Krakow, Poland

A visit to Krakow, Poland is a no brainer for any real, genuine traveler. Krakow is equipped with not only beautiful sights, but with interesting things to see and do. It felt like a whirlwind of history, from old and new, to young and old.

Arriving in Krakow by train from Warsaw (9:03 am – 11:30 am), I made my way to my hostel. I stayed at the Nobel Suites, which was only 250 meters way from the main train station, and 500 meters away from the Old Town Square.

Because my friends stayed in Warsaw, I actually had to do some research on Krakow (apart from what I already knew about the city). Krakow is Poland’s second largest city, and was formerly the capital, until power shifted over to Warsaw in the 16th century. It is located in the south, close to Czech Republic and Slovakia. Despite its rough history, Krakow is a leader in terms of Polish academia, cultural and artistic life. Rightfully so, it is rated as one of Europe’s most beautiful and scenic cities.

While not only beautiful, it is also extremely safe, people are friendly (as was everywhere in Poland), and it is quite affordable – despite having many tourists. Seeing as I went in August, it was extremely busy, but nonetheless enjoyable. There was music everywhere, and attractive flower stalls that created a colorful atmosphere. This Polish city combines the best that Europe has to offer – it is hip, sleek and full of history at the same time.

Wawel Hill and Palace, is the beating heart of the city. It was built by Casimir III and since the 14th century, it has provided a defensive position and solid ground above the river. In addition to the palace and hill, there is a well known “separate” district to the city – Kazimierz. Here, Casimir III encouraged Jews to settle, while establishing and protecting a community that was to play a central role in the city’s history for the centuries to follow.

Although Poland has always been a Christian country, during the Medieval period it was on its edge. Demolition at the hands of the Mongols in the mid 1200s, not only created destruction, but later also allowed a new urban plan that included the city’s famed and enormous Market Square. Nevertheless, Warsaw took over as Poland’s capital in 1596, while Krakow was still at the height of its political and cultural power. Renaissance influences were in full swing, with more surviving Renaissance structures than in any city outside of Italy.

At the end of the 18th century, Krakow was marked by sieges, occupation and economic stagnation for the city due to Russian, Prussian and Austrian influence. Under Austrian occupation, Krakow became a fortified outpost for imperial troops. In 1918, Poland regained its independence, however lost it within only 21 years due to the onslaught of German and Russian troops at the start of WWII.

Unlike Warsaw, the old town has been left untouched in terms of destruction from WWII. Although German forces arrived in Krakow only five days after the war had begun, the mayor at the time appealed to the invaders to leave its defenseless city and citizens unharmed. Unfortunately, Hans Frank (governor of Nazi-occupied Poland) installed himself in Wawel Castle, ushering Krakow towards the darkest period in the city’s history.

Due to many traumatic events, and a vast interchangeable history, Krakow’s warmth almost seems as if it were destined to be a cultural capital of Europe. Today, Krakow is a world-renowned city with a big tourist crowd, and no shortage of attractions and experiences for visitors to enjoy.