What to see in Krakow during a perfect weekend on a budget

Take a weekend out to visit this unusual destination.

Are you dreaming of taking a low cost weekend break in a destination that is relaxing while not too touristy? Full of culture without standing in endless queues? Then what do you think of Krakow? Have you never thought about it before?

So, what is there to see in Krakow?

Krakow is definitely not one of Europe's most popular destinations, despite the fact that it is a Medieval jewel with a fascinating history and many wondrous sights. Its historic center is a UNESCO heritage site, and it is even said that this city was born from the ashes of a dragon... Are you curious?

WAWEL CASTLE

This castle, which is also a World Heritage Site, is situated on the hill and was the residence of the Polish royal family. Since 2012 it has been the home of Leonardo da Vinci's famous painting, Lady with an Ermine.

The hill where this castle is located has its own curious story, as legend has it that a dragon had its lair in the cave below.

THE STATUE OF THE DRAGON

Outside the cave, near the Vistula River, is a statue of Smok, the Dragon of Krakow, who was defeated by the young Krakus. According to legend, he then founded his own castle above the dragon's cave. Another version of the legend sees an ordinary young man, Szewczyk Dratewka, defeat the dragon after the King decreed that he would give his daughter's hand in marriage to anyone who killed the dragon which forced the people to sacrifice one woman each month in order to gain his benevolence.

CATHEDRAL KRAKOW

All of Poland's royal coronations and funerals were held inside this cathedral. Inside there is the Chapel of Sigismund, one of the most beautiful and important architectural works in Krakow.

JAGIELLONIAN UNIVERSITY

This university is very old, and was the very place where famous historical figures studied, such as Nicolaus Copernicus, Karol Wojtyla and Nawojka, a woman who disguised herself as a man in order to be permitted to study, until she was discovered and forced into monastic life in order to teach.

WIELICZKA SALT MINE

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is one of the oldest in the world, stretching for about 300 km and reaching a depth of 327 m. Inside there are rooms, religious statues and chandeliers, all carved from salt. The mines can only be visited for about 1% of their length, but will still leave you breathless.

A DAY TRIP TO AUSCHWITZ

The Auschwitz concentration camp is located about 65 km from the city of Krakow and is easily accessible by train or by bus.

It is a powerful place to visit, but you can learn a lot about what happened there and the atrocities of war will come to life before your eyes. A visit here is definitely recommended, although whether or not you should go depends on how sensitive you are.

WHERE TO STAY IN KRAKOW

So you can enjoy a perfect weekend break in Krakow, we don't just recommend the best things to see, but also two hostels where you can stay at low cost.

The first one is the Premium Hostel, located in the city center and full of services. There are different kinds of rooms and all of them are modern and colorful. Prices start from less than 9 euros per person, per night.

The second is the Good Bye Lenin Revolution, a new and beautifully decorated hostel. Prices start at just 9 Euro per night!

If you would prefer to choose one for yourself, you can find one here.