Kraków: The City That Survived Wars beacuse it's too beatiful to be destroyed

When I visited Kraków in early summer, the city was just waking up to the tourist season. It was the ideal time to explore this vibrant and beautiful destination, offering pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and affordable prices. We stayed in a cozy 2-star hotel near the Old Town, making it easy to soak in the city’s charm.


Why Kraków is Fascinating

Kraków is a city rich in history and culture. Once the capital of Poland before Warsaw, it played a crucial role in shaping the country's heritage. This legacy is reflected in its stunning architecture, historic sites, and vibrant atmosphere.

Despite the ravages of war across Europe, Kraków was spared much of the destruction during World War II. Many believe its extraordinary beauty and historical significance helped it avoid being bombed or subjected to street battles.

How to Get to Kraków

Kraków is well-connected to the rest of Poland and beyond. Whether you prefer traveling by train, bus, or car, getting to the city is straightforward. For international visitors, Kraków has its own airport with flights from major cities.

I personally arrived by train from Gdańsk, enjoying Poland’s efficient railway system. The city is also easily accessible from nearby capitals like Budapest and Vienna, thanks to frequent connections.

Polish train stations are more than just transit hubs—they’re bustling centers with shops, restaurants, and cafes. This makes traveling by train in Poland a convenient and enjoyable experience.


Exploring Kraków’s Old Town

After arriving at the train station, it was a short and easy walk to the Old Town. The first sight that greeted us was the iconic horse-drawn carriages, their white accents and elegant riders adding a fairytale touch to the streets. Taking a carriage ride is one of Kraków’s most popular attractions.

We started our adventure with a coffee before heading to the Town Hall Tower Museum, located in the heart of the Main Square. The panoramic view from the top was breathtaking, offering a sweeping perspective of the historic center.



A Visit to Wawel Castle

One of Kraków’s most famous landmarks is Wawel Castle, a stunning hilltop fortress overlooking the Vistula River. Once the residence of Polish kings and aristocracy, the castle boasts a collection of beautiful buildings and a rich history.

The site is also tied to modern history—Oskar Schindler’s office during the war was located here. Exploring Wawel Castle is like stepping back in time, and the surrounding river adds a natural layer of beauty and serenity.

Cruising the Vistula River

The Vistula River offers another way to experience Kraków. Ferries and cruises are available at affordable prices, with options for larger boats featuring live music and drinks. Walking along the riverbanks is equally enjoyable, with plenty of opportunities to stop and snap photos of the scenic views.


Kraków’s Green Spaces and Nightlife

Kraków is a city of green spaces, including the Planty Park, a lush ring of greenery encircling the Old Town. This area used to be the city’s defensive walls, which were replaced by gardens after their removal.

When the sun sets, Kraków comes alive with vibrant nightlife. The city’s youthful energy, driven by its many students, fills its bars, pubs, and clubs.

A Timeless City That Survived the Wars

Kraków’s beauty isn’t just skin deep—it’s a city with a soul, untouched by the destruction of wars that ravaged other parts of Europe. Its historical charm, cultural richness, and resilience make it a must-visit destination.

After our wonderful time in Kraków, we spent the following day on a deeply reflective visit to Auschwitz. This emotional journey added another layer of meaning to our trip, contrasting the beauty of Kraków with the somber lessons of history.

Next day we visited Auschwitz - Darkest Place in Europe

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