2 Days in Krakow: A Weekend Itinerary For A First-Time Visit
Trying to Figure Out What to Do With 2 Days in Krakow?
No worries! Krakow is a huge city (the second largest city in Poland!), and it can be difficult to know what you should take the time to see during your 2 Days in Krakow!
After many trips to Krakow over the last decade, I can say it is for sure one of my and my husband’s favorite places to visit…we go back any chance we get!
Here are all the activities we love and frankly, the best things to do during a 48 hour trip to Krakow, Poland.
Why Take a 2-Day Trip to Krakow?
The first time I visited Krakow, it blew me away.
As someone who studies and teaches the Holocaust, I added Krakow to my European itinerary mostly because of its proximity to Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp.
However, I soon found out that the city itself is so much more than that!
Krakow is a UNESCO World Heritage city with a bustling Old Town that is walkable, family-friendly, and charming.
Known for being a historical area with architecture that dates back to the 13th century, Krakow has been a center of industrial and cultural significance for Poland throughout its history.
It has survived through many critical points in history, including World War II, when it was taken as German territory.
Today, Krakow is a bustling city that should be high on your list of European cities to visit due to its fantastic food, plethora of historical sites, amazing nightlife, and unique experiences.
Day 1 in Krakow: Old Town (Stare Miasto), Kazimierz & Wawel Castle
Gear up for your first day in Krakow, Poland!
It’s a long one, packed with places to see and things to do! You’ll spend most of the day exploring the Old Town area, with a few other things peppered in.
1. Enjoy Breakfast at Milkbar Tomasza
What better place to start your 2 days in Krakow itinerary than with food? If you do ONE thing from this itinerary, visit Milkbar Tomasza.
Milkbars are an important part of Polish history, as they were initially created and subsidized by the government as a place for workers to get a hearty, cheap meal.
Today, milkbars still exist all over Poland- and they are still an amazingly delicious AND cheap place to grab a bite.
Milkbar Tomasza is legit one of my husband’s top 5 meals ever. And we are foodies…so that should tell you something!
Order the full Irish breakfast- it’s massive!
Address: ลwiฤtego Tomasza 24, 33-332 Krakรณw, Poland
Hours: 8:00 AM- 6:00 PM Most Days, Closed Monday
๐ฅ Hot Tip: I always try to get here early, especially on weekends โ this place fills up fast! Also, portions are generous, so you might wanna split something if you’re not starving.
2. Old Stary Kleparz Market
Take a leisurely walk through the Stare Miasto (Old Town) area towards the Old Kleparz Market.
Ya’ll already know that if there is a good market in a town, I’m going to find it. Old Kleparz is one of my top favorites – ever.
This covered market packed with stalls has been in operation since the Middle Ages- insane! Locals flock here to buy produce and other goods from farmers and artisans, and (best part) it has not yet been taken over by tourists and cheap souvenirs.
I have bought everything from fresh pierogies to comfortable palazzo pants and everything in between here.
This is the perfect spot to grab a local lunch, as fresh food stalls are all over- a fantastic opportunity to try some fresh Polish cuisine!
Spend some time perusing the stalls and taking in the smells, sounds, and tastes of local Krakow.
Address: Rynek Kleparski 20, 31-150 Krakรณw, Poland
Hours: 6:00 AM- 6:00 PM Most Days, Closed Sundays
๐ฅ Hot Tip: Bring cash! A lot of the stalls donโt take cards, and itโs way easier to haggle a bit if youโve got small bills. I picked up some super fresh berries and cheese here for way cheaper than you’d find at a touristy shop.
3. Walk Around Planty Park, the Barbican, St. Florian’s Gate, and Floriaลska Street
Pass back through these stunning areas on your way to the next stop, Wawel Castle.
Planty Park is Krakow’s largest park and is a lovely place to simply take a breath of fresh air. You’ll often find locals here relaxing or snacking on something in between work calls.
As you continue walking, pass by the Barbican, a large, rounded outpost that was built to protect the city of Krakow from the Ottoman Empire in 1498. It was connected to the walls built around Krakow and stood as a point of entry for anyone heading down “The Royal Road” to the castle.
It is one of only 3 barbicans surviving in all of Europe!
As you leave the Barbican behind, you’ll pass through St. Florian’s Gate. A guard tower built during the Middle Ages, this stunning piece of architecture is hard to miss, as it stands watching over the Krakow city center.
Finally, enjoy some time on Floriaลska Street, perhaps the most popular street in all of Krakow. You’ll find everything from Mcdonald’s to old cafes and boutiques here…truly a mix of anything you can imagine!
It is a fantastic street to meander down, taking your time as you explore Old Town Krakow.
๐ฅ Hot Tip: Heads up, this area can get pretty packed, especially in the afternoons. I always keep my bag zipped and close โ Iโve never had an issue, but better safe than sorry. And wear comfy shoesโฆ those cobblestones are no joke.
4. Wawel Royal Castle
Overlooking the beautiful river Vistula, atop Wawel Hill, is the Wawel Royal Castle.
For quite a long time, Krakow was the center of government for Poland, and the kings of Poland lived within its walls.
Now, Wawel Castle has been turned into a museum, and visitors can explore multiple different exhibitions within its grounds.
You can buy tickets for each separate portion of the castle, but the exhibitions worth your time are the Royal Apartments, the armory, the treasury, and Lost Wawel. You’ll see weapons, armor, royal jewels, and other artifacts from Poland’s royal history.
Lost Wawel, in particular, is exceptional. It takes you beneath the castle into archaeological remains of the Rotunda of the Blessed Virgin Mary- Krakow’s first church. Then, it walks you through many other excavated areas of the original Wawel Hill, including a coach house and rooms containing historic artifacts.
You’ll also want to spend time exploring Wawel Cathedral.
You can enter the grounds of Wawel Castle for FREE! So, even if you’re not into exploring museums, walk around the inner courtyards of the castle-they’re breathtaking!
โญ Book a tour to skip the lines and avoid confusion, as the castle grounds are extensive and complicated!
Address: Wawel 5, 31-001 Krakรณw, Poland
Hours: 9:30 AM- 5:00 PM Most Days
๐ฅ Hot Tip: I really recommend buying your tickets online ahead of time โ I made the mistake of showing up midday the first time we visited and waited forever. Also, the ticket system is kinda confusing, so double-check whatโs included before you buy.
5. Dragon’s Den
If you happen to be visiting Krakow during the spring or summer months (April-October), take advantage of this super unique exit from Wawel Castle! Kids love it!
Legend has it that Smok Wawelski (the Wawel Dragon) lived beneath the ground of Wawel Hill.
Buy tickets and then follow the signs with the small dragon on them to climb down into his lair and exit beneath the castle next to the river Vistula.
You’ll find yourself next to a spectacular statue of Smok that breathes fire!
๐ฅ Hot Tip: This oneโs quick and fun, but itโs not that accessible โ the stairs are steep and a little slippery. Just something to keep in mind if youโre traveling with kids or anyone with mobility issues.
6. Jewish Quarter Tour
The Jewish Quarter, or Kazimierz, was the heart of the Jewish community in Krakow for hundreds of years, prior to World War II.
This local neighborhood now boasts a prominent art and foodie scene, plus the history to see there is unmatched.
I highly recommend taking a walking tour of The Jewish Quarter in order to get a local historian’s perspective and insight. It is one of the most unique Holocaust tours you can take.
Guided tours of Kazimierz show visitors Plac Nowy, the main square; Stara Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in Krakow; the Podgorze District, where the Krakow Ghetto was during WWII, and the popular Eagle Pharmacy, as well as other sites along the way.
The Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz is an exceptional place to learn more about the history of Krakow and World War II Krakow in particular.
Address: 30-001 Krakรณw, Poland
โญ Book a tour of The Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz in Krakow!
๐ฅ Hot Tip: If you’re doing a guided tour, Iโd go for one that ends around lunchtime โ that way you can stay in Kazimierz after and grab food at one of the local spots your guide probably mentioned. I found so many cool places that I wouldnโt have known about otherwise. Also, I can’t say it enough, wear comfy shoes โ itโs a lot of walking on uneven ground.
7. Oskar Schindler’s Factory
Krakow played a large part in the history of World War II and the Holocaust.
Many are familiar with the award-winning movie Schindler’s List, a Steven Spielberg film based on the life of Oskar Schindler.
Oskar Schindler was an officer in the Nazi party. However, he owned an enamelware factory in Krakow and is famous for employing Jewish workers in order to prevent them from being deported to Auschwitz.
In this way, he saved hundreds of Jews from being murdered, simply by their names being on “Schindler’s List.”
Originally named Oskar Schindler’s Deutsche Emailwarenfabrik (DEF), the factory building has now been transitioned into a museum that explores life in Krakow under Nazi rule.
Address: Lipowa 4, 30-702 Krakรณw, Poland
Hours: 10:00 AM- 6:00 PM Most Days
๐ฅ Hot Tip: Definitely book this one ahead of time too โ itโs very popular and tickets sell out fast. Oh, and donโt rush it. I went thinking Iโd be in and out in an hour, but it was way more intense and detailed than I expected.
8. Explore Old Town Krakow: the Stare Miasto & Main Market Square
The Stare Miasto, or Old Town, of Krakow is where you’ll want to spend most of your time while in the city.
It is a mixture of beautiful, historic buildings, cobblestone streets, both old and new restaurants, stores, and attractions.
It is a very safe area to walk around in, so don’t be afraid to get lost a little bit! Be sure to see some of these top things in the Stare Miasto:
โ๏ธ Rynek Gลรณwny (Main Market Square)
Rynek Gลรณwny is the main market square in the center of the Stare Miasto.
This open square is bordered on all sides by small shops and cafes. In the spring and summer months, it is the perfect place to sit outside and enjoy a meal in the sunshine. In the winter, you’ll find a small Christmas market set up here.
There is always something exciting happening in Rynek Gลรณwny. I’ve seen singers, other various street performers, a circus act, and even a Michael Jackson impersonator!
A super touristy (but memorable) thing you can do here is take a ride in one of the horse-drawn carriages for a unique spin around Krakow.
Address: Rynek Gลรณwny, 31-422 Krakรณw, Poland
๐ฅ Hot Tip: The cafรฉs and restaurants right on the square are great for people-watching, but theyโre usually overpriced. I like to wander just one or two streets off the square for better food and way better prices.
โ๏ธ Cloth Hall (Sukiennice)
The large, spectacular building in the center of Rynek Gลรณwny, Cloth Hall, was the center of trade in Krakow since the 13th century.
Multiple rows of trade stalls would set up shop here, and it was the only place royal visitors were permitted to trade cloth.
Today, the rows of stalls still stand, and it is one of the best places to grab a unique Polish souvenir to bring home.
Address: Rynek Gลรณwny 1/3, 31-042 Krakรณw, Poland
Hours: 10:00 AM- 5 or 6:00 PM, Closed Mondays
โ๏ธ Rynek Underground Museum
The Rynek Underground Museum is still relatively new, as far as it compares to other things in Krakow.
It is essentially a high-tech museum mixed with an archaeological site.
There is a multitude of exhibits that explore what life was like in Old Krakow, complete with medieval artifacts and stories from the settling of the city. In addition, you’ll find unearthed and preserved market stalls from the original Cloth Hall.
Address: Rynek Gลรณwny 1, 31-042 Krakรณw, Poland
Hours: 10:00 AM- 7 or 8:00 PM
Tip: Due to the smaller space underground, very few tickets are sold for entry each day. Reserve your tickets early!
โ๏ธ St Mary’s Basilica & The Trumpeter of Krakow
Saint Mary’s Basilica is one of the most commanding buildings in the Main Market Square of Krakow.
It was built during the 13th century and has an artistic interior that is worth visiting. Murals, a unique altarpiece, and other works of art have helped this historic building become listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The most recognizable piece of St. Mary’s Basilica, however, is the famed Trumpeter of Krakow.
Every hour of every day, there is a trumpeter who plays from one of the basilica’s towers. His tune cuts off in the middle to pay homage to a trumpeter who was murdered in the 13th century.
This trumpeter is so important that the noon tune is played over the Polish National Radio Station for the entire country to hear, so don’t miss it!
Address: plac Mariacki 5, 31-042 Krakรณw, Poland
Hours: 11:30 AM- 6:00 PM Except Sundays
9. Dinner at Restauracja Sukiennice
Restauracja Sukiennice is my top recommendation for a place to eat in Krakow.
Many people will tell you to avoid the restaurants in Main Market Square, but there are definitely gems there!
Restauracja Sukiennice is located smack dab in the middle of the square and serves up traditional Polish food among other things on their menu. During the spring and summer, it is the perfect place to eat a delicious dinner outdoors.
As the sun sets over the square, you can watch street performers and others begin their evening, all while enjoying a fantastic meal.
Address: Rynek Gลรณwny 3, 31-042 Krakรณw, Poland
Hours: Hours Vary
๐ฅ Hot Tip: I always get the Bigos (Polish stew) in a bread bowl, pierogies, and a huge liter of Zywiec at Restauracja Sukiennice! SO yummy! The food and atmosphere is incredible here, but honestly, youโre paying for the location. If youโre on a budget, Iโd maybe grab a drink and a snack here, enjoy the atmosphere, then eat somewhere nearby thatโs a bit easier on the wallet.
Day Two of Your 2 Days in Krakow: Auschwitz-Birkenau, Wieliczka Salt Mines, and Polish Cuisine
After one day in Krakow, you may think you’ve seen it all!
But day two is all about getting you outside of the Krakow city center to experience some of the most difficult, yet important, pieces of Polish history.
10. Auschwitz-Birkenau Nazi Concentration Camp
One of the main things that draws people to visit Krakow is the grounds and memorial of the former Nazi concentration camp, Auschwitz-Birkenau.
While it is certainly a difficult place to visit, a trip to Auschwitz is a moving learning opportunity, and, in my opinion, a place that everyone should visit.
Since Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp is located over an hour outside of Krakow, the easiest way to visit is to book a guided tour that includes transportation.
Many companies offer transportation directly from your hotel in Krakow or from a central spot in the town.
In-depth tours of Auschwitz will pick you up from Krakow and take you to visit the grounds of Auschwitz I, where you’ll see the grounds and artifacts and receive a tour. After, the tour will continue at the second museum area, Auschwitz-Birkenau, and will end with your return trip to Krakow.
No matter how long you have in Krakow, Auschwitz is the top thing you should see.
It will be a moving experience that will impact you forever.
Address: Wiฤลบniรณw Oลwiฤcimia 20, 32-603 Oลwiฤcim, Poland
Hours: 7:30 AM- 4:00 PM
โญ Book an affordable tour to Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp!
๐ฅ Hot Tip: This is a heavy day, so donโt plan anything big right after. While you can do it on your own, it’s way more meaningful with a guide โ they helped explain things I wouldโve missed on my own. Bring water, wear comfy shoes, and mentally prepare yourselfโฆ it really stays with you.
11. Wieliczka Salt Mines
Another big draw to the area around Krakow is the Wieliczka Salt Mines.
Salt mining in Poland began in the 13th century when salt became a major export and money-maker for the country. Wieliczka is the largest mine in the region and became incredibly important to stabilizing the Polish economy.
The Wieliczka Salt Mines stopped active production and mining in 1996, and they opened for visitors shortly after. More than 150 miles of tunnels and rooms below ground make up the Wieliczka Mines, but only a small portion of them are open to visitors.
The tourist route in Wieliczka Salt Mines was one of the most fantastic tours I’ve ever taken. Around every corner, be prepared to be stunned and surprised.
Somehow, more than 1,000 feet underground, there is a massive cathedral, other rooms, and large, beautiful lakes. Most tours take the tourist route inside the mines, which explores the most popular areas.
The Salt Mines are about a half hour outside of Krakow, and the easiest way to reach them is via a guided tour with transport or by taking the train.
Address: Daniลowicza 10, 32-020 Wieliczka, Poland
Hours: 9:00 AM- 5:00 PM
โญ Check Dates and Times for a COMBINED Auschwitz-Birkenau & Wieliczka Salt Mines Tour!
๐ฅ Hot Tip: If you donโt love group tours with a tight schedule, take the local train instead of going with a bus group โ itโs super easy and drops you off close to the entrance. Also, it gets chilly down there, even in summer, so bring a light jacket or sweatshirt.
12. Traditional Polish Food For Dinner
You have to have a traditional Polish food dinner during your 2 days in Krakow.
My recommendation is to try an array of the mouthwatering dishes at the Pod Anioลami Restaurant. From pierogies to mushroom soup, sirloin, and everything in between- it was all splendidly delicious.
Not to mention, one of the most unique things about the restaurant is its atmosphere. You’ll descend down steps into a gothic cellar where you’ll dine like a Polish king!
Address: Grodzka 35, 31-001 Krakรณw, Poland
Hours: 1:00 PM- 11:00 PM
๐ฅ Hot Tip: I always try to eat at a bar mleczny (milk bar) at least once โ theyโre cheap, local, and super filling. Pierogi and potato pancakes are a must! And donโt be afraid to just point at the menu if thereโs no English โ people are usually really nice about it.
13. Grab Snacks at Biedronka
Okay…listen!
One of the best things to do in ANY city is grab some random items from the local grocery store and try them out. This is made even more fun if you can’t really read the packaging and basically take a guess based on the photos or food!
Biedronka is a local Polish grocery store chain that is easily accessible. In fact, there’s one that is located directly in Rynek Gลรณwny. End your time in Krakow like a local and enjoy some fantastic snacks!
My recommendations? Some delicious pastries, a few baguettes, and a fresh, cold Zywiec- my fav!
Address: Rynek Gลรณwny 34, 31-010 Krakรณw, Poland
Hours: 6:00 AM- 11:00 PM Most Days
BONUS EVENING ACTIVITY: Check out the nightlife in Krakow by drinking your way around some of the fantastic bars in the Old Town. Krakow is well-known for being one of the best party cities in Europe.
It actually has the HIGHEST number of bars per capita in the world, believe it or not!
More Options For Your 2 Days in Krakow
Choosing what to do in Krakow in 2 days can be tough! You’re trying to fit a lot into a small time frame!
Plus, we all have different things we love to see and do!
Here are a few other top options for things to do in Krakow that you could definitely substitute into your 2 days in Krakow itinerary!
Visit the Zakopane Thermal Baths
You absolutely want to add a Zakopane Thermal Baths visit to your Krakow 2-day Itinerary if you have time!
The thermal baths are the best place to spend a relaxing afternoon surrounded by nature in the Tetra Mountains.
There are many options when it comes to which thermal bath to visit in Zakopane, but the largest group of them is the Chocholowskie Thermal Baths. Here you’ll find many pools and baths along with a sauna, salt cave, and restaurant.
Address: Chochoลรณw 400, 34-513 Witรณw, Poland
Hours: 9:00 AM- 10:00 PM Most Days
The easiest way to visit the Zakopane Thermal Baths is by booking a tour!
๐ฅ Hot Tip: If you go, bring your own towel and flip flops! Rentals there are kind of a rip-off, and I totally wish I had packed mine. Also, get there early or on a weekday if you can โ it gets packed with both tourists and locals, especially in the evenings.
Trip to Warsaw
While it may sound a little crazy, if you’re hoping to explore more of Poland during your time in Krakow, a day trip to Warsaw IS possible. Once, my friend Katie and I flew from Krakow to Warsaw and back in one full day!
It will definitely be a long day with a packed itinerary, but it is doable.
If you’d like to see Warsaw in a day, make sure to book an early flight from Krakow International Airport. In Warsaw, consider visiting Old Town Warsaw, specifically Rynek Starego Miasta, and the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising Museum, a museum dedicated to some of the Holocaust’s history in Warsaw.
You’ll be exhausted for the flight back to Krakow, but you’ll have a fantastic story to tell!
Where To Stay For 2 Days in Krakow
While Krakow is a large city in Poland, there are many different areas to stay in. When you’re searching for accommodation, you’ll want to be as centrally-located as possible. I always stay in Old Town, relatively close to the Main Market Square.
This makes for easy walking distance to just about everything! Here are some of my favorite places to stay in the Stare Miasto in Krakow:
Best Place to Stay: Parkside Apartments Krakow
I am all for staying in apartments in Europe- more space, less money! These apartments blew us away.
Fantastic location close to Old Town Krakow, spacious and clean suites, and a very safe area and building.
…and they generally run LESS THAN $100 a night! How can you beat that?
โญ CHECK RATES for My Top Recommended Parkside Apartments in Krakow
Budget Stay: Flamingo Premium Hostel
A beautiful and clean hostel with private rooms located in a historic building steps away from the Main Market Square in Old Town Krakow.
โญ Read More about the Flamingo Premium Hostel!
Luxury Stay: Hotel Saski Krakow Curio Collection by Hilton
This luxurious property with an indoor swimming pool is a lavish place to spend your 2 days in Krakow.
Relax in the courtyard, dine on a delicious breakfast, or be pampered in the hotel’s spa. Magnificent tranquility waits at the Hotel Saski in Krakow.
โญ RESERVE your luxury home away from home at Hotel Saski!
How to Get to Krakow
Krakow has been growing in popularity over the past decade, and it is surprisingly easy to get to!
Your best bet is to fly into Krakรณw John Paul II International Airport or take a train to the main station.
Flying to Krakow’s John Paul II International Airport
Krakow’s main international airport has undergone massive renovations in the last decade in order to accommodate the growing volume of tourists visiting the country.
Now, many international flights land at Krakow International Airport each day, including many flights from all over Europe.
Getting from the airport to the Krakow city center is simple, with options like a taxi being the most convenient or a train ride being one of the most affordable.
Taking the Train Into Krakow
Krakรณw Gลรณwny railway station is the most centrally-located and largest volume train station in Krakow.
Many domestic and international journeys pass through here, providing ample opportunities to travel to Krakow.
Thankfully, getting to the city center from Krakรณw Gลรณwny is literally just a matter of a few minutes walk.
FAQs: Krakow in 2 Days
I’ve answered some of the top questions related to having the best 2 days in Krakow below.
Is 2 Days Long Enough in Krakow?
You could easily spend many days in Krakow, but two full days is enough time to see the top sights of the city. However, be aware that you will leave Krakow wanting more!
It is one of the most amazing European cities that I have been to, and there is so much to explore!
Is Krakow Walkable?
The best way to explore the city of Krakow is on foot, as it is entirely walkable.
Aside from a very few exceptions- like traveling to the airport- you can pretty much walk the entire city on foot. And I recommend you do!
Walking around Krakow will give you the opportunity to take unplanned turns or pop into places you see on the street. It’s the best way, by far, to explore the local culture.
What is the Best Month to Visit Krakow?
You’ll want to take a trip to Krakow during the spring or the fall. After experiencing Poland in all four seasons, I can confidently say that these are the best times to go.
Spring and fall will give you the opportunity to visit popular attractions and still benefit from things like outdoor tours or seating without the massive crowds that descend upon Europe in the summer.
Plus, although it might not seem like it, Krakow gets hot in the summer. Taking an all-day tour of Auschwitz in the blazing summer sun is sweaty and hot!
Conversely, let me tell you…winter in Poland is brutal. Like, I’ve never been as cold in my entire life as I was while visiting Krakow in early January.
No matter what I wore or planned, the wind bit through my layers, and we could barely be outside for minutes at a time. I think at one time it was -20 degrees. Hard pass.
0/10 recommend Polish winters, to be honest.
Do They Speak English in Krakow?
Getting around in Krakow, Poland, is easier than you think since most people do speak English in addition to Polish.
The first time I visited Krakow, and Poland in general, I was so afraid that I wouldn’t be able to get around. Have you ever tried to decipher written or spoken Polish? SO HARD! Nothing, and I mean NOTHING, is spelled the way it sounds in the Polish language.
However, you’ll find that the majority of people in Poland do also speak English. And, everyone I’ve met there during my travels has been so kind and helpful as well.
Is Krakow a cheap city?
How Many Days in Krakow?
Realistically, if you have a choice, you should plan to spend 3-4 days in Krakow, Poland.
This would give you time to explore the city center and Stare Miasto as well as a few other important places to see.
The thing about visiting Krakow, though, is that there are so many amazing things to do that require a trip outside the city, which takes up a lot of time.
In order to schedule a day trip or two (likely to Auschwitz, Wieliczka, and/or Zakopane), you’ll need some extra time in the city to fully see all of Krakow.
The Wrap-Up: 2 Days in Krakow
And that’s that! The absolute best way to spend 2 Days in the beautiful city that is Krakow, Poland.
Regardless of what you decide to do, you’ll have an amazing time exploring this historical city, and I hope you bring back memories to last a lifetime!
Eat your heart out, explore widely, and enjoy Krakow, Poland.
