Why Krakow, Poland is Becoming a “Must Visit Spot” for Travelers
When you think of a list of the biggest European destinations that people want to travel to, it would typically include big cities such as Paris, Rome, London, or Amsterdam.
While these are all amazing cities to visit, there is a plethora of lesser traveled destinations that provide their own unique and incredible experiences.
Unless you already live in Europe, traveling from other parts of the world can be expensive. Pairing this with most people’s lack of knowledge, leads Krakow, Poland to be typically overlooked by most travelers.
Here is a video by PolishConsulateNYC asking Americans what they know about Poland, and many don’t know anything!
However, it seems there has been a change happening over the past decade.
According to Mike Ward on Allianz Travel, “The capital of Poland until 1596, Krakow is a city on the upswing, where ancient architecture and modern attractions are coming together in such that the city is garnering a number of awards and accolades such as the Top Off-the-Beaten-Path Destination for 2016”.
But why is the city gaining so much popularity and increasing yearly in international travelers?
Ward goes on to say, “It’s cheaper than Prague. Less crowded than Paris. It has more heart than Berlin. And it has more of its original parts than London”.
Sounds fantastic! So, let’s look at a couple reasons to visit Krakow in 2023 and beyond.
The cost!
One of Krakow ‘s biggest offerings is how affordable everything is. In fact, the American dollar is worth just over four Polish Zlotys, meaning your money goes much farther.
According to Kyle Hulme on Intrepid Travel, “For a fancy meal, drinks and desserts you’d be hard pressed to spend more than $10, and if you’re eating at a milk bar you can half that figure and get change back”.
Not only are food and drinks cheaper, but most of the tours through the various historical sites cost a fraction of what other European cities charge.
The food!
While it may cost less, there is no compromise in the taste of Polish dishes and traditional offerings that you’ll find all throughout Krakow. Many people would be surprised to learn how many foods we eat in America that are from Polish culture.
Some of my favorites found in America include perogies, kielbasa, and potato pancakes.
But there are many more exciting dishes to be tried such as…
Zapiekanki (Open-Face Sandwiches)
Pączki (Filled Doughnuts)
Gołąbki (Polish Stuffed Cabbages)
There will be something for even the pickiest of eaters or those looking to excite their palate with something new.
The medieval history!
Krakow is not only a very old and historical city, but it is also preserved very well compared to other European cities. Right in the center of Krakow, you can even walk the streets of a medieval era town that was chosen to be one of UNESCO’s first World Heritage Sites.
Other fantastic sites to see include:
The Grand Square
A massive town square filled with shops, museums, food, and gothic structures.
Wawel Castle
A large and well-preserved castle that was the former home of Poland ‘s government.
Cloth Hall
A market built in the 1300s that is still operating today.
St. Mary’s Basilica
A gothic style church built in the 1400s with an ornate and awe-inspiring interior.
World War II history.
For those who are interested in World War II history and its darker side, Krakow is located near Auschwitz-Birkenau and guided tours are offered daily.
This is a humbling place as it was the largest Nazi extermination camp where it is estimated around 1.1 million people were killed and 1.3 million were housed here.
Speaking about her experience, Martha Knight from May Cause Wanderlust Blog says, “Visiting the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum in Poland is very informative, solemn and emotionally tough experience”.
While it may be a difficult experience for many, it is important that we are able to visit this site and learn from our past as humans. The site is very well preserved and stands as a remembrance and in recognition of those who passed.
Krakow has even more to offer us about our more recent history. Such as Poland’s escape from communist rule in the 1990s.
Here is an article from Simon Johnson and Gary Loveman on Harvard Business Review about how communism was removed from modern day Poland but also left a lasting impact.
So, when are you going?
Krakow is a truly amazing city that captures some of the greatest aspects of traveling, exploring, and learning. Travel is expected to continue increasing and even the airlines are starting to take notice. American Airlines has expanded their direct flights to Krakow since 2020, and other airlines are beginning to follow suit.
While Krakow has been a hidden gem city in Europe, nothing stays hidden forever. With so much to offer at such an affordable price, it is only a matter of time before it becomes a hot spot for tourism.
Pretty soon we’ll see Krakow being added to the list of preferred destinations but that also means the perfect time to travel there is right now. You can beat some of the crowds and take advantage of this incredible city before others start joining in.
So, what do you think? Will you add Krakow, Poland to your travel list?
Are there any other hidden gem destinations that you know about?
Leave your thoughts and comments below!
