Krakow is the most popular tourist destination in Poland and the country’s third largest city. From around 1000AD Krakow grew from a small settlement in to a prosperous city and trading centre. The history of the city is littered with the names of conquering armies including the Tatars, Russians, Prussians, Austrians, Transylvanians, Swedes, and the French. In the last century the Nazi German regime took control of the city. Concentration camps were established near Krakow, including Plaszow and Auschwitz. After German withdrawal, the city escaped complete destruction and many buildings were saved.

Krakow like many East European cities is becoming a popular destination for hen and stag weekends, which is perhaps something of a mixed blessing: there are plenty of lively bars and clubs with an increasing number appear to be aiming for stag-night-type entertainment. However Krakow has much more to offer than just a boozy weekend. Krakow's vast main square, Rynek Glowny is the heart of the old town; here you will find a collection of traditional buildings dating predominately from the 13th to 16th centuries. Constantly teeming with life, be it shoppers, tourists, or visitors to local bars and restaurants, this is where most major events take place, from the city festival in June to the Christmas market in December.

While you are here you can visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine, the National Museum, the Old Town and Krakow's Churches, Museum of Jewish History & Culture, Old Synagogue and Wawel Castle to name just a few places of interest. If you have any time left why not take one of the regular shopping tours or muse around the stores in Rynek Glowny square. If you're addicted to shopping, be sure to check out the Royal Way (Florianska - Rynek Glowny - Grodzka) and the streets surrounding Plac Nowy in the Kazimierz district.

Short breaks to Krakow are popular all year round. If you are looking for a cheap weekend in Krakow there are some reasonably priced accommodation, normally to obtain the best prices you should book well in advance, but if you are looking for a last minute weekend break, then either search online by using our search engine above or call Travel Empire. Alternatively if you are looking to treat yourself with a luxury weekend in Krakow, the city has a fair choice of 4 star hotels.

Krakow long weekends or 2 or 3 night holidays are available from major and some regional UK airports. For group bookings (over 9 passengers) or accommodation only bookings please call our travel advisors on the number above for a quote.