KRAKÓW – A CITY OF CULTURE AND HISTORY
It is not a simple task to describe the unique character of Kraków to those who have not yet had the opportunity to visit this city. Its uniqueness lies primarily in its rare cultural heritage, embodied within the city walls. Here, in the year 1000, a Roman Catholic bishopric was founded. Here, on Wawel Hill, the royal castle was constructed, becoming the site of royal coronations and burials. Kraków served as the capital of Poland from the 11th to the 17th century. In 1364, the Cracow Academy was established — the first Polish university, now known as the Jagiellonian University.
Over the centuries, the city’s image has evolved. In the Middle Ages, Kraków was a wealthy, well-fortified city surrounded by walls with 55 towers, fragments of which have been preserved to this day. During the Renaissance, it became a centre of progressive ideas and humanism, attracting writers, architects, and musicians. Even during periods of economic decline, especially in the era of Modernism, Kraków remained a haven for Poland’s artistic elite. City life has long revolved around the Market Square — the second largest in Europe after St. Mark’s Square in Venice.
Only a few European cities possess such a distinct medieval architectural layout as Kraków. From above, one can see a unique checkerboard pattern of streets surrounded by remnants of the old city walls. This layout evokes the image of a fortified medieval town. The walls, once strengthened by 47 towers and extending three kilometres, had eight main gates — only one of which survives today. In the 19th century, the fortifications were replaced by a green belt known as the Planty, now an oval park encircling the Old Town — a rare feature worldwide.
CULTURAL LIFE
Thanks to its geographical location, Kraków has become a meeting point of cultures and nations, establishing itself as a Central European metropolis of art, science, and culture. The city is home to several universities and many prominent figures in Polish cultural life. Kraków hosts numerous festivals and artistic events throughout the year, the most notable being its designation as the City of European Culture in 2000 by the European Union Council of Ministers.
Cultural life extends far beyond official institutions. Kraków has a vibrant street culture — the Market Square and surrounding streets often serve as open-air stages. Beneath the city lies a network of historical cellars, now lively hubs of nightlife. Many house theatres and cabarets, including the legendary Piwnica pod Baranami, a symbol of free expression during the communist era. Today, most of these underground spaces have been transformed into pubs, cafés, and clubs.
TRADITIONS, MYTHS AND LEGENDS
Kraków is a city of traditions, myths, and legends where the past interlaces with the present. Many customs date back to the 13th and 14th centuries. According to legend, Doctor Faustus once visited Kraków to work with Master Twardowski, a royal alchemist seeking the philosopher’s stone. Other legends recall the Tatar invasions that left their mark on the city’s history.
Every hour, from the tower of St. Mary’s Church, the bugle call (Hejnał Mariacki) is played to the four corners of the world — ending abruptly to commemorate the bugler who, legend says, was struck by an enemy arrow. Another famous figure is the Lajkonik, a man dressed as a Tatar horseman who parades annually through the Market Square.
Each year, during St. John’s Night (the shortest night of the year), locals gather by the Vistula River to float wreaths on the water — a remnant of ancient pagan traditions. The celebration includes open-air performances, fireworks, and historical re-enactments, reaffirming that Kraków will always remain a living legend.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Public Transport (2025)
- 20‑minute ticket — 4.00 PLN (normal) / 2.00 PLN (reduced)
• 60‑minute ticket — 6.00 PLN / 3.00 PLN
• 24‑hour ticket — 15.00 PLN
• 48‑hour ticket — 24.00 PLN
• 72‑hour ticket — 36.00 PLN
• 7‑day ticket — 48.00 PLN (zone I)
Airport train to city centre: 9.00 PLN (normal) / 4.50 PLN (reduced)
Emergency Numbers
Ambulance (Pogotowie ratunkowe): 999
Fire Brigade (Straż pożarna): 998
Police (Policja): 997
Safety advice: Kraków is generally safe, but basic precautions apply. Beware of pickpockets, especially on public transport, and do not leave belongings unattended.
Banking & Currency
Exchange offices (kantors) in the city centre often offer better rates than banks. Credit cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants, and ATMs are available throughout the city.
Currency: Polish złoty (PLN), 1 PLN = 100 groszy (gr).
Approximate exchange rates (October 2025):
1 USD ≈ 4.00 PLN
1 EUR ≈ 4.35 PLN
1 GBP ≈ 5.10 PLN
Opening Hours
- Museums & Galleries: most state museums closed on Mondays; private galleries often closed on Sundays.
• Food shops: 6/7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
• Other shops: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. (weekdays), 10 a.m. – 2/5 p.m. (Saturdays); some open Sundays.
• Banks: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. (weekdays), 8 a.m. – 1/2 p.m. (Saturdays), closed Sundays.
Postal & Courier Services
Main Post Office: ul. Westerplatte 20, Kraków – open 24 hours.
Courier: DPD, ul. Płk. Dąbka 22A (Mon–Fri 10:00–19:00).
Additional branches: ul. Cystersów 21d, ul. Gliniana 15 (06:00–23:00, except Sundays).
LEISURE
Kraków is not only a city of history and art but also a place for active leisure. Whether you enjoy outdoor sports, cultural exploration, or relaxing in cosy cafés, the city offers a wide variety of activities for everyone.
Sports and Outdoor Activities
Kraków offers numerous opportunities for sports enthusiasts. You can go jogging or cycling along the Vistula Boulevards, play tennis in one of the city’s sports centres, or enjoy kayaking on the river.
• Błonia Park – a large green area perfect for walking, running, or cycling.
• Kraków Valley Golf & Country Club (Paczółtowice) – an 18-hole golf course just 30 km from the city centre.
• Krakowski Klub Strzelecki – shooting range and archery training.
• KS Płaszowianka, ul. Stróża Rybna 19, Kraków — offers archery and athletics (Tel.: +48 12 653 28 21).
Recreation and Relaxation
If you prefer relaxation, Kraków’s numerous parks and gardens provide perfect spots for unwinding:
• Planty Park – a green belt surrounding the Old Town.
• Jordan Park – a family-friendly park with playgrounds and sports fields.
• Zakrzówek Lagoon – a scenic lake ideal for walking, diving, and swimming in summer.
• Bagry Reservoir – a recreational area with beaches, sailing, and water sports.
Nightlife and Entertainment
Kraków has one of the liveliest nightlife scenes in Poland:
• Kazimierz district is filled with bars, restaurants, and jazz clubs, such as Alchemia and Harris Piano Jazz Bar.
• Around the Main Market Square, you’ll find popular pubs, live-music venues, and stylish cocktail bars.
• Explore the historic cellars beneath the Old Town — many house cabarets and intimate concert stages.
Events and Festivals
Throughout the year, Kraków hosts major cultural and music events such as:
• Wianki (St. John’s Night Festival) – summer open-air concerts and fireworks by the river.
• Kraków Film Festival – one of Europe’s oldest film events.
• Jewish Culture Festival in Kazimierz – internationally renowned cultural celebration.
• Christmas Market on the Main Square – a must-see in winter, famous for its festive atmosphere and handmade crafts.