Kraków on a Budget: A 5-Day Adventure

Experience the magic of Kraków while staying within your budget.

21 June 2023

Kraków, Poland offers a fantastic experience without breaking the bank. Be sure to visit the free admission St. Mary's Basilica and the Wawel Castle. Savor the delicious and affordable Polish cuisine, and soak in the city's vibrant nightlife on a budget-friendly pub crawl.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Old Town

  • Check into the affordable and cozy Hotel Batory
  • Take a stroll around the beautiful Old Town Square to admire the historic architecture
  • Visit the 14th-century St. Mary's Basilica and climb the tower for a panoramic view of the city
  • Wander through the charming cobblestone streets of Kazimierz, the Jewish Quarter
  • Enjoy a hearty traditional Polish meal at Restaurant Starka, featuring pierogi and kielbasa
Day 2

Discovering Wawel Hill

  • Start the day with a visit to Wawel Castle, the home of Polish kings for centuries
  • Explore the picturesque Wawel Cathedral and admire the intricate details of the architecture
  • Enjoy lunch at the charming Pod Baranem restaurant, serving Polish cuisine with a modern twist
  • Visit the nearby Dragon's Den, a legendary cave that was once believed to be the den of a fire-breathing dragon
  • End the day with a peaceful stroll through the scenic Planty Park surrounding the Old Town
Day 3

Journey to the Salt Mine

  • Take a half-day tour to the impressive Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Descend the steps to explore the underground chambers and sculptures carved out of salt
  • Visit the St. Kinga's Chapel, a magnificent underground cathedral that will leave you in awe
  • Have a light lunch at Salt Market, the underground restaurant featuring Polish specialties
  • Relax and soak in the benefits of the salt-infused air before heading back to the hotel
Day 4

Art and Cafe Culture

  • Start the day with a visit to the contemporary art museum, MOCAK, featuring thought-provoking exhibitions
  • Experience the cozy cafe culture of Krakow at Jama Michalika, a historic establishment with ornate decor
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the Planty and visit the Galicia Jewish Museum, focusing on Jewish history in Europe
  • Indulge in a sweet treat at Teteria Cafe, offering a wide variety of teas and desserts
  • Catch a breathtaking sunset view of the city at the Kosciuszko Mound
Day 5

Green Spaces and Local Markets

  • Start the day with a peaceful visit to the botanic gardens of Jagiellonian University
  • Visit the lively Nowy Kleparz Market, a bustling market offering fresh produce, local handicrafts, and more
  • Enjoy a picnic lunch at the scenic Blonia Park, a popular spot for locals to relax and unwind
  • Visit the charming hidden gem of Ojcow National Park, featuring breathtaking limestone cliffs and unique rock formations
  • End the day with a visit to the trendy and artistic district of Podgorze, a bustling hub of creativity and nightlife.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Kraków, Poland by plane is to fly into John Paul II International Airport Kraków-Balice, which is located about 11 kilometers from the city center.

Car

The best way to get to Kraków, Poland by car is to follow the A4 motorway, which connects the city with other major Polish cities such as Warsaw and Wrocław. It's worth noting that parking in the city center can be difficult and expensive, so it's recommended to park outside the city and use public transportation to get around.

Train

Kraków has its own train station, Kraków Główny, which is located in the city center and is well-connected with other major Polish cities such as Warsaw and Gdańsk.

Boat

Kraków is not accessible by boat as it is located inland and does not have any navigable rivers or canals. The closest port city is Gdańsk, which is located on the Baltic Sea and can be reached by ferry or cruise ship.

Bus

The best way to get to Kraków, Poland by bus is to take one of the many domestic or international bus services that arrive at Kraków Bus Station. The station is located close to the city center and is well-served by local transportation.

Destination

Kraków

If Disneyland and Hogwarts were to have a lovechild, it would birth Kraków. With its stunning architecture and magical atmosphere, you might just forget you're not in a fairytale.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Escape to Kraków for a Romantic Weekend

Kraków's Old Town features stunning architecture and charming streets perfect for a romantic stroll. Couples can indulge in candlelit dinners at traditional Polish restaurants and fine dining establishments. A cozy horse-drawn carriage ride through the city or a visit to the enchanting Wawel Castle are sure to create lasting memories.

Kraków on a Budget: Cheap & Chic Day Trip

Kraków is a picturesque and historic city in Poland that can easily be explored on a limited budget. Visitors can enjoy budget-friendly accommodations, delicious street food, and free or low-cost attractions such as Wawel Castle, the Main Market Square, and the Kazimierz district. With its charming architecture and rich cultural heritage, Kraków is a must-visit destination for budget-conscious travelers.

Kraków in 5 days: History, Culture, and Nature.

Kraków is a city that is rich in history, culture, and beauty. Highlights of a trip here as a tourist would include exploring the charming streets and famous landmarks, such as the Wawel Castle and St. Mary's Basilica. Additionally, visitors can enjoy traditional Polish cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and shopping for local handicrafts.

Kraków Culture, Nature & Budget Bliss

Kraków, Poland is the perfect destination for budget travelers seeking a mix of history and culture. A trip to the Wawel Castle and the Old Town is a must-do, along with a visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum. There are plenty of affordable hostels and local restaurants serving traditional Polish cuisine, making it an affordable destination for those on a tight budget.