Krakow city breaks

Things to see in Krakow

Wawel Castle

One of the major attractions in Krakow is Royal Wawel Castle, a strong symbol for Polish national identity. The castle was first built in the 14th century by Casimir III the Great, and redeveloped during the Renaissance to become the heart of Polish culture. A fascinating place to visit, the castle is brimming with treasures and antiquities spread over five different museums. Wawel Castle is the highlight of cheap city breaks to Krakow from Scotland and the rest of the UK. This important symbol of Poland's identity contains five separate museums and beautiful grounds.Another key remnant of Krakow’s fortified past, and also one of the most beautiful, is the Barbican. This impressive medieval bastion features seven turrets and is one of the city’s most memorable landmarks. Perhaps even more memorable is Kościuszko Mound, set in a suburb of the city. This monumental earthen mound is dedicated to a Polish hero, Tadeusz Kościuszko, who died in 1823. As well as the mound itself, there is an interesting museum detailing the life and struggles of Kościuszko. Close to the Barbican is Florian Gate, one of the remaining historical gates to the city, and a key landmark for visitors to Krakow.

Schindler's Factory

This interactive museum is housed in the former enamel factory of Oskar Schindler and documents how he saved the lives of his Jewish labour force during the Holocaust. It's a poignant stop, rich in the country's heritage.

Wawel Cathedral

The Gothic-style Wawel Cathedral has witnessed many important Polish occasions and is easily recognisable with its gilded dome.

Galicia Jewish Museum

To learn about the Jewish history of Krakow, head to the Galicia Jewish Museum, where you’ll find a touching and informative exhibition on the Jewish culture of the former Austro-Hungarian region of Galicia, and the victims of the Holocaust. Schindler’s Factory is another key location behind the history of Nazi-occupied Krakow. The museum is housed in Oskar Schindler’s enamel factory, where the Nazi industrialist famously saved Jewish workers. If you’re interesting in learning about the wider history of Poland, the National Museum has an extensive collection of artefacts and paintings. Also worth visiting for Jewish heritage is the 17th-century Izaak's Synagogue, the city’s largest synagogue.When on city breaks to Krakow from East Midlands airport be sure to visit the Galicia Jewish Museum with its exhibits celebrating Poland's Jewish culture.

How to get there

Flights for Dublin to Krakow city breaks and arrivals from other UK airports land at the John Paul II International Airport at Balice. Regular bus and train services link it to the city centre. Book the best Ireland vacations by browsing our choice of flights to Krakow. 

Public transportation

Exploring Krakow on Dublin deals is made easy with the city's efficient bus and tram network. Services run from early morning until late at night. Buy and validate tickets at onboard machines.

Typical food and gastronomy 

One traditional Krakow delicacy is the obwarzanek, a large pretzel that's sold in every cafe and on every street corner. Krakow's food is hearty with choices such as zurek, a creamy sour soup served with sausage or hard-boiled egg, barszcz or beetroot soup and Polish dumplings or pierogi. Similar to ravioli, they're made with sweet or savoury fillings.

What is the Best time of the year to visit Krakow?

Like any large city, Krakow has a full calendar of events. Try and book Krakow city breaks from Glasgow to coincide with the Lajkonik Pageant in late May or the Jewish Culture Festival in July. Christmas markets appear in December while Krakow New Year is celebrated with music and fireworks.

Weather & climate

Summer in Krakow is hot and humid while winter is a season of snow and freezing temperatures. For comfortable sightseeing on short breaks to Krakow from East Midlands airport, visit in late spring or early autumn.

What language is spoken in Krakow?

Polish is the official language of Krakow while English and German are widely spoken and understood.

Accommodation in Krakow

With trips to Krakow and Auschwitz always being popular, Krakow offers plenty of accommodation choices. Both the Old Town and Kazimierz have hostels and hotels to suit all budgets.

Extra tips

Just an hours drive from Krakow is the former German Nazi camp of Auschwitz-Birkenau. This heart-breaking place can be visited from Krakow itself or consider booking guided coach trips to Auschwitz from the UK.

If you're interested in short breaks to other European cities, then browse our selection at lastminute.com