Strolling through a picturesque old town, discovering medieval castles and sampling regional specialties in cafés – sounds like a perfect plan in autumn? For once, we’re not talking about Munich. Because when the days get shorter, it’s time to get out of the city. Krakow is a perfect destination for a short trip from Munich! The Polish city was recently voted the most beautiful old town in Europe by the travel platform Tourlane . No wonder, given its rich history and culture.
The journey from Munich to Krakow is uncomplicated: It takes around one and a half hours by plane and around nine hours by train or car. Krakow is particularly worthwhile for a weekend trip in the fall, as the city is manageable and can be easily explored on foot.
Krakow: the most beautiful old town in Europe
The heart of Krakow is the Main Market Square, one of the largest medieval squares in Europe. Here you will find the famous Cloth Hall with local souvenirs and craft stalls, and there is a lively hustle and bustle everywhere. Numerous concerts and events make the square the center of the action. There is always something going on here!
From there, you can quickly reach St. Mary’s Church, a landmark of the Old Town and a must-see on a trip to Krakow. On the way to Wawel Castle, you can stroll through small streets full of cafés and perhaps even discover one or two film locations. Krakow has been the location for many important films, such as Steven Spielberg’s “Schindler’s List”. Today, the Schindler Museum can be visited in the surrounding area.
A city full of architectural treasures
The famous 14th-century Wawel Castle is located on a hill and offers a magnificent view over the Vistula and the city. We recommend booking tickets early to visit the castle rooms, as they are in high demand. Polish kings were once crowned and buried here. This is why Krakow is also known as the “Royal City”.
Krakow is one of the oldest cities in Poland and was first mentioned in 965. The old town presents architecture ranging from Romanesque to Baroque and Gothic – which is fortunate, as Krakow remained largely undestroyed during the Second World War and is home to many centuries of architecture.
Krakow was even the capital of Poland until 1596. You can still feel the special atmosphere in the city, which was once a political center. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1978 and offers an unforgettable mix of culture and history. If you’re looking for an unforgettable excursion from Munich, you’ll find it here!