Looking for a European destination that combines history, culture, and powerful experiences – all within one city? Krakow is a compact and walkable city, full of stories that shaped Europe’s past. From medieval architecture to WWII sites, from salt mines to underground museums, there’s more than enough here for an extended city break.
Here’s a complete 4-day itinerary to help you make the most of your visit.
Day 1 – Explore the Old Town and Wawel Castle
Begin your trip in Krakow’s UNESCO-listed Old Town. Start with the Main Market Square (Rynek Główny), one of the largest and most beautiful squares in Europe. Visit St. Mary’s Basilica, listen to the hourly trumpet call from the tower, and check out the Renaissance-style Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) in the centre of the square.
Take a walk down Grodzka Street toward Wawel Hill, where Wawel Castle and the Royal Cathedral await. These historic buildings were once home to Polish kings and are filled with treasures and legends, including that of the Wawel Dragon.
End the day with a Polish dinner at one of the many traditional restaurants in the Old Town.
Day 2 – Guided Tour to Auschwitz-Birkenau
Day two is reserved for a meaningful and reflective journey to Auschwitz-Birkenau, the former Nazi concentration and extermination camp. A visit to this site offers a deeper understanding of one of the darkest chapters in modern history.
To ensure a smooth and informative experience, it’s best to join a guided tour with transport. You can book your visit in advance throughKrakowBooking, which offers tours with expert museum guides and round-trip transportation from Krakow.
The tour typically takes around 7 hours, so plan for a full-day trip. After returning, a quiet dinner in the city centre is the perfect way to decompress and reflect.
Day 3 – Kazimierz and Schindler’s Factory
On your third day, head south of the Old Town to the historic Jewish district of Kazimierz. Once the heart of Jewish life in Krakow, today it’s a lively neighbourhood filled with cafes, synagogues, art galleries and street food. Visit the Old Synagogue, the Galicia Jewish Museum, and take time to explore the small streets and hidden courtyards.
Just across the river in Podgórze, you’ll find the Oskar Schindler Enamel Factory, now part of the Historical Museum of the City of Krakow. The permanent exhibition focuses on Krakow during the Nazi occupation and tells the story of Oskar Schindler and the Jewish workers he saved – as made famous by Schindler’s List.
Kazimierz is also a great place to try modern takes on Polish cuisine or unwind with drinks at one of the local bars in the evening.
Day 4 – Wieliczka Salt Mine and Czartoryski Museum
Use your final day for two very different, but equally fascinating experiences. Start the morning with a trip to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO-listed underground labyrinth located just outside Krakow. This historic salt mine features chambers, tunnels, lakes and even chapels – all carved out of salt by miners over the centuries. Tours take about 2.5 hours and can be arranged with or without transport.
In the afternoon, return to the city to visit the Czartoryski Museum, home to one of Poland’s most important art collections. The museum’s highlight is Lady with an Ermine by Leonardo da Vinci, but you’ll also find ancient artifacts, royal treasures and historical objects tied to Polish identity.
Finish your Krakow stay with a relaxing dinner and one last evening stroll through the Old Town.
Travel Tips for Visiting Krakow
How to get there: Krakow Airport is well connected across Europe. Trains from cities like Warsaw or Prague are also convenient.
Where to stay: Choose accommodation in or near the Old Town or Kazimierz for easy access to major sites.
Best time to visit: Spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds. December is magical if you enjoy festive Christmas markets.
Getting around: The city centre is walkable, and trams are available for longer trips. Day trips are easiest with organised tours.
Final Thoughts
With four full days, Krakow becomes more than a city break – it’s a deep and varied experience. From medieval castles to Holocaust memorials, from salt-sculpted chapels to world-class art, you’ll leave with a sense of connection to the past and inspiration for the future.
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