PARK WODNY, KRAKÓW
Waterpark
Park Wodny in Kraków is one of Poland's premier indoor water parks, offering a comprehensive range of attractions suitable for visitors of all ages. The facility features an expansive pool area exceeding 2,000 square metres, encompassing three interconnected pools equipped with various water-based activities. Among its highlights are five extensive water slides, each providing a unique and exhilarating experience. The "Tornado" slide, for instance, is renowned for its thrilling twists and turns, while the "Kamikaze" offers a steep descent for adrenaline seekers. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, the "Family Slide" accommodates multiple riders simultaneously, making it ideal for groups. Beyond the slides, Park Wodny boasts a "Wild River" (Rwąca Rzeka) feature, simulating natural rapids for an adventurous swim. The facility also includes climbing walls over water, providing a safe yet challenging activity for enthusiasts. Younger visitors can enjoy the dedicated children's zone, complete with a paddling pool, the "Pirate Island" (Wyspa Piratów), and age-appropriate slides designed to ensure both fun and safety. For relaxation, guests can take advantage of water jets, hydromassage stations, saline jacuzzis, and water loungers, all aimed at promoting wellness and comfort. Additionally, the on-site "Saunarium" offers traditional dry saunas, including a show sauna where thematic ceremonies are conducted by skilled sauna masters, enhancing the overall experience. Dining needs are met by the "Rodzinna Siesta" restaurant, which provides a selection of meals suitable for the entire family. For those looking to extend their visit, the adjacent Hotel Swing offers convenient accommodation options although we'd recommend the options shown in the next section of this page.
Kraków, home of the waterpark
Accommodation
For a luxury stay in Kraków, Hotel Copernicus is a renowned five-star establishment situated on Kanonicza Street, one of the city's oldest and most picturesque areas. Housed in a historic building, the interiors feature original frescoes and wooden ceilings, complemented by contemporary amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. The on-site restaurant has exceptional cuisine and you'll appreciate the staff's professionalism and friendliness. The spa facilities, including a well-maintained pool, offer guests a chance to relax after a day of sightseeing. Hotel Copernicus provides a unique and memorable experience, combining the rich history of Kraków with the comforts of modern hospitality.
As a mid-range option, Nomadic Urban Premium Suites is a distinguished accommodation situated in the heart of Kraków. This prime location places guests just a short stroll away from the city's iconic Main Market Square, allowing for easy exploration of Kraków's rich cultural and historical landmarks. The establishment boasts 33 uniquely designed suites, each thoughtfully curated to blend modern aesthetics with echoes of the city's storied past. Guests can expect high-quality furnishings and amenities, including comfortable beds, Nespresso coffee machines, tea-making facilities, and fully stocked minibars. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, ensuring guests stay connected during their visit. In the mornings, Nomadic Urban Premium Suites offers a buffet breakfast, providing a variety of options to suit different tastes. You won't be left disappointed by this one!
Normadic Urban Premium Suites is close to the market square
Last, but not least it’s Pokoje Gościnne Św. Anny, a guesthouse located just 50m from the Main Market Square and it's an absolute bargain! The property offers modern, stylish rooms equipped with free Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, sinks, and microwaves. The accommodation is spacious and clean with friendly and helpful staff. While the central location is ideal for exploring Kraków's attractions, some rooms facing the street can be subject to external noise so be careful if you are a light sleeper. Overall, Pokoje Gościnne Św. Anny offers good value for a comfortable and convenient stay.
Food
Kraków's culinary scene is a delightful blend of traditional Polish flavours and diverse international cuisines, offering a gastronomic journey that caters to all tastes. At the heart of Polish cuisine are dishes like pierogi, tender dumplings filled with ingredients such as potatoes, cheese, or meats, and bigos, a hearty hunter's stew combining sauerkraut and various meats. Another staple is żurek, a sour rye soup often enriched with sausage and hard-boiled eggs, providing a comforting experience.
Pierogi
For an authentic taste of these traditional dishes, Restauracja Starka comes highly recommended. Located in the historic Kazimierz district, this restaurant is celebrated for its warm ambiance and classic Polish menu, making it a favourite among locals and visitors alike. If you're in the mood for international flavours, Kraków doesn't disappoint. Ristorante Santa Caterina offers exquisite Italian cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood and pasta dishes, providing a Mediterranean escape in the heart of the city. For a fusion experience, Fab Fusion combines Polish and international elements, creating innovative dishes that surprise and delight the palate. Exploring Kraków's food scene is not just about eating; it's about immersing yourself in the city. Whether you're savouring traditional Polish fare or indulging in global cuisines, the city's restaurants offer a warm welcome and a memorable dining experience.
Other Activities and Sights
Kraków is a city where history and culture intertwine, offering visitors a plethora of captivating sites and attractions. At its heart lies the Main Market Square (Rynek Główny), one of the largest medieval squares in Europe. This bustling hub is surrounded by historic townhouses, the iconic Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), and the towering St. Mary's Basilica. Every hour, the melodic bugle call, known as the Hejnał Mariacki, resonates from the basilica's taller tower, a tradition that has endured for centuries. Overlooking the city is the majestic Wawel Royal Castle, perched atop Wawel Hill. Once the residence of Polish kings, the castle complex showcases a blend of architectural styles, from Gothic to Renaissance.
Wawel Royal Castle
Adjacent to the castle stands the Wawel Cathedral, a site of royal coronations and burials, rich with Poland's storied past. A short walk from the Old Town leads to the historic Kazimierz District, the former Jewish quarter. Today, Kazimierz is a vibrant neighbourhood filled with synagogues, museums, art galleries, and cafes. The area offers a poignant glimpse into Jewish heritage and resilience, especially when visiting sites like the Galicia Jewish Museum. For those interested in World War II history, the Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory is a must-visit. Now transformed into a museum, it provides an immersive experience into Kraków's wartime experiences and the heroic efforts of individuals like Schindler. Venturing a bit further, the Wieliczka Salt Mine, located just outside Kraków, is a subterranean marvel. This UNESCO World Heritage site features intricate salt carvings, chapels, and vast chambers, all carved from salt. Guided tours take visitors through a labyrinth of tunnels, showcasing the mine's historical significance and artistic wonders. In Kraków, every visitor can find something that resonates, be it historical landmarks, cultural experiences, or architectural splendours.
Wieliczka Salt Mine
Shopping
Kraków boasts a rich and varied shopping scene, where historic markets meet contemporary retail hubs in a perfect fusion of tradition and modernity. At the heart of the city lies the historic Sukiennice (Cloth Hall), situated in the Main Market Square. This Renaissance-era market hall has been a trading hub for centuries and continues to be a bustling centre where visitors can purchase local crafts, jewellery, and souvenirs, making it an ideal spot for those seeking unique mementos of their visit. For a more contemporary shopping experience, Galeria Krakowska is conveniently located adjacent to the main railway station. This expansive mall houses over 270 stores, featuring both international brands and local boutiques, catering to a wide range of shopping preferences. Visitors can also enjoy numerous dining options within the mall, providing a comprehensive shopping and leisure experience. Another notable destination is Bonarka City Centre, a modern shopping complex offering a vast selection of stores, from fashion to electronics. Its spacious layout and family-friendly amenities make it a popular choice among both locals and tourists. For those interested in outlet shopping, Factory Kraków provides discounted prices on various brands, making it an attractive option for bargain hunters. Exploring the Kazimierz district reveals a variety of vintage shops and independent boutiques, reflecting the area's artistic and bohemian vibe. Strolling through its streets, shoppers can discover unique clothing, antiques, and handcrafted items, offering a distinct contrast to the city's larger shopping centres.
Organised Trips and Tours
If you don't have a car, an organised trip to Auschwitz is a must. This deeply moving journey from Kraków will allow you to bear witness to one of history's darkest chapters. This guided tour provides a powerful and unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who suffered and perished in the former concentration camps. With convenient transportation and hotel pickup, you can focus on reflecting and remembering as you explore the barracks, gas chambers, and personal belongings that tell a story of immense loss.
Auschwitz
For a more relaxing experience, embark on a scenic journey to Zakopane, the winter capital of Poland, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Tatra Mountains. This bestselling tour includes a visit to the picturesque village of Chochołów, a funicular ride up Gubałówka for panoramic views, free time to explore the vibrant Krupowki Street, and a relaxing soak in the therapeutic thermal pools of Chochołów. Enjoy local cheese and vodka tasting and create lasting memories.
Zakopane
Our final recommendation is to immerse yourself in Polish tradition with an unforgettable evening of folk music, dance, and delicious food. This captivating show takes place near Kraków, overlooking the stunning Lake Kryspinów. Enjoy a welcome glass of cherry vodka, followed by a 3-course dinner and extensive regional buffets (both hot and cold). You might also be interested to hear that unlimited beer and wine are included throughout the evening. You can put your dancing shoes on and participate in the fun or simply enjoy the spectacle.
Car Hire
Hiring a car in Kraków is a convenient way to explore the city and venture into the picturesque landscapes and historical sites of southern Poland. Major international car hire companies such as Hertz, Avis, and Sixt, as well as reputable local providers, operate in the city. Hiring locations are commonly found at Kraków Airport (John Paul II International Airport), the main railway station, and in the city centre, ensuring ease of access for travellers. Driving in Poland is generally a straightforward experience, with well-maintained roads and clear signage in Polish and English. In Kraków, navigating the historic city centre can be challenging due to narrow streets, pedestrian zones, and limited parking availability so plan ahead if you journey into this area. Beyond Kraków, Poland’s extensive road network connects travellers to key attractions such as the Wieliczka Salt Mine, Zakopane in the Tatra Mountains, and the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, all of which we have mentioned above. Toll roads, or "autostrady," are common on major routes, and payment can be made at toll booths in cash or by card. Winter driving in Poland requires extra caution due to icy conditions, but hire vehicles are usually equipped with winter tyres during colder months. It’s also essential to keep headlights on at all times, even during the day, as it is a legal requirement.
Tatra Mountains
Flights
Flying to Kraków is pretty simple with its primary gateway being John Paul II International Airport Kraków-Balice. Located just 11 kilometres from the city centre, the airport offers excellent connectivity to numerous European destinations and select long-haul routes. Major airlines such as Ryanair, Wizz Air, and LOT Polish Airlines operate regular flights to Kraków, making it a convenient hub for budget and full-service travellers alike. Seasonal flights and charter services further expand options, catering to tourists visiting the city and nearby attractions. The airport itself is modern and well-equipped, featuring facilities such as duty-free shops, cafes, and car hire services. Efficient public transport links, including trains and buses, connect the airport to Kraków city centre, with the train journey taking approximately 17 minutes. Taxis and rideshare options are also readily available, providing convenient door-to-door service. For those traveling internationally, Kraków offers connections through major European hubs such as Frankfurt, Munich, and London, ensuring seamless travel from almost anywhere in the world. Domestic flights also link Kraków to cities like Warsaw and Gdańsk, making it an excellent starting point for exploring Poland. Flying into Kraków is not only about reaching a destination; it’s the beginning of an adventure that takes you into the heart of one of Poland’s most enchanting cities.
Final Word
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