-run hotel, it’s very welcoming and hospitable, and they have some great local recommendations.
Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay, the Great Polonia Kraków Kazimierz is a fantastic option! Located in the Jewish District, you’re within walking distance of Krakow’s most unique historic sights. The hotel has a historic decor, offering twin, double, triple, and family rooms, or a full apartment.
Rooms start around €80 and can be booked on Booking.com.
For more options, check out all the hotels in Kraków here!
Renting a Car in Europe
Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.
We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Europe
- Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
- Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
- Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
- Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
- Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
- Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
If you love history, impressive old architecture, and charming local shops and streets, you’ll love Kraków! We found this three-day itinerary to be the perfect balance of exploration and relaxation, with a good mix of activities. Stick to this plan and I know you will have the best time in Kraków!
Check out our other Europe travel guides before you take off! We have more resources on top things to do, where to stay, and city itineraries to help you plan the perfect trip. Here are a few related blogs to get you started:
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Berlin: 3-Day Itinerary