Krakow

Our expert Poland

Krakow

Krakow Former Polish capital Krakow is considered a major cultural and artistic city and remains a symbol of cultural dynamism. © Ludovic Maisant

Krakow was Poland's capital until the 17th century; it is like an open air museum with its 58 churches and palaces, listed mansions and 34 museums displaying collections of Polish, Turkish, Persian and Japanese art. It is the intellectual centre of the country with the oldest universities of Central Europe, including the Jagiellonian University founded in 1364. You musn't miss a visit to the Old City: with the Main Square and Cloth Hall; its lively streets lined with bars and restaurants; the Gothic Basilica of Our Lady and the richly decorated architecture of the old houses. On Wawel Hill, overlooking the city, the Royal Castle holds one of the largest collections of Flemish tapestry and the neighbouring Gothic style cathedral hosts the tombs of the kings of Poland. A walk through the district of Kazimierz will introduce you to the Jewish synagogues, Jewish cemeteries and traditional restaurants.