10 must-see things in Krakow
Welcome to Kraków, Poland's gem of a city where medieval charm meets vibrant student life! As an international student, you're about to discover why this UNESCO World Heritage city has been stealing hearts for centuries. Forget the guidebook clichés – here's your essential list of 10 must-see spots that'll make your Instagram followers jealous and your study abroad experience unforgettable.
1. Main Market Square (Rynek Główny)
Let's start with the crown jewel – Europe's largest medieval market square. Picture this: 40,000 square meters of pure magic, surrounded by colorful townhouses, buzzing cafés, and street performers who actually have talent. This is where locals meet, tourists gawk, and students grab their morning coffee before rushing to lectures.
Pro tip: Visit early morning for that mystical, empty-square vibe, or evening when it transforms into a golden-lit wonderland. The pigeons are extra friendly (translation: watch your sandwich).
2. Wawel Castle and Cathedral
Perched on a hill like it owns the place (which, historically, it kind of did), Wawel Castle is Poland's spiritual and political heart. This isn't just a castle – it's THE castle. Former residence of Polish kings, now home to priceless art collections and the legendary Wawel Dragon.
Student hack: Visit on Mondays when several exhibitions are free! Just remember to book tickets online to skip the tourist queues.
3. Kazimierz – The Jewish Quarter
Once a separate city, now Kraków's coolest neighborhood. Kazimierz is where history, culture, and hipster cafés collide in the best possible way. By day, explore synagogues and museums; by night, discover why this district has become the epicenter of Kraków's nightlife and arts scene.
Where to hang out: Plac Nowy is your go-to spot for zapiekanka (Polish pizza baguette), vintage shops, and people-watching. Weekend flea markets are treasure troves for broke students.
4. St. Mary's Basilica
That Gothic church with the asymmetric towers that you can't stop photographing? That's St. Mary's. Every hour, a trumpeter plays a melody from the taller tower – a tradition dating back to medieval times. Legend says the original trumpeter was shot mid-song while warning the city of a Mongol attack, which is why the melody abruptly stops. Cheerful, right?
Must-see: The stunning wooden altarpiece by Veit Stoss – it's only opened at specific times, so check the schedule.
5. Cloth Hall (Sukiennice)
Right in the middle of the Main Market Square sits this Renaissance beauty, once a center of international trade, now a paradise for souvenir hunters. Upstairs, there's a surprisingly excellent art gallery (and it's cheap for students!).
Reality check: Yes, the ground floor is touristy. But it's also where you'll find those amber necklaces your mom asked for and leather goods that don't scream "tourist trap."
6. Schindler's Factory
Heavy but essential. This interactive museum tells the story of Kraków during WWII through the lens of Oskar Schindler's enamel factory. It's incredibly well-done and will give you a profound understanding of the city's complex history.
Booking essential: This place is POPULAR. Reserve your ticket weeks in advance, especially during peak season.
7. Kościuszko Mound
Want killer views without killer prices? Climb Kościuszko Mound – a 34-meter artificial hill built to honor national hero Tadeusz Kościuszko. From the top, you'll get 360-degree views of Kraków that'll make your quad muscles forgive you for the climb.
Perfect for: Sunset watching, cheap dates, and contemplating life choices (like whether to skip tomorrow's 8 AM lecture).
8. Planty Park
This green belt rings the entire Old Town, following the path of medieval fortifications. It's basically Kraków's version of a city-wide park bench – perfect for picnics, studying outside, or pretending to jog. In spring, the chestnuts and lilacs will make you feel like you're in a fairytale.
Local secret: There are monuments and hidden spots throughout – make it a game to discover them all during your semester.
9. Jagiellonian University – Collegium Maius
One of Europe's oldest universities (founded 1364!) and your spiritual home as a student in Kraków. The Collegium Maius is the university's oldest building, featuring a stunning arcaded courtyard and museum. Fun fact: Copernicus studied here!
Museum tours: They're worth it. You'll see medieval astronomical instruments, historic lecture halls, and the kind of academic atmosphere that makes you want to read a book just because.
10. Wieliczka Salt Mine
Okay, technically it's 15 km outside Kraków, but hear me out – this underground wonderland carved entirely from salt is INSANE. We're talking underground chapels, lakes, and sculptures, all made of salt. It's been a UNESCO site since the list basically began.
Student bonus: Discounted tickets with your student ID. The tour is long (3+ hours) but absolutely worth ditching one class for. Your professors will understand. Probably.
Bonus Tips for International Students
Getting Around: Kraków is super walkable, but grab a monthly public transport pass – it's ridiculously cheap and will save you countless złoty.
Best Time to Visit These Spots: Weekday mornings are your friend. Weekends and afternoons belong to the tourist hordes.
Money Matters: Most places offer student discounts – always ask and flash that student ID like it's a VIP pass (because in Poland, it kind of is).
Language: Young people in Kraków speak English, but learning basic Polish phrases will earn you serious respect points with locals. "Dzień dobry" (hello) goes a long way!
Final Thoughts
Kraków isn't just a city you study in – it's a city that teaches you. Between the medieval architecture and modern student culture, you're in for an experience that no textbook can match. These 10 spots are just the beginning. The real magic happens when you start discovering your own favorite hidden corners, local bars, and that one pierogi place that becomes "your place."
Now get out there and explore. Your semester abroad is waiting, and Kraków has stories to tell. Trust me, in a few months, you'll be the one writing guides about your favorite spots – probably from that café in Kazimierz with the perfect lighting and even better coffee.
Powodzenia (good luck) and enjoy every moment!