Krakow

In English the city's name used to be spelled "Cracow". But 21st-century visitors have discovered it via budget airlines and travel booking sites that always call it "Krakow" so the older spelling isn't used here. The diacritical mark over the "o" changes the pronunciation from "o" (IPA: [ ɔ ]), to "u" (IPA: [ u ]).

By plane

Kraków Airport

( KRK   IATA , John Paul II International Airport Kraków - Balice ).

The city's airport is in Balice, 12 km west of the centre. Ryanair are a major operator here, with an ever-changing list of European destinations; Easyjet, Lufthansa, Wizz and Norwegian are among others. The airport often suffers from fog in winter, with cancellations and diversions. There is a single terminal, with arrivals and check-in both in the same hall at street level. The currency provider is ICE, with rates for major currencies 15-20% either side of bank rate - poor value but average for an airport. There's a ground-side cafe but much better facilities upstairs airside, after security. A litre of Polish vodka for an EU passenger might be 60 zł. For non-Schengen departures, don't go through passport control until about an hour before your flight, as there's not much in the lounge beyond. Gates 17 / 18 are always non-Schengen, while Gates 9-16 and their waiting areas are switched back and forth. A dozen car rental kiosks are in Arrivals, only needed if you're touring the region, you can't take a car into Old Town.   ( updated Nov 2019 )

To and from the city:

Trains run bet

The town centre of Krakow is compact and walkable. Local buses connect the main districts and nearby attractions. Taxis are available from the train station.

Krakow has a historic centre with traditional architecture, a parish church, and several notable historic buildings reflecting the local heritage.

Visitors can explore the old town on foot, hike in the surrounding countryside, and attend local festivals and cultural events throughout the year.

Local restaurants and trattorias serve regional cuisine featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. Traditional dishes reflect the local culinary heritage.

Cafes and bars in the town centre serve coffee, wine, and local beverages. Regional wines and spirits are worth sampling.

• Budget: Guesthouses and budget hotels from around 100–150 PLN per night
• Mid-range: Comfortable hotels, typically 200–350 PLN per night
• Upscale: Boutique and premium hotels, from 400 PLN per night

Local shops offer regional products, handicrafts, and everyday necessities. Markets may be held weekly in the town square.

• Warsaw — Poland's capital city, with world-class museums and historic Old Town
• Kraków — the medieval royal capital and Poland's top tourist destination
• Gdańsk — beautiful Baltic port city with a stunning Old Town