I will be in Krakow for 4 days next month. Will be going to Auschwitz, the salt mine, and wandering around the town, castle, etc. For those of you who have been there, can you recommend any places that might not be mentioned in the few guidebooks out there? Any interesting shops? Our hotel is near the train station, are there any markets or grocery stores near there? Thanks!
Posted by
Alexandria, MN, USA
175 posts
We were in Krakow for 4 days in April. We followed the Rick Steves' Book closely and were very happy. From the Globtrotter Guest House to many of his restaurants, his walking tours etc. Went to both Auschwitz (a must see) and the Salt Mine. The train station is right next to the Old Town and has a shopping mall next to it. Be sure to see the Wawel Castle and Wawel Cathedral (The funeral for the president and his wife was there and you can see their tombs). It's a great walking town full of nice shops. Hope this helps. You'll love Krakow!!
Posted by
Parkland, Florida, USA
44 posts
Depending on your time and interests, consider a stay overnight in the Zakopane mountains. Wonderfull little town and a great ride up to the peak where you can hike along the ridge for an hour. You can also do what many people which is to buy one way to the top and hike back down. People go there for the health of the mountain air. Great village to eat and visit. We went from Krakow to Zakopane to Auchwitz. It will change in the future, but you can eat and drink pretty cheap in Poland compared to Western Europe. Definately use the guide book for advice and try to hit the Jazz club Rick mentions. It is in an old wine cellar in a basement with very cheap cover and drinks. The musicians are 30 feet away at the most. You have all day for Old Town and the club opens up at night.
Posted by
Newburyport, MA
683 posts
As to Krakow, a great accom is King Hostel and its reps should be at train station. We were there in 2006 and loved it. Leafy surrounds, nearby transport. Plenty of doubles w kitchens. We second the recomm re Zakopane. Don't stya in the town, as it is overrun by Brits and Germans on holiday. Instead, go up into mountains to Cyrrla (?). A good place there is Dom Wycasowa (?)
Posted by
Calgary, Ab, Canada
86 posts
The Schindler factory just opened as a museum in June, and it was really fantastic. Its a bit hard to find, but the people from my hostel had found it the day before. Im sure if you ask at your accommodation they'd let you know how to get there. Also I heard really good things about the free walking tours from www.freewalkingtours.com - their guides were knowledgeable, but I didn't stay for the whole tour, because I found it to be too long for me (3.5 + hours). They do 2 tours-one of the old town and one of the Jewish Quarter. Krakow is beautiful. Have a great trip, and bring Kleenex to Auschwitz.