Where to stay in Krakow: best areas and neighborhoods

Krakow is one of the most beautiful cities in Poland. With its large central square, its characteristic streets and the many things to do and see, it is the perfect destination for a weekend, for families with children, couples or groups of friends! In addition, it is a really cheap destination, with a cost of living much lower than in Italy, so it will not be difficult to find an affordable accommodation in the centre, the best area to stay.

Ready to take off? Let's discover together where to sleep in Krakow: tips and best neighbourhoods to stay.

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In a hurry? Here's our recommended accommodation

Useful tips: the best neighborhoods to stay in Krakow

Foto di wheresleep.

Not recommended areas: Nowa Huta, a district in the western outskirts of Krakow. It is located quite far from the historic center, also in the late evening, it is better to stay in the few more touristy streets, without venturing into the lesser known areas.

Krakow is a pretty small city, where it's very easy to get around on foot, walking through the streets. Moreover, it is an economic destination, where you will find a lot of deals.

For these reasons, the best area to stay is the historic centre. The most central districts are Stare Miasto and Kazimierz. Here you can find many hostels, apartments and hotels, you are close to all attractions and in the evening, there is no lack of nightlife! It is therefore an area suitable especially for young people.

Just outside the historic centre, a great neighbourhood to stay is Kleparz, north of the center, a residential and very quiet neighborhood, therefore ideal for families. Here you are less than 2 km from the central square of Rynek Główny, which you can reach with a 20 min walk or by trams 3 or 18. In this neighbourhood, moreover, you can find the central train station Kraków Główny, ideal for getting around and exploring the surroundings or arriving at the airport.

Best accommodation: we have selected the best hotels, B&Bs and hostels in Krakow. Check out our recommendations and make your reservation on Booking

Old Town / Stare Miasto and Kazimierz: Best for First Timers

• Pros: Central location, close to all main attractions, lively atmosphere, rich history and culture.
• Cons: Can be crowded and noisy, more expensive accommodations.
• Main attractions: Main Market Square, St. Mary's Basilica, Wawel Castle, Planty Park, Cloth Hall, Kazimierz Jewish Quarter.
• Average prices: from €60,00 per night - Find top stays on Booking

Recommended accommodation

The historic center is called Stare Miasto, which also includes the Kazimierz area. Clean, safe and with all the main attractions, this is the best area to stay in. Ideal for families, couples, teens and any type of traveler, you will find everything here for sure!

As already mentioned, the cost of living in Poland is very cheap, so even in the center you will find many affordable solutions, suitable for all budgets: from hostels for young people and backpackers, very clean and well organized, to apartments for more independence, up to luxury hotels with wonderful views over the city! We recommend you to stay here, as it allows you to walk all over the historic center and move easily.

Average prices in the neighborhood range from about €60,00 for low-cost accommodation to €120,00 for more expensive options - compare the best accommodation on Booking

North Area / Kleparz: Best for Families

• Pros: Affordable accommodation, quieter than the Old Town, well-connected by public transport.
• Cons: Slightly less touristy, fewer historic sights.
• Main attractions: St. Florian's Gate, Kraków Barbican, Nowy Kleparz Market, Czartoryski Museum.
• Average prices: from €55,00 per night - Find top stays on Booking

Recommended accommodation

To the north of the historic centre there is the district of Kleparz, a comfortable and ideal residential area for families. This area is quieter, as the nightlife is concentrated mainly in the historic centre.

In addition, the central square is only 20 min on foot, alternatively you can use public transport, especially trams.
The Kraków Główny central train station is also located in this district, which is convenient for arriving from the airport and for getting around the surroundings. Here you can also find several family-friendly accommodations with larger rooms at optimal prices!

Average prices in the neighborhood start from about €55,00 - compare the best accommodation on Booking

Southhern Area / Podgorze: for Authentic Polish Vibes

• Pros: Hipster vibe, historical significance, artistic atmosphere, great cafes and bars.
• Cons: Slightly farther from the Old Town, still developing for tourists.
• Main attractions: Schindler’s Factory, Ghetto Heroes Square, Krakus Mound, MOCAK Museum of Contemporary Art.
• Average prices: from €55,00 per night - Find top stays on Booking

Recommended accommodation

Just outside the Old Town, in the southern part of the city, you can find the Podgorze district. This is the old and authentic Jewish ghetto, which was created by the Nazis in 1941. In recent years it has undergone a redevelopment and now you can find several hotels and accommodations of all kinds. It is an ideal place for those looking for tranquility and an authentic experience.

Although it is located a little far away from the historic centre, reaching it will not be a problem thanks to the efficient public transport system. There are numerous trams that connect these two areas. Also, here you will find the famous Schindler's Factory, a must-see on a trip to Krakow.

Average prices in the neighborhood range from about €55,00 for low-cost accommodation to €100,00 for more expensive options - compare the best accommodation on Booking

Places to stay near Krakow

Foto di wheresleep. Given the many opportunities for accommodation at very affordable prices, and the presence of the international airport, it is not recommende to stay in other towns. As it is a big centre, it is easier to find connections or agencies that organize day trips. From this point of view, Krakow is also the perfect base for exploring southern Poland, with day trips to the Wielizcka salt mines and the Auschwitz concentration camp.

In the Christmas period, two alternatives can be Wroclaw, very characteristic in this period, and Zakopane, the main destination in Poland for skiing and winter sports in general.

• Wroclaw (254 km / 3 hours): on the banks of the Oder River, small and fairy-tale like, with pastel-colored houses and lots of metal gnomes popping up here and there, in the corners of the city. Bus Lajkonik (departure 6:00 a.m., arrival 10:00 a.m.) or Link-Bus (departure 6:10 a.m., arrival 9:10 a.m.) - Hotel and b&b from €45,00 per room
• Zakopane (95 km / 2 hours): winter capital of Poland, located in the Tatra mountains near the border with Slovakia. It has ski facilities suitable for all skiers. Direct train Zakopane-Crakow (2h, from €16,00) - Hotels and b&b from €75,00 per room

If you are in Krakow for business or as a one-day stopover to other destinations, consider sleeping near the airport. Find the best solutions and selected hotels on Booking.com

Krakow accommodation price map

Booking.com

Guide to the areas of Krakow

Foto di wheresleep. Krakow is not a very large city. In fact, you can move easily on foot throughout the historic centre.

Divided into several historical districts, the one with the greatest tourist interest and a wide range of tourist offerings is the Old Town, or the historic centre, with the districts of Stare Miasto and Kazimierz. There are the main attractions such as the central square Kraków Główny and the Wawel Castle.

To the north of the historic centre there is the district of Kleparz, a residential area ideal for families because it is very quiet and in a great location, between the Old Town and the train station. We also recommend the Podgorze district, south of the Old Town, for those looking for an authentic stay! There are also other neighbourhoods more peripheral, but where it makes no sense to stay, as in the center you can find great solutions, starting from only €15,00.

Cool Things to Do in Krakow

• Join a free walking tour: The best way to explore Krakow’s Old Town and Jewish Quarter with a local guide. Check availability here.
• Visit Wawel Castle: One of the most important landmarks in Poland, featuring royal chambers, the cathedral, and stunning views over the Vistula River. More info Here.
• Day trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau: A moving experience to understand the history of WWII. Tours include transportation and guides. Book your tour here.
• Explore Wieliczka Salt Mine: A UNESCO-listed underground world with salt sculptures, tunnels, and chapels. Get your ticket online.
• Experience Krakow’s nightlife in Kazimierz: Discover the best bars, clubs, and live music in the old Jewish Quarter.
• Cruise along the Vistula River: Take a sunset cruise for a unique view of the city from the water.
• Eat traditional Polish food: Try pierogi (dumplings), zapiekanka (Polish pizza bread), and obwarzanek (Krakow bagel) at local markets.
• Climb Kościuszko Mound: Enjoy panoramic views of Krakow from this historical landmark.

Travel Tips for Krakow

• Public Transport: Krakow has an efficient tram and bus system. A 24-hour ticket is the best option if you plan to explore beyond the Old Town.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Winter is magical with Christmas markets!
• Cash or Card?: Most places accept credit cards, but some smaller shops and markets prefer cash (Polish złoty).
• Language: English is spoken in touristic areas, but learning a few Polish phrases like Dziękuję (Thank you) helps!
• Where to Find Cheap Eats: Head to Milk Bars (Bar Mleczny) for authentic, budget-friendly Polish food.
• Avoid Tourist Traps: Restaurants near Main Market Square tend to be overpriced; explore Kazimierz or Podgórze for better deals.
• Tap Water: Safe to drink! Bring a refillable bottle to save money.

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