Places of Interest in Krakow
Rynek GÅ‚ówny (Main Square)
The Rynek GÅ‚ówny is the pulsating heart of Krakow and it dates back to the 13th century. It's know as the largest medieval square in Europe
Wawel Castle
Wawel Castle was built on a hill on the left bank of the Vistula River in Renaissance style. Since 2012, Leonardo da Vinci's painting "Lady with an Ermine" has been on display here. The interior of the palace complex is open for visits to the Royal Apartments, the Royal Halls of State, the Crown Treasury and Armory exhibition, and the Oriental Art Hall.
Krakow Underground Museum
The Krakow Underground Museum, near the Main Market Square, features interactive installations and archaeological remains. Here, you can discover the first urban settlements in this area and the tools used in the medieval construction of the square.
St. Mary's Basilica
A 14th-century Gothic cathedral, and the most renowned church in the city. The altar is an authentic work of art, the largest in Europe carved in the Gothic style, and the stained-glass windows are truly breathtaking. The "hejnal," a trumpet melody played every hour from the tallest tower, Hejnalica, is a notable feature. As Krakow was the Royal City of Poland, the tower is symbolically adorned with a crown.
ŹródeÅ‚ko – Dragon's Cave
The Dragon's Cave, known as ŹródeÅ‚ko in Polish, is located on Wawel Hill, with an imposing statue of the mythical fire-spewing creature at the entrance. Here, the legend of the humble cobbler who, thanks to his cunning, managed to kill the feared monster and save the city's fate, prevails.
Other Places Near Krakow
Auschwitz-Birkenau
Auschwitz is a solemn memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. Established by the Nazis in 1940, it witnessed unimaginable suffering. Preserved structures stand quietly, urging visitors to reflect on the past. Now a memorial, Auschwitz gently encourages remembrance and understanding, emphasizing the importance of compassion to build a more tolerant world.
Distance from Krakow - 70km (1h10 by car)
Tatra Mountains
Welcome to the Tatra Mountains, a stunning alpine escape on the Poland-Slovakia border. With towering peaks and crystal-clear lakes, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is a haven for nature lovers. Explore well-marked trails, encounter unique wildlife, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of these majestic mountains.
Distance from Krakow - 159km (2h50 by car)
Wieliczka Salt Mines
Dating back to the 13th century, these mines boast a rich history intertwined with exquisite artistry. Marvel at the salt-carved chambers, intricate chapels, and statues, showcasing the incredible talents of generations past. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Wieliczka Salt Mines invite you to explore the depths of this subterranean elegance, where each corridor tells a story of creativity and resilience.
Distance from Krakow - 13km (20min by car)
Useful Information
Krakow in numbers
Area: 326 ,8 km²
Population: 800 653
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Language
Polish is the official language, however English is widely (and fluently) spoken in central Krakow.
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Currency
Although Poland is in the European Union, the country uses its own currency – the ZÅ‚oty (PLN) instead of the Euro (EUR). All variations on Visa and Mastercard debit and credit cards are almost universally accepted in the city. Other cards, such as American Express are less widely accepted.
Cash machines don’t usually carry a usage fee, especially the ones of the main banks. Euronet-branded ATMs should be avoid, as their fees can be punitive.
Banks are typically open Monday to Friday between 8am and 5pm.
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Time
Poland observes CET (Central European Time / UTC +1) from late September to late March and CEST (Central European Summer
Time / UTC +2) from late March to late September – the precise dates change each year.
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Climate in Krakow
Kraków has a narrow temperature range which makes it reasonably comfortable all-year round.
September temperatures in Krakow:
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Average high: 19°C / 66°F
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Average low: 9°C / 48°F
Krakow is still relatively warm in September but there may be a slight chill in the evenings, and the days are definitely getting shorter. You should start to feel the change of season. Summer can be wet but this month sees a slight drop in rainfall.
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Visa Information
EU citizens can travel for as long as they like in Poland without a visa. Delegates travelling to Krakow from outside the EU must ensure that they have the proper documentation before departure. Visa letters are available through the Congress Secretariat.
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VAT – Value Added Tax
VAT is included in the price of almost every product and service purchased. VAT in Krakow is currently 23%. VAT is included in all Congress fees. As a participant in the ESE Autumn Meeting 2024 you may have the possibility – under certain conditions – to recover the VAT paid on certain types of expenses incurred. This may apply to both non- European business travellers visiting Europe. For further information, please contact Customs and Excise on departure at the airport.
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Tipping
Is usual to tip (max 10%) in restaurants only in case of a good service. It is not mandatory to give a tip to taxi drivers.
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Shopping and Business Hours
Most shops will be open 9am-6pm Monday-Friday, and 10am-2pm on Saturdays. Many shops will be closed on Sundays and key public holidays.
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted inside trains, trams, buses and other forms of public transport. People are allowed to smoke outside. Smoking is not permitted inside the conference building.
Emergency contacts
General emergency number for police, ambulance and fire department: 112.
Electricity
The voltage used is 230 Volts. Electric appliances have standard European plug with two round shape metal poles.
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Telephone
The telephone prefix for calling Poland from other countries is: +48.
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