As one of Poland’s oldest and largest cities, travellers flock to the city of Krakow for its rich history, vivid nightlife, mouthwatering cuisine an incredible architecture. Oh and the fact that all of that comes at a bloody great price!
Krakow is steeped in not only rich history but also folklore and legends. The city is a mosaic of unique architecture with it’s combination of Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque-style buildings. You could spend hours marvelling in the cities structures scattered around its cobbled stones streets.
But it’s a big city and there are tons of neighborhoods to choose from. Deciding where to stay in Krakow can be a daunting task. The best area to stay completely depends on YOU, your travel stuff and of course, your budget.
But never fear! Equipped with this ULTIMATE guide on the best areas to stay in Krakow – you’ll be all ready to book in your stay in no time. Not only will you find the best areas to stay but you’ll discover the top spots to stay and things to do in each area.
Whether you’re looking to dive into Poland’s tumultuous history, feast on the pierogie, or dance the night away at the hottest clubs; this guide will be your guiding light as to the best area for you.
Let’s get right to it. Here are my best top tips for where to stay in Krakow, Poland.
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Krakow. Make sure you come up with a rough Krakow itinerary before you start your travels so you don’t end up stressing about last-minute planning or missing out on the best hotspots!
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Stylish historical loft | Best Airbnb in Krakow
Style, comfort, history, great location, affordable – this Airbnb has it all. Seriously, there are no “but’s” when it comes to this home. The loft has an incredibly original design (check the pictures) while being super centrally located. Literally moments from the market and other cool things to see – there’s no FOMO for you! If you’re visiting the city for the first time, you won’t regret staying here.
INX Design Hotel | Best Hotel in Krakow
INX Design Hotel gets our vote for the best hotel in Krakow. It is ideally located in Kazimierz and is just a short walk from the hottest bars and trendiest restaurants in the city. Comprised of 122 rooms, this hotel has a variety of features, like an airport shuttle, a library and an on-site restaurant.
Woodpecker Hostel | Best Hostel in Krakow
This is our favourite hostel in Krakow because it has an excellent location in Old Town. It is within walking distance of the city’s top sights as well as restaurants, bars and shops. This modern property offers a variety of free things, like coffee/tea, vegetarian breakfast, lockers, and tours.
Need to spend some quality time with fellow backpackers? Get your fix by staying at one of these amazing hostels in Krakow!
Stare Miastro
If you’re visiting Krakow for the first time, there’s no better neighbourhood to stay in than Stare Miastro. Set at the centre of the city, Stare Miasto is the most famous neighbourhood in Krakow.
Ludwinow
This vibrant district is located in central Krakow. It sits on the banks of the Vistula River and offers incredible views of Wawel Castle.
Kazimierz
Just outside of Old Town is the eclectic Kazimierz neighbourhood. Krakow’s former Jewish Quarter, Kazimierz was all but destroyed during WWII. For years, it was one of the poorest and most dangerous areas of the city and was to be avoided by tourists and locals at all costs.
Podgorze
Across the river from Kazimierz is the massive Podgorze district. This is one of the coolest places to stay in Krakow because of its excellent mix of hip restaurants, trendy bars and stylish boutiques.
Kleparz
Kleparz is a laid-back residential neighbourhood situated north of the city centre. It is close enough to Stare Miastro that you can easily enjoy the city’s most famous landmarks, but it is far enough away that you can avoid the throngs of tourists.
Krakow is one of Europe’s most underrated cities. A tumultuous history, delicious restaurants, and plenty of beer, vodka and nightlife, Krakow is absolutely one of Europe’s best-kept secrets.
It is the second largest city in Poland. Krakow covers an area of 327 square kilometres and is divided into 18 diverse districts. To experience the best of Krakow, we recommend you visit at least three or four different neighborhoods based on your interests.
In this Krakow neighborhood guide, we’ll look at the best places in Krakow to stay based on what you want to do.
At the heart of the city is Stare Miastro. This lively district is where you’ll find plenty of history and culture, as well as restaurants, shops and bars. It’s our pick for the best neighborhood to stay in Krakow for sightseeing and exploring.
Set to the north is Kleparz. This is our best recommendation for where to stay in Krakow for families because it’s well connected to the city centre and has lush parks and a relaxed atmosphere.
Travel south from the city centre and you’ll arrive in Kazimierz. Home to the entertainment district, Kazimierz is the best area in Krakow to stay in for nightlife, drinking, dancing and dining.
Ludwinow is a charming district located southwest of Stare Miastro and Kazimierz. It is a vibrant district with incredible views and is packed with affordable accommodation options. Because of this, Ludwinow is our recommendation for where to stay in Krakow for a weekend or one night.
And finally, east of Ludwinow is Podgorze. One of the coolest places to stay in Krakow, Podgorze is a massive district that is home to historical attractions, hip hangouts, mouthwatering restaurants, and trendy bars and clubs.
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Krakow’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Still not sure where to stay in Krakow? Don’t worry! Because, in this next section, we breakdown five of Krakow’s best neighborhoods in detail. Each of them offer some of the best places in Krakow, so if you can, make sure to visit all of them!
1. Stare Miastro – Where to Stay in Krakow for Your First Time
If you’re visiting Krakow for the first time, there’s no better neighborhood to stay in than Stare Miastro. Set at the centre of the city, Stare Miasto is the most famous neighborhood in Krakow. It’s where you’ll find the vast majority of Krakow’s most famous historical, cultural and tourist attractions, and is characterised by its cobblestone streets and elegant architecture.
Once located within the ancient city walls, Stare Miasto is the best neighborhood in Krakow to stay in if you’re looking to dive deep into history. Simply take a walk through the narrow streets and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Stylish historical loft | Best Airbnb in Stare Miastro
Style, comfort, history, great location, affordable – this Airbnb has it all. Seriously, there are no “but’s” when it comes to this home. The loft has an incredibly original design (check the pictures) while being super centrally located. Literally moments from the market and other cool things to see – there’s no FOMO for you! If you’re visiting the city for the first time, you won’t regret staying here.
Hotel Grodek | Best Hotel in Stare Miastro
Hotel Grodek is conveniently located in Old Town, the best neighborhood in Krakow to stay in for sightseeing. You’ll find plenty of historical and cultural attractions nearby and this hotel is a short distance from bars, restaurants and shops. It offers unique and comfortable rooms, free wifi, a sauna, library and terrace.
Hotel Senacki | Best Hotel in Stare Miastro
This four-star hotel is packed with amazing features. It offers a gym, a coffee bar and a laundry service. It is comprised of 20 modern rooms with excellent amenities. Centrally located in Stare Miastro, this is one of the best places in Krakow to stay to see the top sights.
Woodpecker Hostel | Best Hostel in Stare Miastro
This is our favourite hostel in Krakow because it has an excellent location in Old Town. It is within walking distance of the city’s top sights as well as restaurants, bars and shops. This modern property offers a variety of free things, like coffee/tea, vegetarian breakfast, lockers, board games and tours.
Things to See and Do in Stare Miastro
- Browse the Sukiennice, Krakow’s historic Cloth Hall.
- Choose from a wide selection of bottled and draught brews at the House of Beer.
- Delve deep into Polish history at the National Museum.
- Drink cheap vodka and indulge in delicious pierogis at BaniaLuka.
- Explore Main Market Square, the main symbol of Krakow
- Feast on incredible traditional polish cuisine at U Babci Maliny.
- Go for a stroll through lush and scenic Planty Park.
- See the 14th century St. Florian’s Gate.
- Sip cocktails at Paparazzi.
- Visit the historic and stunning Wawel Castle.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Ludwinow – Where to Stay in Krakow on a Budget
This vibrant district is located in central Krakow. It sits on the banks of the Vistula River and offers incredible views of Wawel Castle. It is the best area in Krakow to stay in if you’re looking to be close to the action, but have the opportunity to escape the crowds.
The central neighborhood of Ludwinow is also our pick for Krakow’s best neighborhood if you’re on a budget. Tucked throughout this chic and hip ‘hood is an array of good value and affordable Krakow accommodation options. From backpacker hostels to boutique hotels, there’s something for visitors of all styles in Ludwinow.
Comfy private room | Best Airbnb in Ludwinow
Staying at very cheap places can sometimes be a bit dodgy. But not with this Airbnb. You’ll have a private room in a shared apartment. The whole place is exceptionally clean and beautifully designed. Kitchen and bathroom are shared with the host who’s always ready to give you great recommendations for the area. You’re a bit further outside the city centre but still in short walking distance.
Chilli Hostel | Best Hostel in Ludwinow
This charming hostel is conveniently located in Krakow. It’s a short walk from Old Town and is a stone’s throw from the hottest bars and clubs in Kazimierz. This hostel has spacious dorms with wooden beds and shared bathroom facilities. There’s also free wifi on-site.
Apartment London Krakow | Best Hotel in Ludwinow
Apartment London Krakow is comprised of two spacious apartments. Each is outfitted with a range of excellent amenities and has access to a terrace and a garden. This property is located in Ludwinow and is close to popular tourist attractions, landmarks, bars and clubs.
B&B Hotel Krakow Centrum | Best Hotel in Ludwinow
Set in central Krakow, this is an excellent option for Krakow accommodation if you’re on a budget. It has comfortable, stylish and spacious rooms at an affordable price. You’ll also find Krakow’s major tourist attractions, like Wawel Castle, are just a stone’s throw away.
Things to See and Do in Ludwinow
- Aim for a bullseye at Axe Nation.
- Catch some rays at Krakow’s riverside artificial beach.
- Drink and dance at Forum Przestrizenie, an alternative bar in a cool former communist venue.
- Enjoy a delicious snack from Joker Kebab.
- Excite your sense at Press Café.
- Learn about pinball machines and arcade games at the Krakow Pinball Museum.
- Rent kayaks and glide along the city’s spectacular river.
- Take a trip to nearby Zakrzowek, a fantastic reservoir perfect for swimming, trekking and relaxing.
3. Kazimierz – Where to Stay in Krakow for Nightlife
Just outside of Old Town is the eclectic Kazimierz neighborhood. Krakow’s former Jewish Quarter, Kazimierz was all but destroyed during WWII. For years, it was one of the poorest and most dangerous areas of the city and was to be avoided by tourists and locals at all costs.
Today, thanks to a recent influx of restaurants, bars and clubs, Kazimierz is one of the best places in Krakow to stay for nightlife. It’s within this district that you’ll find the best bars, liveliest clubs and an exciting and energetic atmosphere almost every day of the week. So, if you’re looking for where to stay in Krakow for nightlife, look no further than central Kazimierz.
Small and quiet studio | Best Airbnb in Kazimierz
Silence and comfort – the two things you 100% need after a night out. Make sure to get the best recovery by staying at this cute Airbnb. The loft is cosy, very comfy and in the best area. With pubs, bars and clubs only moments away you can be sure that the night is going to bring great memories. The backyard loft offers a peaceful sleep too.
Green Hostel | Best Hostel in Kazimierz
The Green Hostel offers affordable accommodations in Kazimierz, one of the best areas to stay in Krakow for nightlife. It has private rooms with bathrooms and has an authentic Polish feel. Guests have access to a shared kitchen with free coffee and tea. Wifi and towels and linens are included with each reservation.
INX Design Hotel | Best Hotel in Kazimierz
INX Design Hotel gets our vote for the best hotel in Krakow. It is ideally located in Kazimierz and is close to the hottest bars and trendiest restaurants in the city. Comprised of 122 rooms, this hotel offers a variety of features, like an airport shuttle, library and on-site restaurant.
Hotel Columbus Krakow | Best Hotel in Kazimierz
This centrally located hotel is an excellent base for exploring Krakow. It is close to popular tourist attractions and is within walking distance of restaurants, bars, clubs and shops. This cosy hotel has 24 recently refurbished rooms which are outfitted with modern amenities. There’s also a delicious on-site restaurant that serves breakfast each morning.
Things to See and Do in Kazimierz
- Dance the night away at Cocon, one of the biggest LGBTQ clubs in Poland.
- Dine on tasty Polish dishes at Moment Resto Bar.
- Drink beers at Propaganda.
- Enjoy a night of music and drinks at Le Scandale Garden.
- Grab a quick bite at Hamsa Hummus & Happiness.
- Indulge in modern Polish fare at Plac Nowy
- Satisfy your sweet tooth at Mleczarnia.
- Sip cocktails at Alchemia.
- Sit back and enjoy a few Cuban-style cocktails at La Habana.
- Start your day with a breakfast buffet at Kolanko no 6.
- Visit the Old Synagogue, one of two surviving Gothic synagogues in the world.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Podgorze – Coolest Place to Stay in Krakow
Across the river from Kazimierz is the massive Podgorze district. This is one of the coolest places to stay in Krakow because of its excellent mix of hip restaurants, trendy bars and stylish boutiques. Here you can enjoy everything from a day of shopping to a night on the town at Krakow’s coolest haunts.
This lively and vibrant district is also one of the best areas to stay in Krakow for history buffs. The now popular Podgorze district was the site of the WWII Jewish Ghetto and is where you can find the Oskar Schindler Factory as well as many monuments and historical landmarks.
From history and culture to shopping, dining and beyond, Podgorze is a neighborhood that has it all!
Unique riverside apartment | Best Airbnb in Podgorze
Yeah, the area you’re staying at is super cool, but this Airbnb is even cooler. Just check out the pictures yourself! Its unique design will make you feel welcome as soon as you step in. The apartment is linked to an Art Gallery, which you can always check out. There are new artists almost every day. Bonus: you’ll have a beautiful balcony and two bikes to explore the city.
Automobil Hotel | Best Hotel in Podgorze
Automobil Hotel is a contemporary three-star property set in central Krakow. It has 18 rooms and a variety of features, like luggage storage and a ticket desk. Guests of this hotel will love how close it is to tourist attractions and landmarks, as well as eateries, bistros and bars.
Apartamenty Lila | Best Hotel in Podgorze
This modern property is the perfect home away from home in Krakow. It has comfortable and spacious rooms, a private bath and plenty of features. You’ll have your own kitchenette where you can prepare meals, and there’s also a small seating area. This property is also outfitted with free wifi.
#Lwowska26 Hostel | Best Hostel in Podgorze
This brand new, modern hostel is one of the coolest places to stay in Krakow. It provides comfortable dorm-style accommodations just steps from Krakow’s hippest restaurants, bars and shops. This hostel offers a variety of features, including a large common room with a big screen TV, a full kitchen, and free wifi.
Things to See and Do in Podgorze
- Choose from a vast array of wines at Krako Slow Wines.
- Dance the night away at Drukarnia.
- Dine on delicious Polish home cooking at Bar Mleczny Poludniowy.
- Eat tasty pierogis at Galicja Po Kolei.
- Enjoy the views from the Krakus Mound.
- Feast on traditional Polish dishes at Ogniem i Mieczem.
- Go for a stroll through Bednarski Park.
- Grab drinks at Punkt Docelowy.
- Indulge in great food at Cawa.
- Satiate your appetite at Jadlodajnia.
- See an incredible collection of modern art at MOCAK.
- Take a tour of Oskar Schindler’s Factory.
- Visit Ghetto Heroes Square.
5. Kleparz – Where to Stay in Krakow for Families
Kleparz is a laid-back residential neighborhood situated north of the city centre. It is close enough to Stare Miastro that you can easily enjoy the city’s most famous landmarks, but it is far enough away that you can avoid the throngs of tourists.
This is our number one pick for where to stay in Krakow for families. It has a great selection of lush parks, historic landmarks, cultural icons and delicious restaurants to explore and experience. So, whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it – and more – in vibrant Kleparz.
Keen to try traditional Polish fare? Kleparz is one of the best places to stay in Krakow to indulge in pierogis, herring, and other local delicacies.
Dizzy Daisy Downtown Hostel | Best Hostel in Kleparz
The Dizzy Daisy Downtown Hostel is one of the best places to stay in Krakow for families on a budget. It has spacious private rooms and provides access to a great selection of facilities and features. Just north of downtown, this hostel is close to Stare Miastro and many of Krakow’s best activities and attractions.
Old Time Hotel | Best Hotel in Kleparz
The Old Time Hotel is strategically located in central Krakow. It is comprised of 26 rooms with free wifi, private showers and comfortable settings. There are also several rooms that are perfect for families. Close to the city centre, there are restaurants, shops, bars, and more nearby.
Chic central city apartment | Best Airbnb in Kleparz
This Airbnb has made it to the top on our list. The massive apartment is ideal for families, with a total of 4 beds and a capacity of (max) 7 people. You’ll only find quality amenities, bright rooms and a sparkling clean kitchen. Jan Matejko Square is right outside your door, which is where parades and festivals usually take place. The district is safe, but central – perfect for families.
Red Brick Apartments | Best Hotel in Kleparz
Red Brick Apartments is conveniently located in Krakow. It is within walking distance of Main Market Square and is close to the train station and public transit. Apartments are well-equipped with modern features and are large enough for families. There’s also free wifi.
Things to See and Do in Kleparz
- Excite your senses with fresh flavours at Urban Garden Café Bar & Restaurant.
- Experience a fresh twist on traditional Polish dishes at Glonojad.
- Learn about Krakow history and make your own bagels at the Zywe Muzeum Obwarzanka.
- Sample and snack your way around Stary Kleparz, the oldest and most colourful market in Krakow.
- Sink your teeth into a delicious burger from Farma Burgerownia Roslinna.
- Take a stroll through Park Jalu Kurka.
- Tease your tastebuds at Polonia Restauracja.
- Tour the Barbican, a 15th-century circular fortress.
- Visit the Grunwald Monument.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Krakow
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Krakow and where to stay.
What To Pack For Krakow
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Krakow
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Krakow
Krakow is a lively and vibrant city that is well worth a place on your bucket list. It has a diverse history and unique culture and offers an exciting selection of nightlife, dining and shopping options. So whether you want to delve deep into history or indulge in vodka and pierogies, Krakow has something to satisfy travellers of all tastes, styles AND budgets.
If after reading this guide you’re still not sure which neighborhood is right for you, here is a quick recap of our favourite places:
Woodpecker Hostel in Old Town is our favourite hostel because it has a great location, modern décor, and offers a great selection of free amenities and features.
INX Design Hotel is also a great option because it is within walking distance of trendy bars and popular restaurants, and it has a vast array of features and facilities.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Krakow.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Krakow to plan your trip.
- Planning out an itinerary for Krakow is a great way to maximise your time.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Europe.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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