The heart of Krynica-Zdrój is undoubtedly the Deptak, which is not only the main pedestrian artery of the resort, but also the place where the cultural and commercial life of the city is concentrated. It is here that you will find the first of our handicraft gems.

Deptak Krynica-Zdrój (Dietl Boulevards, 33-380 Krynica-Zdrój) is a must-visit place while in this charming resort. Walking along the avenue, you will come across numerous stores and stalls offering local products. How to get there? It's easy - the promenade is located in the very center of town and is easily accessible on foot from most hotels and guesthouses. The nearest bus stop is 'Krynica Zdroj Deptak', and for those arriving by car, we recommend parking on Kraszewskiego Street.

One of the most charming places on the Deptak is the store 'Koronka Klockowa Artistic Handicraft' (Nikifor Avenue, 33-380 Krynica-Zdrój). This is a real treasure trove of traditional lace art. The store is open daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (as of December 2023). Stepping inside, one is transported into a world of delicate, intricately crafted lace. The owner, a true enthusiast of her craft, is happy to talk about the techniques and history of block lace. It's the perfect place to purchase a unique souvenir or gift, from small napkins to decorative garments.

Nearby, in one of the side streets diverging from the Deptak, there is an atelier 'Barbara Kudlik Zaaplatane_sznurki' (Tadeusza Kościuszki 1/30, 33-380 Krynica-Zdrój). This is a place where traditional handicraft techniques meet modern design. Ms. Barbara specializes in creating original ornaments and accessories using the macramé technique. Her works are true works of art, which can be a unique decoration for any interior. The studio is open to the public Monday through Friday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm, but it is advisable to make an appointment by phone in advance.

As you stroll further along the Deptak, look out for the numerous booths selling regional products. While not all of them offer handmade products, you will certainly find many interesting souvenirs and local specialties. However, remember to always ask about the origin of the products - true handicraft has its price, but also a unique value.

For those who want to deepen their knowledge of local culture and art, we recommend a visit to the Cultural Center in Krynica-Zdroj (Marszałka Józefa Piłsudskiego 19, 33-380 Krynica-Zdrój). This place often organizes exhibitions and workshops on local handicrafts. It's worth checking the current program of events on their website or at the tourist information desk on the Deptak.

Discovering handicrafts on Krynica's Deptak is not only a shopping opportunity, but above all a fascinating journey through local culture and tradition. Every object here has a story, and every creator - a passion, which he is willing to share with visitors.

Leaving the main Deptak of Krynica-Zdrój, it is worth extending the search for unique handicrafts to the surrounding villages. Not far from Krynica, in the village of Świniarsko, there is a unique workshop 'OGAart-rękodzieło Agata Kotlarz' (Świniarsko 83, 33-395). This is a place where traditional craft techniques are combined with modern design. Ms. Agata specializes in creating original home decorations and accessories, using mainly natural materials.

To reach the OGAart atelier from the center of Krynica-Zdroj, it is best to use a car - the trip will take about 40 minutes. The atelier is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, but due to its location off the main tourist trail, it is recommended to call in advance to confirm your visit. Ms. Agata is eager to share her passion and knowledge, offering not only finished products, but also workshops where you can learn the basics of various handicraft techniques.

Another interesting place, although a bit far from Krynica, is the studio 'Kreski w Kropki | Zaproszenia & Kartki & Dekoracje' (Staszowa 7 b, 34-460 Szczawnica). This charming gallery specializes in handmade invitations, greeting cards and decorations. It's the perfect place for those looking for unique, personalized gifts or original home accessories.

The trip to Szczawnica from Krynica-Zdrój takes about an hour by car. The studio is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, but due to the owner's frequent trips to fairs and events, it is advisable to confirm her availability in advance. A visit to 'Kreski w Kropki' is not only an opportunity to shop, but also to observe the creative process and get inspiration for your own designs.

For those who prefer to stay in Krynica, but want to discover less obvious places, we recommend a visit to the 'Regional Products' store (Al. Krynickiego 9/5, 33-380 Krynica-Zdrój). While it may not be a typical handicraft gallery, you can find many interesting products by local artists. The store is open daily from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm and offers a wide selection of souvenirs, including some handmade items.

Note that many of these smaller studios and galleries often participate in local events and craft fairs. One such place where you can meet makers and their works is the periodic Marketplace in Krynica-Zdroj (Dabrowskiego 2A, 33-380 Krynica-Zdroj). Although it is not a permanent place for the presentation of handicrafts, during the tourist season you can find stands with local products, including handmade souvenirs.

Exploring these unique places is not only an opportunity to purchase unique items, but more importantly a chance to learn about local artists, their passions and the stories behind each handmade piece. It's a journey through the world of creativity and tradition, which allows you to gain a deeper understanding of the region's culture and appreciate the craftsmanship of handicraftsmen.

Krynica-Zdrój and its surroundings offer not only the opportunity to purchase unique handicraft products, but also many inspiring places and events that allow you to dive deeper into the world of folk arts and crafts.

One such place is Mieczyslaw Duket Park (33-380 Krynica-Zdroj), which, although not directly related to handicrafts per se, provides an inspiring backdrop for many outdoor artistic events. The park, renovated in 2019, is a frequent venue for local fairs and handicraft exhibitions. It is an ideal space for strolling and contemplation, and at the same time a spot where you can come across pop-up galleries or booths of folk artists, especially during the summer season.

The park is easily accessible, located in the center of Krynica-Zdroj, near the Deptak. It is open 24 hours a day and admission is free. Note the information boards at the entrance to the park, where information about upcoming cultural events, including those related to handicrafts, is often posted.

For those interested in learning more about the creative process, consider attending workshops organized by local artists. Although there is no fixed location for such meetings, information about them can be found at the Cultural Center in Krynica-Zdroj or on bulletin boards in the town. These workshops cover a variety of techniques, from traditional embroidery to modern forms of handicrafts, and are an excellent opportunity to learn new skills and meet other enthusiasts of this art form.

An interesting place that combines tradition with modernity is the Chocolate Pump Room (Old Spa House, 2 Nowotarski Avenue, 33-380 Krynica-Zdrój). While not a handicraft gallery per se, it often hosts exhibitions by local artists, showcasing their work in a unique setting. It's the perfect place to admire the works of Krynica's artists over a cup of hot chocolate. The Pump Room is open daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm, and admission is free.

For those who want to combine their love of handicrafts with learning about local history and culture, the Nikifor Museum, located on the Deptak, is invaluable. Although the museum focuses on the work of the famous primitive painter, it also holds temporary exhibitions of contemporary folk artists from the region. This is a great opportunity to see how traditional crafts evolve and inspire successive generations of artists.

It's also worth keeping an eye on Krynica-Zdroj's calendar of cultural events, especially during the summer and winter seasons. The town regularly organizes festivals and fairs, during which local artisans showcase their wares. One such event is the annual Christmas Fair, held on the Promenade in December, where you can find unique, handmade Christmas decorations and gifts.

For those planning a longer stay in Krynica-Zdroj and wishing to explore the secrets of local handicrafts, consider attending courses organized by local artists. Information about such opportunities can be obtained from the tourist information desk or the Cultural Center. These courses, lasting from a few days to as much as a week, offer a unique experience of learning traditional craft techniques under the guidance of experienced masters.

Discovering the world of handicrafts in Krynica-Zdroj is not only an opportunity to buy unique souvenirs, but above all an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of local culture and traditions. Each of these places and events offers a unique glimpse of the region's artistic wealth, inspiring one's own creativity and appreciation of the artistry of handwork.