Stare Miasto
Stare Miasto
5
About
The 13th century merchants' town is home to Europe's largest market square and offers numerous historical houses, palaces and churches with magnificent interiors, 14th century fortifications, ancient synagogues, Jagiellonian University and the Gothic cathedral where the kings of Poland were buried.
Duration: More than 3 hours
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Neighbourhood: Stare Miasto
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2,367 within 5 kms
Attractions
568 within 10 kms
See what travellers are saying
- James G4 contributionsUtterly gorgeous Old Town, worth several days of relaxation and tourism.Perhaps my favorite Old Town in Europe, for charm, beauty, museums, and great food. The only downside: nighttime brings out constant invitations to sex-oriented clubs in some areas of Old Town. But all in all, one could easily stay a week in Old Town and nearby areas.Visited October 2023Travelled with friendsWritten November 2, 2023
- Traveler807809Ridgefield, Washington4 contributionsRustic elegance a hidden gem.Stare Miasto Krakow Old world character with modern amenities. Easily give this five stars, if they provided onsite amenities for food/drinks/snacks. The outside appearance is very minimal, but the room was a nice integration or rustic elegance. The 1600 building's character is so well reserved and maintained. Rooms are upgraded with jetted tub, marble floors, streaming TV options, exposed beams, mirrored bathroom, cook top and spacious quarters. Robes and slippers are provided and a quiet hotel. Evening revelers could be heard late at night leaving the square but quite incidental during our stay. This sort of style is very high end in the US similar to light industrial areas turned into chic lofts and restaurants. Loved our stay! Only a few blocks off the old world square good access to food, night life, people watching with short walks to the trolley and parks. Receptionist spoke ghost English able to recommend authentic polish cuisine. Go back in a heartbeat!Visited September 2023Travelled with familyWritten February 23, 2024
- newlifechaptersNashville, Tennessee206 contributionsgreat place to stay and exploreLoved this area- lovely buildings, quaint side roads, beautiful gardens to walk and wonderful history with the castle area. We loved the easy, laid back vibe of Krakow. This area was not expensive either. We'd love to come back. Please don't miss the Basilica of Mary for the noon opening of the altar, followed by the trumpeter! It was amazing.Visited April 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten April 9, 2024
- Lilac G362 contributionsOld town Krakow.It is surrounded by a lovely park, where one can relax, read, go cycling. Well preserved buildings and some churches all around old town. There are souvenir shops, restaurants and horse carriages adding to the local folklore. There is also a big arcade with shops selling mostly amber. In the beginning of June, when I visited the city, there were many tourists in the area(but not so many as to become a nuissance) although the weather was not warm. So, I guess, this is when it is considered a good time to visit and enjoy. The place is easily accessible by tram connections and has a lively atmosphere. It was a positive experience and I would like to visit again sometimes in future, because it is not a small area and one can enjoy more visits.Visited May 2023Travelled soloWritten May 3, 2024
- LeonhknyHong Kong, China21,615 contributionsReason in KrakowKrakow's UNESCO-accredited old town is a main tourist draw for the city or even Poland. The quaint medieval town remains relatively intact after the world wars and offers a real taste of history. Do devote enough time to get yourself immersed into the city.Visited August 2024Travelled with familyWritten August 20, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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5.0
9,056 reviews
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Robert O
Rotterdam, The Netherlands5,856 contributions
Oct 2020
Whenever there is a concentration of old buildings in Europe or even the world with a UNESCO recognition as historic, the place is almost inundated with tourists. The dynamics of the place change dramatically with local residents moving out unless they gear their activities towards tourists. Many tourists are not really interested in history, but rather in the historic ambiance serving as a background for selfies. In this respect the old town of Krakow is similar to Prague, Venice or Amsterdam.
Most of what is left of the historic medieval old town is underground and many of the buildings have been restructured (especially after a devastating fire in 1850). The predominant architectural style is neoclassicism (late 19th century), though especially some of the churches have maintained a Baroque appearance (17th century). Stare Miasto district is larger in size than the area surrounded by Planty park where the old city fortifications and moat used to be. The district includes Kazimierz and Rakowicki cemetery just north of the railway station. Price levels are significantly lower in this wider belt area and the ambiance is still predominantly Polish. Quite a relief after confrontations with touts and souvenir vendors.
Most of what is left of the historic medieval old town is underground and many of the buildings have been restructured (especially after a devastating fire in 1850). The predominant architectural style is neoclassicism (late 19th century), though especially some of the churches have maintained a Baroque appearance (17th century). Stare Miasto district is larger in size than the area surrounded by Planty park where the old city fortifications and moat used to be. The district includes Kazimierz and Rakowicki cemetery just north of the railway station. Price levels are significantly lower in this wider belt area and the ambiance is still predominantly Polish. Quite a relief after confrontations with touts and souvenir vendors.
Written February 8, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Chris L
Sumter, SC143 contributions
Feb 2020 • Family
Walking around the area gives you a feeling of what could be nostalgia. The green space was created from the old moat, and several areas are preserved as museums, like part of the old wall. No trip to Kraków would be complete without wandering around here.
Written February 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lilac G
Athens,Greece362 contributions
May 2023 • Solo
It is surrounded by a lovely park, where one can relax, read, go cycling. Well preserved buildings and some churches all around old town. There are souvenir shops, restaurants and horse carriages adding to the local folklore. There is also a big arcade with shops selling mostly amber. In the beginning of June, when I visited the city, there were many tourists in the area(but not so many as to become a nuissance) although the weather was not warm. So, I guess, this is when it is considered a good time to visit and enjoy. The place is easily accessible by tram connections and has a lively atmosphere. It was a positive experience and I would like to visit again sometimes in future, because it is not a small area and one can enjoy more visits.
Written May 3, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Denisa Moricová
Frydek-Mistek, Czech Republic25 contributions
Aug 2021
Gorgeous architecture everywhere you look. However the number of tourists there even on workdays is astounding. It's even worse than Prague. The moment you turn a few streets - it's empty. Everyone is cramped on Florianska Street and on the square (which is enormous so luckily even with a lot of people there's still plenty of space). I still recommend this place though because it's just beautiful, There are also horse carriages everywhere and I personally really love the look of that :) and the sound.
Written August 13, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
sokolalene
Kyiv, Ukraine2,516 contributions
Oct 2023 • Friends
Due to the queue at customs, exploring Krakow was reduced to only a few hours. But this city is really so beautiful, unlike any other, that it made me want to come for a few days and admire it slowly, savoring it. The most beautiful Market Square, majestic churches, ancient houses with many details, souvenir shops and restaurants - I so wanted to stay, sit down, linger, go to the palace, but time... And so we were very lucky - it was raining, but as soon as we entered the Old Town through the gate of the ancient gate, the rain stopped. We bought donuts with pink jam (mm-mm) and went for a walk. Krakow, we will definitely get to know you better, I promise.
Written October 1, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Traveler807809
Ridgefield, WA4 contributions
Sept 2023 • Family
Stare Miasto
Krakow
Old world character with modern amenities.
Easily give this five stars, if they provided onsite amenities for food/drinks/snacks. The outside appearance is very minimal, but the room was a nice integration or rustic elegance. The 1600 building's character is so well reserved and maintained. Rooms are upgraded with jetted tub, marble floors, streaming TV options, exposed beams, mirrored bathroom, cook top and spacious quarters. Robes and slippers are provided and a quiet hotel. Evening revelers could be heard late at night leaving the square but quite incidental during our stay.
This sort of style is very high end in the US similar to light industrial areas turned into chic lofts and restaurants. Loved our stay! Only a few blocks off the old world square good access to food, night life, people watching with short walks to the trolley and parks. Receptionist spoke ghost English able to recommend authentic polish cuisine. Go back in a heartbeat!
Krakow
Old world character with modern amenities.
Easily give this five stars, if they provided onsite amenities for food/drinks/snacks. The outside appearance is very minimal, but the room was a nice integration or rustic elegance. The 1600 building's character is so well reserved and maintained. Rooms are upgraded with jetted tub, marble floors, streaming TV options, exposed beams, mirrored bathroom, cook top and spacious quarters. Robes and slippers are provided and a quiet hotel. Evening revelers could be heard late at night leaving the square but quite incidental during our stay.
This sort of style is very high end in the US similar to light industrial areas turned into chic lofts and restaurants. Loved our stay! Only a few blocks off the old world square good access to food, night life, people watching with short walks to the trolley and parks. Receptionist spoke ghost English able to recommend authentic polish cuisine. Go back in a heartbeat!
Written February 23, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
PRAIRA
Ankara, Türkiye718 contributions
Aug 2023 • Couples
It's a wonderful old city where you can't get enough of wandering around, looking around, breathing and feeling. In this impressive, historical and preserved area, there are museums, churches, bazaars, food and beverage venues, castle, grand bazaar, statues, historical gate, streets and horse-drawn carriages. There is no end to the explanation, walk every inch of it, live it to the fullest, feel it in your bones, you will really love it.
Written September 8, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
CLAUDIOMAS
Ceccano, Italy5,070 contributions
Dec 2023 • Family
For five centuries Krakow (the current historic center) was the capital of Poland; as much as 1/4 of the national artistic heritage is located here, therefore you can understand the beauty and elegance of the historic buildings of Stare Miasto. This is made even more evident by the administrations' care towards this heritage which is well maintained and preserved. Walking through its squares and streets, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1978, is truly satisfying
Written December 13, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mark H
Paphos, Cyprus560 contributions
Dec 2019
Visited Krakow for a 4 Night Christmas break and what an amazing time of the year to visit Krakow visit its Christmas market and walk the streets of the old town stopping for the odd drink and snack whilst people watching. Krakow offers so much to see and do and all within walking distance of the old town from a walk along the Vistiula River and Wawel Castle to St Marys Basilica and the amazing Galeria Krakowsa Shopping Mall.
....A wonderful City!
....A wonderful City!
Written January 19, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Leonhkny
Hong Kong, China21,615 contributions
Aug 2024 • Family
Krakow's UNESCO-accredited old town is a main tourist draw for the city or even Poland. The quaint medieval town remains relatively intact after the world wars and offers a real taste of history. Do devote enough time to get yourself immersed into the city.
Written August 20, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Есть выезд с Варшавы на 1,3 мая 2023 в Краков с экскурсией по историческому центру или поездка в Освенцум за 1 день
Written April 10, 2023
mcdlfc123
Belfast, United Kingdom
Any good suggestions for cheap groceries/sweets shop?
Thanks in advance
Written January 21, 2019
Hi there, you can find a lot of small groceries and Sweets Shops around the Main Market Square. There is even one Discounter on the Main Square, so no worries. Regarding the sweets shops - the most famous, like Wedel, is on the Main Market Square, not the cheapest but definitely worth trying. Hope it helps.
Written January 22, 2019
Hi I’m going to krakow next week and just wondered where is the place to change your money?
Written November 16, 2018
Kantor Grosz which is located at Sławkowska 4
31-014 Kraków
Poland
They had the best honest rate I could find. Everywhere else it appeared that they were charging hidden fees or not posting honest exchange rates. Ask to see the actual amount you are to receive for your money first before you take it. Once it’s in your hands your transaction is done.
Written November 16, 2018
Hello everyone,
I am planning to visit Krakow this July with my family and I was wondering what could you recommend me to visit, apart from the Old Town. Are there any hidden gems, or some attractions off the beaten track. I would be more than grateful for the information.
Thank you in advance!
Written June 10, 2018
Hi Anaskoi, there is really so much to do in the old town, but the Jewish Quater is a must (especially the New Square at night !) you’d need 1 1/2 days here alone. We spent a few days in Zakobane hillwalking & hiking, stunning place. You can take a raft down river there also. If your driving yourself great if not they run trips & tours from Kraków itself, absolutely fabulous holiday ❤️😎 Also Auschwitz-Birkenau is a must,not a great day, but very important. You can do this in day with the Saltmines also. Loved it, great city 👍
Written June 10, 2018
Hi. The reviews are under a city tour which is £17 but some reviews refer to a free tour. What is the difference and how do you book the free tour, please?
Written April 18, 2018
Free tours are cool too - at the end of the tour you just tip your guide what ever you feel is the deserving amount. You can look them up and just show up at the time and spot suggested.
Written April 27, 2018
Hey Krakow only survived WW2, in tact because the Germans were largely based there!! They were setting up the extermination camps for, firstly the high, and prolific Polish people ie government and military persons! These were captured and shot first in Austchwicht! Then any Romanies etc and then the Jews! Warsaw was 90% destroyed but somehow the Poles rebuilt it again. And don't forget that the Russians, at the end of WW2 were given the right to rule Poland, after such devastation! Thanks to the Uk, France and the USA!! Disgraseful!! I love the fact these countries, 'The countries from behind the Iron Curtain' are now flourishing despite no help from the Western European Countries!! They are all such beautiful countries in their own right!! I know, I have visited most of them recently!! :)
Written January 25, 2018
Hi We hope to Travel to Krakow in june, Is there somewhere we can hire a mobility scooter? My husband has limited mobility and walks with two sticks, but going by reading other reviews a lot recommend walking,The rest of us Will enjoy that But he wouldn't be able Also is there places anyone would recommend to buy tobacco,(Drum or Amber leaf).
Written January 21, 2018
Hi, I don't know the addresses but try to contact information centre: it@infokrakow.pl
simjan@infokrakow.pl
simszpitalna@infokrakow.pl
I hope somebody there will answer your questions.
Eva
Written January 22, 2018
Queremos hacer un free tour y una excursión a las minas de sal. Vamos solo de viernes a lunes. Había pensado en hacer el free tour el sábado por la mañana y el domingo las minas de sal. Que os parece la idea? Mejor el del centro histórico o del barrio judío? Gracias. Iremos a principios de febrero
Written January 19, 2018
Las minas de sal te las aconsejo vivamente. En mi opinion una maravilla, y los guias super agradables (En mi caso fue una guia de habla hispana). El casco antiguo puedes hacerlo por tu cuenta, aunque te perderas un poco la historia del lugar. Yo haria las dos visitas, una por la mañana y otra por la tarde (centro historico y barrio judio), las minas de sal las dejaria para el siguiente dia por la mañana y la tarde del segundo dia para disfrutar de la tranquilidad y belleza de esta linda ciudad polaca.
Written January 20, 2018
Hi, Stephen. What would you like to know about this attraction? Hi, my wife and I have booked for 4 days next year, we are looking to stay somewhere central, can you recommend anywhere?
Written December 27, 2017
Try Pergamin Apartments
Ul Bracka 3-5,Krakow
2 min walk from the old town square
Written December 27, 2017
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