Krakow: A backpackers guide to traveling Krakow
Krakow is one of Poland’s oldest and most beautiful cities. Known for its edge in culture, science, and education, Krakow is also a popular tourist destination in Europe and gathers around two million visitors annually. The city is rich in ancient landmarks and sights and also has a thriving nightlife that gives the most urban European cities a run for their money.
Getting Around
Krakow is serviced by tram and bus lines overseen by the MPK Krakow, and tickets can be purchased in kiosks and shops in the corners of the city. The Stare Miasto (Old City) can be best explored by foot, though, and if you want to travel outside the city limits, the train is your best bet.
Things to See
Krakow is not the capital cultural city of Poland for nothing. Breathe in its over 2 million works of art on display in their museums, or visit the Stare Miasto and take note of its abundant architecture in the Baroque and Gothic manner, such as St. Mary’s church. Take a stroll down the Rynek Glowny, one of the world’s biggest main marketplace squares. Visit the Wawel Castle, which used to be the seat of the kings of Poland, and the Jewish settlement Kazimierz south of the castle.
Things to Do
Krakow is not a city that lacks activity. The old town district is a great place to eat, drink, and have fun. Nightclubs are very popular, if not large in size, and live music entertainment (rock, pop, jazz) is easy to find in the city.
If that’s not really your interest, try looking at festivals and events that are held almost daily in the city. You can also go for a tour down the Vistula River.
Where to Stay
Krakow has several fantastic hostels. For the backpacker that likes to party, Let’s Rock Hostel is centrally located in the middle of the Krakow’s nightlife area in the old town. Let’s Rock Hostel offers 24 hour reception, free breakfast, free internet, free linen and lockers as well as walking tours and fun theme nights. Another recommended hostel that is located in the Krakow’s old town is the Little Havana Party Hostel. The Little Havana Party Hostel offers guests free breakfast, free coffee and tea, free linen, secure lockers and 24 hour hot showers. In addition, this Krakow hostel is known to have very helpful staff that can help with tours and things to see and do in Krakow.
