Krakow Travel Guide

Many visitors come to Kraków to learn about its World War II and Cold War roots, but what you may not expect to find are flourishing nightlife, art and music scenes. In fact, the city is rumored to have the highest concentration of bars in the world, with the Old Town and Kazimierz neighborhoods being considered the best regions for drinking, live music and clubbing.

Much of the Polish population (especially the younger generation) speaks English, so you shouldn't have trouble communicating. While Polish is not the easiest language for English speakers, saying basic words and phrases in Polish like "czesc" (hello), "prosze" (please), "dziekuje" (thank you) and "do widzenia" (goodbye) is appreciated.

The Polish zloty is Poland's official currency (1 Polish zloty is equal to $0.27). Since the Polish zloty to U.S. dollar exchange rate fluctuates, be sure to check what the current exchange rate is before you go. Poland's membership in the European Union means euros may also be accepted at select stores and restaurants. ATMs are easily found in the city center and tend to offer more favorable fees than money exchangers. Credit cards are also widely used in the central areas of Poland. And remember, tipping is not customary here, but if service is above average, feel free to tip 10 to 15 percent of your bill.

While not known as a dining mecca, Kraków has made large strides in recent years. The dining scene has evolved with the surge of tourism that Kraków has enjoyed over the last decade. The city features a nice blend of affordable and fine dining establishments, and the Old Town is virtually overflowing with eateries of every type. For some of Kraków's best local fare – like zurek (a sour rye soup made with sausage and potatoes that's commonly served in a bread bowl) and pierogies (potato-filled dumplings) – visit Starka Restaurant & Vodkas and Przystanek Pierogarnia. Recent travelers also recommend Taste of India for Indian dishes, Nago Sushi & Sake for sushi rolls and Bianca Restauracja for Italian cuisine.

If you're craving authentic Polish bites on the go, try some of Kraków's street fare. Sold at food trucks and curbside vendors throughout the city, local street fare is hearty yet affordable. Must-try items include zapiekanka (a baguette half loaded with mushrooms and cheese that's often garnished with ketchup, chives or fried onions), obwarzanek (thin bagels generally topped with poppy seeds, sesame seeds, salt or cheese) and kielbasi (grilled sausages served with a roll or on a bun with mustard).