You might have noticed that I have been making a determined effort to catch up on posts from last year? Our Poland Trip is one that has been lingering for a while, so this week sees it come to life. There will be vlogs over on YouTube (remember to go and subscribe) and short posts here. So sit back, relax and learn about what we got up to in Krakow and Warsaw.
Day 1: arriving and exploring
When we book trips to Europe, we like to get nice early flights so that we have the most of the day to explore once we arrive. It can mean that we have to have a short snooze in the afternoon to catch up, but really does maximise the time you have on your trip.
Our flight from Manchester was at the 7:15am meaning that we arrived in Krakow at 10:55am. This ave us more than enough time for the train to central Krakow and for some exploring before checking into the hotel. Sure we had to lug our bags around with us, but it is a great way to make sure you learn how to pack light.
Train from Krakow Airport to Krakow Glowny
To get to central Krakow, the easiest and cheapest way is to take the train from the airport. Just follow the sign to the platform at the back f the airport. The single tickets are around 12.5 PLZ, which is about £2.67 (it is seriously affordable to travel in Poland!) and only takes around 45 minutes door to door. If you’re anything like me then you’ll enjoy the ride as you’ll be able to take in the scenery and enjoy learning a bit more about the area – like a local rather than a tourist.
Oh and the machines are automated, so you can choose the language that you want. Which makes it easier while you start adjusting to your new (trip) home.
Arriving in Krakow Glowny
One thing that surprised me when we arrived in Krakow Glowny is how you kind of come into a shopping centre. I have never seen a train station arrive so closely into shops before. It can also be a little bit confusing when trying to find your way out! Most of the exits will lead you to signs for getting to the Krakow Glowny building, so you’ll be fine.
Getting your bearings
One of the first things that I like to do when arriving in a new place is to get my bearings by exploring a little bit. I say one of the first things as the other is to find somewhere to picnic. We always like to bring food as it saves having to hunt out somewhere to eat when you could be exploring and finding you way. Plus, it saves a bit of money too.
We decided to make our way to the small square, Magiczny Krakow for a wander and then to the main square in Krakow Old town were we were able to settle down for our lunch. Both of which are easy to find from the station. And remember, if you’re in doubt, pop it into Google Maps in your phone.
To the hotel
After finding our way around we decided to get booked into the hotel, so we could lighten the load a bit. We chose the Hilton Double Tree outside of town as we wanted to get some walking in. Being further out also means you get to see more of the lived in areas. Our hotel was between 2.5 and 3 miles from Old Town Square and took around 45 minutes to get there. We got to see the urban areas, the up and coming places as well as some buildings and areas which were seemingly forgotten. A very interesting way to see the non-touristy part of a city. And something we both thoroughly enjoy! It’s like we live there.
The hotel was great and there was a supermarket behind so we were able to get supplies of soya milk, wine and other goodies too.
Back into town
After a swift nap at the hotel, grabbing supplies and cleaning up a bit, we made our way back into town on the hunt for food and night-time views. All of this was helped along by another Grzaniec in the small square. Incidentally was where we learned our first piece of Polish “Dva Grzaniec, procher”, two hot wines, please!
Having been able to get our bearings during daylight, we were able to get about much more easily after dark. Although it does look much different in the glow of the street lights. We explored until our tummies would let us go no further, which was when I employed the knowledge of Happy Cow to find us somewhere vegan/vegetarian to eat.
Veggie/vegan
Before visiting, I had considered Krakow to be more meat focused, but to our surprise, and delight, there are plenty of vegetarian and vegan restaurants and options in the city. I imagine the large student population helps. And I am glad that they do have so many, we had lots of choice.
Our fist meal was in Vegetable Farm Burgerownia for the most delicious vegan burger and wedges. To be honest, it was one of the first burgers we had during our stay and it was hard to choose the best!
Tummies full, we made our way back to the hotel again to rest up. The Sunday would be mainly taken up with the travel to and from and tour of Auschwiz-Berkinau. Our first day was definitely a success and our Poland trip was off to a good start. I was already enjoying the style of the city, the friendly people and the delicious food and drink.
Oh and if you want to see more from our trip, check out my Day 1 Vlog (and bob over to subscribe to my channel so you don’t miss the others)
Have you taken a Poland trip? Have you been to Krakow? What was your favourite part of it?
Let me know in the comments below.
