Krakow is one of central Europe’s jewels; with a history that stretches back to the 10th century. It is also the best preserved city in Poland, the old town centre having escaped the destruction that befell the rest of the country in WWII. It brims with atmosphere with narrow, cobbled streets radiating off the impressive 13th-century Market Square; here medieval houses jostle with 18th- and 19th-century palaces and behind many a door, a packed and lively bar awaits, for this, a University City, is enduringly young at heart. But, more than anything, culture is at the forefront of its existence from the Royal Castle and Gothic cathedral which dominate the town from their perch on Wawel Hill to the 16th-century synagogues in the Jewish Quarter, made famous in Schindler’s List, to Leonardo da Vinci’s 15th-century Lady with an Ermine housed in just one of a plethora of museums.
For more Krakow inspiration, see our guides to the best hotels, restaurants, bars, and things to do.
