Ask a Pole about which city a visitor should visit, and he will no doubt say Krakow. Unique to all of Poland, while at the same time at the pinnacle of Polish culture and heritage, Krakow enchants visitors from the moment they arrive.
Krakow was the Capital of Poland until the end of the 16th century. During its 500-year reign, Krakow accumulated the most eclectic, romantic, and outright beautiful architecture in Europe. Many people assume that the best European cities to visit are the capitals. While Krakow avoids the political and industrial scene, it also avoids the crime and poverty that can plague capital cities. It is, however, unquestionably the Polish capital of culture, a mark confirmed by its 2000 status as a European City of Culture.
Krakow wins people over with its laid-back old-world mentality. Thanks to a surprise appearance by the Red Army at the end of World War II, Krakow escaped the Reich's plan for calculated destruction. Look carefully at those buildings in the square. An examination of the doorways and arches will reveal their true 800 year-old history.
There always seems to be something else to explore. There are over 40 churches alone in the city center, ancient fortifications, and the Wawel Castle, often described as the personification of Poland.
Most people begin their visit in the "rynek". As the largest city square in Europe, the rynek is always full of activities. Poles and visitors alike wander the shady cafes, visit the 13th century market place, buy flowers, watch the street performers, and simply stroll around.
Dozens of Museums await discovery in one of the largest University cities in Europe.
Hundreds of cafes and restaurants open early and serve late, so no one needs to worry about an empty stomach.
Today Krakow bustles with commerce. Every shop overflows with products and allows for a shopper's paradise, and all at prices much lower than at home. During summer months the rynek becomes an open market place for antiques and pre-capitalist curiosities.
While Krakow alone could consume an entire vacation, it also serves as a perfect base for many day trips and excursions. North of Krakow is Skala National Park, a terrific place to take in the natural beauty of the area. To the south is mountain city Zakopane, a prime destination for skiing in the winter, and a busy place for hiking in the summer. An hour away lies the city of Czestohowa, the location of the Black Madonna and destination of countless pilgrimages from around the world.
Many people, however, simply become enchanted with Krakow's romantic streets and atmosphere. They shouldn't worry, though. Slow and easy: that's the Cracovian way.
