Krakow Travel Tips: 21 Do’s and Don’ts for Tourists

Ever been exploring in a city and thought, “Why did nobody tell me that before I came?” 

That was me on my first trip to Krakow. The city is gorgeous, ridiculously good value, and full of history, but there are a few little quirks that caught me off guard. 

Nothing major, just the kind of stuff that makes you wish someone had given you a heads-up beforehand. 

So, consider this your coffee-table catch-up: a bunch of Krakow tips in the form of friendly do’s and don’ts to help you enjoy the city without any of those “oops, I wish I’d known that” moments.

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21 Krakow Do’s and Don’ts

Here are all our Krakow travel tips to make sure you have the best (and safest!) trip you can.

✅ Do Explore Krakow’s Classics

This might be one of the most obvious Krakow travel tips, but usually you hear people say “avoid the tourist spots, go off the beaten track!”
In Krakow, the most popular places are absolutely worth your time. 

Wawel Castle is a fairy tale fortress with winding courtyards and sweeping views of the river. 

Rynek Główny is buzzing with life, full of flower stalls, street performers, and the stunning St. Mary’s Basilica. And Kazimierz, the old Jewish Quarter, mixes history with cool cafés and street art. 

They’re busy for a reason, and honestly, you’d regret skipping them.

❌ Don’t Eat on the Main Square if You’re Budget-Conscious

Yes, the Main Square is beautiful, but your wallet will notice the difference. Prices here are often double what you’ll pay a few streets away, and the food can feel a bit generic.

Callum spent a lot of his trip last week in Bulldog Bar… like I’ve taught him nothing. 

Then he moaned that it wasn’t as cheap as everyone made it out to be — the cheek!

If you want pierogi that taste like someone’s grandma made them, head into Kazimierz or down the little side streets instead.

✅ Do Try Polish Cuisine

Speaking of pierogi, you really can’t come to Krakow without tucking into the food. 

The city is packed with restaurants serving dumplings stuffed with everything from potato and cheese to wild mushrooms, meat, and some even have fruit. 

Make time for a steaming bowl of żurek, a sour rye soup often served in a bread bowl, and don’t skip oscypek, the smoky sheep’s cheese usually grilled and topped with cranberry sauce. 

Skip the overpriced “tourist menus” in the square and head to Kazimierz or a milk bar for hearty, affordable dishes that taste homemade.

❌ Don’t Jaywalk or Text While Crossing

This one catches a lot of tourists off guard. Police in Krakow are known to fine people for crossing the road where they shouldn’t — or worse, for scrolling on their phones while doing it. 

It’s not just about money, it’s also about safety. 

Stick to the crossings and keep your phone down until you’re safely on the other side. 

It might feel strict if you’re used to more relaxed rules at home, but it keeps everything running smoothly.

✅ Do Give Priority to Trams

The rules are simple: trams always come first. 

If you’re driving, cycling, or even just walking across the tracks, you’ll need to give way. Tourists sometimes forget this and end up with a near miss or a very unimpressed driver ringing the bell at them. 

I actually saw a tram hit the side of a car in Wrocław because the driver got impatient, and trust me, the tram always wins. 

Treat the tram lines like moving roads and you’ll be fine.

❌ Don’t Climb the Monuments

It might sound obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people try to perch on statues or scramble up fountains for the perfect photo. 

In Krakow, this is a big no-no and can earn you a fine on the spot.

These sites are part of the city’s history and are treated with respect by locals. 

Snap your photos from the ground and leave the monuments standing tall for the next visitor to admire.

✅ Do Validate Your Ticket On Public Transport

Public transport in Krakow is brilliant, but only if you play by the rules. 

This Krakow travel tip is common throughout Europe: you must validate your paper or mobile bus or tram ticket as soon as you get on board.

Tickets are also really cheap, with a day pass being between 17-20 PLN (£3.50-4.20). 

The yellow machines you’ll spot near the doors are what you use, and if you forget, you risk an on-the-spot fine. 

If you’re using the Jakdojade app, though, your ticket is validated at the moment you buy it. All you need to do is show the QR code if an inspector asks.

 It’s simple once you know, and it saves you a lot of stress.

❌ Don’t Feed the Pigeons

Krakow has more than its fair share of pigeons, and the city is doing its best to keep the numbers under control. 

Tossing them crumbs in the square might feel harmless, but it makes the problem worse and annoys locals who have to deal with the mess.

Plus, they’ll never leave you alone once you start. 

If you really want to, admire them from a distance instead of handing over your sandwich, and you’ll have a much more peaceful time in the city’s beautiful squares.

✅ Do Respect Religious Sites

Poland is a very religious country, and people take their faith seriously. 

Krakow’s churches aren’t just pretty buildings for tourists to wander into, they’re living places of worship. 

If you want to pop inside St. Mary’s Basilica or any of the city’s countless chapels, cover your shoulders, wear modest clothing, and keep your voice down. And if you see a “no photos” sign, respect it. 

Taking a moment to be mindful here doesn’t just avoid awkward stares, it shows locals that visitors are willing to treat their traditions with respect.

❌ Don’t Assume a Guided Tour Is the Only Way to Visit Auschwitz

Auschwitz is one of the most important and moving day trips from Krakow, but booking through a third-party tour isn’t always the best idea. 

Recently, tour companies have been unable to guarantee entry tickets, which means groups often leave at the crack of dawn to try their luck with last-minute availability. 

Going direct is simpler, cheaper, and gives you more control over your timing.

As a family, we’ve visited over a dozen times and have never booked a tour from Krakow — we’ve always made our own way there. 

You can easily take a bus or train to the site, book your ticket in advance, and join one of the on-site tours if you want expert insight.

We’ve explained exactly how to do it step by step in our Auschwitz from Krakow guide.

✅ Do Learn a Few Polish Phrases

The locals in Krakow are friendly and most younger people in Krakow speak great English, but making the effort goes a long way. 

Even just a handful of words like “dzień dobry” (good day), “dziękuję” (thank you), and “proszę” (please) will earn you a smile. 

It is appreciated when visitors show respect for the language, and it can make interactions more fun. We’ve had some great conversations with people whilst exploring Krakow. 

It’s not about fluency — just the small gestures that make you feel a bit more connected to the city.

❌ Don’t Expect All Museums to Be Open Daily

Luckily, museums like Schindler’s Factory and the Rynek Underground Museum have generous opening hours, but the city-run museums tend to close on Mondays. 

If you’re short on time, this can really mess with your plans.

Always double-check opening hours before you set off, and if you’re trying to cram a lot into a long weekend, plan your museum days around those closures. 

Nothing’s more frustrating than turning up excited and finding the doors locked.

✅ Do Carry Some Zloty

Poland is very card-friendly, but it pays to have a little cash for small things like market snacks, public loos, or places with poor signal. 

We learned that lesson when the shooting range only accepted cash because their machine couldn’t get a connection underground.

Having some złoty in your pocket just keeps things stress-free. For everything else, we personally use Monzo. 

You get the real exchange rate on the day, no card fees abroad, and the option to withdraw cash if you need it. 

👉 Sign up through our referral link and we’ll both get a reward after you use your card for the first time within 30 days. It’s completely free, and once you’ve got it, you’ll never want to travel without it! 

❌ Don’t Use Unlicensed Taxis

Unlicensed taxis are a common headache for visitors in Krakow.
They’ll often wait near busy spots like the train station or Market Square and then charge whatever they like once you’re already inside. 

To avoid getting stung, stick with licensed taxis like Radio Taxi, Mega Taxi, or Icar Taxi, or use ride apps like Bolt and Uber. 

Licensed cabs are clearly marked, and you’ll see the prices displayed in a visible place inside the car, so you know exactly what you’re paying. 

They might not pick up within Rynek Glowny, so you may need to walk to a nearby pick-up spot.

✅ Do Use Reputable Currency Exchanges and ATMs

You’ll see plenty of places around Krakow with a “Kantor” sign, which means currency exchange. 

Most are fine, but the best rates are usually found at the Galeria Krakowska shopping centre above the main train station, or along Sławkowska Street, which has several reliable exchanges. If you need cash, try to use ATMs inside banks rather than random ones on the street. 

They’re safer and give you a much fairer exchange rate. 

The big red flag is anywhere advertising “0% commission” — it sounds good, but the catch is a terrible exchange rate. 

Some ATMs do the same thing, hitting you with poor rates and hidden fees.
And remember, always decline the machine’s “conversion” offer and let your bank handle the exchange instead. 

It often works best to grab a little cash before your trip, then use cards like Monzo or Revolut for everyday spending once you’re in Krakow.

❌ Don’t Be Worried About Tipping Culture

Eating out in Krakow is great value compared to much of Europe, and while tipping isn’t essential, it’s polite and very much appreciated. 

Around 10-15% is the norm if service isn’t already included on the bill. 

One thing to remember is that if you say “thank you” when handing over cash, the waiter may assume you don’t want change. 

So, only say it if you’re leaving the difference as a tip. It’s a small detail, but it saves awkwardly paying more for your meal if you didn’t intend to. 

✅ Do Read the Small Print of Your Accommodation Booking

Unlike some European cities, Krakow doesn’t have an official tourist tax. 

However, some hotels and apartments may still charge local fees, which can catch you off guard if you’re not expecting them.

Apartments and aparthotels are super popular in Krakow because the prices are great and you often get more space than a traditional hotel, but some do require a refundable deposit on arrival. 

You may also be sent your entrance codes via apps like WhatsApp, so it’s worth setting this up before you go. 

Check the small print of your booking or contact your accommodation directly so you’re not caught out at check-in.

❌ Don’t Underestimate The Strength Of The Alcohol

This is one of the more niche Krakow travel tips, as you can’t say this about every destination! 

Krakow is famous for its nightlife, and the city draws plenty of stag and hen groups (bachelor and bachelorette parties). Drinks are much stronger (and cheaper!)  compared to most European cities, but don’t let low prices convince you to go overboard. 

Callum tried a shot called “The Strongest S*** You’ll Ever Drink” and they weren’t kidding — I’ll add a video in the post for proof. 

The thing to remember is that Polish law takes public drunkenness seriously. If you look visibly intoxicated on the streets, expect more than just a telling-off: fines, a strip search, or even being detained are all possibilities. 

So pace yourself, keep the heavy drinking inside bars and clubs, and enjoy Krakow’s nightlife without any unpleasant surprises.

✅ Do Make an Effort for Krakow’s Nightlife

The city is packed with everything from cosy cellar pubs to rooftop cocktail spots and big clubs, so a night out is pretty much a must. 

Drinks are cheap, the atmosphere is buzzing, and places stay open late into the night.

 Just keep in mind that many clubs do have dress codes, so turning up in scruffy trainers or looking a bit too casual might mean you’re left at the door. 

A little effort with what you wear goes a long way, and it’s worth it to experience Krakow after dark.

However…

❌ Don’t Fall for the Nightlife Scams

This one’s important. Around Old Town, you’ll often find promoters outside so-called “whisky bars” or “gentlemen’s clubs” trying to lure you in with offers of free drinks or discounts.

Here’s how the scam usually goes: once inside, the cheap drinks never appear, and instead you’ll often find yourself being double-charged or handed an eye-watering bill you’re pressured into paying. 

In some rarer cases, people have even reported drinks being tampered with to make them easier to exploit.

One of the downfalls of Krakow is just how many promoters there are on the streets, especially around Old Town. 

My brother-in-law actually chatted to one and said he was disappointed with how much he had been approached, and the promoter just shrugged and said it’s what they have to do. 

The market is clearly saturated with these places, which explains the hard sell.
Keep your head down or politely decline and you won’t have any trouble — and stick to well-known pubs, bars, and clubs for a much more enjoyable night.

✅ Do Pre-Book Major Attractions in Advance

Krakow is hugely popular, and its most famous attractions can sell out months ahead of time.

Auschwitz, the Wieliczka Salt Mine, and Schindler’s Factory Museum are the big three that require planning. 

Don’t leave it until the last minute or you risk missing out altogether. 

Check dates online before your trip and reserve your tickets in advance — it’s one less thing to worry about and guarantees you won’t be disappointed when you arrive.

 How Many Days Is Enough in Krakow

Technically, you can “do” Krakow in a day.
If you’ve only got 24 hours, you’ll still be able to walk the Old Town, wander Wawel Castle, and grab a plate of pierogi in the Main Square. But you’ll be rushing, and the city really deserves more.

At the very least, give yourself two full days. That way you can enjoy the Old Town without sprinting, explore Kazimierz, and still have time for a museum like Schindler’s Factory or the Rynek Underground.

If you want to include Auschwitz, though, you’ll need a third day. It’s an emotional visit and takes most of the day with travel, so it’s not something to tack on in the evening.

Honestly, though, four days is perfect. Krakow is full of little stops and surprises: a detour into a tiny chapel, a lazy hour in a café, or a side trip to the Wieliczka Salt Mine. 

Four days gives you breathing room to see the essentials without feeling rushed, plus time for the extras that make the trip special. We’ve laid out everything step by step in our 4-day Krakow itinerary, which we think is the sweet spot.

The Best Time of Year to Visit Krakow

Krakow works year-round, but each season feels different.

Spring (April–May) brings mild weather and blooming flowers, perfect for sightseeing without the summer rush. 

Autumn (September–October) means crisp air, colourful leaves in Planty Park, and cosy cafés to warm up in.

Summer (June–August) is the busiest, full of festivals and nightlife, though prices and crowds rise with the heat. 

Winter (December–February) is cold but magical, with Christmas markets and snowy squares that look like a fairy tale.

There’s no bad time to visit. It just depends on what you’re after: spring and autumn for sightseeing, summer for buzz, winter for festive charm.

How Much Spending Money To Take To Krakow

It really depends how you travel. Callum recently blew through about £250 in a long weekend, with Auschwitz, the shooting range, meals on the Main Square, and plenty of cocktails. 

I, on the other hand, was sensible and spent closer to £150 by sticking to side-street restaurants, I rarely drink alcohol, and I did a mixture of paid and free attractions.

Krakow can be as cheap or as indulgent as you make it — either way, it’s much kinder on the wallet than most European cities.

FAQs: Krakow Travel Tips

What should I be careful of in Krakow?

The main things to watch for are nightlife scams, unlicensed taxis, and dodgy currency exchanges. 

Stick to these Krakow travel tips/do’s and don’ts we’ve shared and you’ll avoid the worst of it. Otherwise, Krakow is a safe, welcoming city where common sense goes a long way.

Is Krakow cheap?

By European standards, yes! 

Food, drink, and attractions are much more affordable than in places like Paris or London.

Just avoid eating on the Main Square, watch out for tourist traps, and you’ll find Krakow offers amazing value for money.

 Is Krakow safe at night?

Yes, Krakow is generally safe after dark, especially around the Main Square and Kazimierz. Just use the same caution you would in any city: don’t wander off drunk, and steer clear of pushy club promoters. 

Stick to well-known bars and you’ll be fine.

Final Thoughts on These Krakow Travel Tips

Krakow is one of those cities that’s hard not to fall for. It’s beautiful, welcoming, and easy on the wallet — but knowing a few of the quirks makes your trip so much smoother. With these do’s and don’ts, you’ll avoid the classic tourist slip-ups and spend more time enjoying the things that actually make the city special.

It doesn’t matter if you’re here for two days or four, Krakow’s the kind of place that leaves you wanting to come back. So take it slow, eat the pierogi, learn a couple of Polish words, and let the city do the rest.