Krakow is undoubtedly one of Polish special brands. It makes you always want to come back. It is known as a historical and cultural capital of our country. What does make it so unique? Is it famous “magic in the air”? You are going to the city of Polish kings with a lot of monuments, cafes, restaurants etc. But how to visit such a beautiful place in such a short time? Is it possible to see Krakow in one day?
Sometimes life is not very pleased, especially when we have only one day to stay in a beautiful city, of which we thought for a long time. Then what? Does it mean that we will not see anything at all and it is not worth to even go there for a while? Definitely not. Everything depends on good organization and planning skills. It is obvious that time limits do not allow you to fully enjoy charms of the city, but not everything is lost – use it as a particular harbinger of a future trip. But let us assume that we are strongly determined to sightseeing. How then visit Krakow in one day?
How to visit Krakow in one day? Beginning of our trip
Our journey starts and ends in the Main Market Square, because it is very close to bus and railways stations (about 10 to 15 minutes’ walk). The Market makes a huge impression – it is the largest and one of the most charming historical squares in Europe. You can find here some Gothic and Renaissance monuments, like St. Mary’s Church with it famous hourly bugle call, the Cloth Hall with its beautiful Gallery of the best Polish Paintings and the underground museum with a fantastic exhibition (‘Tracing the European identity of Krakow’). You should book at least three hours for enjoying the beauty of churches, palaces and other buildings and finally go few steps under the ground to move into Middle Ages!
How to end Your one day in Krakow perfectly?
Then, if you want to be more charmed by spectacular architecture, head towards Wawel Hill with cathedral and Royal Palace, where you may spend another three hours. Firstly, see Gothic cathedral (entrance is for free), where the altar of St. Stanislaus – holy patron of Poland – stands in the middle of the church. Tombs of Polish kings are situated around the altar, in the ambulatory. Then go to the nearby Renaissance courtyard of Royal Palace – a true masterpiece of Italian art with splendid rooms, sculpture and paintings! It’s also a good to walk among the Vistula River bank and see the metallic Dragons’ figure gasping with fire. Clock is ticking and all good things come to an end. It is time to go back the same way to the Main Market Square, passing by several Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque churches.
Social life starts on the evening – street performers, musicians and mimes are more present than during the day. Talks and laughter can be heard everywhere. Restaurants, pubs and bars are wide open, decorated in various styles. City becomes very multicultural and friendly.
It seems that short time constraints curtail range of sightseeing opportunities, which we can consider as an announcement of a longer trip in the future.
