Krakow
Krakow is Poland’s cultural gem, is a city that effortlessly weaves together centuries of history, stunning architecture, and vibrant energy. At the heart of Krakow lies the iconic Wawel Castle, a symbol of royal splendor and architectural mastery, overlooking the picturesque Vistula River. The city’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, captivates visitors with its cobblestone streets, medieval churches, and the magnificent Rynek Glowny, Europe’s largest medieval market square, where the Cloth Hall stands proudly as a testament to Krakow’s mercantile past.
Families visiting Krakow can explore the interactive exhibits at the Rynek Underground Museum, delving into the city’s archaeological treasures beneath the market square. For a touch of whimsy, a visit to the Wawel Dragon’s Den at the foot of Wawel Hill promises delight as children marvel at the legendary fire-breathing creature.
Beyond its historic charm, Krakow offers a plethora of family-friendly activities, from horse-drawn carriage rides through the Old Town to boat trips along the Vistula River. Nature enthusiasts can escape to the lush greenery of Planty Park or embark on a day trip to the breathtaking Tatra Mountains.
No visit to Krakow is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. Families can savor traditional Polish dishes such as pierogi (dumplings), zapiekanka (open-faced sandwiches), and oscypek (smoked cheese), while satisfying their sweet tooth with delicacies like obwarzanek krakowski (Krakow bagels) and szarlotka (apple pie). With its rich history, diverse attractions, and mouthwatering cuisine, Krakow offers an unforgettable experience for families seeking adventure and culture alike.
Travelling to Krakow by Ferry from the UK
There are currently no ferries sailing between the UK and Poland
However, you can still reach Poland by ferry using either our Newcastle to Amsterdam or Hull to Rotterdam routes and continue to enjoy safe and relaxing ferry travel to mainland Europe.
Why not have a look at our Holland or Germany Destination Guides for inspiration on places to see and do while making your road trip.
Travelling to Krakow by Ferry from Europe
The closest ferry port to Krakow is Gdynia Ferry Terminal. This ferry terminal is approximately 620 km away (186 miles) which would be a pleasant drive allowing you to explore the Polish countryside, taking around 7 hours.
If your traveling to Poland, you can currently sail directly from Sweden using Stena Line.
If you are sailing from Poland to Sweden, you can take the Karlskrona to Gdynia route. Sailing onboard the Stena Ebba, Stena Estelle or Stena Spirit. The crossing takes 9 hours and 30 minutes, with three crossings daily.