Known for its beautifully preserved medieval Old Town, vibrant cultural scene, and rich history, Kraków offers a captivating blend of heritage, architecture, and lively atmosphere. We’ve handpicked the best hotels in Kraków based on expert recommendations and thousands of genuine guest reviews. All of our recommended hotels have a review rating of at least 4 out of 5 stars.
Best cheap hotel in Kraków: Aparthotel Maargick
Best boutique hotel in Kraków: Hotel Wentzl
Best luxury hotel in Kraków: Stradom House
Best hostel in Kraków: Greg&Tom Hostel
Sort list by price, rating or by value for money.
Stradom House in Kraków is a stunning transformation of a 14th-century monastery and church, blending centuries of history with sleek, modern luxury. Reopened in 2023 as part of the Marriott Autograph Collection, the property underwent a seven-year restoration to preserve its sacred bones while introducing a sophisticated, contemporary aesthetic.
CN Traveler“With blue trams trundling by outside, Stradom House, a former monastery, sits on an axis between the two, mixing architectural oomph with a downtown swagger. Given its size (a 20-metre pool is easily accommodated, as is a spa), it’s surprisingly intimate.”
Hotel Stary is a luxurious five-star escape nestled in the heart of Kraków’s Old Town, just steps away from the bustling Main Market Square. Housed in a beautifully restored 15th-century manor house, the property masterfully blends centuries-old history with high-end contemporary design. Its exceptional interior, which highlights original elements like vaulted ceilings and historic frescoes alongside elegant modern furnishings, even earned the prestigious Prix Villégiature Award.
Frommers + 1 more“Quite possibly the best hotel in Krakow, the Stary is a converted merchant’s house, originally built in the 15th century. The company that owns it, the Likus group, has really gone to town in restoring it—a glass lift, marble, silk, exotic woods, and Oriental carpets, two heated pools, a salt cave, Finnish and steam saunas, and yoga among the many treatments.”
PURO Kraków Stare Miasto is a contemporary hotel that perfectly balances modern minimalism with the historic charm of Poland’s ancient capital. Originally opened in 2013 and later refreshed by the local Paradowski Studio, the hotel’s design emphasizes natural materials like oak, stone, and glass, creating a bright, sophisticated retreat.
Telegraph“One of the growing Puro group, whose young, fun, vibe, spot-on technology and affordable prices attract the millennial crowd. It’s located opposite the main railway station, and has 138 light-filled rooms, with an all-day brasserie and bar taking centre stage on the ground floor.”
Hotel Atrium is a charming, well-loved three-star hotel tucked away in the heart of Kraków, offering a perfect blend of modern comfort and classic Polish hospitality. Since its opening at the turn of the millennium, it has become a go-to spot for travelers who value being right in the center of the action without sacrificing a peaceful night's rest.
Fodors + 1 more“This neat hotel has a less-than-fashionable location, being just outside the green girdle of the Planty. However, it is still quite near the Main Square—a mere five-minute walk away—and the train station.”
Hotel Copernicus is a truly exceptional boutique property located on Kanonicza Street, the oldest and most atmospheric street in Kraków. Housed in a meticulously restored medieval townhouse, the building once served as a residence for cathedral canons. It is named after the famous astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus, who was a frequent guest of the house during his time in the city.
New York Times + 3 more“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.”
Hotel Gródek is a hidden gem in a quiet cul-de-sac within Kraków’s historic Old Town. Opened in 2007 by owner Jerzy Donimirski, the boutique hotel is situated on the ancient Gródek Hill, an area of massive historical importance that long predates the city’s official charter. The building itself is steeped in stories, once serving as a medieval stronghold and later as the site of a Dominican convent.
Fodors + 2 more“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).”
Hotel Pod Różą holds the prestigious title of being Kraków's oldest hotel, tracing its origins back to a 14th-century building that was later transformed into a Renaissance palace for Prospero Provano. Its storied halls have hosted illustrious historical figures, including the French novelist Honoré de Balzac and Tsar Alexander I, cementing its place as a legendary landmark in the heart of the city.
Fodors + 2 more“Housed in a 14th-century building on the fashionable Floriańska shopping street, the hotel has spacious, high-ceiling guests rooms with parquet floors and Biedermeier–style furnishings; a first-class Italian restaurant; and a 15th-century wine cellar.”
The Bonerowski Palace is a magnificent 5-star boutique hotel located right on Kraków’s historic Main Market Square. Housed in a building that dates back to the 14th century, it is named after the Boner family, who were influential bankers and noble figures at the Jagiellonian court during the Renaissance. Stepping inside feels like entering a private, centuries-old estate rather than a standard hotel.
Frommers + 2 more“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.”
Hotel Wentzl holds a prestigious spot in Kraków, situated directly on the historic Main Market Square. Housed in a 15th-century townhouse, the building was famously nicknamed "Under the Blue Lion" due to its original owner’s coat of arms. It later became known as the house "Under the Picture" because of an 18th-century fresco of the Madonna and Child that still survives above the entrance, a feature locals believe saved the property from a devastating fire in 1550.
Frommers“Rightfully considered one of the finest lodgings in all Poland, this sumptuous 200-year-old landmark comprises 18 opulent guest rooms, many overlooking the main square. Dark woods, richly colored rugs, and parquet floors feature throughout.”
Hotel Unicus is a sophisticated boutique hotel perfectly placed in the heart of Kraków’s historic Old Town. Housed within a beautifully restored 17th-century building, it offers a fascinating blend of heritage and modern comfort. The property is known for its authentic architectural details, including original vaulted hallways and ornate Baroque portals that still feature the coats of arms of noble families.
New York Times + 1 more“The sleek 34-room Hotel Unicus is in the heart of the Old Town and the area’s boisterous late-night hot spots. The spacious, modern rooms are tranquil, however, and outfitted with plush beds and black-tiled bathrooms.”
Recommended by:
CN Traveler
Recommended by:
Frommers, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Telegraph
Recommended by:
Fodors, Frommers
Recommended by:
New York Times, Fodors, Frommers, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Fodors, Frommers, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Fodors, Frommers, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Frommers, Fodors, Telegraph
Recommended by:
Frommers
Recommended by:
New York Times, Frommers
For 3-star hotels the average rate is around $65 per night. If you're looking for a 4-star hotel then the rates are around $90 per night. The average rate for a 5-star hotel in Kraków is around $180 per night.
The best areas to stay in Kraków are: Stare Miasto, Podgorze, Kleparz, Kazimierz or Piasek. Please read our extensive guide about where to stay in Kraków. It offers a great overview about each area, including the museums, attractions and other things, as well as the best place to stay in each area.
You like some luxury but don't like the famous chain hotels. If you're looking for the best boutique hotel in Kraków, you should check out Hotel Wentzl. It's a very cool hotel that has been highly recommended by travelers and experts.
Also check out our list of the best boutique hotels in Kraków, it's a manually curated list of the most unique and romantic hotels in the city.
If money isn't a problem and you're looking for a luxury hotel in Kraków, then go for Stradom House. The hotel offers excellent service, it's in a top location, it has been rated very highly by previous guests and renowned travel critics have recommended it.
Also check out our list of the best luxury hotels in Kraków, it's a manually curated list of the most exclusive 5-star hotels in the city.
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.
If you're looking for a great hostel in Kraków, then you should check out Greg & Tom Hostel. The hostel has magnificent reviews by backpackers, it has been recommended by well-known travel experts and it's in a good location. Also check out our list of the best hostels in Kraków.
Kraków, the former royal capital of Poland, remains an evocative tapestry of centuries past, standing as the undisputed cultural and historical heart of the nation. Its origins are steeped in legend, famously tied to the myth of Prince Krakus and the dragon that once terrorized the city from a limestone cave beneath Wawel Hill. Throughout the Middle Ages, Kraków served as the seat of Polish kings, witnessing coronations and royal funerals that shaped the destiny of Central Europe. Unlike many other Polish cities, its architectural integrity largely survived the ravages of World War II, allowing its medieval core to remain a pristine testament to Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque grandeur.
Today, Kraków stands as a vibrant beacon of intellectual and artistic life. It is defined by its youthful, energetic atmosphere, largely driven by the presence of Jagiellonian University—one of the oldest universities in the world—which continues to infuse the city with a forward-thinking spirit. The Main Market Square, the largest medieval plaza in Europe, serves as the city’s communal living room, where the sound of the hourly trumpet call from St. Mary’s Basilica bridges the gap between ancient tradition and modern vibrancy. It is a city that honors its heavy, complex history while simultaneously embracing innovation and creative expression.
Beyond the famous sights, the city hides curious secrets for the observant traveler. For instance, it boasts the highest density of bars in the world within its historic district, and its pervasive tradition of “szopki”—intricate, foil-covered nativity scenes—is recognized as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO. Perhaps most charming is the local obsession with pigeons; they are widely believed to be enchanted soldiers of Prince Henry IV, transformed by a sorceress to protect the city. Whether wandering the narrow, hidden lanes of the Jewish Quarter or admiring the architectural layers of Wawel Castle, Kraków offers an intimate encounter with a city that has gracefully mastered the art of holding onto its soul.
Get to know the city even better by reading our guide about the best areas to stay in Kraków.
If you like our list of the best hotels and accommodations in Kraków, then you should also check out our selection of recommended hotels in Budapest or the best hotels in Vienna.