A long weekend in Kraków is the perfect getaway, packed with history, culture, and incredible food! 🌆 My best friend and I recently traveled there from Dubai, and it was a refreshing break that let us experience autumn in all its charm. Right now, there are also some fantastic deals from the UAE as well as from Ireland and the UK, making it an ideal escape for anyone looking to soak up the city’s unique atmosphere. We enjoyed every moment—from the rich historical sites to the vibrant local flavours. And if you’re planning a visit from late November onwards, you’ll also get to enjoy Kraków’s magical Christmas markets! 🎄
We flew from Abu Dhabi with Wizz Air, getting a great deal that included hand luggage only 🧳✈️. With budget airlines like Wizz Air, it’s so important to come prepared – pack plenty of snacks 🍿🍫, download music and shows on Netflix 🎶📺, bring a fully charged power bank 🔋, and dress warmly just in case it’s chilly on the flight 🧥❄️. Once you’re set up for the basics, it’s worth it! We had a full two nights and days in Kraków, which was perfect for soaking up everything the city has to offer 🌆✨.
Exploring Kraków’s Charm & a Michelin-Star Dinner
We arrived late on Thursday, so it was straight to the hotel and to bed to recharge before a full day of exploring 🏨 🛏️. I had pre-booked a transfer to drop us directly at our hotel, which was so convenient! We opted for a room-only rate since we wanted to try different breakfast spots around the city 🥐☕. After a good night’s sleep, we layered up 🧣🧥 (coming from Dubai, it felt freezing! 🥶) and headed out.
Our first stop was a stroll to the Market Square, where we started the morning with coffee at Camelot Lulu ☕, a charming café just off the square that a friend recommended—it didn’t disappoint! We spent a few hours wandering around, breathing in the crisp air 🍂 and taking in the gorgeous autumn colours, blue skies, and picturesque side streets. The Market Square itself was stunning, with its beautiful red-brick buildings, lively music, and flocks of pigeons adding to the charm 🎶🕊️.
We then struck up a conversation with a local Polish guide who offered city tours, so we decided to hop on and explore some of Kraków’s most iconic sites with a local’s insights. He took us to Wawel Castle 🏰, a must-see historical gem with stunning views; St. Mary’s Basilica ⛪, famous for its beautiful architecture and intricate interiors; and the Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz, an area rich with history and culture. We stopped by Schindler’s Factory, where we learned about Kraków’s role in World War II.
For lunch, our guide recommended a cozy, traditional Polish restaurant. It was the perfect spot to rest our legs and try authentic Polish cuisine! We ordered delicious dumplings (pierogi) 🥟, paired with a crisp glass of white wine. The warm, inviting atmosphere and the hearty meal made for an ideal break before we continued exploring.
That evening, we decided to treat ourselves to dinner at the Michelin-starred Cyrano de Bergerac, and it was an unforgettable experience. Set in an atmospheric underground cave, this restaurant is a must-visit in Kraków. The food was outstanding—I’d highly recommend the Beef Wellington 🥩, which was cooked to perfection. If you’re visiting Kraków, be sure to add this spot to your list!
A Visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau
We booked our Auschwitz-Birkenau tour through Viator, choosing the local guided option for a more in-depth experience. A bus picked us up directly from our hotel for the journey out of the city. The tour was incredibly moving, offering insight into the camp’s history and significance. Our guide walked us through the exhibits and grounds, providing a deeply respectful and informative look at this solemn place. It was a powerful experience and one we believe is essential for anyone visiting Kraków 🙏. Make sure you book this in advance & explore tour options here 🔗 https://www.viator.com/en-IE/?pid=P00011640&uid=U00601520&mcid=58086¤cy=EUR
For our last afternoon and evening, after returning to the city, we visited the local food markets. The delicious aromas drew us in, and we found ourselves wanting to try everything! We had a recommendation to sample the local open sandwiches, and they certainly didn’t disappoint. Later that evening, we headed to a cosy local bar called Alchemia. The atmosphere was vibrant and lively, making it the perfect spot to unwind.
On our last morning before the flight back, we decided to take in the last of the fresh autumn air 🍂, grabbing a pumpkin spice latte ☕ that was absolutely divine. We headed up to the castle 🏰, soaking in the views and savoring the peacefulness of the moment. It was a lovely final morning in Kraków, the perfect way to say goodbye to this charming city 🌆🍁.
I highly recommend traveling to Kraków this autumn or winter 🍂❄️. The city’s charm, rich history, and vibrant food scene make it an unforgettable destination. Even if you don’t have a long weekend, a two-day, two-night trip from Ireland or the UK would be perfect for a short getaway ✈️. If you need any more information or assistance in finding the best deals to help you save on your trip, feel free to message me for a free quote 💬. I’d be more than happy to help you plan your adventure! 🌍✨ My Ways Travel
Kraków Food Recommendations
- 🥩 Moo Moo Steak House: A must-visit for steak lovers, offering high-quality cuts and a cozy atmosphere.
- 🥖 Local Polish Food: Be sure to try traditional dishes, especially the open sandwiches and pierogi 🥟, available at various restaurants and markets throughout the city.
- 🍲 Food Markets: Explore the vibrant local food markets, where you can sample a variety of dishes and experience the local culinary scene.
- ⭐ Cyrano de Bergerac: This Michelin-starred restaurant, set in an underground cave, offers an unforgettable dining experience. Don’t miss their Beef Wellington 🥩!
- ☕ Coffee at Camelot Lulu: A charming café in the Market Square, perfect for a relaxing coffee break with a cozy vibe.
Kraków Packing Tips
- 🧥 Lots of Layers: The weather can get quite cold, especially in autumn and winter, so be sure to pack warm layers you can easily add or remove as needed.
- 👟 Comfortable Footwear: Bring a good pair of runners or comfortable shoes, as you’ll be navigating many cobbled streets while exploring the city.
- 👖 Casual Clothes: Kraków has a relaxed vibe, so casual attire is the way to go. Think jeans and a nice jumper or top for the evenings—comfortable yet stylish for dining out or enjoying the nightlife.
- 💡 Top Tip: Bring snacks and water if you’re planning a day trip out of the city—you never know if you might need them! 🥨💧