A Week in the Heart of Poland
Discovering Cracow's Royal Legacy and Cultural Treasures
Trip Overview
This comprehensive week-long journey through Cracow unveils Poland's former royal capital at a leisurely pace. From the magnificent Wawel Royal Castle to the bustling Rynek Główny, you'll explore medieval architecture, underground mysteries, and vibrant cultural traditions. The itinerary balances iconic landmarks with hidden gems, allowing time to savor traditional Polish cuisine, stroll through the scenic Planty park, and discover unique attractions like the Dragon Statue and Rynek Underground Museum. With carefully planned days that avoid rushing, you'll experience Cracow's layered history—from medieval towers to interactive science centers—while enjoying the city's café culture and evening atmosphere. This plan includes day trips to nearby attractions and plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in local life.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival & Main Square Discovery
Where to Stay Tonight
Old Town (Mid-range hotel within walking distance of Rynek Główny)
Central location provides easy access to major attractions and eliminates need for transportation during your first days
Royal Wawel and the Dragon Legend
Where to Stay Tonight
Old Town (Same accommodation as Day 1)
Continuing to stay centrally maximizes your exploration time and minimizes packing and moving
Underground Mysteries and Medieval Gates
Where to Stay Tonight
Old Town (Same accommodation)
Maintaining your base in the Old Town for efficient exploration
Interactive Experiences and Local Attractions
Where to Stay Tonight
Old Town or Kazimierz (Same accommodation or boutique hotel in Kazimierz)
Either maintain your Old Town base or experience a different neighborhood atmosphere
Caves, Stars, and Fountains
Where to Stay Tonight
Old Town (Same accommodation)
Return to your familiar base for the final nights
Museums and Hidden Corners
Where to Stay Tonight
Old Town (Same accommodation)
Final night in your established base before departure
Final Discoveries and Departure
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (Departure day)
End of itinerary
Practical Information
Getting Around
Cracow's Old Town is highly walkable, and most attractions in this itinerary are accessible on foot. The city has an excellent public transportation system with trams and buses; purchase a multi-day transit pass for convenience and savings. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are affordable for longer distances or when traveling with luggage. For the cave visit, consider using public transport or a taxi. The city is compact enough that you won't need a car, and parking in the Old Town is restricted and expensive.
Book Ahead
Book Wawel Royal Castle tickets 2-3 days ahead (especially weekends), Rynek Underground Museum requires advance booking for timed entry. Accommodation should be booked 2-4 weeks ahead for best rates. If visiting during peak season (May-September) or holidays, book everything earlier.
Packing Essentials
Comfortable walking shoes (expect 6-10km daily), weather-appropriate layers (Cracow has variable weather), small daypack, power adapter (European Type C/E), portable charger, umbrella, and modest clothing for church visits
Total Budget
$580-730 for the week (excluding flights and accommodation)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay in hostels or budget hotels outside the Old Town (save $30-40/night), eat primarily at milk bars and local cafeterias, use multi-day public transport passes, skip paid attractions and focus on free walking tours, churches, and parks. Purchase a Cracow Tourist Card for discounts. Cook some meals if accommodation has kitchen facilities. Total budget can be reduced to $50-70 per day.
Luxury Upgrade
Stay at a five-star hotel directly on Rynek Główny with castle views, book private guided tours of Wawel and other major sites, dine at Michelin-recommended restaurants, arrange private car service for all transfers, add spa treatments and wine tastings, upgrade to premium cultural experiences like private classical concerts in historic venues. Budget increases to $250-400 per day.
Family-Friendly
Prioritize interactive attractions like WOMAI science center and House of Attractions, spend more time at the Dragon Statue and cave, add playground breaks in Planty gardens, choose family-friendly restaurants with children's menus, consider staying in an apartment for more space and kitchen facilities, reduce walking distances by using public transport more frequently, and allow for more flexible scheduling with rest time built into each day.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Cracow