Our guide on the most common Mistakes to Avoid in Krakow and how to avoid them for your next trip.
Krakow, one of Poland’s most beautiful and historically rich cities, is a must-visit destination for travelers. From the stunning Wawel Castle to the solemn Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, Krakow offers a wealth of experiences. However, as with any popular tourist destination, there are common mistakes visitors make that can impact their trip.
Krakow is a remarkable city with a rich history and vibrant culture, but by avoiding these common mistakes, you can make the most of your trip. Whether it’s booking tickets in advance, exploring off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods, or packing appropriately for the weather, a little preparation goes a long way. With this guide, you’ll be able to navigate Krakow with ease and enjoy all that this beautiful city has to offer!
Here’s a guide on the mistakes to avoid when visiting Krakow, along with tips on how to have a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Read here Krakow Airport sim card and the best Poland sim card for tourist
BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE
Two of our favorite travel insurance: Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance. You can get for $135 USD your Heymondo Travel Insurance with Heymondo discount code valid for 90 days. Read our full comparison of Genki vs Safetywing Travel Insurance Review and the comparison Heymondo vs Genki
Mistakes to Avoid in Krakow
1. Only Visiting the Main Attractions
Mistake:
Many visitors stick to the most famous spots, such as the Main Market Square, Wawel Castle, and Auschwitz, while missing out on other hidden gems that the city has to offer.
How to Avoid It:
Explore Beyond the Old Town: While Krakow’s Old Town is stunning, venture beyond it to districts like Kazimierz, the former Jewish Quarter, which is full of history, hip cafés, and vibrant street art.
Visit Less Crowded Sites: Discover lesser-known attractions such as the Oskar Schindler’s Factory, Nowa Huta (a Soviet-era district), and Kościuszko Mound for panoramic views of the city.
Tip: Spend some time walking along the Vistula River or visiting nearby parks like Planty Park for a break from the tourist crowds.
2. Not Booking Auschwitz Tickets in Advance
Mistake:
One of the most important historical sites near Krakow is the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, but many travelers arrive without booking their tickets in advance, only to find out that entry is fully booked.
How to Avoid It:
Book Your Tickets Online: Auschwitz-Birkenau can be very crowded, and tickets often sell out well in advance. Visit the official website to book your entry ticket before your trip. If you’re traveling during peak season, book weeks ahead to ensure availability.
Consider a Guided Tour: Booking a guided tour can enhance your experience, as the guides provide deep insights into the tragic history of the site. Many tours include transportation from Krakow, which simplifies the logistics.
Tip: Plan for at least a half-day visit to fully experience both the Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau sites.
3. Confusing Krakow’s Cloth Hall with a Shopping Center
Mistake:
Some visitors think that the Cloth Hall in the Main Market Square is a modern shopping mall, but it is actually one of the world’s oldest shopping centers, dating back to the Renaissance.
How to Avoid It:
Visit the Cloth Hall with Context: Instead of looking for modern shops, appreciate its historical significance. Inside, you’ll find stalls selling traditional Polish crafts, amber jewelry, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to pick up unique local items.
Explore the Upper Floors: Don’t miss the Sukiennice Museum on the upper floors, which houses an impressive collection of 19th-century Polish art.
Tip: If you’re interested in modern shopping, head to Galeria Krakowska, a large shopping mall near the main train station.
4. Eating Only in Tourist Areas
Mistake:
Many travelers end up dining in the restaurants around the Main Market Square, where the prices are higher, and the food may not reflect the true quality of Polish cuisine.
How to Avoid It:
Eat Like a Local: Venture into neighborhoods like Kazimierz or Podgórze, where you’ll find authentic Polish restaurants and bars. Look for places that serve pierogi (Polish dumplings), żurek (sour rye soup), or zapiekanka (a Polish-style baguette pizza).
Try Milk Bars: Visit a bar mleczny (milk bar), which is a cafeteria-style eatery serving traditional Polish dishes at very affordable prices. These can be found all over Krakow and are a great way to taste local cuisine without breaking the bank.
Tip: Popular milk bars in Krakow include Bar Mleczny Pod Temidą and Bar Mleczny Górnik.
Read here the best food in Poland
5. Underestimating the Weather
Mistake:
Some travelers arrive unprepared for Krakow’s weather, which can vary significantly between seasons. Winters can be cold and snowy, while summers can be hot and humid, and spring/fall can be unpredictable.
How to Avoid It:
Check the Weather Before Your Trip: Always check the weather forecast just before you leave, especially if you’re visiting in winter or spring, when rain and snow are common.
Pack Accordingly: In the winter, pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and waterproof boots. In the summer, bring lightweight clothes, but also pack a light jacket for cooler evenings. An umbrella or rain jacket is a good idea for spring and fall.
Tip: If you’re visiting during winter, keep in mind that Krakow looks magical under a blanket of snow, but walking through the old cobblestone streets can be slippery, so wear proper footwear.
6. Missing Out on Krakow’s Nightlife
Mistake:
Many visitors focus solely on Krakow’s historical sites and miss out on its lively nightlife scene, especially in the districts of Kazimierz and the Old Town.
How to Avoid It:
Experience Krakow After Dark: Krakow has a thriving nightlife, from cozy jazz bars and underground clubs to laid-back pubs. Kazimierz is a great area to explore at night, with its bohemian vibe and mix of modern and traditional bars.
Visit a Piwnica (Cellar Bar): Many of Krakow’s best bars and clubs are located underground in old cellars, offering a unique atmosphere. Popular spots include Alchemia and Pijalnia Wódki i Piwa.
Tip: If you’re looking for something low-key, grab a beer or cocktail in Planty Park or near the Vistula River for a relaxing evening.
7. Not Visiting the Wieliczka Salt Mine
Mistake:
Many tourists skip the Wieliczka Salt Mine, one of Krakow’s most impressive UNESCO World Heritage Sites, because it’s located a bit outside the city. However, this is one of Poland’s most unique attractions.
How to Avoid It:
Plan a Half-Day Trip: The Wieliczka Salt Mine is only a 30-minute drive from Krakow, making it easy to visit on a half-day trip. Tours typically last around 2-3 hours, taking you through underground tunnels, chambers, and stunning salt sculptures, including the impressive Chapel of St. Kinga.
Book Your Tickets in Advance: Like Auschwitz, the salt mine can get crowded, so it’s best to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
Tip: If you’re short on time, consider booking a combined day tour that includes both Auschwitz and the Wieliczka Salt Mine.
8. Ignoring the Need for Cash
Mistake:
While credit cards are widely accepted in Krakow, some smaller restaurants, bars, and local markets may only accept cash.
How to Avoid It:
Have Some Cash on Hand: It’s a good idea to carry some Polish złoty for small purchases, tipping, and visiting local markets. You’ll also need cash for some public restrooms, especially in smaller or less touristy areas.
Use ATMs or Currency Exchanges: ATMs are plentiful in Krakow, and you can use them to withdraw złoty. If you prefer to exchange currency, look for kantors (currency exchange offices) with fair rates.
Tip: Avoid currency exchanges located in tourist-heavy areas, as they tend to have higher fees or less favorable rates.
9. Underestimating the Walking Distances
Mistake:
Many visitors underestimate the size of Krakow and end up trying to see everything on foot, which can be tiring, especially if you’re visiting multiple sites in a single day.
How to Avoid It:
Plan Your Day Wisely: Krakow is a walkable city, but some attractions are farther apart than they seem, such as the walk from the Old Town to Kazimierz. Plan your day to include breaks, or consider using public transport when needed.
Use Public Transport or Taxis: Krakow has a well-connected public transport system, including buses and trams, which make it easy to get around. Taxis are also affordable, but make sure to use official ones (or apps like Bolt or Uber) to avoid scams.
Tip: Buy a public transport day pass if you plan to use trams and buses frequently, as it’s more cost-effective.
10. Overlooking Krakow’s Free Attractions
Mistake:
Some travelers spend unnecessary money on paid tours when many of Krakow’s most beautiful and interesting sights can be explored for free.
How to Avoid It:
Take Advantage of Free Walking Tours: Krakow offers a variety of free walking tours led by knowledgeable local guides. These tours are a great way to learn about the city’s history, culture, and hidden gems.
Visit Churches and Museums on Free Days: Many of Krakow’s churches, such as St. Mary’s Basilica, are free to enter for worshipers (though there may be a small fee for sightseeing). Additionally, some museums offer free entry on specific days each week.
Tip: The Krakow Museum and other cultural institutions often have free admission on certain days, so check their websites before your visit.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.