Krakow

Doing research on Krakow and planning a city break here will leave you respectfully breathless. I certainly was.

Krakow is one of those cities where you expect one thing, but in reality get so much more than you bargained for.  Looking through brochures, you will see beautiful buildings and a city that flourishes.  Though beneath that beauty and success, lies a long and interesting history.  A wound disguised by success, but never allowing themselves to be restrained by that wound.

History

Krakow is the second largest city in Poland and used to be the capital several times throughout history.  Now it is the capital of the Lesser Poland Voivodeship.  It is a very old city that dates as far back as the seventh century.

Krakow was always a successful and independent city.  It was the leading city of education, economy, art and culture.  It always had a stable economy though the years.  During World War II, German Nazi’s invaded the city and Krakow became the capital of the German General Government.

Attractions in Krakow

Krakow is filled with historic monuments and architecture from the past.  Do not allow yourself to be mislead by it.  Krakow is a very modern and vibrant city and one of the best party capitals of the world. The attractions are enough to keep you occupied for a city break.

Visit the Main Market Square in Krakow to experience the medieval history of the city.  From here, you can visit the Renaissance Cloth Hall that was built in the 16^th century and the Basilica of Virgin Mary, built in the 14^th century.  Across the square from where the Cloth Hall is, you will find the Renaissance Town Hall Tower.

The Town Square is the centre of activity.  It is a pleasant and vibrant square with many shops and restaurants.  It is the oldest European town square and the buildings are a treat to view as it enhances the medieval atmosphere.

Krakow’s Historic Centre is an old merchant centre that dates back to the 13^th century.  Also contributing to the medieval style, the houses and buildings are historic and you will see churches and palaces with breath-taking interiors.  View the fortifications from the 14^th century and the ancient synagogues.  In the Centre, there is a Gothic Cathedral with the last resting place for the Polish kings.

Then there is the part of history of Poland that cannot be overlooked.  The part that World War II played on the history of Poland.  In the old Jewish Centre of the city, there is the Oskar Schindler factory.   This is where Schindler compiled his list for hundreds of Jews that was saved during World War II.

A few miles outside the city, you can visit the Auschwitz barracks. This infamous concentration camp still demands respect from the visitor even after all these years.

Modern Krakow

The amazing thing about Krakow is how it is still the cultural capital throughout all the ages.  Krakow boasts a very modern side with the bars, clubs and restaurants. The nightlife has a vibrant atmosphere with young and old visiting the venues for a fun evening out.

For the family, there is a water park in Krakow, the Park Wodny, where you can enjoy a fun day in the sun.  Alternatively, for a more relaxing treat, book a session at the Endorfina City Spa where you can be treated with massages, body treatments and other luxurious spa facilities.

Restaurants offer top quality food to the tradition of Poland.  Dishes consist of roast meats, potatoes, sausages and the classic black pudding desert: Kasanka.  Enjoy your meal with a glass of apple juice and vodka.

Conclusion

Krakow is a hidden gem. Allow yourself to be mesmerised by the glory of this town with the medieval flair and Jewish heritage.  Let it never be said that Krakow allowed itself to play the part of the victim during the War. In fact, it only made Krakow stronger.