In many European cities, prices are increasing, leading to overcrowding and anti-tourism protests in popular city break destinations. As a result, travelers are seeking more affordable options for short getaways.
Poland, particularly Krakow, is a top choice for budget-conscious travelers looking for cheap city breaks. Krakow, Poland’s second city, offers a perfect mix of charming cobbled streets, cost-effective dining and drinking options, and a wealth of historical and cultural attractions.
To determine if Krakow is indeed the most economical city break, I recently visited in September, post-school holidays, to assess prices during the shoulder season. With pleasant temperatures around 26°C early in the month, it was an ideal time to explore. Despite being relatively busy, Krakow was not as overcrowded as other destinations during this period, and there were still outdoor events happening in the main square in the evenings.
For travelers looking for cost-effective flights, various budget-friendly options are available, including direct routes from Jet2, easyJet, Ryanair, and Wizz Air, with flight durations just over two hours. During my search, I found Ryanair fares starting from £19.99 each way, excluding additional baggage fees.
During my stay, I lodged at the recently opened TRIBE hotel in Krakow, conveniently located a short walk from St. Florian’s Gate, the entrance to the historic old town. This four-star hotel offers rooms starting at £57 per night and boasts modern amenities and a strategic tram stop nearby, facilitating easy exploration of the city.
Public transportation in Krakow is affordable, efficient, and clean, making it easy to navigate the city without spending a fortune. Traveling from the airport to the city center takes under 30 minutes by train, costing just 13PLN (approximately £2.67). Additionally, the city’s compact layout allows for convenient exploration on foot or by tram, with short journeys costing around £0.50.
In terms of attractions, Krakow offers a mix of affordable and worthwhile experiences. The Czartoryski Museum, though relatively pricier with an entrance fee of nearly £13, houses significant artworks, including an original Rembrandt and Leonardo da Vinci’s “Lady with an Ermine.” For those interested in day trips, the Wieliczka Salt Mine, featuring stunning underground chapels and sculptures, offers tickets starting from 143 PLN (around £30).
Visitors keen on historical sites like Auschwitz can opt for guided tours at varying costs, with full-day packages starting from £60-80. Alternatively, independent exploration is possible by taking the train and entering for free, although guided tours with educators, priced at 130PLN (around £26.63), offer deeper insights into the site’s history.
For those with limited time, Melex tours provide efficient sightseeing experiences in electric golf carts, covering key landmarks such as the Cloth Hall and Town Hall Tower, with guided tours starting from £10.
Food and drink prices in Krakow are generally reasonable, offering a variety of dining options at affordable rates. Local specialties like pierogi can be enjoyed for less than £10, while convenience stores like Zabka provide quick lunch options for around £2.50. Beer prices are relatively inexpensive, with pints averaging around £3, though prices may vary in tourist-heavy areas.
While some prices in Krakow may not be rock bottom, the overall value for money, especially concerning food, drinks, and transportation, is commendable compared to other European destinations. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply enjoy exploring beautiful cities, Krakow presents a compelling choice for a weekend getaway.
