The Rise and Rise of Krakow City Breaks

Krakow in southern Poland is a remarkable city with one of the best preserved historic centres in Europe.  Founded on wealth generated by salt extraction in the Middle Ages, Krakow rose to become the capital of Poland and seat of the Polish monarch until the 16^th century when this moved to Warsaw.  Nevertheless Krakow retained its status as a major cultural, intellectual and trading centre with much fine architecture.

Hidden from Western European eyes for many decades during the 20^th century Krakow was virtually unknown to the burgeoning tourist market until the fall of communism in Eastern Europe facilitated easier access after 1989.  Since this reawakening of Poland's tourist potential in the 1990s a host of excellent hotels have opened their doors in Krakow whilst the city has managed to retain much of its historic charm with strict controls on traffic, road development and new construction in the historic parts of the city centre.  Add to this the relatively cheap cost of living in European terms and the superb range of attractions in and around the city as well as a plethora of excellent restaurants and good shopping and you have the recipe for one of the finest city break destinations in Europe today!

The heart of the city is the superbly preserved medieval Old Town which surrounds the wonderful wide expanse of the Old Market Square with the imposing Cloth Hall at its centre. Ancient streets once walked by the kings and queens of Poland lead through this Old Town along the Royal Route from Florianska Gate to the Royal Castle sitting majestically astride Wawel Hill overlooking a bend in the River Wisla (Vistula).  The Cathedral, University and many museums and other outstanding cultural and architectural sights lie within the very well preserved walls of  the Old Town which in turn are surrounded by a lovely green boulevard, the Planty, through which you can take a pleasant stroll on a warm summer’s day whilst marvelling at the history around you.

Krakow offers a combination of hotels to suit all needs and this is a major reason behind its continuing rise as a city break destination. What’s more, whilst there is plenty to occupy the average tourist without having to leave the city centre, many people choose  Krakow city breaks because they want to combine a short break in a fascinating  historic city with a visit to the town of Oswiecim, site of the notorious wartime camps of Auschwitz and Birkenau.  This is easy to do by taking the regular bus or train yourself or by joining one of the many guided tours that pick up at main hotels for half or full day trips. 

Another very popular excursion from Krakow involves a visit to the salt mine at Wielicka. Little salt is extracted commercially in the area today, but one of the mines is preserved in working order and visitors can take a trip underground.  The miners here developed a tradition of carving the underground salt rock to form spectacular sculptures and in addition to learning how the salt was mined visitors can marvel at the truly magnificent works left by the miners, including a complete underground cathedral in a huge chamber decorated with intricate carvings.  The visit is not easy for those with limited mobility, and the organised tourist visits can be a little ‘tacky’.  Wieliecka is only 15 minutes from Krakow, however, so you can easily visit on public transport.  Get there at the start of the day for the least ‘touristy’ experience!

For those who want more than just a city break there are many other places of interest in the Krakow area, including Wadowice, the birthplace of Pope John Paul, and the legendary pilgrimage site of Czestochowa, and another popular (but full day) trip is to the mountain resort of Zakopane.

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