Where to live in Krakow? Best Neighborhoods in Krakow
STARE MIASTO
Krakow’s historic city center, Stare Miasto, is an outdoors museum and Rynek Główny (Europe’s largest square) is the entrance. The mesmerizing old town, Vistula river, and the beautiful Wawel Royal Castle take you to the fairytale you always wanted to live. Strolling through Stare Miasto you will find yourself surrounded by buildings and monuments of astonishing beauty, well-preserved after surviving the bombing of WWII. There are so many things to do and see in this district and it is safe to say that none of them should escape your sight. Must-sees include Sukiennice, a Renaissance-era market hall and one of the biggest in the world, St Mary’s Gothic style Basilica and the commercial street of Florianska (known also as royal street). After exploring everything Stare Miasto has to offer, take a rewarding walk at the gigantic park of Planty Krakowskie that is set all around the city center!
KAZIMIERZ
Kazimierz district, located southeast of the Old Town, used to house the Polish Jewish Community for centuries. And even though not many Jews live there anymore, the evidence of the once Jewish presence is still very visible. A visit at the old Synagogue and the Galicia Jewish Museum can bring to life unpleasant yet era-defining memories. From the early 90s Kazimierz has been transformed into Krakow’s trendiest neighborhood, with a vibrant night scene and a variety of urban restaurants and bars. While you’re there, don’t miss on trying the delicious, local, Zapiekanki; it looks like a pizza but it’s actually an open baguette with all kinds of toppings to choose from. Lastly, you should save your Saturday for a pleasant stroll through Plac Nowy’s unique, open market!
STARE PODGORZE
Across the river from Kazimierz sets the enormous Podgorze district, one of the most interesting places to live in Krakow! It is a perfect cocktail of hipster restaurants, pop bars and edgy boutiques. The now up-and-coming Podgorze holds a strong historical and cultural background as it used to be a Jewish Ghetto during WWII; you can get a glimpse just by walking at the Ghetto Heroes Square. Moreover, it is home to Oskar’s Schindler’s famous Enamel Factory, St Joseph’s emblematic church and MOCAK, Krakow’s Modern Art Museum. While you’re there, make sure to dedicate some sunset-watching time and admire the city from Krakus Mound!
KLEPARZ
Kleparz is a quiet neighborhood, with noticeable art nouveau architecture, situated just north of the city center. Its proximity to Stare Miasto gives you access to all of the important landmarks whilst allowing you to stay far enough from tourist crowds. The low rents alongside the many University Campuses all around is why young people and students chose it for their stay. If you are up for some exploration around Poland or Central Europe, you’ll find the train station nearby very convenient! While you are there you should pay a visit to the Stary Kleparz, one of the oldest bazaars in Krakow as well as St. Florian’s beautiful Church. Very close you’ll also find one of the biggest shopping centers, Galeria Krakowska!
GRZEGÓRZKI
Grzegórzki is a budget-friendly, student neighborhood with excellent transport links to the city center. It is located on the east side of Stare Miasto and is commonly known for offering a great selection of local restaurants, bars and landmarks. Highlights include the spectacular Krakow Opera house, where you can enjoy a world-class performance, and the Botanical Garden of Jagiellonian University, for a lovely afternoon walk. Don’t forget to go on a Sunday stroll at Hala Targowa, the busiest flea market in the city; you’ll be impressed by the vintage treasures waiting to be discovered!
LUDWINOW
Ludwinow is a lively district set on the banks of the Vistula river, providing visitors with stunning views of Wawel Castle. Its hipster-chill vibe in addition to the budget-friendly prices makes it ideal for students and international interns, who want to distance themselves from the buzzing city center but don’t want to miss out on the action! This neighborhood could easily be described as Peter Pan’s “Neverland” due to its “forever young” spirit; it’s all fun and games, literally! If you’re looking for exciting things to do you should try axe throwing at Axe Nation or visit Krakow’s Pinball Museum and try out some classic arcade games. To make the most out of the privileged, riverside location we recommend a relaxing day on the artificial beach and, why not, kayaking or renting a boat for a full exploration of the river.
