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Kraków is a many-faceted city that has begun welcoming more tourists than ever over the last few years. Kraków is probably not a name that many tourists, save those who have spent a significant amount of time in Central Europe, are intimately familiar with, but it’s rapidly becoming one of the most desirable European destinations for culture, heritage, and luxury.
What To Know About Kraków
- The city is known as the “old soul” of Poland since some of the beautifully preserved architecture you can still see dates back as far as the 7th century.
- Kraków was Poland’s capital from 1038 to 1596 when King Sigismund III Vasa moved that title over to Warsaw.
- Kraków John Paul II International Airport welcomes flights from all over the world, including private jet charter flights.
- There are many legends about the city’s past. One of the best-known dates back to when King Krakus ruled Kraków. They say a fearsome dragon lurked beneath Wawel Castle, but it was eventually outwitted by a shoemaker and its reign of terror ended in it being blown up!
- Kraków lies on both sides of the Vistula River.
- Old Kraków was designated a WHO Heritage Site in 1978 and holds a marketplace that has existed since the 13th century.
Luxury Experiences in Kraków
The History of Krakow: Old Town & Wawel Castle Tour
Exploring the history of this gorgeous and ancient European city is a must, and with this particular tour, you’ll get a personalised experience thanks to the incredible wealth of knowledge that these impeccably trained guides have. Take a tour of two of the most visited occasions in the city: Old Town and Wawel Castle.
Step back in time and learn about what life was like in “the old days”. You’ll stroll through Sukiennice (Cloth Hall), and Stary Kleparz. Your guide will share the history behind these landmarks, which will help you bridge the gap between the city’s vibrant past and present-day life. The tour covers all the “usual” things, but will also guide you off the beaten path to discover hidden gems that most visitors don’t get to see.
The 10 Tastings of Kraków
Polish food is well known for being hearty and delicious, so some form of tasting restaurant crawl should definitely be on your trip itinerary. Indulge in a fully customisable tasting tour of local cuisine that you’ll never forget! Your passionate and knowledgeable host will take you on a food tour that not only includes delicious dishes but also cultural insights about recipes, ingredients, and locations.
The tour is suitable for those who consider themselves foodies as well as those who just love food. You’ll nibble on the sweet and savoury from pierogi to the city’s local favourite, zapiekanka. You’ll stop off at iconic locations and more hidden locales like Plac Wolnica to sip and sample your way through a cultural experience like nothing you’ve ever tried before. If you have any food preferences, allergies, or exclusions, never fear – your personal tour is created with these in mind.
Zakopane & Tatra Mountains Tour
Get out of the city and experience the Polish countryside in all its pristine, pastoral beauty. This is an 8-9 hour recursion, so delegate an entire day for it and you won’t be sorry. Additionally, be sure to pack your camera because you’ll certainly want souvenir photos of these gorgeous locations!
You’ll be collected from Krakow and then take a funicular ride to Gubałówka. Surrounded by the High Tatras, which are covered with snow until May, you’ll get an idea of what life was like in the area before the city grew to its current size. You’ll visit Krupówki, the most popular street in the heart of unique and enticing Zakopane, and experience the flavours and traditions of the mountains. There’s architecture and tradition to absorb, and then you’re off to the picturesque village of Chocholow, famed for its adorable wooden houses. Next, a cable car will take you to the top of Gubałówka Mountain for a view of the surrounding landscape that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
Private Kayak Experience at Dunajec River
If you can’t get enough of Polish nature and have a little bit of an adventurous side, then this is an experience you can’t miss. Don’t be concerned about the difficulty level, because the Dunajec is a river easy enough for newbies and even families of all ages. Treat yourself to the exquisite views of the National Park between the Polish and Slovakian border, where you’ll find Dunajec Gorge, one of the best-known tourist attractions in Southern Poland.
On this kayak trip come sightseeing and you’ll visit Niedzica (on the former Polish-Hungarian border) and its 14th-century Hungarian castle. Paddle into the heart of the stunning Pieniny mountains and stop off to see Szczawnica, a well-known resort town that has stood since the 19th century. Bear in mind that these trips only run until October, after which the weather becomes too cool to be comfortable.
Explore Kraków in Luxurious Style
These private, customisable, luxury tours and experiences will get you up close and personal with some of the most imposing architecture, unblemished countryside, and exciting history the city has to offer. Make sure you book early to experience the best that Kraków has to offer.