Krakow

Thanks to Krakow’s storied past as Poland’s royal capital, there has been a wealth of historical sights and attractive architecture left behind. Well-known hotel chains can be sought out thanks to offerings such as the Sheraton Kraków (Powiśle 7) and Radisson Blu Hotel Kraków (Straszewskiego 17), while those preferring a boutique stay may wish to try the five-star Hotel Gródek (Na Gródku 4). Three-star options that are more moderately priced include the 57-room Hotel Polski Pod Białym Orłem (Pijarska 7) and the more intimate 20-room Hotel Benefis (Barska 2).

There is certainly a diverse selection to explore when it comes to Krakow’s shopping scene, with everything from the Galeria Krakowska (Pawia 5), a modern mall located near the central train station, to the flea market at Hala Targowa (Daszyskiego 3) that takes place every day, although Sundays are a highlight. For antiques head to the Old Town and Salon Antyków Pasja (Jagielloska 9), or for fresh produce seek out the covered market at Stary Kleparz (Rynek Kleparski 14). Classic Krakow souvenirs include amber jewellery and lace, which can be picked up from numerous shops around the Old Town.

Krakow has deviated far from the outdated impression of Polish cuisine being bland and stodgy, with many restaurants offering modern twists on traditional dishes. For interesting takes on classics such as maczanka krakowska (meat stew) and zurek (sour rye soup), try Restauracja Pod Baranem (Gertrudy 21), or the similarly impressive Wentzl (Rynek Glówny 19). For moderately priced traditional dining try the milk bar at U Stasi (Mikolajska 16), or authentic café culture at Camelot (Tomasza 17).

International Soup Festival

May

Cooks and restaurants compete to come up with the best soups at this popular event that takes place each year in the Kazimierz district. Try the free samples and enjoy the atmosphere as the evening draws in and the beers fly out.

Wianki

June

Classical music is the main draw as the banks of the Vistula River play host to Wianki over three days. Krakow musicians put on the live performances that traditionally coincide with summer solstice celebrations.

Jewish Culture Festival

June-July

There’s plenty to entertain at this annual celebration of Krakow’s rich Jewish heritage, with boat cruises, films, live music, book launches, prayer ceremonies and traditional food stalls all featuring. Billed as an ‘unending celebration of Jewish life’, this festival has now been running for over 20 years.

Festival of Polish Music

July

This celebration has been going since 2005 and showcases the work of Polish composers from the Middle Ages right through to the present day. Spread over nine days, the event takes place at a number of concert halls and religious buildings around the city, and draws accomplished musicians from around the world.

Unsound Festival

October

The Unsound Festival combines performances from established artists and up-and-coming talents to throw up varying types of new and electronic music. The event is now an established international festival, having come from humble beginnings just over a decade ago.