Best Places to Stay in Krakow for First-timers
Krakow is one of my favorite places to visit when I go to Poland. I know I should give other places more attention, but I do love Krakow for it’s nightlife, historical aspects, charming buildings and the food!. It’s also easy for anyone to get around.
I have found that I can get anywhere from anyone of these districts pretty quickly, couple that with being able to use Bolt while there and Google Maps functioning properly it’s pretty easy.
I wanted to make a comprehensive guide for folks so they could figure out where to stay as first timers to Krakow, because their is no one best area, I know people will say: Stay in the Stary Miasto, but you may have budget restrictions or maybe as a family you want to stay outside of a busy area. Or maybe you looked at a huge list of neighborhoods with a bunch of choices and fell into CHOICE OVERLOAD!
Lets simplify the search and ease you into a wonderful place in Krakow! Is that cool? ok, cool!
This comprehensive guide will help you choose from a list of top places to stay in Krakow, with options to suit all types of travelers—whether you’re looking for luxury, budget-friendly, family-friendly, or unique accommodations.
Check out more of my blog posts about Krakow⬇️
My posts contain affiliate links. If you buy through my links, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products and services I use and trust. Thank you for supporting my blog!
Krakow at a Glance
Krakow is one of those cities I keep coming back to—six times now, and I still find something new every visit. It’s a place where history isn’t just in museums but woven into the streets, from the medieval Main Market Square (Rynek Główny) to the remnants of the Jewish Quarter in Kazimierz.
If it’s your first time here, staying in Stare Miasto (Old Town) makes the most sense. You’ll be within walking distance of St. Mary’s Basilica, the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), and Wawel Castle. For something less touristy, Kazimierz has a more local feel with incredible restaurants, bars, and hidden courtyards.
Getting Around Krakow: Why the Krakow Card is Worth It
Krakow is a walkable city, but the Krakow Card makes life easier if you want to visit places like Schindler’s Factory, the Kościuszko Mound, or museums beyond the Old Town. It includes unlimited tram and bus rides and free entry to over 40 museums, making it a great deal if you plan to explore beyond the main square.
You can purchase the Krakow Card at tourist information points around the city, at the airport, or online through official Krakow tourism websites. Some hotels and hostels also sell them, so it’s worth checking with your accommodation!
You can purchase the Krakow Card at major tourist information points, hotels, and online. Some of the best places to buy it include:
- John Paul II International Airport: Go to the tourist information counter in the Arrivals Hall. Open 9am-7pm.
- plac. Szczepański 8: This is a tourist information point a few minutes to the north west of Kraków’s main square. Open 6am-7pm.
- plac. Wolnica 13: This is a tourist information point close to the Ethnography Museum in Kazimierz. Open 6am-7pm.
With options for 1, 2, or 3-day passes, it’s an excellent way to save money on transportation and museum visits.
1. Old Town (Stare Miasto)
Who wouldn’t want to be within arms reach of St. Mary’s Basilica (Bazylika Mariacka)? Where you could literally hear the Trumpter of Krakow out of your Window? That’s a dream right?
When visiting Krakow for the first time, staying in Old Town (Stare Miasto) is a great option. It’s the heart of the city and home to many of Krakow’s iconic attractions, such as the Main Market Square, Wawel Castle, and St. Mary’s Basilica, MNK Sukiennice and like I said right next to St. Mary’s Basilica (Bazylika Mariacka). It’s a lively area at night with places to grab a drink in the square and watch the sunset and there are a plethora of decently priced restaurants in the area.
The Stare Miasto comes with a price tag as it’s so centralized. So keep this in mind as accommodations will be much more expensive.
Where to Stay in the Old Town of Krakow
Luxury: Hotel Stary – A 5-star hotel that combines historical charm with modern luxury. Situated right near the Main Market Square, it’s perfect for those wanting to be close to the action*** (I’ve stayed here with my husband, and it was a wonderful stay!)
Mid-range: Hotel Wentzl – Located in a historic building overlooking the Main Market Square, this elegant hotel offers great value for a central location.
Budget: Hostel Deco – A quirky, budget-friendly option in the heart of Old Town, providing great value for money and easy access to the city’s top attractions.
Pros of staying in Stare Miasto of Krakow
- Walking distance to all major sights
- Bustling atmosphere with cafes, restaurants, and nightlife– you can literally step outside of your accommodation in the stare miasto and have your pick of places
Cons of Staying in Stare Miasto of Krakow
- Can be noisy at night, Krakow is considered a weekend getaway for a lot of people and with many bars downtown it can be quite noisy!
- Higher accommodation prices– all for the views and location right?
2. Kazimierz: For the hip First Time Visitor and Top Place to stay in Krakow
Located south of the Stare Miasto, Kazimierz, Krakow’s Jewish Quarter, is one of the most vibrant and culturally rich neighborhoods in the city.
This area was established in 1335, interestingly enough as an independent city. It was also a commercial hub up until the tragic history of WWII and the Nazi invasion.
Filled with trendy cafes, restaurants, art galleries, and beautiful synagogues, it offers a unique blend of history and modern flair. Staying here gives you easy access to both the city’s cultural scene and quieter corners of the city.
A little fun fact about this area of Krakow, this is where many parts of Schindlers list was filmed. Steven Spielberg and his team brought a whirlwind of attention to this area and the result was folks from all over the world reconnecting with their Jewish heritage.
This is one of my favorite areas in Krakow and rated one of the a top places to stay in Krakow as it’s full of history, beautiful streets and trendy cafes and restaurants. It’s a bit out of the city but only a 15 minute walk to the stary miasto, I counted for you on my most recent trip in February of 2025 when I went on a Paczki Crawl on Fat Thursday.
Where to Stay in Kazimierz
- Luxury: The Bonerowski Palace – A luxurious hotel set in a 13th-century building, offering a historic atmosphere and excellent service.
- Mid-range: Hotel Ester – A charming hotel located just a short walk from the main attractions in Kazimierz, offering affordable rates and a welcoming atmosphere. ** (I have stayed here, it’s pretty nice and very close to different attractions)
Pros:
- Vibrant nightlife with bars and live music venues
- Authentic local vibe with a mix of old and modern Krakow
Cons:
- A bit farther from the main square (15-minute walk)
- Some areas can be noisy at night
3. Best Family-Friendly Accommodations in Krakow
If looking at things by neighborhood only confuses you more, this section may help you determine where to go as a family.
Krakow is a fantastic destination for families, offering a wide range of family-friendly hotels and apartments near the city’s top attractions. Whether you’re looking for spacious family suites, kid-friendly amenities, or accommodations with kitchenettes, there are plenty of options to ensure a comfortable stay.
From centrally located hotels near Rynek Główny (Main Square) to quiet apartments in Kazimierz, you’ll find accommodations that cater to families with children. Many hotels offer play areas, babysitting services, and family discounts, making your trip stress-free and enjoyable.
In my experience, Krakow is an incredibly family-friendly city, and Poland as a whole is welcoming to families, with plenty of parks, museums, and interactive attractions to explore. Whether you’re visiting Wawel Castle, Oskar Schindler’s Factory, or the Wieliczka Salt Mine, staying in a family-friendly hotel will make your trip even more enjoyable.
Where to Stay in Krakow for families:
- Luxury: Metropolis Old Town Apartments– Metropolis Old Town Apartments, an aparthotel located in Kraków, Poland, offers family rooms and free WiFi throughout the property. The availability of free on-site private parking ensures convenience for families arriving by car. The aparthotel provides a baby cot for the little ones, along with a kitchenette and a washing machine. Additional amenities include a sofa bed and a work desk, ensuring comfort and convenience for the entire family.
- Mid-range: Aparthotel Stare Miasto – Offering spacious apartments with kitchenettes, it’s perfect for families who prefer a more home-like experience.
- Budget: Bubble Hostel – A playful and welcoming hostel offering a relaxed atmosphere with family-friendly amenities, ideal for budget-conscious families.
4. Top Krakow Hostels for Solo Travelers
Solo travelers will find that Krakow is full of welcoming hostels, providing the perfect environment for meeting other like-minded explorers.
Whether you’re looking for a vibrant social atmosphere or a more laid-back vibe, there’s a hostel for you. I’ve personally stayed at Meininger Krakow and it was pretty great, reception was friendly and there’s a great bar, a plus was that it had air conditioning!
Where to Stay:
- MEININGER Kraków Centrum– Meininger Kraków Centrum, a hostel located in Kraków, Poland, offers family-friendly facilities such as board games or puzzles, family rooms, and a games room. The property also boasts a terrace, bar, and free WiFi throughout, and paid on-site private parking is available. The hostel provides air-conditioned rooms with a private bathroom, a sofa bed, and a work desk. A continental buffet breakfast is served, with juice and cheese options.
- The Boat – Hostel&Chill – This is a fun hostel on a boat! You can find the hostel right on the Vistula River and offers a beautiful view of the Wawel Castel. The Boat offers Solo travelers such as board games or puzzles and family rooms. The property also boasts a sun terrace, bar, and free WiFi throughout.
Don’t See What You Like Here? Use This Interactive Hotel Stays Map
If none of these hotels tickle your fancy, why not use this interactive map from Stay22!
Some important tips: Focus on staying near the old town, Kaziemierz and Podgorze and don’t go any further out. If it’s your first time in Krakow stay somewhere where you can get around quickly. Again, it is super easy to get around Krakow via transportation. Note that the further you go out from the Old town the less expensive it is for you (for all my budget wanderers)
FAQ: FIRST TIME VISITOR TO KRAKOW?
How many days should I spend in Krakow?
For a well-rounded experience of Krakow, a 3-day stay is ideal. This allows time to explore the historic Old Town, visit Wawel Castle, stroll through Kazimierz (the Jewish quarter), and take day trips to places like Auschwitz-Birkenau or the Wieliczka Salt Mine. However, if you want to take your time and enjoy a slower pace, you could extend your visit to 4 or 5 days.
Do I need to know Polish to visit Krakow?
No, you don’t need to know Polish to visit Krakow, though knowing a few basic phrases can be helpful and appreciated. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and shops. Signs and menus are often available in English, so communication is easy for most travelers. However, picking up a few common greetings like “Dzień dobry” (Good day) or “Dziękuję” (Thank you) can enhance your experience
Is Krakow walkable?
Yes, Krakow is very walkable! The city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, especially around the Main Market Square (Rynek Główny) and the Old Town. Most of the major attractions, such as Wawel Castle, St. Mary’s Basilica, and the Cloth Hall, are within walking distance of each other. You can comfortably explore on foot, though you can also use trams or buses if you want to venture further out.
Is Krakow solo traveler-friendly?
Absolutely! Krakow is an excellent destination for solo travelers. The city is safe, welcoming, and easy to navigate. You’ll find plenty of guided tours, restaurants with communal seating, and cozy cafes where you can relax and people-watch. Many solo travelers enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere, with a mix of history, culture, and modern attractions. Whether you’re wandering through the historic streets or exploring the quieter areas of Kazimierz, you’ll never feel alone in Krakow.
Which airport is closest to Krakow?
The main airport serving Krakow is John Paul II International Airport Kraków-Balice (KRK), located about 11 km (7 miles) from the city center. It’s the most convenient option for travelers heading to Krakow, with a range of international and domestic flights. You can easily reach the city center by train, bus, or taxi from the airport.
Is Krakow accessible by train?
Yes, Krakow is well-connected by train to other cities in Poland and Europe. The main train station, Kraków Główny, is located near the city center, making it easy to travel to and from Krakow. If you’re coming from other Polish cities like Warsaw, Wrocław, or Gdańsk, you can take a direct train, which is both comfortable and affordable. International trains also connect Krakow to nearby countries such as the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Austria. You can uses PKP Intercity to find trains!
What is the currency of Poland
Zloty! Make sure to pull from an ATM or look into Currency Exchange!
Conclusion
Krakow offers a wide variety of accommodations for every type of traveler, whether you’re looking for luxury, budget options, family-friendly stays, or sustainable accommodations. First-time visitors to the city will be delighted by the wide range of neighborhoods, each offering its own charm and personality. From the historic charm of Old Town to the trendy vibe of Kazimierz, there’s no shortage of fantastic places to stay in Krakow.
No matter where you choose to stay, make sure to book through the links provided for the best deals. Enjoy your trip to Krakow, and make the most of this enchanting city!
Let me know if this post helped you plan your trip to Krakow and if you’d like to connect, reach out to me on Instagram- @kimberlykepharttravels
Pin this for your trip Planning!
