Often called the unofficial capital of Poland, Krakow is a city that blends centuries of history with modern charm. From its well-preserved medieval Old Town and historic Jewish Quarter to cozy brunch spots and vibrant nightlife, Krakow – one of Poland’s oldest cities – is the ideal destination for a 72-hour European getaway that’s both affordable and unforgettable.

Getting to Krakow from Vienna is easy and eco-friendly, with direct trains between the two cities taking less than six hours. Alternatively, the city also has an international airport served by many major airlines. Getting around in Krakow is easy too. Thanks to its compact size, the city is very walkable, though buses and trams are also available for less than a Euro per ride. As we stayed in a centrally located Airbnb in the heart of the Old Town, it was easy to explore everything on foot.

Day I

Start your day with brunch at Las, a stylish café known for its cozy vibe and delicious menu that sets you up for a full day of walking. Join a free walking tour of Krakow’s historic center. A must for first-time visitors, the tour covers all the main landmarks in just a few hours – from St. Florian’s Gate, The Cloth Hall, and Rynek Główny (Main Market Square), to St. Mary’s Basilica and The Barbican.

After the tour, explore on your own. Take a leisurely stroll through Planty Park, the leafy green belt that surrounds the historic Old Town, and head up to Wawel Royal Castle. Explore the castle grounds and enjoy panoramic views over the city and the Vistula River. You don’t need to enter the museum, walking the castle complex is impressive enough.

Hungry? Eat your first pierogi at Zielony Kredens. Try the classic potato and cheese dumplings, or go adventurous with meat or mushroom fillings. Don’t forget to order a glass of traditional “compote”, a sweet fruit drink that’s a Polish staple.

Craving a creative cocktail between sights? Stop by Bubble Toast for ultra-Instagrammable drinks in a playful, neon-lit setting and later head to Busz, a local favorite with a laid-back atmosphere and great drinks to start your night. End at Wodka Bar, where you can sample a flight of flavored vodkas in this cozy, intimate spot that feels more like someone’s living room than a tourist bar.

Day II

Start your morning at Wesoła Cafe. This bright and popular café serves fresh coffee, homemade cakes, and one of the best brunch menus in Krakow. But make sure to grab a table early as it gets busy and fills up fast.

Spend the rest of the day visiting Auschwitz. Given Krakow’s location, it’s possible to join a half- or full-day guided tour to Auschwitz-Birkenau. It’s an essential, if heartbreaking experience that offers a deeper understanding of one of the darkest chapters of WWII.

Back in Krakow, head to Kluska na Placu for dinner. This modern-yet-traditional restaurant serves hearty Polish fare, including delicious Silesian dumplings. For today’s night out, begin at SOUR, a creative cocktail bar where you can customize your own gin sour. End the night at Puszka Pandory. This tiny, tucked-away cocktail bar with candlelit tables, moody ambiance, serves some of the best mixology in town.

Day III

With the Old Town already explored, start your last day in Kazimierz, Krakow’s former Jewish Quarter and now one of its most vibrant neighborhoods, known for its unique mix of history, culture, and nightlife.

Book a brunch table at HEVRE. Located in a repurposed synagogue, this café-bar combo serves everything from coffee to cocktails under stained-glass windows and soaring ceilings. Spend the afternoon exploring Kazimierz on foot. Visit Remuh Synagogue and Cemetery, walk through Plac Nowy, the district’s social hub and pop into vintage shops, local art galleries, and hidden courtyards in the neighbourhood.

Wrap up your 72 hours in Krakow with a casual bite at Judah Food Market or Stara Zajezdnia. Both offer outdoor stalls that are perfect for one last round of street food and snacks before you leave. Still have time left in the evening? End at Multi Qlti Tap Bar, an artsy, mural-covered bar serving a rotating selection of local craft beers, and fast-food bites if you’re still hungry.