City Breaks in Krakow
Kraków also Cracow, or Krakow, with a population of 755,000 people is Poland’s second largest city. Situated on the Vistula River it is one of the oldest cities in Poland dates back 7th century. Retaining its old world ambience and charm, Krakow is the prettiest of Poland’s main cities that had escaped worst of WWII bombing. Major attractions of Krakow is not just the splendid architecture and treasure of art which is the reminders of time when Krakow was a royal capital city but it is also its unique ambience of former Jewish district and masterpieces of Polish Art Nouveau. Take cheap flights to Krakow as the beautiful city of Krakow is decked with amazing variety of bars, pubs, clubs and restaurants. The charming and exuberant atmosphere of the city attracts visitors in every season and Krakow weekend breaks fill you with memories that will stay with you for a very long time.
The old town’s Grand Square is the largest medieval Plaza in Europe. An old Cloth Hall stands in the centre with Town Hall tower at one end and the huge twin tower Gothic Basilica of St Mary opposite is among must see places. The weight of history hangs heavily on Krakow once the capital of Poland, is still cultural and centre of political upheaval in Europe. The magnificent Wawel cathedral and Castle Wawel overlooking the river Vistula on which this building stands are testimony to a tumultuous past. Street performers add a buzz of excitement and thus make it clear why Krakow was the European city of culture for the millennium.
Grab a city break to Krakow and must visit these amazing highlights of city:
- The Royal Castle of Wawel - The Castle on Wawel is one of the most magnificent Renaissance Royal residences in Europe that spell bound its visitors with the magic of its hundred years old history. The castle was built in 1000 years when the bishopric was made in Krakow and between 1504 -1535, the castle was reconstructed and its appearance was changed. There are museums in castle and within them there are thousands of worth watching exhibits some of which dates back from XV/XVI c. Major attractions of Royal Castle include unique royal chambers, crown vault and armament.
- Rynek Glowny and St Mary’s Basilica - At the heart of Old Town is a Rynek Glowny which is a massive medieval market square and is a social hub of city. With appealing architecture, vibrant atmosphere and many café terraces around its fringes make it happening place to visit. On its north east is situated St. Mary’s Basilica which is Krakow’s most important church after Wawel Cathedral. The original church built in 1220 was destroyed during Tatar raids and is again built in 15th century. The most striking feature of church is two towers of unequal height.
- Salt Marine in Wieliczka - The town of Wieliczka in metro Krakow is a UNESCO world Heritage site which is in operation from 13thcentury until 2007. Known as underground Salt Cathedral of Poland, the mine features numerous corridors, caverns, lakes and chapels all hidden deep underground. This salt mine contains the world’s biggest museums of mining where one can get glimpses of century old equipments used in mining. The mine is accessible all year round, except for January 1, Easter Sunday, November 1, December 4, Christmas and December 31.
- Kazimierz District - Krakow’s Kazimierz district situated south of Wawel Castle is a must visit on short breaks to Krakow. It is historic yet trendy. Bears the name of Polish king Kazimierz the great, it was an independent town earlier on but gradually became of Krakow’s district. Today Kazimierz is Krakow’s thriving headquarters is a home to Jewish cemeteries, narrow streets, atmospheric marketplaces, cafes and restaurants featuring retro décor that takes the visitors on a journey back in time. Now it enjoys a growing popularity among visitors and every June it hosts a world- famous Jewish cultural festival featuring workshops, exhibitions, lectures, shows and concerts.
- The Old Town - considered the heart of Krakow, the city Old Town is one of the most sought after destination for visitors. Decked with plethora of modern shops, cafes, restaurants and an eyeful of cultural and historical sites it is a must visit in Krakow. Among the major attractions of the Old town, Krakow National Museum is a must visit that features one of the largest collections of modern Polish art in the country. The best way to explore it is just take a nice slow walk throughout its small yet plentiful streets with an overwhelming pigeon population who are very much part of this Old Town.