༻ ༺
Kraków has a ton of attractions and is only a 20 minute drive from Wieliczka, so we recommend staying there for a few days to explore! It is a major tourist destination and Poland's cultural capital. Among the most prominent sights are Market Square, Old Town and Wawel Castle. It could also be a good base for a day trip.
༻ ༺
Wawel Castle - built on the orders of King Casimir III the Great, this castle has been the residence of the kings of Poland for centuries. Now, it is one of the country's premier art museums. Pieskowa Skała - a renaissance castle located on a limestone cliff in the valley of Prądnik River. It was built in the first half of the 14th century. The Royal Castle in Niepołomice - this gothic castle in Niepołomice was built in the 14th century and then rebuilt in the 16th century. This huge building called 'the second Wawel' was the residence of most Polish kings and queens, and it is known for its Italian gardens. The Ogrodzieniec Castle - built in the 11th century, this castle is an example of incredible medieval architecture.
༻ ༺
Ojców National Park can be found just 20 minutes by car outside of Kraków. There are many walking and cycling trails, traditional country taverns, and haunted (allegedly) castle ruins.
༻ ༺
Just about an hour away from Krakow is the beautiful city of Tarnów. It has an extremely well-preserved Old Town that wasn't destroyed in WWII, one of the prettiest market squares in lesser Poland, and unique buildings. It also has a rich Jewish history. Make sure you see the Old Synagogue Bimah, Strzelecki Park, and Tarnów Cathedral if you're visiting
༻ ༺
About a 2 hour train ride from Krakow, Zakopane is a popular destination located in the southern mountain region near Poland's border with Slovakia, in a valley between the Tatra Mountains and Gubałówka Hill. It is a cute town with lots of shopping and restaurants, along with hiking trails and a cable car that can bring you to the top of Mt Kasprowy Wierc for some amazing views!