Offline
Table of contents

Kraków Tips

At EuroPython 2026, many participants come with their families and friends. When you’re not at the conference, why not take some time to explore Kraków and its nearby areas?

Below you’ll find tips and recommendations to help you make the most of your stay in Poland’s cultural capital!

Fun Facts about Kraków

  • Former Royal Capital: Kraków was Poland’s capital for over 500 years and home to Polish kings at Wawel Castle
  • UNESCO Heritage: The entire Old Town was one of the first 12 sites listed as UNESCO World Heritage in 1978
  • Dragon Legend: According to legend, a dragon once lived in a cave beneath Wawel Hill - you can still visit the dragon’s den today!
  • Europe’s Largest Square: The Main Market Square (Rynek Główny) is one of the largest medieval town squares in Europe at 40,000 m²
  • Underground City: Beneath the Main Square lies a fascinating underground museum showcasing medieval Kraków
  • Salt Mine Wonder: The nearby Wieliczka Salt Mine is an underground city of chambers, chapels, and sculptures carved entirely from salt
  • Student City: With over 180,000 students, Kraków has one of the highest student populations in Europe
  • Trumpet Call: Every hour, a trumpet signal (Hejnał mariacki) is played from St. Mary’s Basilica - it stops abruptly mid-melody, commemorating a 13th-century trumpeter shot while warning the city of an attack

Getting Around

How to get to Kraków?

  • By plane: Kraków John Paul II Airport (KRK) is well connected to the city center (about 20 minutes by train/bus)
  • By train: Polish Railways (PKP) connects Kraków to major European cities. The main station (Kraków Główny) is in the city center
  • From the airport: Take bus 208, 209, or 252 to the city center, or the train from “Kraków Airport” station

Public Transport

In Kraków, public transport is efficient and affordable:

  • Extensive tram and bus network operated by MPK Kraków
  • Purchase tickets via mobile app Jakdojade or at kiosks
  • 20-minute ticket costs around 4.00 PLN (€0.90)
  • Night buses run when trams stop
  • The city center is very walkable - many attractions are within walking distance

Do I need to rent a car?

  • Not necessary in Kraków; the Old Town is pedestrian-friendly and parking is limited
  • Public transport and walking are the best ways to explore
  • For day trips to nearby destinations (Wieliczka, Zakopane, Auschwitz), organized tours or trains are convenient

Weather in July

  • Average temperatures: 18-25°C (64-77°F)
  • Pack layers - evenings can be cooler
  • Occasional summer rain showers

Resources

Must-See Attractions

  • Wawel Castle & Cathedral: Royal residence with stunning architecture and the Crown Treasury
  • Main Market Square: Europe’s largest medieval square, with the iconic Cloth Hall and St. Mary’s Basilica
  • St. Mary’s Basilica: Gothic church famous for its stunning altarpiece by Veit Stoss and hourly trumpet call
  • Kazimierz (Old Jewish Quarter): Historic district with synagogues, museums, and vibrant nightlife
  • Schindler’s Factory Museum: Poignant WWII museum telling the story of Nazi-occupied Kraków
  • Wawel Dragon’s Den: Cave beneath the castle - visit the legendary dragon and see the fire-breathing dragon statue outside
  • Underground Museum: Beneath the Main Square, discover medieval Kraków through archaeological excavations

Day Trips

  • Wieliczka Salt Mine: UNESCO World Heritage site - an underground cathedral carved entirely from salt (30 minutes from Kraków)
  • Auschwitz-Birkenau: Important memorial and museum (1.5 hours from Kraków)
  • Zakopane & Tatra Mountains: Poland’s mountain resort with hiking and stunning views (2 hours from Kraków)
  • Ojców National Park: Beautiful limestone formations and medieval castle ruins (30 minutes from Kraków)
  • Energylandia: The bigest amusement park in Europe (half an hour from Kraków)

For Culture Lovers

  • National Museum: Outstanding collection of Polish art
  • Manggha Museum: Japanese art and technology
  • Cricoteka: Center for the Documentation of the Art of Tadeusz Kantor
  • Starmach Gallery: Contemporary art gallery in Kazimierz

For Nature Lovers

  • Vistula Boulevards: Riverside promenade popular for walks, cycling, and evening drinks
  • Planty Park: Green belt encircling the Old Town - perfect for a peaceful walk
  • Las Wolski (Wolski Forest): Large forest area with the Zoo and Camaldolese Monastery
  • Błonia Meadow: Vast green space for picnics and outdoor activities
  • Kościuszko Mound: Climb for panoramic views of Kraków and surrounding mountains

For Food Lovers

Kraków’s food scene is thriving! Try these Polish specialties:

  • Pierogi: Traditional dumplings (try Pierożek for local favorites)
  • Zapiekanka: Polish open-faced baguette sandwich (find the best on Plac Nowy in Kazimierz)
  • Obwarzanek: Kraków’s unique twisted bagel - grab one fresh from street vendors
  • Barszcz: Beetroot soup, a Polish classic
  • Żurek: Sour rye soup served in a bread bowl
  • Milk bars (Bar mleczny): Cheap, traditional Polish cafeteria-style eateries

Practical Tips

Money

  • Currency: Polish Złoty (PLN)
  • Almost all places accept cards, but please carry some cash for smaller vendors
  • ATMs are widely available

Language

  • Polish is the official language
  • English is widely spoken in tourist areas, restaurants, and hotels

Safety

  • Kraków is generally very safe
  • Watch out for pickpockets in crowded tourist areas
  • Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps (Uber, Bolt)

Opening Hours

  • Shops: Typically 10:00-20:00 Monday-Saturday, closed on Sunday
  • Restaurants: Usually open until 22:00-23:00
  • Museums: Often closed Mondays