Kraków

Kraków (pronounce: krakuf) also known as Krakow or Cracow is the third largest and one of the oldest cities in Poland, with a population around 800,000. Situated on the Vistula river (Polish: Wisla) in the Lesser Poland region, the city dates back to the 7th century and was the capital of Poland from 1038 to 1596.

Kraków has traditionally been one of the leading centres of Polish scientific, cultural and artistic life. As the former national capital of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, with a history encompassing over a thousand years, the city remains the spiritual heart of Poland. It is a major attraction for local and international tourists, attracting seven million visitors annually.

Famous landmarks include the Main Market Square with St. Mary's Basilica and the Sukiennice Cloth Hall, the Wawel Castle, the National Art Museum, the Zygmunt Bell at the Wawel Cathedral, and the medieval St Florian's Gate with the Barbican along the Royal Coronation Route.

In 1978 the UNESCO added Cracow's Historic Centre, which includes the Old Town, Kazimierz and the Wawel Castle to the list of World Heritage Sites.

Must see while in Krakow:

• Main Market Square - visit outodor, indor and basement restaurants, shops and endless events.
• St. Mary's Basilica - witness altar opening at 1:00 pm, for a nice view climb the tower.
• Sukiennice Cloth Hall - good place to buy amber and polish craft.
• Wawel Castle - famous tapestry collection.
• Wieliczka Salt Mine - 20 minutes by local bus.
• Wierzynek Restaurant - oldest restaurant in Krakow dated 1364!
• Auschwitz-Birkenau - Museum and Memorial - an hour away from Krakow.