The fall of the Iron Curtain not only had massive implications for geopolitics and the lives and freedom of millions of Europeans, it also had a big impact on tourism. Countries only rarely visited by regular travelers suddenly saw an influx of curious tourists, most notably in Prague. Throughout the ’90s, the Czech capital saw a huge boom in travelers that has shown little signs of slowing down, drawn by gorgeous architecture, great beer, and cheap prices. Other former Eastern Bloc cities such as Kraków, one medieval town you don’t want to skip when visiting Europe, also saw a rise in visitors as they strove to become “the next Prague.” According to Rick Steves (per his website), the latter is simply the best place to visit in Poland.
While Warsaw has recently emerged as one of the top ranked city vacations in Europe, Kraków has long enjoyed its status as a jewel in the Polish crown. While Warsaw has been lovingly restored after the mass destruction of World War II, the country’s second city emerged from the conflict relatively unscathed and still has a small-town feel despite its bustling tourists and population of almost 770,000. The Old Town has been somewhat blighted by restaurants and bars catering solely to holidaymakers and rowdy bachelor parties, but it is still relatively sedate compared to Prague or Budapest — you only need to duck down a side street to find a more authentic Kraków experience again. Let’s take a look at some of the highlights.
Things to do in and around Kraków
Eating and drinking in Kraków
As with many Central European countries, Polish cuisine is traditionally a stick-to-your-ribs affair. One of the best places in Kraków to get it is Milkbar Tomasza, a trendy modern spin on the classic Polish worker’s canteen. As Rick Steves explains: “At Poland’s ‘milk bar’ cafeterias, holdovers from its communist era, you can get a super-cheap meal with a side of cultural adventure.”
Elsewhere, Pierwszy Stopien is a family-run spot offering top-notch dishes focusing on the best local produce, while Ristorante Sant’Antioco serves excellent seafood and Italian cuisine in an intimate setting. Both hold top ratings on TripAdvisor. If you are more in the mood for Asian flavors, Molam Thai is a stylish Bangkok-inspired restaurant that has received the Michelin Bib Gourmand Award for great food at an affordable price.
Nightlife in former Eastern Bloc countries isn’t quite the adventure sport it once was, but Kraków after dark is still pretty lively. If you want to avoid boisterous parties, your best bet is to skip the touristy joints in and around the Market Square and head down to Kazimierz district. The neighborhood is full of friendly bars where you can drink and chat all night on a modest budget. Polish beer is decent and costs as little as $3 USD. Also, check out the range of vodka if spirits are your thing. Don’t miss the iconic Żubrówka vodka, made with bison grass and often mixed with apple juice. It tastes just like apple strudel!
