Krakow Things to Do – Attractions & Must See

Krakow Things to Do

Krakow is a city in southern Poland. During your stay, pay tribute to those who tragically lost their lives in Auschwitz-Birkeanu during World War II, take in the historic architecture and shops of the city centre, and walk past 14th century fortresses in Old Town.

Auschwitz-Birkenau

In September 1939, Nazi Germany invaded Poland. They quickly took control of the country and moved the city’s Jewish population into concentration camps, primarily at Auschwitz-Birkenau. Here, men, women, and children were systematically starved, tortured, and murdered. It’s a somber excursion, but a necessary one. We can never forget the millions of people who lost their lives in camps like Auschwitz-Birkenau during World War II.

City Centre

Krakow’s city centre is lined with shops, restaurants, cafes, bars, museums, and bookstores. The city centre is also a great place to get away from the chaos of the city. Trails wind along the Vistula river and provide scenic views of the city, Wawel Castle, and the surrounding landscape.

Old Town

Medieval Castles, fortresses, and walls from the 14th century still stand in parts of Krakow. Barbican, a stone fortress constructed in 1498, protected the city from invasion and is open to the public. Florianska Gate or St. Florian’s Gate sits across from Barbican and was a formidable observation tower when it was built in 1307.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Krakow.