Kraków Poland

Poland was the first stop on my year abroad journey. I was asked to speak at Trablin, a conference for bloggers in Kraków and decided to make this the first stop on my trip. I spent 2 weeks in Kraków, Poland and fell in love with the city. Kraków is located in southern Poland and is known for its well-preserved medieval core and Jewish quarter. The city is charming with quaint restaurants, bars and open markets. Below is info on my favorite place to stay, tours to take and restaurants to dine in.

Hotel: Crawcowdays

I was so lucky to spend my first few nights here because it embodies the charm of Kraków. They sent a driver for me at the airport, welcomed me with homemade honey flavored vodka and bought fresh pastries and bread every morning. I really can’t get over how good the bread is. I think this is the best bread I’ve ever had. I eat a ton of it and don’t feel bloated…winning ! Also, the staff and owner Magdalena are so helpful and lovely to talk to. I’ve had a sit down coffee and chat with all the girls. This isn’t just a hotel, it’s a polish experience. (If you mention my name, you will be given a 10% discount on your stay at Crawcowdays!)

Favorite Restaurants:

Ristorante Sant’ Antioco

This is the best seafood restaurant in Kraków! I was greeted by the owners when I walked in and they made me feel right at home. The atmosphere is cozy and romantic. I had the Tuna sashimi with Sardinian Caviar. The fish was so flavorful and melted in my mouth. For my main course, I had Spaghetti with mussels, clams, shrimp and Sardinian caviar. I literary devoured my plate. The pasta was cooked to perfection and the fish was fresh and savory. Then to top it all off, I had a chocolate liquor shot and a taster dessert plate so I could try all of their options. Why have one when you can try them all…lol! This is a must try on your visit to Krakow. It’s also located in an ideal area on a beautiful street.

Old Town Restaurant And Wine Bar:

Od Jajka Do Jablka:

I think this might be the most unique restaurant, I have ever dined at. You can tell the owner is creative because it has such an artistic vibe. The art pieces are really cool and you can write comments on the wall before you leave. I had a delicious Aperol Spritz cocktail and hummus appetizer. The hummus was fresh and savory. Then I ordered the duck in a peppercorn sauce with gnocchi. This was absolutely delicious. My mouth is watering just thinking about how flavorful the duck was. Everything about this place is lovely and unique, including the lovely owner, Maria.

My Favorite Tours:

– Communism Tour with Crazy Guides was so much fun. They picked us up in a vintage Trabant and drove us to a neighboring town that was the frontier of communist Poland. The groups are small. It was just me and another solo traveler. Our tour guide was so fun and knowledgeable. We also got taken through a typical communist apartment in the 1970s. The tour ended with a shot of vodka and a pickle…true polish style. 

– Free Walking Old Town Tour and Jewish Quarter Tour. This is a great way to see the city.