Kraków's Architectural Intactness
Because Kraków was not destroyed during World War II, its historic medieval and Renaissance fabric remains completely intact, making simple walking through the city an open-air museum experience.
1. Wawel Royal Castle Renaissance Courtyard
Perched above the Vltava river, Wawel Castle was the seat of Polish kings for over 500 years. While interior royal state rooms require individual paid tickets, walking into the castle grounds and admiring the multi-tiered Italian Renaissance arcaded courtyard is open to the public for free.
2. Sunset at Krakus Mound (Kopiec Krakusa)
Located south of the river in Podgórze, Krakus Mound is a prehistoric earthwork mound dating back to the 7th century, rumored to be the burial site of King Krakus. Climbing to the top takes 10 minutes and rewards you with the best sunset panorama over Kraków’s church spires and Wawel Castle.
3. Walking the Planty Park Belt
When Kraków’s medieval defensive walls were demolished in the 19th century, the former defensive moat was transformed into the Planty: a 4 km continuous green park ring that completely encircles the Old Town. It provides shaded benches, fountains, and flower gardens.