Discover Krakow: 5 Must-Do Tours for an Unforgettable Adventure

So, you’ve landed in Krakow, the city of kings, dragons, and more pierogi than you can possibly imagine. You’ve marvelled at the Main Market Square, dodged the pigeons, and now you’re wondering, “What’s next?” Fear not, intrepid traveller! Krakow and its surroundings are bursting with incredible experiences.

We’ve sifted through the options to bring you the absolute must-do tours. These are the experiences that will make your trip unforgettable, from deeply moving history lessons to relaxing in mountain hot springs. Get your calendar out; you’re going to want to book these.

Just a heads-up, we’ll point you in the right direction to book these adventures. You can easily add affiliate links here to make booking a breeze for your readers and support your travel blog!

1. Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial & Museum Guided Tour

Let’s start with something profound. A visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is not a “fun” day out, but it is an essential one. This tour is a powerful and humbling experience that offers a crucial perspective on the history of World War II and the Holocaust.

Walking through the grounds of the largest former concentration camp is a deeply moving experience that stays with you long after you’ve left.

A guided tour is the best way to understand the sheer scale and gravity of what happened here. An expert guide provides context, shares stories, and explains the significance of the various sites within Auschwitz I and Birkenau (Auschwitz II). They handle this incredibly sensitive subject with the respect and knowledge it deserves.

Most tours include transport from Krakow and handle all the ticketing, which takes a huge logistical weight off your shoulders. It’s a day for quiet reflection and learning, and it’s a vital part of understanding modern history.

2. Schindler’s Factory Skip-the-Line Ticket

Seen the film? Now see the real place. Oskar Schindler’s former enamel factory has been transformed into an incredible, immersive museum. It’s not just about Schindler; it’s about the entire experience of Krakow under Nazi occupation from 1939 to 1945. The “Krakow – Under Nazi Occupation 1939-1945” exhibition is a masterpiece of storytelling.

You’ll walk through recreated streets, peer into wartime apartments, and feel the chilling atmosphere of a city in turmoil. The museum uses photos, artefacts, and interactive displays to paint a vivid picture of life during this dark period.

Of course, the story of Oskar Schindler and the Jewish workers he saved is a central, powerful theme. Getting a skip-the-line ticket is a pro move—this place is popular, and you’d rather spend your time inside the museum than outside in a queue.

3. Wieliczka Salt Mine Tour

Ready to go underground? Like, really underground? The Wieliczka Salt Mine is one of the most astonishing places you will ever visit. This isn’t just a dark cave with some salt on the walls. It’s a subterranean city carved entirely out of rock salt over centuries.

We’re talking vast chambers, underground lakes, and, most incredibly, chapels with altarpieces and chandeliers made of salt. Yes, you read that right. Salt chandeliers.

You’ll descend hundreds of steps into a world that feels straight out of a fantasy novel. The highlight for many is the Chapel of St. Kinga, a breathtaking underground cathedral that will leave you speechless. The air down there is also said to have health benefits, so breathe deep!

A guide will lead you through the labyrinthine passages, sharing tales of the miners, legends of the mine, and pointing out sculptures you won’t believe are carved from salt. Don’t lick the walls… or do. We’re not your parents.

4. Zakopane Tour with Chocholow Hot Baths

Had enough history for a bit? How about a trip to the mountains for some fresh air and stunning views? Zakopane, the “winter capital of Poland,” is a gorgeous resort town nestled at the foot of the Tatra Mountains. This day trip from Krakow is the perfect blend of nature, culture, and pure relaxation.

You’ll get to ride a funicular up Gubałówka mountain for panoramic views that will make your Instagram followers jealous. Wander down Krupówki Street, the bustling heart of Zakopane, where you can sample delicious local smoked cheese called oscypek (often served grilled with cranberry jam—trust us, it’s amazing).

The architecture is unique, with charming wooden houses everywhere. And the grand finale? A dip in the Chocholow Thermal Baths. Soaking in warm, mineral-rich water with a view of the mountains is the perfect way to soothe your travel-weary muscles. It’s a full day of Polish perfection.

5. Evening or Night River Cruise on the Vistula

After all that walking and exploring, you deserve a break. Why not see Krakow from a different angle? An evening cruise on the Vistula River offers a magical perspective of the city as it lights up for the night. You’ll float gently past some of Krakow’s most iconic landmarks, all beautifully illuminated.

From the water, you get a stunning view of Wawel Castle, looking even more majestic against the night sky. You’ll see the historic Kazimierz (the old Jewish quarter) and the modern, artsy district of Podgórze. It’s a wonderfully relaxing way to spend an hour.

Some cruises even offer a drink with your ticket, so you can raise a glass to this beautiful city while you watch the world glide by. It’s the perfect, low-key activity to cap off a busy day of sightseeing.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—five incredible tours that showcase the very best of Krakow and its surroundings. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just someone who enjoys a good soak in a thermal bath, there’s something here for you. Each one offers a unique and memorable experience that will enrich your Polish adventure.