What to see in Krakow: TOP 30 unusual places

Not sure what to see in Krakow? Don't worry, we're here to help you! In this article, we present the top 30 unusual places to visit during your stay in this magical city. Discover unknown corners and unique attractions that will make your trip unforgettable!

If you're already in Krakow, don't forget to also visit the city's classics such as Wawel Castle, the Market Square and the Cloth Hall. These iconic sites are an integral part of Krakow and will certainly not disappoint any tourist's expectations. This time, push the boundaries of popular guidebooks and indulge in a truly authentic experience, discovering corners that often escape the attention of typical tours. Ready for a trip?

Here we go!

The best tourist attraction in Krakow? In our opinion, number 1 is the House of Attractions!

Why? Because it the only attraction of its kind in the heart of Krakow, where for single ticket you can experience as much as 13 amazing adventures!

From the exciting virtual reality (VR), through a fascinating labyrinth of mirrorsthrough to the delightful Museum of Living Butterflies - all in one place!

House of Attractions attracts tourists from all over the world as well as celebrities! It was here that the famous IShowSpeed, experiencing unique attractions you won't find anywhere else.

If you are looking for unforgettable emotions, House of Attractions is a place you can't miss!

1) House of Attractions

Address: Grodzka 2

The "House of Attractions" entertainment centre presents its offer of 15 different attractions in the heart of Krakow, including 3 labyrinths, 2 types of games VR and even Museum of Living Butterflies. Every visitor can find something for themselves here. A suitable field for communication, entertainment, new acquaintances, interaction - all this in the "House of Attractions". We highly recommend a visit Labyrinth of Mirrors!

Tickets can be purchased here:

2. Collegium Maius

Address: Jagiellońska 15

The Collegium Maius in Kraków is one of the oldest buildings of the Jagiellonian University. It was built in the 15th century and served as the main seat of the university until the 16th century.

Building Collegium Maius is distinguished by its Gothic architecture, characteristic stone details and arcaded courtyards. Its interiors feature rich ornamentation, wooden carvings and numerous mementos related to the university's history, such as portraits of prominent professors and alumni.

The Collegium Maius now houses the Jagiellonian University Museum, which displays valuable collections: old books, scientific instruments, manuscripts and other artefacts related to the history of the university.

This place attracts not only students and academics, but also tourists who are keen to visit the historic site and learn about its rich history.

3. Schindler's Factory

Address: Lipowa 4

An absolute must have on the list of things to see in Krakow - Schindler's Factory, also known as the Oskar Schindler's Emalia Factory or Oskar Schindler's Factory, is a place of great historical significance. It is associated with the activities of Oskar Schindler, a German industrialist and member of the NSDAP, who saved more than 1,200 Jews during the Holocaust by employing them in his factory.

The factory, located in the Podgórze district, operated during the Second World War as an enamelware factory. Oskar Schindler, using his connections and bribes, employed Jews who were thus protected from deportation to concentration camps. Many people who worked in Schindler's factory survived the war thanks to his actions.

Today, the former Schindler factory has been transformed into the Museum of Oskar Schindler's Emalia Factory. In the museum you can see many exhibitions, documents and artefacts related to the history of the factory, the life of Oskar Schindler and the fate of the people whose lives he saved. The museum is an important Holocaust memorial and a commemoration of those who worked to save Jews during World War II. Since its opening, it has become an important site visited by tourists from all over the world wishing to learn about the history and heritage of Oskar Schindler and his factory.

4. the Krzysztofory Palace

Address: Market Square 35

What is worth visiting in Krakow? The Krzysztofory Palace is one of the most characteristic and historically significant buildings in Kraków, located on the Main Square, at its south-eastern corner. It is a representative example of Renaissance architecture.

The palace takes its name from the statue of St Christopher, which was placed on the façade of the corner building from around 1380. The building was probably already here in the second half of the 13th century. The market part of the present-day Pod Krzysztofory palace is formed by a medieval house, occupying a corner plot of land^[1]. The earliest masonry building on the plot was a 10m square-plan tower, erected halfway along the length of the plot, near the boundary with its southern neighbour. In addition to the stone walls, the brick framing of the opening on the east side survives from the building. Before the middle of the 14th century, the tower was incorporated into the mentioned spacious house, consisting of a front part and a wing along Szczepańska Street^[1]. Probably at the same time or not much later the forecourt was built^[1]. Around 1380, a stone statue of St Christopher was created, probably located on the façade. The building was rebuilt and modified several times over the centuries. It was extended in the Baroque style in the 17th century and underwent various functional and architectural changes in the following centuries.

The Krzysztofory Palace has served a variety of functions in its history, including being the seat of aristocratic families and also serving as a hotel and offices. In the interwar period, it housed the famous Reduta theatre, which was an important cultural centre of Krakow.

Currently, the Krzysztofory Palace is the seat of the Historical Museum of the City of Krakow. In its interiors you can find various exhibitions presenting the history of the city, its culture and art. In addition, there is also a café and a souvenir shop on the premises of the palace.

5th Global Education Park

Address: Tyniecka 39

The Global Education Park in Krakow is an innovative project that aims to promote global awareness, tolerance and intercultural education. 

The Global Education Park offers interactive and multimedia exhibitions and workshops to raise public awareness of global issues such as poverty, social injustice, environmental protection or migration. Through a variety of educational activities, visitors can explore topics related to cultural diversity, human rights and sustainable development.

The Global Education Park was created for those looking for an interesting attraction that combines education for children, young people and adults with entertainment. The park is open to all those willing to learn and reflect on contemporary social challenges. Through interactive forms of learning, such as interactive exhibitions, educational games or workshops, visitors can actively participate in the learning process and acquire knowledge in an engaging and inspiring way.

6 Pantograph Cafe

Address: Professor Michał Życzkowski 37

Pantograph Cafe in Krakow is a café with a unique concept that combines traditional coffee with interesting technology. It is located on Professor Michał Życzkowski Street.

The Pantograph Café stands out for its unusual design, as it is a vintage tramway adapted for commercial purposes.

The café often hosts music exhibitions, art presentations and themed meetings. Customers can not only enjoy delicious coffee here, but also free internet access, making Pantograph Café also a popular place for remote working.

7. Nativity Scene Exhibition at the Krakow Museum

Address: Market Square 35

The Nativity Scene Exhibition is an annual event that usually takes place in the run-up to Christmas, from November to January. It is one of Kraków's most distinctive traditions, combining elements of folk art, culture and religion.

Cracovian Christmas cribs are unique handicraft works that have their roots in the ancient Christmas traditions of Kraków. They are miniature replicas of the biblical Bethlehem, often richly decorated and handmade from various materials such as wood, paper or clay.

The exhibition of cribs at the Krakow Museum presents a variety of cribs created by local artists and craftsmen, but also by children and young people participating in various competitions and workshops. Visitors have the opportunity to admire the variety of styles and techniques used to make cribs, as well as learn about the history and symbolism associated with them.

The exhibition also includes numerous accompanying events, such as handicraft workshops, meetings with nativity scene makers and carol concerts, making it not only an opportunity to admire the beautiful works of folk art, but also to actively participate in Krakow's Christmas traditions.

8. Stained Glass Museum

Address: 23 Zygmunta Krasińskiego Ave.

The Krakow Stained Glass Museum is a unique cultural institution dedicated to the art of stained glass. 

This museum was established in 2005 on the initiative of Małgorzata Miklaszewska, a prominent stained-glass artist. Its aim is to promote the art of stained glass, to shape cultural awareness and to present the artistic achievements associated with this technique.

The Stained Glass Museum exhibits a rich collection of stained glass with a variety of motifs and styles, ranging from sacred stained glass to those related to everyday life and contemporary art. The exhibition also presents the process of making stained glass, from the design and choice of materials to its execution.

The museum also regularly organises temporary exhibitions, workshops for children and adults, lectures and meetings with artists, making it not only a place to present art, but also an educational and cultural centre.

9. Anti-aircraft shelters in Nowa Huta

Address: School Estate 37

There are many air raid shelters in Nowa Huta (a district of Krakow), which are remnants of the Cold War period. Nowa Huta was a strategic area from a defence point of view, so many shelters were built here to protect the civilian population in case of attack.

One of the most famous air raid shelters in Nowa Huta is the Polish Airmen's Shelter, which is located in the Polish Airmen's Park. It is a shelter built during the Cold War to provide shelter in the event of an air attack. Today, this shelter is open to the public and is part of the Polish Airmen Park, which commemorates Polish airmen and their achievements.

In addition, there are a number of smaller air raid shelters in Nowa Huta, which are scattered around the different districts and are often used as storage areas or utility rooms.

These air raid shelters are an important part of Nowa Huta's history and are a reminder of the times when the town was a strategic area due to the production plant - the steelworks located on the outskirts of the district. Today, many of them are open to the public and are a valuable historical monument.

10. HistoryLand

Address: located in the old main railway station building (seasonal exhibition)

The HistoryLand, an interactive centre for discovering the history of Poland and Poles, has opened in the building of the former railway station in Krakow. In this unique place you can not only learn more about the history of the country, but also feel like one of the participants in ancient events. 

In this interactive entertainment centre children can deepen their knowledge of the country's past, but also have fun. All thanks to great LEGO mock-ups that have been enhanced with innovative technologies.

Beautiful buildings made from thousands of LEGO bricks are undoubtedly a highlight of HistoryLand. Children can now admire the Battle of Grunwald, which took place in 1410, and the most famous naval battle - the Battle of Oliwa with the Swedes. In addition to these, the settlement at Biskupin, Kraków's Cloth Hall and St. Mary's Church, as well as the defence of the Order at Jasna Góra are also commemorated. A total of 10 mock-ups await visitors.

11. Amber Museum

Address: St John's 2

The Amber Museum in Kraków is a fascinating cultural institution dedicated to the history, production and significance of amber. Located at 2 Św. Jana St., the Amber Museum offers a rich collection of exhibits related to amber, from the raw material, through a variety of amber products, to artistic works made from this metal. Visitors have the opportunity to learn more about the history of amber, its properties, as well as the techniques used to process it and produce products.

The museum also presents information on the role of amber in different cultures and historical times, allowing visitors to understand its importance as a valuable natural resource and cultural object. In addition, visitors can admire unique and beautiful artefacts such as jewellery, ornaments and other amber-related objects.

The Amber Museum in Kraków is not only a place for amber enthusiasts, but also for anyone interested in history, culture and art. It is an excellent opportunity to learn more about this fascinating natural resource and to discover its magical world through exhibitions and displays.

12. the Lebanon Quarry

Address: Za Torem 22

The Liban quarry in Krakow is a unique place that combines natural nature with the history of the mining industry. It is located in the Podgórze district, not far from Krak's Mound.

The history of the quarry dates back to the 19th century, when limestone quarrying began for local industries. During World War II, the Liban quarry was used by the Germans as a mass execution site and as a prisoner camp. After the war, quarrying was abandoned and the site gradually degraded.

Today, the Lebanon Quarry has been transformed into a recreational and landscape area. Its characteristic feature is the steep rock walls that surround the water pool, which is a remnant of limestone quarrying. It is a place that attracts both nature lovers and tourists who like to come here to relax surrounded by natural landscapes.

The Lebanon Quarry has walking paths, viewing terraces and recreation areas, making it a popular place for walks, picnics and family gatherings. In addition, the quarry area is also used by local artists as a space for cultural events, such as the Slavic Kupala festival.

13) Dragon's Den

Address: Wawel 5

The Dragon's Cave in Krakow is one of the most mysterious and fascinating places in the city. It is located directly at the foot of the Wawel Castle.

It is a natural cave that was formed in limestone rocks and has a long history associated with legends and stories. The name "Dragon's Cave" derives from a legend about a dragon that allegedly inhabited this cave and terrorised the local inhabitants. According to the legend, this dragon was supposedly defeated by Krak, who eventually exterminated it.

The Dragon's Cave is open to the public and is a popular tourist destination, especially as a statue of the Wawel Dragon is erected in front of it.

14) Kosciuszko Museum

Address: al. Jerzego Waszyngtona 1

The Kościuszko Museum in Krakow is a cultural institution dedicated to the figure and activities of Tadeusz Kościuszko, one of Poland's most eminent national heroes. 

This unusual museum was founded in 1947 and has since been dedicated to documenting, collecting and promoting the heritage and memory of Tadeusz Kościuszko. The museum's exhibitions present Kosciuszko's life and activities, his participation in important historical events such as the Kosciuszko insurrections and the wars of independence, as well as his impact on Polish and world history.

The museum exhibits a variety of artefacts related to Tadeusz Kościuszko, such as his personal items, memorabilia, documents and works of art dedicated to his person. The exhibits also present the historical and political context of the era in which Kosciuszko was active, allowing for a better understanding of his role and importance to Polish history.

15) Dominican Museum

Address: Stolarska 12

The Dominican Museum in Krakow is a cultural institution dedicated to the history and heritage of the Dominican Order and the history of the Church in Krakow and the Archdiocese.

The Museum is located in the historic Dominican complex in the Old Town of Krakow, in the Dominican Monastery. Its collections include valuable works of sacred art, manuscripts, historical documents and objects related to the history of the Dominicans and the Church in Krakow.

Highlights of the Dominican Museum include richly decorated altars, sculptures, stained glass, paintings, liturgical textiles and collections of manuscripts and liturgical books.

16) Archaeological Museum

Address: Senacka 3

The Archaeological Museum was founded in 1850 and has since played an important role in protecting and promoting the region's archaeological heritage. Its collections include artefacts from prehistory to the Middle Ages, presenting the rich history and culture of Malopolska.

The museum's exhibitions feature a variety of archaeological artefacts such as tools, ornaments, pottery, weapons, as well as reconstructions of everyday life in different historical periods. Also on display are finds from archaeological excavations that illustrate the cultural and civilisational development of the region.

The Archaeological Museum in Cracow also organises numerous temporary exhibitions, workshops, lectures and other cultural events to promote knowledge of archaeology and the history and culture of the Malopolska region. 

For lovers of history, archaeology and anyone interested in cultural heritage, the Archaeological Museum in Cracow is the perfect place to explore and discover the secrets of the past of the Malopolska region and Poland.

What is there to see and do around Krakow?

If you think you've been everywhere and there's nothing left to amaze you, we've got some interesting places to visit outside of Krakow.

1) Auschwitz-Birkenau

Address: Prisoners of Auschwitz 55

Auschwitz-Birkenau is the name of the German Nazi concentration and extermination camp that operated during World War II in German-occupied Poland, near the town of Auschwitz. It is one of the most tragic memorial sites associated with the Holocaust and the Nazi occupation of Europe.

The Auschwitz camp, also known as Auschwitz I, was opened by the Germans in 1940 in the former Polish barracks. Initially, it was a place where political prisoners and prisoners of war were held. However, as the Nazi policy of exterminating Jews escalated, the camp was transformed into an extermination centre.

Auschwitz-Birkenau, also known as Auschwitz II, was opened in 1942. It is a huge complex comprising extensive camp fields, gas chambers, crematoria, prisoner barracks and administrative infrastructure. Mass exterminations of Jews, Roma, Poles and prisoners of other nationalities were carried out at Birkenau.

In total, more than one million people were murdered at Auschwitz-Birkenau, mainly Jews, but also Poles, Roma, Soviet prisoners of war and other national and ethnic groups. The camp's inmates were subjected to inhumane working conditions, starvation, disease and cruelty by SS men.

Today, Auschwitz-Birkenau is a memorial and tribute to the victims of the Holocaust. It has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is visited by millions of people every year. A visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau is intended to honour the memory of the victims.

2) Ojców and Ojców National Park

Address: Ojców 9

Ojcow National Park is the only national park located close to Krakow. It is one of the most beautiful and picturesque places in the country, full of natural wonders, rock formations, caves and historic castles.

The park was established in 1956 and covers an area of approximately 21.5 km². Its name comes from the village of Ojców, located within its boundaries. Ojców National Park is primarily known for its unique karst landscape, formed by numerous gorges, valleys, rocks and caves.

The park is home to impressive rock formations such as Maczuga Herkulesa, Góra Zborów and Skała Rękawica, which are popular viewpoints and tourist attractions. In addition, Ojców National Park is also home to more than 400 caves, including the famous Łokietek's Cave, which is one of the longest caves in Poland.

In addition to its natural wealth, the park also offers many cultural monuments, such as the ruins of Ojców Castle and Pieskowa Skała Castle, which bear witness to the long history of the region. In addition, the park is also home to many plant and animal species.

For lovers of nature and active recreation, the Ojców National Park offers numerous hiking trails, cycle paths and places for picnicking and relaxing in nature.

3) Bochnia Salt Mine

Address: Campi 15

The Bochnia Salt Mine is one of the oldest salt mines in the world, located in Bochnia, near Krakow, in southern Poland. Its history dates back over 700 years, making it one of the oldest industrial facilities in Poland.

The Bochnia Salt Mine began operations as early as the 13th century, and salt mining has continued over the centuries, contributing to the development of the region and the economy. The mine is famous for its unique underground architecture and the rich history associated with salt mining.

One of the main attractions of the mine is the tourist route, which takes you through the underground galleries and chambers of the mine, where you can admire the beautifully decorated chapels, sculptures and other monuments made of salt. During the tour, you can also learn more about the history and techniques of salt mining and about the lives of the miners working in the mine.

Another remarkable attraction of the Bochnia salt mine is the underground salt lake, which was created as a result of salt mining. Its waters are saturated with minerals, making them extremely therapeutic and beneficial to health. Water from the mine lake is used for rehabilitation and recreational purposes.

4) Tyniec Monastery

Address: Benedictine 37 

The monastery in Tyniec is one of the most important and beautiful architectural monuments in Poland, located within Kraków, on the banks of the Vistula River. It is a Benedictine abbey that has a history of over a thousand years and has played an important role in shaping culture and spirituality in the region.

The history of the monastery dates back to the 9th century, when the first wooden Benedictine temple existed in what is now Tyniec. The present monastery was built in the 12th century and expanded in the following centuries, taking the form of an impressive building with elements of Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque architecture. The monastery also houses a valuable cultural and literary treasure, in the form of a rich library that contains many old prints and manuscripts.

In addition to its historical and artistic value, the monastery in Tyniec is also an important place of religious worship, where services, masses and other religious ceremonies have been held for centuries. Thanks to its picturesque location on the banks of the Vistula River, the monastery is also a popular tourist destination.

5) Cracow valleys

The Krakowskie Dolinki are a picturesque natural area located 15 km from Krakow, and are a popular nature reserve and recreational area for the city's inhabitants and tourists. They are located to the north-west of Krakow, in the direction of Olkusz.

The Cracow Valleys are known above all for their beautiful landscapes, varied vegetation and numerous walking and cycling paths, which enable contact with nature and active rest in the bosom of nature. The area is ideal for those seeking peace and quiet, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

In the Krakow Valleys, one can admire picturesque gorges, streams, rocks and a wealth of flora and fauna. It is also an area abundant in interesting industrial monuments, such as former quarries, mills or sawmills, which bear witness to ancient times and ways of life.

A popular place in the Krakow Valleys is the Bêdkowska Valley, home to Poland's largest karst gorge. It is also a protected area where rare plant and animal species can be found.

We have also prepared a dedicated article focusing on day trips in the vicinity of Cracow - there you will find an interactive map of the most interesting attractions near the dragon city.

What is worth seeing in Krakow with children?

In this section we have put together some cool attractions for you to explore with your child.

1) WOMAI - centre for the study of the senses

Address: Pawia 34

MOVAI is an innovative sensory learning centre located in Krakow, Poland that provides an interactive and educational way to explore the human senses. The name MOVAI is derived from the words 'Brain', 'Discovery', 'Knowledge', 'Action' and 'Inspiration', reflecting the centre's main objectives.

At MOVAI, visitors have the opportunity to discover the mysteries of how their body and brain function through interactive exhibits, games and experiences. The centre has areas dedicated to the different senses, such as sight, hearing, touch, taste and smell, which allow visitors to explore and understand how they work.

MOVAI's attractions include optical simulations, interactive touch panels, sound experiments, games to stimulate the senses and multimedia presentations on neuroscience and the psychology of the senses. The centre also offers workshops, lectures and presentations by specialists in various scientific fields.

2) Sic Mundus Escape Room 

Address: Szlak 16A/2

Sic Mundus Escape Room is an interactive adventure game that provides an unforgettable experience for lovers of mysterious stories, logic puzzles and adrenaline. 

The game takes place in a specially prepared space that provides the setting for the storyline and the tasks that await the players. These rooms are specially constructed so that even the youngest family members can participate. The objective of the participants is to solve a riddle or a series of riddles within a certain time limit in order to escape from a locked room or to achieve a certain goal.

Sic Mundus Escape Room enriches players' experience through story elements, interaction with actors, high-quality special effects and carefully designed puzzles and riddles. The plot can be inspired by a variety of themes, such as science fiction, fantasy, crime mystery or historical enigma.

The Sic Mundus escape room game is designed for a group of participants who must work together to solve the puzzles and reach the goal: this could be a group of friends or families with children. For many players, it is not only fun, but also an intellectual challenge and a thrilling experience.

The Sic Mundus Escape Room offers an opportunity to spend time in an unusual way, where participants can feel like the protagonists of their own adventure, playing different roles.

3) Exhibition of LEGO Bricks and Figs

Address: Floriańska 15/7

The unique collection has been carefully selected over the past six years and includes some of the rarest and most desirable items in the brand's history. Here you can enjoy a collection of SDCC and NYTF figures, the largest and rarest sets ever released by the Danish manufacturer - the entire BrickHeadz series, and even a figure that visited space and spent almost a week on the International Space Station (ISS).
As you walk through the exhibition, you will have plenty of opportunities to unleash your creativity and satisfy your passion for your hobby. Our exhibition offers the latest and antique sets as well as a wide selection of figurines.

4) Living Bagel Museum

Address: Ignacy Paderewski 4

Living Bagel Museum is an extraordinary attraction for culinary and history lovers. It takes visitors on a journey through time, providing an interactive experience dedicated to one of the symbols of Krakow - the obwarzanek.

During a visit to the Live Museum of Obwarzanek, visitors have the opportunity to learn about the history of this traditional Krakow delicacy, dating back several centuries. The guides tell fascinating stories about the process of baking obwarzanki, their significance for the culture and everyday life of the people of Krakow.

However, that is not all! The Living Museum of Obwarzanek also offers the opportunity to participate in an obwarzanek baking workshop. Under the supervision of experienced confectioners, visitors have the chance to learn the secrets of traditional baking of this delicious product. This is a great opportunity to gain practical knowledge and skills which can be used at home.

After the tour and workshop, visitors can also enjoy the opportunity to taste freshly baked obwarzaneks along with a variety of toppings and flavour variations. 

5) Glass and Ceramics Centre

Address: 3 Lipowa Street

The Glass and Ceramics Centre in Krakow is a place that takes visitors on a fascinating journey through the world of glass and ceramic arts and crafts. The Centre offers a rich exhibition of works of art made of glass and ceramics, presenting a variety of manufacturing techniques, styles and designs. Visitors can admire unique stained glass windows, sculptures, vessels, ornaments and other objects that bear witness to the craftsmanship and talent of local artisans.

However, the Glass and Ceramics Centre is not only a place to admire works of art, but also an excellent opportunity to learn and experiment. Craft workshops are organised here, during which participants can try their hand at creating glass or ceramic works of art under the guidance of experienced masters. In addition, the Glass and Ceramics Centre often organises exhibitions, competitions, lectures and other cultural events to promote the art of glass and ceramics and to encourage the discovery and appreciation of craft traditions.

During our journey through Krakow we discover the countless cultural, historical and architectural treasures that have made this city one of the most fascinating places in Central Europe. In visits to the Collegium Maius, the Krzysztofory Palace or the Dominican Monastery, we are transported back in time to past eras, learning the secrets and stories associated with each of these places. Unusual parks or the Ojców National Park, located about 20 km from Krakow, allow us to immerse ourselves in nature and savour its beauty. Unforgettable impressions are also provided by places such as the Archaeological Museum or Auschwitz-Birkenau, which make you reflect on the past and remind you of the tragic events of history. Krakow is a city that impresses with its diversity and richness, offering an unforgettable experience for every visitor.