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48 Hours in Kraków: Old Town, Pierogi, WWII History
Looking for what to do in Kraków in 2 days? This guide has you covered!
Kraków is often overlooked compared to glamorous cities like Rome or Paris, but that’s a mistake. This beautiful Central European gem survived World War II with little damage and today boasts cobbled streets, a vast medieval square, and a stunning castle — all within a lively, cosmopolitan setting.
Another reason travelers love Kraków? Affordability. Without breaking the bank, you can enjoy rich history, entertainment, and a thriving dining scene. Around every corner you’ll find something remarkable: medieval landmarks rivaling Paris, architecture as graceful as Vienna, food as satisfying as Barcelona, and history as compelling as Berlin.
So, what are you waiting for? Here’s your perfect two-day Kraków itinerary, full of beauty, history, and flavor.
The Old Town
At the heart of Kraków lies its historic Old Town, one of the first sites inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List in 1978. It’s a mix of pastel Gothic buildings, grand Baroque churches, Renaissance fountains, outdoor cafés, and fascinating museums. The city is also home to one of the world’s oldest universities, adding an academic charm to the medieval setting.
But Old Town isn’t just about monuments — it’s alive. Imagine strolling along cobbled lanes, passing nuns in traditional habits, pausing by remnants of medieval fortifications, and watching horse-drawn carriages clip-clop along the Royal Road. The atmosphere is both historic and heartwarming, creating lasting memories.
Day 1 in Kraków
Kraków’s compact size makes it easy to explore much of the Old Town and Jewish Quarter in a single day.
Morning
Breakfast at Mo-ja Café
Start your trip with a hearty breakfast at Mo-ja Café, a cozy modern spot between Old Town and Kazimierz. Choose from a full Polish breakfast, eggs any style, a breakfast burger, or fresh fruit juices. From here, it’s a short stroll to Planty Park.
Explore Planty Park
Encircling the Old Town where medieval walls once stood, Planty Park is a peaceful green belt dotted with statues, fountains, and shaded benches. It’s perfect for a relaxed morning walk and an easy way to move between landmarks. At its northern edge, you’ll reach St. Florian’s Gate.
Afternoon
Admire St. Florian’s Gate
Built in the 14th century, St. Florian’s Gate is the last surviving tower from Kraków’s medieval defenses. It’s a striking Gothic structure and one of the city’s most photographed spots. Along its inner wall, you’ll also find an open-air art gallery showcasing local work.
Visit the Barbican
Just outside the Old Town walls, the Barbican is one of Europe’s best-preserved defensive structures. Once linked to St. Florian’s Gate, it served as a checkpoint for those entering the city. After exploring, head down Floriańska Street, part of Kraków’s Royal Road leading straight to the Main Square.
Evening
Enjoy Rynek Główny (Main Square)
Dating back to the 13th century, Kraków’s Rynek Główny is one of the largest medieval squares in Europe. It’s lined with palaces, townhouses, cafés, and churches — many tracing their origins back to the Middle Ages. Street performers, market stalls, and live music give the square a buzzing energy well into the night.
Dinner and Dessert
Choose from one of the 30+ restaurants around the square and don’t leave without trying Sernik Babci, a traditional Polish cheesecake. Pair it with coffee, enjoy the lively atmosphere, and soak in the charm of this historic square.
Day 2 in Kraków
Morning
Breakfast at Café Camelot
Kick off day two with breakfast at Café Camelot, a charming Old Town spot with pink walls, chandeliers, and vintage décor. Enjoy omelets, cakes, or tarts, but the real treat is sipping cappuccino in its cozy, historic setting.
Visit St. Mary’s Basilica
Next, head to St. Mary’s Basilica, Kraków’s most iconic church. Its interior is breathtaking — a sky-blue ceiling dotted with golden stars, soaring stained glass, and a carved wooden altarpiece by Veit Stoss. For panoramic views of the Main Square, climb the tower (but note: it’s closed on Mondays).
Afternoon
Lunch at Przystanek Pierogarnia
A trip to Kraków isn’t complete without pierogi. Just outside Old Town, Przystanek Pierogarnia serves Poland’s famous dumplings at affordable prices. Fillings range from classic pork to spinach with cottage cheese. A budget-friendly, satisfying stop.
Visit Wawel Royal Castle
After lunch, walk to the Wawel Royal Castle, one of Poland’s most important landmarks. Built between the 13th and 14th centuries, it was home to Polish kings and is recognized as the world’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Access to the castle grounds and cathedral exterior is free, though you’ll need tickets for museum exhibits and guided tours.
Evening
Pre-Dinner Drinks at Wodka Bar
Sample Poland’s favorite spirit at Wodka Bar in the Old Town. Seating is limited, but the tasting flights make it worth the squeeze. Try creamy flavors like hazelnut and chocolate, or fruity ones like plum and blueberry.
Dinner at Morskie Oko
End your Kraków adventure with dinner at Morskie Oko, a rustic restaurant with wooden décor, candlelight, live folk music, and staff in traditional dress. Feast on pierogi, hearty mains, and appetizers — all at reasonable prices.
Other Popular Things to Do in Kraków
Cloth Hall
Standing in the heart of Rynek Główny, the Cloth Hall has hosted markets for over 700 years, making it one of Europe’s oldest. Today, it’s filled with stalls selling handicrafts, jewelry, artwork, and souvenirs — all under one Renaissance roof.
Day Trip to Auschwitz
One of the most sobering experiences near Kraków is visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau, about 1.5 hours away. Guided tours are strongly recommended, as they provide crucial context to the preserved barracks, watchtowers, and gas chambers. The visit is haunting but deeply important, offering a powerful lesson in history.
Visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine
