A few practical tips make the difference between a good trip to Krakow and a great one. Here is everything you need to know before you go.
📅 Best Time to Visit Krakow
May, September and December are the three standout months. May offers warm weather and manageable crowds. September delivers the summer rush ending with continued good weather. December's Christmas markets on the Main Square (Rynek Główny) are among Europe's finest — atmospheric, traditional and magical despite the cold.
💰 Money
Krakow uses the Polish Złoty (PLN) — NOT euros, despite Poland being EU. Always pay in PLN, never in euros or your home currency (dynamic currency conversion rates are very poor). Use bank ATMs — avoid independent exchange booths in tourist areas. Budget €50–80/day for excellent mid-range travel.
🚌 Getting Around
Krakow's tram network is the backbone of city transport (€0.70–1.40/journey). The Old Town and Kazimierz are walkable from each other (20 minutes). Taxis: use Bolt or Uber for transparent pricing — avoid street hailing. Nowa Huta is 20 minutes by tram from the city centre.
🕯️ Auschwitz Practical Tips
The memorial is 70km west of Krakow — most visitors join organised tours (transport, guide, €35–55) which is the most practical option. If going independently, buses run from Kraków Bus Station to Oświęcim town. The site is free to enter but guide-led group visits are limited — book certified tours well ahead.
⛏️ Salt Mine Tips
Wieliczka (15km southeast of Krakow) is accessible by minibus from the bus station (€1) or organised tour. Buy tickets online in advance — the on-the-day queue can be 90+ minutes. The standard tourist route takes 2.5 hours; wear comfortable shoes and a light layer — the mine is 14°C year-round.
🍺 Food & Drink
Krakow has excellent food at very low prices. Must-try: żurek (sour rye soup in a bread bowl, €2–3), pierogi (dumplings, €5–8 for a full portion), bigos (hunter's stew), oscypek smoked cheese from mountain vendors (€2). Vodka is the spirit of choice — local brands (Żubrówka, Wyborowa) are excellent and inexpensive. The Kazimierz craft beer scene is excellent.
🎭 Stag Parties
Krakow is Europe's most popular stag party destination for British travellers. The Old Town on weekend evenings (Friday–Saturday) can be rowdy. Staying in Kazimierz or visiting mid-week provides a calmer experience. The stag groups are generally harmless but the atmosphere on Kraków's main streets can be overwhelming for those seeking tranquillity.
🌡️ Weather
Krakow has a continental climate — cold winters (−5 to 4°C, snow likely), warm summers (22–27°C), spectacular springs and autumns. Pack layers for evenings throughout the year. Winter requires proper warm clothing.
FAQs
Is Krakow safe?
Very safe. The main risks are tourist scams (fake police, bad exchange rates), pickpockets in the Main Square area and overly aggressive bar touts in the Old Town at night.
Do I need to speak Polish?
Not at all — English is very widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels and restaurants.
Is Krakow better than Warsaw for a short break?
Krakow is almost universally preferred for tourism — intact medieval centre, Auschwitz day trip, Wieliczka and the Kazimierz quarter. Warsaw is interesting but requires more effort.