4 day itinerary for Krakow

Itinerary

Krakow is such a vibrant city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and a lively atmosphere. Here’s a fun and engaging 4-day itinerary for you and your friends to make the most of your time there!

## Day 1: Explore the Heart of Krakow

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a hearty Polish breakfast at a cozy café like Café Camelot. Try some traditional dishes like scrambled eggs with smoked salmon or a sweet pastry.
• Wawel Castle: After breakfast, head to Wawel Hill to explore the magnificent Wawel Castle. Don’t miss the Crown Treasury and Armory, and take a stroll around the beautiful gardens.

Afternoon:

• Lunch in the Old Town: Grab lunch at a local eatery in the Main Market Square (Rynek Główny). You can try some pierogi (Polish dumplings) at a place like Pierogarnia Krakowiacy.
• St. Mary’s Basilica: After lunch, visit St. Mary’s Basilica. Make sure to catch the hourly trumpet signal (Hejnal) from the tower!

Evening:

• Dinner and Drinks: Head to Kazimierz, the Jewish Quarter, for dinner. Try a trendy spot like Hamsa for some Middle Eastern cuisine.
• Nightlife: Explore the vibrant nightlife in Kazimierz. Check out some local bars like Alchemia or Eszeweria for a laid-back vibe.

## Day 2: History and Culture

Morning:

• Auschwitz-Birkenau: Start early and take a guided tour to Auschwitz-Birkenau. It’s a somber but essential experience. Make sure to book your tickets in advance!

Afternoon:

• Lunch in Oświęcim: After your visit, grab a quick lunch in Oświęcim before heading back to Krakow. There are some nice cafes near the museum.
• Schindler’s Factory: Once back in Krakow, visit the Oskar Schindler Factory. The museum provides a deep insight into the city’s history during World War II.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Traditional Restaurant: Enjoy a traditional Polish dinner at a restaurant like Pod Aniołami, where you can savor dishes like bigos (hunter’s stew) and żurek (sour rye soup).
• Evening Stroll: Take a leisurely walk along the Vistula River and enjoy the beautiful views of the city at night.

## Day 3: Nature and Relaxation

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Bakery: Start your day with fresh pastries from a local bakery like Piekarnia Duda.
• Visit the Zakrzówek Lake: Head to Zakrzówek, a stunning lake perfect for a morning hike or a swim if the weather permits. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy nature.

Afternoon:

• Lunch Picnic: Pack some snacks or grab a takeaway lunch from a local deli and have a picnic by the lake.
• Tatra Mountains ## Day Trip (Optional): If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a day trip to the Tatra Mountains for some hiking. It’s about a 2-hour drive from Krakow.

Evening:

• Return to Krakow: If you went to the Tatra Mountains, return to Krakow in the evening.
• Dinner at a Local Brewery: Enjoy dinner at a local brewery like Browar Lubicz, where you can sample some craft beers and hearty Polish dishes.

## Day 4: Art and Shopping

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Brunch Spot: Treat yourselves to a leisurely brunch at a trendy spot like Charlotte, known for its delicious pastries and coffee.
• Visit the National Museum: Spend your morning exploring the National Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Polish art.

Afternoon:

• Lunch and Shopping: Head back to the Main Market Square for lunch and some shopping. Check out local shops for souvenirs, like handmade crafts or traditional Polish pottery.
• Visit the Cloth Hall: Don’t forget to visit the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) for some unique local goods and crafts.

Evening:

• Farewell Dinner: For your last night, have a memorable dinner at a rooftop restaurant like the one at Hotel Stary, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city.
• Final Night Out: Celebrate your trip with a night out in the Old Town. Check out some live music venues or dance clubs to end your Krakow adventure on a high note!

Tips:

• Public Transport: Krakow has a great public transport system, so consider getting a travel card for easy access around the city.
• Local Currency: Make sure to have some Polish złoty on hand for small purchases, especially in markets or smaller eateries.
• Language: While many people speak English, learning a few basic Polish phrases can be fun and appreciated by locals!

Enjoy your trip to Krakow! It’s a city full of charm, history, and unforgettable experiences. 🌍✨