A guide by SimoninKrakow
Krakow is a truly beautiful city that I am lucky enough to call home.
People often refer to it as the 'new Prague' and I'm never really sure what they mean by this. It is becoming a popular stag destination but it hasn't grown to a level that overshadows the cultural and historic atmosphere that the city has. Thankfully Krakow hasn't developed the rash and mercantile tourism enterprises found in Prague either. Only time will tell how this will all work out.
Whether you are coming to Krakow on a weekend break, business trip or backpacking adventure a good all-round guide I can recommend is www.cracow-life.com which has all the information you could need. I even find it handy as expat as it lists local news, events and weather.
I think the best time to visit Krakow is in December when the Christmas market is in full swing on the main market square. It's setting in the medieval streets, with a bit of snow thrown in, is perfect for a bit of festive magic.
The Christmas market in Krakow is wonderful and a great tonic for those suffering from the winter blues back home. I’m lucky enough to have been living in Krakow for nine months and in my opinion the old town has never looked as beautiful as it does right now.
After a week or so of preparation the market is now in full swing. Stalls selling spicy mulled wine, roasted meats and grilled mountain cheese served with cranberry sauce help keep the cold at bay long enough to get some good Christmas shopping done.
Those looking for something a bit different for the loved ones back home have plenty to choose from the huts selling festive ornaments, wooden toys, woollen clothing from the highlands and delicious soft gingerbread from Torun. The old cloth hall (Sukiennice) on the market square also has a plethora of stalls hoping to tempt you to part with your cash. Here you will find items such as amber jewellery from the Baltic coast, hand-stitched embroidery and other bits and pieces such as wooden chess sets and even swords!
Shopping aside, it is the magic and the old town and surrounding cobbled streets that make Krakow so special this time of year. I can’t recommend it enough.
Kazmierz is the Jewish district, which provided refuge from the persecution suffered by the Jews of the city during WW2. It is also the setting for the film Schindler's List. It has an atmosphere of rejuvenation, pride and hope. A great place to mingle with the people of Krakow.
Trams 4 and 9 both go from Krakow city centre to Kazimierz.
This square in the centre of the Kazimierz district of Krakow has some excellent and friendly bars which are enjoyed by the large student population of the city. You will be welcomed with open arms and you will meet loads of people.
Trams 4 and 9 both go from Krakow city centre to Plac Novy.
Sernik Krakowski is the heavenly local equivalent of cheesecake. It is rich and tastes gorgeous.
Widely available in Krakow's food shops and markets.
If you're feeling peckish whilst walking around Krakow try the local pretzel-like speciality of obwarzanki. They are tasty and very cheap.
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