First of all, Krakow is a beautiful city all year around. As a result, if you want to explore the city of Krakow without being surrounded by thousands of tourists, November is a fantastic month. It can get quite cold, but not too cold (of course depending on where you are from and what you are used to). But, we believe that November is one of the best months in the year if you want to visit Krakow. Why is that? These are some of the main reason!

When you enter the Salt Mines, it doesn’t matter what month of the year it is!

As you come to Krakow, you will for sure read and hear about the Salt Mines. If you are reading this article, you are probably doing your home work and planning ahead before you even come to Krakow. The Salt Mines is a fantastic place to visit just outside Krakow. Here you will travel down into the earth and look at fantastic concert halls and smaller rooms filled with salt sculptures and a magical atmosphere. Since the number of tourists in Krakow is much lower in November than during the rest of the year, you are much more likely to find tickets last-minute, and you will also avoid long queues. And if we haven’t said it already, when you enter the Salt Mines, you will forget about the weather outside at once, because it has a steady temperature throughout the year on the onside. So, whether it is -5 Celsius or +35 Celsius, or if it is raining or snowing, you couldn’t care less as you visit the Salt Mines in Wieliczka.

If you are lucky, you might be able to visit the opening day of the annual Christmas market at the main square.

The annual Christmas market at the main square in Krakow normally open in the end of November (between November 24-31). You can find the exact dates (once they have been published) at our page about the Christmas markets in Krakow. People travel from all across Europe to Krakow to shop at these markets, but also to taste hot wine, eat sausage, and to experience Polish Christmas atmosphere.

The Christmas markets are really beautiful and after sunset, they get even more awesome as the lights are turned on and the market literally shines in the dark. Once again, if you arrive in the last week of November, this is definitely an activity that you should look out for!

Go to a folklore dinner or a concert.

It is obvious that you will walk around the old town of Krakow to learn and discover. But, what else should you do? November is a perfect month to attend some special indoor program, since it might not be the nicest month to eat your dinner outdoors. There are several good options you can choose from, but among the most popular evening programs in Krakow you have indoor piano concerts, and you also have dance shows in which you can eat and drink as much as you want while watching traditional Polish folkdance.

Many might say that you will be bored if you have to watch folkdance and listen to folk music five evenings in a row, and that might be true. But, as a one night program, these are activities you can definitely consider.

Want to see snow? Travel to Zakopane!

Would you like to see high mountains and maybe even travel or hike to the top of them? One of the best options if you are in Krakow is to do a day trip to Zakopane. You can travel between the cities in 1 1/2 hours and it will take you out of a traditional city, into a mountain heaven. Here you can go hiking, travel with cable cars to much higher mountains, go skiing, or just sit in a wooden cabin and drink some hot chocolate. Zakopane is also nice for shopping and just sipping in of some fresh mountain air.

No trip to Krakow is complete if you haven’t been to Auschwitz.

It doesn’t matter if we write an article about January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, or December… no trip to Krakow is complete without visiting Auschwitz. It doesn’t matter if it is cold or warm outside, if it is raining, the wind is blowing, or if the sun is shining. Auschwitz is one of those places anyone coming to Krakow must visit (except for children who might not understand it yet).

Auschwitz is one of the most terrible places to visit on earth, and that is exactly why it is so important. If you have never been there, it is a place where you will learn about what happened there during the Concentration Camps, and also about the politics that led to the construction of the camps, and how it was possible for something so cruel to happen without the “civilized” world raging against what was going on.

All in all, Auschwitz is the place you must visit, even though it will destroy your appetite and ruin your day (in many ways).

Look at our calendar to find information about upcoming events.

November isn’t the most busy month of the year, but sometimes there are special concerts, exhibitions, running competitions, festivals, or markets taking place at this time of the year. We try to write about the most important events in Krakow, and you can see if there will be any special upcoming event in Krakow as you come to the city in our Krakow calendar.

These are some thoughts and ideas about what you can do in Krakow in November, and what you should do in Krakow in November. Do you have any other ideas, thoughts, or suggestions for activities ideal in November? We would love to read your thoughts in the comment field below.

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Six fantastic programs in and around Krakow in April.

1. Step Back in Time with a Guided Tour of Old Town

Kick off your Krakow adventure by delving into the city’s rich history with a guided tour of the Old Town. Wander through cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, and marvel at architectural gems like the magnificent St. Mary’s Basilica and the imposing Sukiennice. Listen and learn as your guide tells you stories of kings, knights, and dragons (okay, maybe not dragons), and enjoy the timeless beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

2. Visit Schindler’s Factory: A Journey Through History

Next stop: Schindler’s Factory, a reminder of Krakow’s tumultuous past during World War II. Visit this museum that is housed in the actual factory owned by Oskar Schindler, and embark on a journey through the darkest chapter of human history. Through interactive exhibits, personal testimonies, and archival footage, gain insight into Krakow’s Jewish community and the heroic efforts of those who risked everything to save lives. It’s an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve left the museum walls.

3. Even if we hate what happened there, everyone should visit Auschwitz-Birkenau at least once!

No visit to Krakow is complete without a pilgrimage to the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp, a haunting symbol of the atrocities of the Holocaust. Join a guided tour to explore the preserved barracks, chilling gas chambers, and poignant memorials that serve as a stark reminder of the horrors inflicted upon millions of innocent lives. It’s a sobering yet essential experience that honors the memory of those who perished and reaffirms the importance of never forgetting.

4. Go underground as you visit the Wieliczka Salt Mines

Journey beneath the surface of the Earth to discover the subterranean wonders of the Wieliczka Salt Mines. Descend deep into the labyrinth of tunnels and chambers carved entirely from salt, and look at the underground chapels decorated with all sorts of salt sculptures. Learn about the mining techniques of the workers in the caves, and marvel at the beauty of this UNESCO-listed site, all while breathing in the therapeutic air believed to have health benefits. Just don’t lick the walls!

5. Raise a Glass with a Vodka Tasting

When in Poland, do as the Poles do: drink vodka! Embark on a tasting journey through Krakow’s vibrant nightlife scene and sample an array of traditional Polish vodkas, from smooth and subtle to fiery and bold. Learn about the country’s vodka traditions, toast to new friendships, and savor the distinctive flavors of this beloved drink. Na zdrowie!

6. Register for the Krakow Marathon (if it’s on!)

If you’re feeling particularly adventurous (or masochistic), why not join thousands of runners partaking in the annual Krakow Marathon? Lace up your sneakers, channel your inner athlete, and race through the city streets alongside thousands of fellow participants. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a first-time runner, the exhilaration of crossing the finish line is an experience you’ll never forget. Just be sure to stretch those legs before and after!

April Weather in Krakow: Springtime Splendor

As you embark on your Krakow escapade in April, you can expect a delightful mix of springtime sunshine and occasional rainshowers. With average temperatures ranging from 3°C to 14°C (37°F to 57°F), it’s wise to pack clothes for all sorts of temperatures and weathertypes. But don’t let a little rain dampen your spirits—after all, Krakow is just as enchanting under cloudy skies as it is when the sun is shining.

Bonus Tip: Easter Markets at the Old Town Square

If your visit coincides with Easter, you should definitely visit the charming Easter markets that spring up in Krakow’s Old Town Square. Look at a wide selection of hand-painted eggs, browse stalls brimming with traditional crafts and local delicacies, and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere as locals and visitors alike celebrate this joyous holiday. It’s the perfect opportunity to experience Krakow’s cultural heritage in full bloom!

So there you have it, six sensational activities to make your first visit to Krakow in April an unforgettable experience. From history to culture, vodka to marathons, this vibrant city has something for every traveler. So, pack your bags, polish your vodka glasses, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime in Krakow!

If you want to learn more about ongoing and upcoming temporary programs in Krakow such as concerts, festivals, events, and exhibitions, visit our Krakow calendar.

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Zakopane

Located just 110km south of Krakow, Zakopane is a popular destination for those looking to experience the natural beauty of the Tatra Mountains. This charming town is known for its traditional wooden architecture and is a hub for winter sports enthusiasts. Visitors can go skiing, snowboarding, or sleigh rides in the winter months. Summer hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing are popular activities. Don’t forget to try some of the local smoked sheep’s cheese, Oscypek, while you’re there.

Wroclaw

Wroclaw is a vibrant city located 270km west of Krakow, and is the fourth-largest city in Poland. Known as the “Venice of Poland,” Wroclaw is famous for its network of canals and bridges that criss-cross the city. Visitors can take a boat tour of the city, visit the famous Market Square, or explore one of the city’s many museums. One of the highlights of a visit to Wroclaw is visiting the colorful Wroclaw Dwarfs, a series of over 300 small bronze statues scattered throughout the city.

Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum

Located just 70km west of Krakow, the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning about the atrocities committed during World War II. The former concentration camp is now a museum and memorial to the millions of people who lost their lives there. Visitors can take a guided tour of the camp, view the exhibitions and collections, and pay their respects at the memorial.

Prague

While not technically in Poland, Prague is just 280km south of Krakow and is a popular destination for those exploring Central Europe. The Czech capital is known for its stunning architecture, including the iconic Charles Bridge and the Prague Castle. Visitors can also explore the city’s many museums and galleries, or simply stroll through the charming Old Town. Be sure to try some of the local beer and traditional Czech cuisine while you’re there.

Wieliczka Salt Mine

Located just 16km southeast of Krakow, the Wieliczka Salt Mine is a UNESCO World Heritage site that attracts over 1 million visitors annually. The mine has operated for over 700 years and is now open to the public for tours. Visitors can explore the underground chambers, chapels, and salt lakes, and learn about the history of salt mining in Poland.

In conclusion, many destinations within a 300km radius of Krakow are worth visiting. Whether you’re interested in exploring the natural beauty of the Tatra Mountains, learning about the history of World War II, or experiencing the vibrant culture of Central Europe, there is something for everyone within easy reach of Krakow.

The post Places worth visiting within a 300km radius of Krakow. appeared first on Krakow Guide.

As of now, we do not know if the museum will open again after March 25th or they will be forced to keep it closed for a longer period of time.

Would you like to know more about Auschwitz? Are you planning to trip to Auschwitz later? You can read more about Auschwitz Concentration Camp in the following article.

The post Auschwitz will be closed for visitors because of the Coronavirus! appeared first on Krakow Guide.

As you might know, we can easily help you arranging day-trips to Auschwitz from Krakow with groups on English. This is one of the most popular programs in Krakow, and it is one nobody visiting the city should be without. Maybe you don’t want to visit Auschwitz (which is fully understandable), after all, it is a brutal and terrible place. But still, we are all drawn to the place, and it is such a dark place from the history of man, that we still need to see it and remember it. And yes, that is why visiting Auschwitz is something everyone should do, even if they like the idea of it or not.

But, how much time is needed in Auschwitz?

Most groups tours going to Auschwitz from Krakow last for around 6 hours. This is including the transportation day from Krakow with a bus to the Auschwitz 1, then to Auschwitz 2, before heading back to Krakow once the program is finished. As a result, you spend around 3,5 hours in the actual camps. This is ideal if you come with a group as it will take you through both camps and you will get to see the most important places.

But, if you are heavily interested and want to discover the Concentration Camps on your own, you might want to spend even more time in the camps. How come? If you want to really look carefully at the places, while reading in a local guide book, and taking a deep dive into this dark spot in human history, more time is simply needed. Maybe you should count on spending around 5 hours in both camps.

It all comes down to how much time you would like to spend in the camp, and for how long time you can ponder upon the place and stay in its atmosphere.

But, if you come with a group, you will most likely spend a total of 3-4 hours in the actual camps, and the rest of the time will be spent traveling from Krakow to Auschwitz and back.

But, how old should one be before visiting the Concentration Camps? That is a brilliant question and I will write more about it in another article sometimes soon. But, my private opinion is that as people start to learn about it in school, and/or start meeting with anti-Jewish propaganda around the world, that is when time is getting ready for paying this place a visit!

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