"Nothing like home..." Krakow by Barboreczka

Krakow Travel Guide: 4,941 reviews and 9,847 photos

Short history of Krakow

Krakow has a special place in my heart. Of course, I am very attached to it - as I was born in Krakow and never moved for longer time from here. But apart from the feeling of belonging it gives me the feeling of many opportunities and the feeling of home and roots. I love to travel - but it is always nice to be back to Krakow.
The name of the city comes from the legendary founder called Krak (Krakow in old Polish means "Krak's"). He is believed to have lived in VI century and one of the Krakow mounds bear his name. The city was more and more developed - also thanks to merchants who would pass it on the way to the Baltic sea (as Krakow is situated on the former amber trail).
The city got its municipal rights in 1257 - and exactly then the Main Market Square and adjoining streets were marked (although its shape was adjusted to already existing routes and buildings). This fact enabled the citizens to build the city walls (it was started in 1285 - and parts of teh original city walls can still be seen in Krakow).

Wawel castle

Its population is about 700 000 of citizens. It is one of the biggest cities of Poland- and one of the most precious. It was Polish capital lond ago- when the dynasty which ruled in Poland was rich and powerful.
First University of Poland (the Jagiellonian University) was built here in 1364.
Till now you can feel here the remainings of old believes and legends- as for example the "hejnal". Every hour you can here the trumpet playing the old melody from the tower of the church- but the melody is unfinished. Why? You must come here and ask :))
During the times of its development lots of artist would come here. They left here their works like for example Veit Stoss who built here his splendid altar.
Lots of works were built here also in Renaissance- especially the castle which was rebuilt during that times. The castle is called Wawel and it is surely one of the most beautiful castles in the world. But Krakow has something more to offer than its history. Its charming pubs hidden in cellars will make enchant you.

Pros and Cons

Pros:The small streets of the Main Market Square
Cons:Small amount of those streets :))

Intro Updated Oct 29, 2008
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Reviews (7)

Georgian food in Krakow. Restaurants (3)

There are 4 restaurants within teh branch "Gruzinskie Chaczapuri" (one of them has entrance from 2 streets). The... more travel advice

for vegetarians! Restaurants (3)

Green way is an excellent choice for those who like vegetarian and healthy food. It has a wide choice of meals from all... more travel advice

My favourite pub:)) Nightlife (4)

This is a place where I used to spend a lot of time. It seems some times too crowded but the music there is great! Rock... more travel advice

NIce place to have a nice chat Nightlife (4)

If you feel like having a nice chat with your friends don't hasitate to visit TAM. It is situated in a street in a very... more travel advice

Comments (9)

BenFromParis Mar 4, 2009 at 5:20 AM Report Abuse

Hi Barbara, thanks for this tip. I'll be in july for a bachelor party with lots of my friends and I need too find lots of nice bars and clubs ( and not too much tourisctic, we don't like it) for these 20 silly guys!!! ;-p Ben
Toshioohsako Oct 23, 2007 at 8:58 AM Report Abuse

Very useful tips for resturtants. I come to Karkow in two weeks' time and look forward to it. Greetings
tommix May 15, 2005 at 8:18 AM Report Abuse

Ja tez chcialbym wiecej! Those tips make me nostalgic! I want to come back to Cracow!!! :))
matcrazy1 May 20, 2004 at 7:01 PM Report Abuse

Great intro! May I ask you for more, please? Greetings :-)))
morgane1692 Jan 31, 2004 at 6:13 PM Report Abuse

the early evening haze over the rooftops paints a neat picture of Krakow here. and yes, I loved the compactness of the Old Town area, very walkable indeed, so many great streets and shops and architectural bits around any corner!
BEONESELF Dec 28, 2003 at 3:16 PM Report Abuse

great external pages,even better idea!!i hope all works out well for you,must keep your site in mind!!dont work too hard!!!! take care
sihi Oct 7, 2003 at 12:46 AM Report Abuse

It is the wonderful city!!! Welcome to my country too:)
MURRA Oct 6, 2003 at 10:54 AM Report Abuse

the trumpet means the mongols are coming ,wasnt the trumpeteer shot in throat with an arrow
omran Aug 31, 2003 at 8:39 AM Report Abuse

i have been to krakow i like it but i like zakopane more and more :O) take care