Where to stay in Kraków

Choosing where to stay in Krakow will be no easy task: the city, which has now established itself as a top European destination, offers a range of accommodation solutions for every budget.

The offer is truly abundant and varied, ranging from sumptuous five-star hotels to cosy family-run establishments, fine boutique hotels, comfortable bed and breakfasts, quaint flats in the Old Town and some sixty lively hostels.

Although Kraków, by virtue of its past as the Polish capital, generally has higher than average rates in the country, the diversity of available options is such (reflecting the cultural richness of the city itself) that every visitor is guaranteed to find accommodation perfectly in line with their needs and expectations.

Stare Miasto (Old Town)

Stare Miasto, the historical heart of Krakow, is undoubtedly the most popular area for tourists.

Staying in Stare Miasto means having the opportunity to explore the main attractions on foot. Imagine waking up and, within minutes, finding yourself in the majestic Market Square, one of the largest medieval squares in Europe. The central location is definitely the highlight of this area, ideal for those who want to maximise their visiting time without having to rely on public transport.

The atmosphere here is simply magical: walking between centuries-old buildings and cobbled streets will make you feel as if you have stepped back in time. Nightlife in Stare Miasto is lively, thanks to the many bars, restaurants and clubs that enliven the evenings.

It must be said that the popularity of Stare Miasto has its drawbacks. Accommodation prices tend to be higher than in other parts of the city, and during the high season the area can become very crowded. Nevertheless, it is the preferred choice of most visitors, especially those visiting Kraków for the first time.

Kazimierz (Jewish Quarter)

Moving slightly south of Stare Miasto, we find Kazimierz, Kraków’s old Jewish quarter. In recent years, this area has undergone an extraordinary transformation, becoming one of the trendiest and liveliest neighbourhoods in the city.

The atmosphere in Kazimierz is decidedly bohemian, making it an ideal place for lovers of alternative art and culture. The streets are dotted with art galleries, vintage shops and trendy cafés, creating a stimulating and creative environment. The culinary scene in Kazimierz is particularly notable, offering a variety from traditional kosher restaurants to modern hipster cafés.

One of the main advantages of staying in Kazimierz is the possibility of a more authentic experience of Krakow life. Here, away from the more touristy hustle and bustle of Stare Miasto, you can immerse yourself in the local culture and discover lesser-known corners of the city. Moreover, accommodation in this area tends to be more affordable than in the old town, offering good value for money.

However, it is important to note that Kazimierz, although close to the centre, requires a short walk to reach Stare Miasto. This may not be ideal for those who wish to be in the heart of the main tourist attractions.

Podgórze

Crossing the Vistula River, we find ourselves in the Podgórze neighbourhood, a rapidly developing area that offers a unique perspective on Krakow’s history, particularly from the World War II period. This district, less known to tourists, is gaining in popularity among travellers seeking a more authentic and less crowded experience.

Podgórze is characterised by its peaceful atmosphere. Here you will find large green spaces and parks where you can stroll and relax after a day of sightseeing. The district is full of important historical sites, such as Schindler’s Factory and the remains of the Jewish ghetto, which offer a unique opportunity to delve into the city’s more recent and dramatic history.

Economically, Podgórze offers more affordable accommodation than the central areas, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious travellers or for longer stays. However, it is important to consider that the choice of accommodation may be more limited than in other more touristy areas.

The distance from the historical centre is perhaps the main disadvantage of Podgórze. To reach Kraków’s main attractions, you will need to use public transport or be prepared to take long walks. In addition, the nightlife in this area is less lively than in Stare Miasto or Kazimierz, with a smaller evening entertainment offer.

Kleparz

Kleparz is a residential district located just north of Stare Miasto and offers an interesting balance between proximity to the historical centre and a more local and authentic atmosphere.

The main attraction of Kleparz is its strategic location: although it is not in the tourist heart of the city, it is within walking distance of Stare Miasto. This means that you can easily reach the main attractions on foot, while enjoying a quieter and less crowded environment. Accommodation in this area tends to be more affordable than in the Old Town, offering a good compromise between cost and location.

One of the jewels of Kleparz is the Stary Kleparz market, one of the oldest and most characteristic in the city. Here you can immerse yourself in the daily life of Krakow, watching locals do their shopping and sampling fresh produce and regional specialities.

However, it is important to note that Kleparz does not offer the same concentration of tourist attractions as the Old Town. Most of the sights are located in Stare Miasto, so you will have to plan for some extra walking. Moreover, the environment is decidedly less architecturally picturesque than in Stare Miasto or Kazimierz.

Kleparz is ideal for those who want to mix with the locals, discover lesser-known corners of the city and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere, without giving up the convenience of being close to the centre.

Grzegórzki

Moving eastwards from the historical centre, we encounter Grzegórzki, a rapidly developing district offering an interesting mix of industrial history and modernity. This area, once characterised mainly by factories and industrial complexes, is undergoing a renaissance, making it increasingly attractive to visitors seeking an authentic Krakow experience.

One of the main advantages of Grzegórzki is its strategic location. The neighbourhood is located a short distance from Stare Miasto and Kazimierz, allowing easy access to the main tourist attractions.

Grzegórzki is known for its eclectic architecture, reflecting its history and evolution. Alongside old converted industrial buildings, you will find modern buildings and newly created green spaces. This fusion of styles creates a unique and fascinating atmosphere, particularly appreciated by travellers looking for authentic urban experiences.

The neighbourhood is becoming increasingly popular among local artists and creatives, which is reflected in the growing presence of art galleries, design studios and trendy cafés.

As far as accommodation is concerned, Grzegórzki offers a variety of options at generally more affordable prices than the historical centre. You can find modern flats in newly constructed buildings, as well as more characteristic solutions in converted industrial structures. This diversity of choice makes it suitable for various types of travellers, from young backpackers to families.

Another strength of Grzegórzki is its excellent connection to the rest of the city. The district is well served by public transport, with numerous tram and bus lines connecting it to the centre and other areas of interest.

However, it is important to note that Grzegórzki is a district in transition. Some areas may still show signs of its industrial past and may be less picturesque than the more touristy areas. Also, the offer of restaurants and nightlife, although growing, may be less varied than in neighbourhoods such as Stare Miasto or Kazimierz.

Ludwinow / Dębnicki

Moving southwest from the centre of Kraków, we find Ludwinow. One of the main strengths of this area is its proximity to the Vistula River. Here you can enjoy beautiful walks along the banks of the river, admiring breathtaking views of the city. The district is also home to Dębnicki Park, a green oasis perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.

In terms of accommodation, Ludwinow generally offers cheaper prices than the central areas of Kraków. You will find a variety of options, from modern flats to family pensions, often with excellent value for money. This affordability makes it an excellent choice for longer stays or for travellers on a budget.

However, it is important to bear in mind that Ludwinow is located somewhat further from the historical centre than other areas we have discussed. Reaching the main tourist attractions will require the use of public transport or long walks. Fortunately, connections to the centre are generally good, with trams and buses regularly serving the district.

Another aspect to bear in mind is that Ludwinow offers fewer options for nightlife and entertainment than neighbourhoods such as Stare Miasto or Kazimierz.