Krakow, a city steeped in history, culture, and vibrant energy is an incredible place for your next escape in 2025/2026. As you step into the cobblestone streets of this Polish gem, you'll be transported to a world where medieval charm meets modern vitality. From the stunning architectural marvels of the Main Market Square in the Old Town, to the poignant reminders of a tumultuous past at Oskar Schindler's Factory, Krakow is a city brimming with stories waiting to be discovered. In this guide, we'll unveil the secrets of this enchanting city, guiding you through its essence, helping you create unforgettable memories on your Krakow city break, one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe.
There are two options for flying to Krakow, Krakow Airport (John Paul II Airport), about 11km west of the city centre, and Katowice Pyrzowice Airport, about 35km north of the city. Katowice is generally served by low cost airlines like Wizzair, while Krakow Airport is served by a variety of airlines including British Airways, Ryanair and easyJet. Package holidays to Krakow are also a great ideal with tour operators like Jet2CityBreaks and TUI who are both ABTA and ATOL protected. You'll often find this can be a cheaper city break destination, with budget friendly options for just a night or two.
The Krakow Airport Express bus provides a convenient and affordable way to reach the heart of Krakow city from both airports. Taking a taxi directly to your hotel is more convenient but will naturally cost more. And car hire is an option, especially if you're looking to venture out of the city and visit places like Auschwitz, but if you're just staying in the city, public transport and taxis are easiest.
Krakow's well-developed public transport system means travelling around is pretty easy. A 24 hour or multi-day travel pass makes life much easier and if you use it enough, can be a great way to save money. The city's compact size also makes it perfect for exploring on foot too. Walk through the Old Town's charming alleys and take in the sights and sounds of this historical wonder, however, the cobbled streets might not be suitable for wheelchair users or pushchairs.
To make the most of your Krakow city break, consider visiting during the spring (April to June) or early autumn (September to October). The weather throughout Poland during these seasons is pretty good, and there are often far fewer tourist, allowing you to enjoy the city's attractions at a more relaxed pace. Avoid the chilly winter months if you're not a fan of the cold, as temperatures can drop significantly, but Prague is the perfect place for a Christmas market break.
Short breaks to Krakow & Auschwitz are an excellent way to combine the vibrant city life with the fascinating, yet sombre history of Europe. Package trips can be booked with specialist tour operators or holiday deal sites like Wowcher and Living Social. Alternatively you can book your flight and hotel in Krakow and then book a separate day trip or tour to Auschwitz to learn more about this and other concentration camps, as well as the inspirational stories that came from this dark period of history too.