Krakow 5-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive in Krakow

Arrive at John Paul II International Airport Kraków–Balice (KRK), transfer to your accommodation, and check in.

Settle in and prepare for your first day of exploration.

Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available at the airport. You can also use the train for a quick transfer to the city center.

Wawel Royal Castle

Explore the historic Wawel Royal Castle, a symbol of Polish royalty and national identity.

Visit the State Rooms, Royal Apartments, and the Wawel Cathedral, burial place of Polish monarchs.

Tickets for different parts of the castle are sold separately. Consider purchasing the 'Dragon's Den' ticket for a fun photo opportunity. Book in advance, especially for specific time slots.

Lunch near Wawel

Enjoy a traditional Polish lunch at a restaurant near Wawel Castle.

Try pierogi or Bigos (hunter's stew).

Look for restaurants offering 'kuchnia polska' for authentic Polish cuisine.

Krakow Main Market Square

Wander through Europe's largest medieval market square, Rynek Główny.

Admire St. Mary's Basilica, the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Explore the stalls in the Cloth Hall for souvenirs. You can also find horse-drawn carriage rides here.

Ramen Dinner

Satisfy your ramen craving at one of Krakow's popular ramen spots, offering a taste of authentic Japanese noodle soups.

Krakow has several highly-rated ramen restaurants. Check Google Maps for current recommendations like Ramen People or Akita Ramen.

Explore Kazimierz (Jewish Quarter)

Wander through the historic streets of Kazimierz, Krakow's former Jewish Quarter.

Visit the Old Synagogue, Remuh Synagogue, and explore the charming squares and unique shops.

Many cafes offer traditional Jewish pastries and coffee. The area has a distinctive, bohemian atmosphere.

Lunch in Kazimierz

Enjoy a delicious lunch in Kazimierz, known for its diverse culinary scene, including Jewish, Polish, and international options.

Try Zapiekanka (Polish open-faced baguette pizza) from Plac Nowy for a quick and tasty snack.

Oskar Schindler's Factory

Visit the Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory Museum.

This powerful exhibition tells the story of Krakow during the Nazi occupation and Schindler's heroic efforts to save over a thousand Jews.

Book tickets online in advance, as it's a very popular museum and tickets can sell out. The museum is closed on the first Tuesday of each month (not relevant for this Tuesday visit).

Traditional Polish Pub

Experience a traditional Polish evening by visiting a local pub.

Enjoy Polish beer, vodka, and some simple pub snacks (e.g., krakersy z pastą).

Look for pubs with a cozy, rustic interior. Some may offer live music on certain evenings.

Rynek Underground Museum

Descend beneath the Main Market Square to explore the Rynek Underground Museum, an archaeological site showcasing medieval Krakow with interactive exhibits.

Tickets are limited and often sell out quickly. Book online in advance to secure your spot.

St. Mary's Basilica

Visit the iconic St.

Mary's Basilica, famous for its impressive wooden altarpiece by Veit Stoss and the hourly bugle call from its taller tower.

There's a separate entrance for worshippers and tourists. Pay attention to the hourly Hejnal (bugle call) from the tower.

Traditional Pierogi Lunch

Indulge in a delicious lunch focusing on pierogi, Poland's national dish.

Try a variety of fillings, both savory and sweet.

Look for a 'Pierogarnia' for a restaurant specializing in pierogi. They often have tasting platters.

Souvenir Shopping & Relax

Spend some leisurely time browsing for souvenirs, local crafts, or Polish delicacies in the charming shops around the Old Town or Plac Nowy.

Amber jewelry, traditional wooden crafts, and local vodka are popular souvenirs.

Farewell Krakow Dinner

Enjoy a final dinner in Krakow, perhaps at a restaurant offering modern Polish cuisine or a favorite spot revisited.

Consider restaurants in the Old Town or Kazimierz for a memorable last meal.

Travel to London

Fly from Krakow (KRK) to London (likely Luton LTN or Heathrow LHR), followed by transfer to your accommodation.

Ensure you book your flight from Krakow to London for February 6th in advance. Consider the best airport for your hotel's location. Transfers from airports like Luton or Stansted can take 1-1.5 hours by train/bus.

Hotel Check-in & Lunch

Check into your hotel and grab a quick lunch to refuel before an afternoon of sightseeing.

The Blackbird hotel is also a classic pub, perfect for a traditional British lunch.

Tower of London Visit

Explore this historic castle, a former fortress, royal palace, and infamous prison.

See the Crown Jewels and learn about its dark history.

Book tickets online in advance to save time and ensure entry. Arrive early for the Beefeater tours, which are highly recommended.

London Eye Views & Thames Walk

Enjoy views of the London Eye from the South Bank and take a leisurely stroll along the River Thames, catching sights like Big Ben and Westminster.

Consider riding the London Eye if you have time, but simply enjoying the views from the ground is also magical, especially as dusk falls.

Traditional British Pub Dinner

Experience a classic London pub with hearty British comfort food and local ales.

Try fish and chips, a pie, or bangers and mash. Many pubs offer a great atmosphere.

Harry Potter Magical Exploration

Visit King's Cross Station to see Platform 9¾ and 'The Harry Potter Shop'.

You can also explore nearby areas for other magical connections.

Be prepared for queues at Platform 9¾ for photo opportunities. The shop is well-stocked with merchandise.

The British Museum

Discover world-famous artifacts, including the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian mummies, and the Elgin Marbles, exploring centuries of human history and culture.

Entry is free, but consider booking a timed slot online, especially on weekends, to avoid queues. A donation is suggested.

Covent Garden Exploration & Lunch

Enjoy a late lunch in the vibrant Covent Garden area, browse the market stalls, and watch street performers.

Many cafes and restaurants are available for a quick bite. It's a great spot for souvenir shopping.

Delicious Ramen Dinner

Savor a flavorful ramen dinner at one of London's many popular ramen restaurants.

London has a fantastic ramen scene; check out local recommendations or reviews for the best spots near you.

Departure from London

Head to London Luton Airport (LTN) for your return flight to Krakow (KRK).

Allow ample time for travel to the airport, check-in, and security, especially on a Saturday evening.