Exploring Krakow on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Old Town Wonders

Krakow, Poland

9:00AM

St. Mary's Basilica

Start your day with a visit to the stunning St. Mary's Basilica and admire its famous altarpiece.
Walk from your accommodation in the Old Town area.
Free to admire from outside, 1 hour

11:00AM

Rynek Glowny

Explore Rynek Glowny, the main square of Krakow, bustling with life and surrounded by historic buildings.
Short walk from St. Mary's Basilica.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Wawel Hill

Head to Wawel Hill to see the Wawel Royal Castle and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the gardens.
Walk from Rynek Glowny.
Free to enter the grounds, 2 hours

4:00PM

Planty Park

Take a leisurely stroll along Planty Park, a green belt surrounding the Old Town, and relax after a day of sightseeing.
Walk from Wawel Hill.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Royal Castle Exploration

Krakow, Poland

9:00AM

Wawel Royal Castle

Spend the day exploring the Wawel Royal Castle, including the State Rooms, Cathedral, and Dragon's Den.
Short walk from accommodation in the Old Town.
Tickets start at 14 PLN, 3 hours

1:00PM

Kazimierz District

Visit the Kazimierz District, known for its Jewish heritage, street art, and vibrant atmosphere.
Take a tram from Wawel Hill to Kazimierz (approx. 10 minutes).
Free to explore, 2 hours

4:00PM

Plac Nowy

End your day at Plac Nowy, a lively square in Kazimierz perfect for trying local street food.
Short walk from Kazimierz District.
Budget-friendly street food available, 1 hour
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Day 3: Jewish Heritage and Street Art

Krakow, Poland

9:00AM

Podgorze District

Explore the Podgorze District, home to Schindler's Factory and the Ghetto Heroes Square.
Take a tram from the Old Town to Podgorze (approx. 15 minutes).
Entry fee for Schindler's Factory, 3 hours

1:00PM

Vistula River

Enjoy a relaxing walk along the Vistula River and take in the scenic views of the city.
Walk from Podgorze District.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Kładka Bernatka Footbridge

Cross the Kładka Bernatka Footbridge for a different perspective of Krakow and some great photo opportunities.
Walk from Vistula River.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 4: Nature Escape to Tatra Mountains

Tatra Mountains National Park, Poland

8:00AM

Hiking in Tatra Mountains

Embark on a day of hiking in the stunning Tatra Mountains National Park, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful landscapes.
Take a bus or train from Krakow to Zakopane (approx. 2-3 hours) and then use local transport to reach the hiking trails.
Transport costs vary, Full day
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Day 5: Wieliczka Salt Mine Exploration

Wieliczka Salt Mine, Poland

9:00AM

Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour

Discover the underground world of the Wieliczka Salt Mine with its impressive chambers, chapels, and salt sculptures.
Take a train from Krakow to Wieliczka (approx. 30 minutes) and walk to the mine entrance.
Tour tickets start at 49 PLN, 3 hours

1:00PM

Main Market Square

Return to Krakow and spend the afternoon at the Main Market Square, shopping for souvenirs and enjoying local snacks.
Take the train back to Krakow.
Shopping costs vary, 2 hours
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Day 6: Nowa Huta Socialist Realism

Nowa Huta, Poland

9:00AM

Nowa Huta Tour

Join a guided tour of Nowa Huta to learn about its history as a socialist realist model city and see its unique architecture.
Take a tram from Krakow to Nowa Huta (approx. 30 minutes).
Tour prices vary, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Stylowa Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Polish meal at Stylowa Restaurant, known for its retro decor and hearty dishes.
Walk from the tour ending point.
Affordable Polish cuisine, 1 hour

3:00PM

Nowa Huta Central Square

Stroll around Nowa Huta's Central Square, observing the architecture and interacting with the local community.
Walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 7: Relaxing Day at Planty Park

Krakow, Poland

9:00AM

Planty Park Walk

Spend a relaxing day in Planty Park, walking along its paths and enjoying the greenery and historical monuments.
Start from your accommodation in the Old Town area.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Picnic in the Park

Have a picnic in the park with some local snacks and beverages, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
Find a cozy spot in the park.
Cost of picnic supplies, 1 hour

2:00PM

Planty Garden Cafes

Visit one of the charming cafes near Planty Park for a coffee or treat before concluding your trip.
Walk to a nearby cafe.
Price as per menu, 1 hour
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