Krakow is now one of our favourite cities. It is fabulous. There are a lot more tourists here than in other parts of Poland, but you only notice it in the old city. However, it is nothing like Barcelona or Lisbon.
The city has an amazing history. During the Renaissance, it was at the crossroads of trade routes between Eastern and Western Europe, attracting German, Jewish, Italian and Hungarian merchants. So it became very multicultural and very rich. Unlike the many other parts of Europe, Jewish migrants were accepted and became part of the city, mainly settling in the Kazimierz area. The oldest synagogue dates from the 15th century.
It has always been regarded as the cultural capital of Poland and has had a university since 1364. Martin Luther and Galileo studied here, so pretty fine alumni.
In the 19th century, the city became a symbol of the Polish Nationalist Movement, and academics championed the preservation of the historic centre. Of course, during the war, the city was occupied by the Nazi Germans and the Jewish population brutally repressed, deported and murdered. One of the most notorious camps is located just out of the city, Auschwitz.
After the war and the defeat of the Nazi’s, Poland became part of the Soviet Union. However, Krakow still managed to preserve its historical legacy.
It’s a very well-planned and walkable city, and we have loved our accommodation here - the best of the trip. Last night we ventured into the Kazimierz area, a bit grittier, but still super friendly. Lots of interesting restaurants and bars. We ate at a restaurant called Starka, which took a contemporary approach to Polish cuisine.Read more
Jun 7–10 in Poland ⋅ ☀️ 24 °C