Krakow
Poland’s historic city of myths and legends has long been a leading centre of art and culture. Spared much of the damage that other Polish cities, such as Warsaw, suffered during World War II, Krakow has preserved its old world charm and mix of Romanesque, Renaissance and Baroque architecture. These are significant attractions, as are the festivals that pack the summer months, celebrating everything from international films, Jewish culture and street theatre to opera and jazz. Visitors also come to Krakow to make the trip to the former Nazi concentration camp, Auschwitz-Birkenau, an hour’s drive away, now a harrowing museum commemorating the victims who died there.
Krakow is divided into four main districts. The most central, Old Town, is bounded by Planty Gardens and has at its heart Rynek Glowny or the Rynek, the largest market square in Europe, focal point for inhabitants and visitors alike. Wawel, on the banks of the river Vistula, is the seat of both the Royal Castle and the Cathedral. Kazimierz is the old Jewish quarter and the newer Podgorze is off the beaten track but well worth a visit.
Krakow is beautiful in every season, although you’ll have to wrap up well if you come during the winter. Its relatively small size and the proximity of its major sights make it easy to walk around, although the buses and trams run well and taxis are very reasonably priced. We’ve chosen hotels that make excellent bases to explore from; each with its own individual character and Polish charm. The order in which the hotels are listed bears no reflection on our preference.
The best hotels in Krakow
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Hotel Copernicus
Krakow
The Copernicus is truly special - Renaissance frescoes, carved stone portals, and Gothic rooms with dark woods and velvets. Fabulous roof top bar with views over the Old Town, swimming pool and sauna. Delightful.
29 rooms from $209Swimming Pool - Indoor/outdoorSights nearby - Well located for major sights.Recommended by - Kiwi Collection, Relais & Chateaux -
Hotel Amadeus
Krakow
Dignified 16th-century townhouse hotel in a central location. Baroque interiors with lots of dark wooden panelling, excellent restaurant, and lovely meeting rooms. Ideal for leisure or low key business meetings.
20 rooms from $151Sights nearby - Well located for major sights. -
Hotel Pod Roza
Krakow
Krakow’s first hotel in the heart of the Old Town. Its original heritage features with their traditional European elegance have been melded with modern luxuries. Lovely breakfast courtyard. Romance and comfort.
57 rooms from $156Romantic - Good for couples.Sights nearby - Well located for major sights. -
Hotel Wentzl
Krakow
The only hotel overlooking Krakow’s principal square. Traditional elegance and beautifully decorated rooms with paintings, four poster beds, and stunning views. A stately house with a fantastic restaurant. A totally charming place to stay for local exploring.
18 rooms from $143Sights nearby - Well located for major sights. -
Hotel Grodek
Krakow
A boutique gem you won’t be disappointed with. Set in a quiet cul de sac but still in the heart of the medieval town. Award-winning restaurant serving fusion cuisine, beautiful individually themed rooms - Renaissance to Chinese - and a warming library bar for winter evenings. Lovely.
23 rooms from $140Sights nearby - Well located for major sights.Recommended by - Fodors -
Maltanski Hotel
Krakow
An utterly charming small hotel overlooking Planty Park on a leafy street. Wood burning stoves, parquet floors, lovely garden. A really cosy place to stay.
16 rooms from $118Local markets - Good for local colour.Sights nearby - Well located for major sights. -
Hotel Benefis
Krakow
Modern, unassuming hotel. Separated from the traffic noise of the major streets, it is a perfect location for families with children. Comfortable contemporary rooms and a lovely cellar breakfast room.
20 rooms from $108FamiliesSecluded setting - For escaping.Sights nearby - Well located for major sights. -
Cracowdays Apartments
Krakow
The best value accommodation in Krakow. Charming apartments, named after grapevines, are brightly furnished with all the mod cons. A friendly atmosphere with communal breakfasts - a true home from home.
10 rooms from $100Sights nearby - Well located for major sights. -
Hotel Pugetow
Krakow
Unique setting in a small 19th-century townhouse. Individually decorated rooms with traditional elegance - creams, pastels, mahogany furnishings. A lovely Italian cellar restaurant. Charming.
from $89Sights nearby - Well located for major sights. -
Hotel Amber
Krakow
An impressive hotel on a quiet street. Elegant pink-and-white Renaissance façade and polished modern interiors with neutral tones and Art Deco influences. Lovely breakfasts and the added extra of a basement gym and sauna. Immaculate and friendly.
18 rooms from $76Sights nearby - Well located for major sights.
