It’s possible. There is never enough time to see a place and I don’t suggest it, but if your time is limited or if you are looking for a perfect weekend getaway….it’s possible. At this time of the year, the days are shorter in Poland. I landed in Krakow past 4:00 pm and by the time my friend and I stepped outside the airport, it was pitch black. This was how the rest of my trip was like. Trying to squeeze in a lot while the sun was still out. It was also raining 80% of the time. Not that it was a bad thing. Sometimes, it actually added more to the romantic medieval vibes of the old city.
Day One
Old Town Main Market Square
We were fortunate to have one beautiful sunny day in Krakow! We took advantage of walking all over the historic old town and stayed outdoors as much as possible. I always start my day with coffee (and when I’m on a trip, I usually order the most obnoxious ones, too.) and I prefer mine with a view.
Krakow is the kind of city where you enjoy simply by wandering around and taking the time to take in all the history, sights, shops, and architecture. If you are looking for gifts and souvenirs, there are plenty of stores to choose from.
Wawel Castle
Don’t forget to visit Wawel Castle. I did not go in for a tour but tickets are issued for specific entrance times, so make sure to check their website for information. Outside the castle, catch a glimpse of the infamous Dragon of Wawel Hill. If you’re lucky, you can catch it breathe fire.
End the day by going back to the Main Market Square. The whole place is different at night! Have dinner at one of the many restaurants around Old Town. Of course, you have got to try Polish pierogis.
Day Two
Jewish Quarter
You can start and end your day at the Jewish Quarter. There are many Jewish Quarter tours being offered in Krakow. Even though I didn’t take one, I wish I did! The Jewish Quarter was also where the movie Schindler’s List was filmed. The Quarter looks very different at night. My friend who lives in Krakow, took me to the Quarter to have dinner and hang out at the plethora of bars in the area.
St. Mary’s Basilica
The church is located in the heart of main square. It is a big tourist attraction with a rich history and amazing architecture.
National Museum
For me, a trip would not be complete without checking out a museum. Lucky for me, the National Museum in Krakow houses two important pieces from legendary old masters. A Rembrandt, and a Da Vinci. Poland is only one of few countries that could boast a Da Vinci. As an art lover, seeing Da Vinci’s Lady with an Ermine was one for the books!
Day Three
Wielicza Salt Mine
Technically, this one will be outside Krakow but this place is a must! The Salt Mine is located about 20 minutes from Krakow. My big advice is to buy tickets online before heading out there since it can easily be sold out depending on the season. The entry is also by a specific time and language. I also want to share that the tour takes about 2.5 hours excluding additional time to explore the restaurants and shop for souvenirs. The tour also requires some physical endurance since you will be going up and down at least 800 stairs. Visit the website and read up more about the whole trip before you go. You can easily spend the whole day in Wielicza Salt Mine as there are more areas to explore.
Side trip:
You can add or substitute a quick trip to Warsaw. I was able to squeeze it in because I wanted to visit the Chopin Museum and did not plan on staying in Warsaw for long.
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Jen is a Chicago-based traveler and creative. She is a full-time development & communications executive specializing in non-profit organizations. Originally from the East Coast, she created The Jetsetter as a place to share her travel stories and photos with friends and family. Now, it is a place for adventurers and dreamers. Its purpose is to inspire and encourage busy professionals to see the world and achieve a better work-life balance.
Woa you covered a lot in three days. Love your pictures… It looks like a lovely city to time spend ?
Krakow looks beautiful, I must make a quick trip to Poland in the future as it is so close to me. Love the Cinderella style coach and horses and coffee photos!
Krakow looks so majestic! This is a great itinerary and I appreciate the highlights! It’s definitely a place I’m getting more intrigued by! I like your order obnoxious coffee…that’s what vacations is for right?!
Krakow looks beautiful. I love old medieval villages, and that coffee you had looked divine. I would love to start my day with that everyday!
Krakow! First time to heard this place. Such a beautiful city to wander. I love those castles, your streets shots. What a beauty!
Lovely photos! Great itinerary for 3 days, something right down my alley of mixing a few different kind of things to do in a city. Ooo and I love that fire-breathing dragon 😀
I’m of Polish decent and this is on my bucket list. Looks amazing!
You definitely made full use of your three days! Krakow seems like the perfect blend of history, art, and culture. Thanks for sharing your beautiful photos!
Krakow is so remarkable and you explored plenty of places in such a short time, Jen. Everyone planning to go to Krakow should definitely read your itinerary. 😉
The dragon looks pretty cool. My son will love it. Thank you for the itinerary.
I love Krakow! Your photos are great and remind me of my time there. Would like to visit more places in Poland. The photo of the dragon with fire in his mouth is awesome!