Imagine waking up to the sound of church bells, the aroma of freshly baked pierogies wafting through your window, and the promise of cobblestone streets waiting to be explored. Welcome to Kraków, Poland’s cultural gem where history and modernity dance in perfect harmony.
But where should you lay your head in this enchanting city? Choosing the right neighborhood can make or break your Kraków experience. From the medieval charm of the Old Town to the artistic vibes of Kazimierz, each district offers a unique flavor of Polish life.
In this guide, we’ll unveil the best areas to stay in Kraków, ensuring you find your perfect Polish home away from home.
In this travel guide:
Stare Miasto (Old Town)
Best area for: history, tourists, central stay
Stare Miasto, the Old Town of Krakow, is an enchanting district surrounded by the verdant Planty Park. Imagine wandering through its stone-paved pathways, meandering lanes, and magnificent plazas, adorned with religious sanctuaries, historic temples, and diverse cultural institutions.
This area also boasts charming accommodations, delightful eateries, and vibrant coffee houses.
The centerpiece of Old Town, Rynek Główny, serves as a dynamic gathering space where visitors and residents mingle. It functions as the community’s central meeting point, consistently full of life.
What stands out most are the Renaissance-style colonnades of the MNK Sukiennice and the majestic St. Mary’s Basilica (Bazylika Mariacka). The uneven towers and Gothic design elements create an awe-inspiring sight.
History buffs will find themselves delighted with approximately 20 museums to discover. The St. Florian’s Gate and Krakow Barbican serve as historic entrances to Old Town.
If you want to go shopping, head to Grodzka Street. Filled with retail stores and luxury boutiques, it’s also a hotspot for food and nightlife, featuring numerous restaurants, pubs, and dance venues.
Best place to stay in Stare Miasto
Hotel Stary. Address: Szczepańska 5, Old Town, 31-011 Kraków, Poland.
Kazimierz
Best area for: hipster, history, culture
Historically, Kazimierz stood as one of Europe’s most prominent and thriving Jewish communities, before the Nazi occupation changed everything.
Evidence of its tragic past remains visible everywhere, from the few remaining active synagogues and presentations by Holocaust survivors at the Jewish Community Centre to the damaged gravestones in the burial ground.
This dark past ultimately sparked Kazimierz’s renaissance. Now you’ll find cream cheese at Bagelmama, traditional stew at Dawno Temu Na Kazimierzu, and kosher wines at quaint outdoor cafes. The district’s neglected buildings drew alternative bars, offering a refreshing contrast to the tourist-filled Old Town.
While today these establishments are professionally managed and deliberately rustic, their charm endures. After two decades, the combination of bars, unique shops like Mapaya, and art spaces such as Galerie d’Art Naïf along cozy streets continues to make this Kraków’s most captivating area.
Best place to stay in Kazimierz
PURO Kraków Kazimierz. Address: Halicka 14a, Old Town, 31-036 Krakow, Poland.
Podgórze
Best area for: hispter, green space
Nestled across the Vistula River, facing Kazimierz, sits the verdant sanctuary of Podgorze. Recognized as Kraków’s most nature-rich neighborhood, it captivates visitors with its woodland areas and limestone formations that provide panoramic views of the cityscape.
Since the late 1900s, this district has successfully merged its environmental treasures with subtle industrial development. This distinctive combination enhances its alluring character.
To experience Pódgorze’s trendy side, explore the waterfront establishments that serve as cafes during daylight hours and transform into cocktail venues after dark. Engage in discussions about conceptual art with the fashionable crowd at Krako Slow Wines, situated beside the Museum of Contemporary Art Kraków.
Podgorze’s past makes it an essential destination. This area housed Kraków’s Jewish Ghetto during Nazi occupation, as depicted in Schindler’s List (filmed in Kraków).
At Plac Bohaterów Getta, metal chairs stand empty, commemorating Jews forced onto trains headed to Płaszów or Auschwitz, while Eagle Pharmacy’s corner building now houses a museum chronicling pharmacist Tadeusz Pankiewicz’s courageous efforts to aid and protect Jews.
Nearby, Oskar Schindler’s former factory has been transformed into an impactful museum documenting Kraków residents’ wartime experiences.
Best place to stay in Podgórze
Xerion Hotel. Address: 6 Węgierska, Podgórze, 30-531 Kraków, Poland.
Kleparz
Best area for: life like a local, budget-friendly
Located just north of Krakow’s Old Town, Kleparz emerged as a separate village in the 12th century before merging with Krakow in 1791.
The 19th century saw Kleparz evolve into a prosperous district after multiple fires. The area showcases magnificent stone residences and grand houses featuring Art Nouveau and Neoclassical architecture – walking through feels like traversing through time.
The neighborhood’s charm lies in its vibrant student atmosphere. The presence of prestigious institutions like the Cracow University of Technology and the Cracow University of Economics infuses the area with dynamic energy.
Key attractions include the expansive Galeria Krakowska mall and the Jan Matejko Academy of Fine Arts. Essential stops are St. Florian’s Church, the Grunwald Monument, and the beloved Stary Kleparz market, which draws both residents and tourists.
Best place to stay in Kleparz
Avena Boutique Hotel. Address: Długa 80, 31-147 Kraków, Poland.
Piasek
Best area for: budget-friendly, students
Piasek situated between the Old Town and Kleparz, with the Planty Park garden ring marking its western edge.
The history of Piasek dates back to medieval times, when it developed as one of the oldest settlements outside Kraków’s city walls. Throughout the centuries, it transformed from a sandy suburb into an integral part of Kraków’s history.
The corner of Krupnicza and Dolnych Młynów forms the area’s focal point.
The Gothic-Baroque Piasek Church is the most prominent landmark in this area. Its beautiful façade and interior artworks make it a must-see. The neighborhood also houses the historical Grunwald Monument commemorating the famous Battle of Grunwald, and Szczepański Square with its fountains and surrounding cafés.
Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the area’s well-preserved townhouses, while food lovers can enjoy traditional Polish cuisine at local restaurants.
Best place to stay in Piasek
Hotel Amber. Address: Garbarska 10, Old Town, 31-131 Kraków, Poland.
Where travel critics stay in Kraków
Curious to discover the accommodation choices of travel experts from renowned publishers such as The New York Times, Frommer’s, Fodor’s and Lonely Planet when they are in Kraków? Delve into our comprehensive guide showcasing all highly recommended hotels in Kraków.
Budget
“Hidden away from the noise in a cozy cul-de-sac next to the Planty Park and the Dominican convent, this boutique hotel is certainly one of Kraków’s finest. Each of the plush and tasteful rooms is furnished in a different style (you can check them out on the website), such as the Chinese room (No. 309).” – Fodor’s.
Address: Na Gródku 4, Old Town, 31-028 Krakow, Poland.
Mid-range
“The elegant Hotel Copernicus is a luxe Relais & Châteaux property on a cobblestone side street near Wawel Hill. The 29 rooms are tucked around a glass-roofed patio, and have period furnishings and rustic wood-beam ceilings.” – New York Times.
Address: Kanonicza 16, Old Town, 31-002 Krakow, Poland.
Luxury
“On the corner of Św. Jana and the market square, this historic, luxe hotel comprises eight standard rooms and six large suites, most featuring architectural detail installed as the property passed through various well-to-do families over the centuries.” – Frommers.
Address: Św. Jana 1, Old Town, 31-013 Krakow, Poland.
FAQ: hotel tips for Kraków
Looking for the best budget, boutique, or luxury hotel in Kraków? Or maybe you’re a backpacker looking for a splendid hostel? Want to know which hotel serves a great breakfast? Here are the answers to all those and other questions about where to stay in Kraków.
How much does it cost to stay in a Kraków hotel?
For a 3-star hotel, you have to pay around $65 per night and for a 4-star hotel, you would be looking at $90 per night. If you’re after a luxury 5-star Kraków hotel, then you can expect to pay around $180 per night.
What is the best luxury hotel in Kraków?
If cost is not an issue, Stradom House is a great option for those seeking a luxurious hotel in Kraków. This establishment offers excellent customer service, is situated in an ideal location, and has garnered high reviews from customers and travel experts alike. To discover more 5-star hotels, take a look at our selection of the best luxury hotels in Kraków.
What is the best boutique hotel in Kraków?
If you fancy a bit of extravagance but prefer to stay away from the well-known chain hotels, then Hotel Wentzl is an excellent option for you. This hotel has been very well-reviewed by travelers and experts alike. For more information on other cool hotels, take a look at our list of the best boutique hotels in Kraków.
What is the best budget hotel in Kraków?
If you are on the hunt for an affordable hotel, then you should consider reserving Aparthotel Maargick. It is a great option for those on a budget, as it provides good value for your money. The hotel is in a suitable location, and travel experts and guests have given it their approval. Also check out our list of the best cheap hotels in Kraków.
What is the best hostel in Kraków?
If you’re searching for a well-priced private room or comfy dorm in Kraków, Greg&Tom Hostel is worth a look. The hostel has been highly praised by backpackers. Additionally, we have compiled a shortlist of the best hostels in Kraków based on thousands of reviews from backpackers.
Which Kraków hotel serves a delicious breakfast?
To begin the day on a positive note, PURO Stare Miasto is a great choice if you’re seeking accommodations in Kraków with a fantastic morning meal. Those who have recently stayed there have provided excellent reviews about the breakfast provided at the hotel.
Which is the best hotel in Kraków for a family stay?
If you and your family are considering a holiday getaway to Kraków, travelers who have gone there with their families have had magnificent feedback about Hotel Miodowa.
Best time to visit Kraków
The best time to visit Kraków is from May to September.
If you want to avoid crowds but still enjoy good weather, May, June, and September are ideal. July and August offer the most activities and events, but with larger crowds. Winter (November-March) can be quite cold and dark, though Christmas markets in December are charming if you don’t mind bundling up.
Here’s a breakdown of what each season offers:
Late Spring (May-June):
- Pleasant temperatures (average 59-70°F/15-21°C)
- Fewer tourists than summer
- Blooming flowers and green parks
- Major events like the Jewish Culture Festival (June)
Summer (July-August):
- Warmest weather (average 63-75°F/17-24°C)
- Busiest tourist season with vibrant atmosphere
- Longer daylight hours for sightseeing
- Many festivals and outdoor events
- Higher accommodation prices
Early Fall (September):
- Comfortable temperatures (average 53-68°F/12-20°C)
- Fewer crowds after summer peak
- Beautiful fall colors in parks
- Harvest festivals
- Better rates on accommodation
Best things to do in Kraków
There are many things to do in Kraków, including day trips, attractions, museums, sightseeing tours and many other activities. Here’s our list of 3 things you should do when you’re in Kraków:
Jewish Quarter and Former Ghetto Tour
Kazimierz was intended to rival its neighboring city – Krakow. The Jews who faced persecution in Western Europe during the Middle Ages found refuge in Kazimierz, transforming it into a center of Jewish success. Discover the history, culture, and traditions of the Jewish people in Kazimierz during this 2,5 hour tour. Price: $17. More info.
Auschwitz & Birkenau Guided Tour
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum stands where the Nazi German death camp claimed over a million Jewish and other victims during World War II. An experienced, certified guide will accompany your visit. Price: $30. More info.
Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour
Embark on a half-day guided excursion from Krakow to explore the remarkable Wieliczka salt mines. Discover the mine’s rich heritage through your guide’s expertise and admire the intricate and stunning salt formations throughout the complex. Price; $37. More info.
Deciding where to stay in Kraków
As a closing note, let’s summarize this travel guide. We covered the best areas of Kraków, so you can decide which part of town you want to stay in.
Top 5 areas to stay in Kraków
- Stare Miasto
- Podgorze
- Kleparz
- Kazimierz
- Piasek
As you have seen in this article, there are plenty of things to explore, and deciding where to stay in Kraków is important. Whether you stay in Stare Miasto, Podgorze, Kleparz, Kazimierz or Piasek, all those neighborhoods are great areas for your stay.
When deliberating your stay in Kraków, several factors may come into play. The ambiance of the area, whether your journey to this magnificent city is prompted by business or pleasure, and who you’re traveling with family or friends. Also significant is how close you’ll be to the attractions that spark your interest.
Regardless of these variables, one thing remains certain – a fantastic time awaits you during your stay in Kraków!
More guides about Kraków
If you like the advice we’ve given you above, make sure to check out some of our other articles about Kraków:
