Planning a trip to Krakow and deciding where to stay? Choosing the right accommodation can make your trip more comfortable and pleasant. In this city, you will find options for every taste and budget: from luxury hotels to affordable apartments and comfortable accommodation for family vacations. From the historic Old Town to the atmospheric Kazimierz, each district has its own special flavor that promises to make your trip even more memorable.
The variety of neighborhoods can be difficult to navigate, but this guide will help you choose the perfect place to live. The Old Town with its architectural masterpieces, the rich cultural locations of Kazimierz or the calm Nowa Huta – regardless of the choice, you will find a cozy place for a wonderful vacation in Krakow.
Old Town (Stare Miasto)
An ideal area for a first trip to Krakow
Main attractions:
The Old Town is the heart of Krakow, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, full of cultural, historical and architectural wonders. The center of the district is the Main Market Square with St. Mary’s Basilica and its impressive towers, as well as the historic Cloth Row. The town hall tower here offers a panoramic view of the city.
- Wawel Castle and the cathedral, located on the banks of the Vistula, reveal the royal history of Poland. Buy an excursion with a ticket without waiting in line.
- Rynok Square, here you can see such sights as the Town Hall and St. Wojciech Church, Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Cloth Rows.
Movement:
It is convenient to explore the Old Town on foot: most attractions are located within a 15-minute walk. Even from the train station, you can easily reach the center or your hotel in the city center. We booked Hostel Green Cat Rooms is located in the Old Town, 1.1 km from Central Railway Station, which allowed us to easily walk and do not spend extra money on transport or taxis.
Numerous cafes, restaurants and bars for every taste await you in the Old Town. Try traditional Polish dishes such as dumplings (pierogi) and smoked cheese (oscypek).
Cultural heritage:
A walk through the streets of the Old Town will fill you with the spirit of history: there are many museums, monuments and historical pointers.
You can read more about Krakow in our post ♥“Krakow in 1-3 days, what to see“
Where to stay in the Old Town
Luxury hotels:
- Hotel Unicus Palace Old Town: This luxury hotel in the heart of the Old Town offers stylish rooms with modern amenities and high-quality service. Guests can easily explore the Main Market Square, Wawel Castle and other attractions.
- Polski Pod Białym Orłem: Located close to the Main Square, this historic hotel combines a unique classic style with modern amenities. It is an ideal place for those who appreciate elegance and comfort and want to be close to the key attractions of Krakow.
- Hotel Gródek: The hotel, with its elegant design and peaceful atmosphere, offers guests to relax in its own garden. Wawel Castle, Planta Park and other iconic places can be easily reached from the hotel.
Middle class:
- Wyndham Grand Krakow Old Town: Hotel with comfortable rooms, located near Main Square. Visitors are provided with modern amenities, and the rooftop terrace offers great views of the city and Wawel Castle.
- Hotel H15 Luxury Palace: Located in a historic building, this stylish hotel combines architectural charm with modern comfort. Guests have access to a spa and a restaurant with traditional Polish cuisine.
- Hotel Pod Różą: With comfortable rooms and a convenient location, the hotel is a great choice for those looking for convenient access to attractions. Hospitality staff will help with route planning.
Budget options:
- Wielopole Classy Rooms: Affordable and modern rooms in the center of Krakow, ideal for budget travelers who want to see the city from the best angles.
- Singer Apartament: An apartment hotel in the historic Old Town, where you can conveniently prepare your own meals. This is a good option for those who want to keep the budget and enjoy Krakow at their own pace.
- Libroom: A hotel with comfortable rooms at moderate prices. It is located minutes from the Main Square, making it a popular choice among travelers who appreciate convenience and hospitality.
Clepazh (Kleparz)
An ideal place for budget tourists in Krakow
Main attractions: Located north of Krakow’s Old Town, Klepaż is a great destination for those traveling on a budget. This neighborhood combines historic charm with affordability, making it a great base for exploring the city without breaking the bank. Klepaż offers convenient access to many of Krakow’s main attractions, as well as a wide selection of inexpensive entertainment, restaurants and shops.
Start exploring: We recommend starting your research at the Stary Klepaż market, one of the oldest and busiest markets in Krakow. Here you can immerse yourself in the local culture, buying fresh produce, traditional delicacies and handicrafts at reasonable prices. Just a few minutes’ walk away is Matejka Square with the Grunwald monument and the Jan Matejka Academy of Fine Arts, where the works of one of the most famous Polish artists are presented.
Other notable places:
- Church of St. Florian: An impressive Baroque church that is an architectural gem and a peaceful place for reflection.
- Barbican and Florian’s Gate: Historic fortifications marking the entrance to the Old Town, allowing a glimpse into Krakow’s medieval past.
- Krakow Main Market Square (Rynek Główny): This iconic square is just a few minutes’ walk from Klepaż and is a central point for sightseeing.
Food: There are many small eateries, cafes and street food stalls where you can enjoy delicious food at reasonable prices. Local favorites are Restauracja Galicyjska – a traditional-style restaurant serving Polish and Galician cuisine. It is a great choice for tourists who want to experience the authentic atmosphere of Krakow’s past as well Lunch Bar Pokusa — this popular spot in the area is known for its affordable prices and delicious traditional Polish dishes. The establishment attracts both locals and tourists due to its fast service and homely atmosphere.
Available entertainment: In addition to historical monuments and markets, Klepazh offers a lot free or inexpensive entertainment. Walking tours of the district and the nearby Old Town are a great way to experience Krakow’s history and architecture without breaking the bank. Many of Krakow’s museums and cultural institutions offer free entry on certain days of the week, so be sure to check their schedule.
Where to stay in Kleparzh
Luxury hotels:
- Hotel Indigo Krakow – Old Town: Immerse yourself in luxury in stylish rooms with modern amenities, located in the heart of Krakow’s historic district.
- Art & Garden Residence: Enjoy boutique luxury in elegantly decorated rooms and a tranquil garden setting.
- Avena Boutique Hotel by Artery Hotels: Discover elegance and attention to detail in luxury rooms in the center of Krakow.
Mid-range hotels:
- Mercure Krakow Stare Miasto: Modern comfort close to the center, with stylish rooms and a restaurant.
- K4 APARTHOTEL KRAKÓW: Spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchens conveniently located near the Old Town.
- Old Town – Długa 65: Cozy apartments with modern amenities, located a few minutes’ walk from the main attractions.
Budget hotels:
- Relaks Apartamenty: Spacious and comfortable apartments in a quiet area, ideal for a relaxing holiday.
- Amber Hostel: Inexpensive hostel in the heart of the Old Town with shared rooms for travelers on a budget.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment – 65 Długa Street: Self-catering apartments in the historic district, ideal for budget travelers.
Podgorze (Podgórze)
A district for history buffs in Krakow
Main attractions:
Located across the Vistula River from Kraków’s Old Town, Podgorze is a treasure trove for history buffs. Once a separate city, this area offers a rich fusion of historical sites and interesting stories. Podgurze’s historical significance is closely tied to Kraków’s past, making it an essential stop for those seeking to uncover the city’s complex cultural heritage.
Significant places:
One of the most impressive places in Podgorica is the Heroes’ Square of the Ghetto, which recalls the tragic history of the area during the Second World War. On the square there is a moving memorial of empty metal chairs symbolizing the lives lost during the Holocaust. Nearby is Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory, a museum that tells the story of the hard times of Krakow’s Jewish community during the war and Schindler’s efforts to save it.
- Krakusa Mound: One of the oldest objects in Krakow with a panoramic view of the city, reflecting ancient Slavic history.
- St. Joseph’s Church: A majestic neo-Gothic church that dominates the central square of Podgurze.
How to get there:
From the city center, you can easily reach here via the picturesque Bernateka pedestrian bridge. The area is compact, which allows you to conveniently explore its sights on foot.
Food and nightlife:
Although Podgurze is much quieter than the bustling Old Town, there are plenty of restaurants that create a unique atmosphere after a long day of exploring. Many establishments are located in historic buildings, offering traditional Polish cuisine and the atmosphere of old Krakow. In the evening, Podgorica becomes livelier: here you will find cozy bars and pubs where you can relax and reflect on the day’s events. Some establishments have live music, creating an atmosphere of coziness and comfort.
The rich history of Kraków is particularly felt in Podgurze. The area played a key role during the Second World War and its monuments tell the story of the resistance, resilience and tragedies of that time. The museum “Apteka pod Orlom” presents personal stories and artifacts from the Kraków ghetto, which allow a deeper understanding of life during the war.
Where to stay in Podhuzhe
Luxury hotels:
- The Bridge Suites: This modern hotel offers stylish accommodation in the heart of Podgorica. It is conveniently located near the Wawel Castle and the Main Square, which makes it easy to see the main sights.
- Old Town Vistula Premium Apartments: Spacious apartments with a panoramic view of the Vistula River. An ideal place for those who want to experience the atmosphere of Podgorica and have convenient access to the Old Town.
- Plaza Boutique Hotel: A cozy boutique hotel with elegant rooms and personal service, located in the center of the district. Guests can relax in the lounge area or explore the surrounding attractions such as St. Mary’s Basilica.
Middle class:
- Pensjonat Stańczyk: Located in the charming Kazimierz district, the hotel offers comfortable accommodation and access to cultural attractions including the Jewish Quarter and the Schindler Factory.
- Xerion Hotel:A hotel with modern amenities and a central location, suitable for both business travelers and tourists. Guests can easily reach Main Square and Wawel.
- Lwowska 1: A comfortable hotel with comfortable rooms and a spa area, ideal for relaxing after a busy day in Podgorica. Located not far from the Cloth Row and central attractions.
Budget hotels:
- Qubus Hotel Kraków: A hotel with moderate prices and all the necessary amenities close to the center. Guests can relax in the hotel’s sauna or enjoy Polish cuisine at the on-site restaurant.
- UNDERGROUND Jacuzzi Rooms: A unique hotel with a jacuzzi in the rooms in the very center of Podgorica. It is an ideal option for those who want to relax after an active day.
- Zamoyskiego: A comfortable hotel located near the Main Square that offers comfortable rooms for travelers who want to experience the spirit of historic Krakow.
Kazimierz (Kazimierz)
The former Jewish quarter of Krakow
Main sights:
Kazimierz, the historic Jewish quarter of Krakow, is a true center of culture and history. This area, which was once the heart of the city’s Jewish life, now unites the past and the present. It is a place where you can see synagogues, museums and historical monuments that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Krakow’s Jewish community.
Start your journey at the Old Synagogue, the oldest surviving synagogue in Poland, now a museum that tells the centuries-old history of Krakow’s Jews. A few minutes’ walk from it is the Remuch Synagogue and one of the oldest Jewish cemeteries in Europe, where the eminent Rabbi Moshe Isserles (Remu). Excursion through the Jewish quarter and the former ghetto.
Notable places:
- Jewish Museum of Galicia: dedicated to the Jewish communities of Galicia and the tragedy of the Holocaust, it offers moving photo exhibitions showing the history and life of the Jews.
- Isaac Synagogue: an active synagogue that hosts cultural events, allowing you to immerse yourself deeper into the contemporary Jewish life of Krakow.
- Jewish Cultural Center (JCC): a venue for meetings, lectures, seminars and festivals that promotes the preservation of Jewish traditions and cultural heritage.
Kazimierz is easily accessible on foot from the center of Krakow. You can enjoy a pleasant walk on the narrow cobbled streets of this area, because most of the sights are located next to each other.
Food and nightlife:
Kazimierz is famous for its establishments serving traditional Jewish dishes such as challah, gefilte fish and latkes. Notable places include Hamsa Hummus & Happiness and the Alef restaurant, where authentic flavors are combined with a historical atmosphere. Kazimierz is also known for its active night scene. Novy Square, which is the heart of the social life of the district, is home to many cafes, bars and music venues. Jewish festivals such as the Jewish Culture Festival liven up the area with dance, music and cooking workshops throughout the year.
Souvenirs:
Kazimierz is a great place to buy unique souvenirs. Here you can find small boutiques, antique shops and art galleries with works by local artists. Nowy Square also hosts regular flea markets where you can find vintage items and unique items.
Where to stay in Kazimierz
Luxury hotels:
- Hotel Rubinstein: Located in the center of Krakow, this luxury hotel with a rooftop terrace offers great views of Wawel Castle and the Main area.
- PURO Kraków Kazimierz: a modern hotel in the heart of Kazimierz, surrounded by cafes, galleries and popular nightlife spots.
- Hotel Estera: a historic building combining classic elegance with comfort, with a restaurant serving traditional Polish cuisine and a sauna.
Mid-class hotels:
- Aparthotel Inspire Miodova Residence: an aparthotel with spacious rooms in the heart of the city, ideal for long-term stays.
- 1891 Garni Hotel: a cozy hotel near the main square that offers a delicious breakfast and convenient access to Krakow’s attractions.
- Warszauer Hotel: a boutique hotel with a cozy atmosphere and modern interiors, with a bar and a convenient location for exploring the city.
Budget options:
- Singer Apartament: affordable accommodation with home comforts in the center of Kazimierz, close to all major attractions.
- Dream Hostel & Apartments: a hostel that offers both shared rooms and private apartments for travelers on a budget.
New Huta (Nowa Huta)
Architectural and Soviet district in Krakow.
Main attractions:
Nowa Huta is a special district on the eastern outskirts of Krakow, a real magnet for architecture lovers. Designed in the 1940s as a separate socialist city, this area offers an opportunity to see the unique architectural layout and style of the communist era in Poland. Large buildings, spacious avenues and green areas create a sharp contrast with the medieval Old Town of Krakow.
Other interesting places:
- Church of the Ark of the Lord (Arch of the Lord): a modern architectural masterpiece, built despite the opposition of the communist authorities, which did not want to allow the construction of religious buildings.
- Nova Huta Museum: is located in a former administrative building, the museum provides a complete picture of the history and architectural significance of the district under the communist regime. .
Nowa Huta is easily accessible by tram or bus from the center of Krakow, making it an ideal day trip destination. The area is easy to explore on foot or by bike, as it is designed with straight, wide streets and accessible public areas.
Local cuisine and evening recreation:
Nowa Huta, although not as famous for its gastronomic establishments as other areas of Krakow, still offers some cozy places. Restaurant Stylowa, for example, has preserved the original interior of the 1950s, so here you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of that era and taste Polish national dishes.
Shopping and souvenirs:
In the local markets and shops of Nova Guta, you can find special souvenirs and products of local artisans. Second-hand and antique shops offer rarities that are reminiscent of the area’s historic past.
Where to stay in Nova Guta
Luxury hotels:
- Centrum Business: A modern hotel with comfortable rooms, business services, conference rooms, a fitness area and a restaurant. Ideal for business travelers who value comfort and convenience.
Mid-class hotels:
- ibis Styles Kraków East: a stylish mid-range hotel on the eastern outskirts Krakow, near Nowa Huta. It offers modern rooms with all amenities, a restaurant, a bar and a conference room, making it ideal for tourists and business travelers.
- Arka Kraków: A small hotel near the business district with cozy rooms. A good option for guests looking for convenience at a moderate price
Budget hotels:
- Dom Turystyczny Indigo:
- Budget hotel located near the business center. Offers basic amenities and a friendly atmosphere for short-term trips and tour groups.
- Hotel Felix:
- A simple and affordable hotel with basic accommodation, suitable for guests on a budget who plan mainly to explore the city.
Grzegorski (Grzegоrzki)
Ideal area of Krakow for family holidays and students.
Main attractions:
The quiet and dynamic area is located east of the Old Town, offering a great combination of comfortable living and urban amenities. The area is famous for its large green spaces, family activities and relaxation areas, making it a popular choice for traveling with children.
Family entertainment:
Start your day with Polish Aviators Park, one of Krakow’s largest parks. There are playgrounds, bike paths and a pond, which will be a great place for relaxation and picnics. The Krakow Water Park is also nearby, with numerous water attractions, pools and a lazy river, which is sure to appeal to children.
Інші цікаві місця:
- Музей польської авіації — one of the largest aviation museums in Europe, located in Krakow. Located on the territory of the former airfield Rakovice-Czyzyny, the museum has more than 200 airplanes, helicopters and engines, including rare examples of aviation of the 20th century. The museum offers interactive areas for visitors of all age groups and hosts exhibitions and themed events for aviation enthusiasts. Buy a ticket to the Polish Aviation Museum.
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- Hala Targova Market is a lively market where you can buy fresh products, local delicacies and souvenirs.
- Krakow Opera House is a place where you can visit family performances and children’s theater productions.
- Galeria Kazimierz — a modern shopping center with a variety of shops, restaurants and a cinema, which also offers family areas for relaxation.
Transport:
Grzegorski is well connected to the city center and other districts thanks to a developed network of trams and buses. Walking and cycling routes make exploring the area on foot or by bike easy and enjoyable.
Food establishments:
Grzegorski offers a wide selection of establishments for family recreation, which have children’s menus and play areas. You can find several cozy and popular cafes. One of these is Wesoła Cafe (17 Rakowicka Street), known for its high-quality coffee, homemade pastries and breakfasts.
Shopping and souvenirs:
There are several shopping malls, such as Galeria Kazimierz, where you can find everything from clothes and souvenirs to electronics and groceries.
Family entertainment and attractions:
Be sure to visit the Water Park (Park Wodny), where there are various water attractions for all age groups. For those who like interesting pastimes, it is worth visiting the Museum of Urban Engineering, which presents interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for children and adults.
Where to stay in Grzegorsk
Luxury hotels:
- DoubleTree by Hilton Krakow Hotel & Convention Center– offers spacious rooms, modern design, spa and fitness center. It is characterized by high quality of service, which makes it popular among guests who value comfort and refinement.
- Vienna House Andel’s Cracow is located near the Old Town, known for its stylish interior and premium amenities. Ideal for business and tourist trips.
Mid-range hotels:
- Mercure Krakow Stare Miasto – provides comfortable rooms with modern amenities and is a good option for a family holiday.
- Hampton by Hilton Krakow – offers pleasant conditions and a convenient location. The hotel is famous for its delicious breakfasts and friendly staff, which makes it popular among tourists.
Budget hotels:
- Ibis Budget Kraków Stare Miasto is an affordable hotel with basic amenities that is a great option for budget travelers.
- Hostel Deco is a comfortable hostel with stylish decor, offering rooms with minimal but comfortable service, ideal for travelers on a budget.
Useful articles about Krakow:
- Krakow in 1-3 days, what to see
- TOP mobile applications for Poland
- Krakow a review of the hotel that we filmed
- TOP of the best Krakow tours
- Krakow hotels, the best according to tourists’ reviews
- Krakow with children: 10 fascinating places
- Free museums in Krakow
- Christmas fair in Krakow
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