With a storied past and a cutting-edge creative spirit it’s no surprise that Krakow is one of the most visited cities in central Europe. Krakow’s UNESCO heritage Old Town, majestic castle, and moody Jewish Quarter are enough of a draw but Poland’s second city offers up a bit more to those willing to look. From history and hiking to vodka tasting Krakow has something to suit any traveler looking to explore beyond Krakow’s historic core. Take a look at these wonderful and unusual things to do in Krakow.
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Krakus Mound
Located 3 kilometers south of Krakow you’ll find the Krakus Mound, one of Krakow’s four memorial mounds. Built over 1,000 years ago the Krakus Mound is thought to be the burial grounds of Krakus, the legendary founder of Krakow who is said to have slain a dragon. Today the mound is known for the sweeping 180- degree views that unfold from its north side. where you can climb up at sunset and watch as the light fades over the gothic spires of Old Town.
Hike to Morskie Oko
Located in the Tatra Mountains Morskie Oko (which translates “Eye of the Sea”) is a stunning alpine lake set under the summit of Rysy, Poland’s highest peak. To get there from Krakow there are organized tours ( that often include a pick up at your hotel) or you can go via public bus. Once you’ve reached the trailhead the hike is relatively easy and takes about 2 hours and brings you through groves of towering pines.
Vodka tasting
Vodka is the signature spirit of Poland and has been distilled here since the 9th century. Today, sampling the drink is a rite of passage in Krakow and there is nowhere better for a sip than one of the city’s many vodka bars. The most famous is the appropriately named Wodka Cafe Bar on the eastern side of the Krakow’s Old Town. Here you can taste shots of locally produced vodka in a variety of flavors including rye and cherry. Alternatively, a dedicated vodka tasting tour promises to reveal the longtradition of distilling Poland, usually alongside a platter of local Polish cuisine.
Salt mines
Situated 20 minutes from Krakow, the Wieliczka Salt Mines contain over 178 miles of tunnels carved underground. They were first dug out around the 13th century and are now famed for the medley of rock sculptures left by the miners. The highlight of the salt mines is St Kinga’s Chapel, a whole church carved out of salt rock complete with a life size replica of Leonardo’s The Last Supper.
Las Wolski
Popular with locals and visitors alike the green expanse of the Las Wolski forest is perfect for when you want a bit of nature close to the city. Whether you’re coming to walk miles of hiking trails, experience the Krakow Zoo or explore the Przegorzaly Castle these woods are truly a sanctuary within Krakow. Las Wolski is especially lovely in the autumn months, when the beech and hemlock trees turn to brilliants shades of gold.
Zakrzówek
The crystal clear lake at Zakrzówek is a popular spot for Krakow locals in the summer. Previously a working quarry before the discovery of hidden springs back in the 1992, flooding the whole place. A great spot for swimming this lake is also home to a
Ojcow National Park
Less than 20 minutes from the heart of Krakow lies Ojcow National Park, the smallest national park in Poland. At only 8.2 square miles what this park lacks in sizes in makes up for in splendor. Explore Ojcow’s 400 cave or marvel at it many geologic formations like Hercules’ Club, an 82 foot limestone tower. Ojcow is also home to a traditional Polish trout farm and adjoining restaurant, as well as a 14th century castle that’s part of the Eagle’s Nest trail.
Author Bio
Asia Kaczmarczyk
Asia Kaczmarczyk is the travel writer behind KrakowBuzz, the ultimate city guide to Krakow. She was born and raised in south Poland and returns to the area often. She enjoys to long hikes in the Tatra Mountains and good craft beer courtesy of Krakow’s growing number of beer halls. When she’s not exploring Krakow itself, she can usually be found surfing somewhere in Europe or exploring Southeast Asia.
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