Krakow Packing List

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✅ Essentials Checklist

✓Passport (Poland is in Schengen)
✓GHIC card for EU healthcare
✓Travel insurance
✓Cash in Polish Zloty (PLN) — Krakow has many cash-only establishments
✓Comfortable walking shoes — Old Town is cobbled throughout
✓Warm layers for autumn and winter (Krakow can be -10°C in January)
✓Power adapter (Type C — continental European two-pin)
✓Auschwitz-Birkenau visit pre-booked if visiting (essential — free entry but timed slots fill weeks ahead)

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👕 Clothing Checklist

→Summer (Jun–Aug): Light clothing, one warm layer for evenings
→Winter (Nov–Mar): Serious warm coat, thermal layers, gloves, hat, scarf
→Comfortable walking shoes for cobbled streets
→Smart-casual for Kazimierz restaurant scene

⭐ Nice to Have

○Krakow Card for museum entry and trams
○Auschwitz-Birkenau ticket booked weeks in advance (free, timed entry required)
○Wieliczka Salt Mine ticket pre-booked
○Pierogi at Pod Wawelem — reserve in advance

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Krakow cheap for tourists?

Very — one of the cheapest major cities in Europe for British visitors. Restaurant meals, craft beer, taxis and accommodation all cost roughly 30–50% of equivalent London prices. The PLN exchange rate has favoured British tourists for years. A comfortable holiday budget of £50–80 per day covers food, drinks and activities well.

How do you get from Krakow to Auschwitz?

By minibus (PKS bus from Krakow main bus station — 1.5 hours, very cheap), by guided coach tour (booked in Krakow — slightly more but includes a guide), or by train from Kraków Główny to Oświęcim (then walk or taxi). Book your entry ticket at auschwitz.org well in advance — free but timed entry slots fill up weeks ahead.

Do I need to carry cash in Krakow?

More than in Western Europe, yes. While card acceptance has improved significantly, many Kazimierz restaurants, market stalls, tram ticket machines and smaller bars are cash-only or strongly prefer PLN. Withdraw from ATMs on arrival. Avoid currency exchange booths with poor rates — bank ATMs and Revolut/Wise are the best options.

Check the weather and best time to visit before you finalise your Krakow packing list — and see country facts and travel info for entry requirements and local tips.

Not sure which suitcase size or clothing sizes you need? Check 247Sizing's luggage and clothing size guides before you pack.