Flavors of Cracow: a weekend full of refined cuisine

Flavors of Cracow: a weekend full of refined cuisine

June 11, 2025

Cracow, Poland's second-largest city, offers an extraordinary combination of historical heritage, vibrant culture and refined cuisine. It's the perfect destination for a luxurious weekend where you can immerse yourself in the atmosphere of medieval streets, discover fascinating legends and savor exceptional flavors in top restaurants. The city, which for centuries was the seat of Polish kings, today delights not only with its UNESCO-listed monuments, but also with its rich culinary offer, combining traditional Polish flavors with modern gastronomic trends. Join us for a three-day journey through the royal city, where history intertwines with luxury, and every meal becomes an unforgettable experience.

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Day one: Historical heart of the city and royal feasts

The first day of a luxury weekend in Krakow should start with exploring the historic center of the city. The Main Square, founded in the 13th century, is one of the largest medieval squares in Europe and is an excellent starting point. Strolling through the cobblestone streets, you can admire the majestic St. Mary's Basilica, from which the famous bugle call is sounded every hour. According to legend, the tune breaks off suddenly in memory of a trumpeter who was hit by a Tartar arrow when he warned the city of an invasion. This story is just one of the many fascinating tales that Krakow hides.

After visiting the Cloth Hall, where you can purchase traditional Polish handicrafts, head toward Wawel Castle. This impressive castle complex, built on a limestone hill, was for centuries the seat of Polish monarchs. While visiting the royal chambers, you can admire the priceless Flemish tapestries, and in Wawel Cathedral - the place where Polish rulers were crowned and buried - see the famous Sigismund Bell, which rings only during the most important state and religious ceremonies.

Beneath Wawel Castle is the Dragon's Cave, a cave associated with the legend of the Wawel Dragon, who terrorized the citizens of Krakow until he was defeated by the clever shoemaker Skuba. In front of the entrance to the cave is a metal sculpture of a dragon that breathes real fire every few minutes, an attraction especially for the youngest tourists.

After a day full of excitement, it's time for a culinary feast at the Copernicus Restaurant, located in a historic building at 16 Kanonicza St. This exclusive place, named after a famous astronomer who studied in Krakow, offers a unique taste experience in historic interiors dating back to the 14th century. The restaurant is famous for its modern interpretation of traditional Polish cuisine, using seasonal and local products of the highest quality.

The tasting menu at Copernicus Restaurant is a true journey through Polish flavors - from exquisite appetizers, through soups such as żurek (sour soup) or cream of mushroom soup, to main courses, among which game, fish from Polish lakes and meats prepared according to old Polish recipes, but with a modern twist. The whole is complemented by carefully selected Polish and international wines. Prices at the restaurant are high, but fully justified by the quality of the dishes, service and the unique atmosphere of the place.

After dinner, it is worth taking an evening stroll around illuminated Cracow, which takes on a magical character after dark. Particularly charming are the area around Wawel Castle and the Vistula boulevards, where you can enjoy a beautiful view of the illuminated castle reflected in the waters of the Vistula River.

Day two: Jewish Kazimierz and culinary discoveries

The second day of the luxury weekend should be spent exploring Kazimierz - the former Jewish quarter, which today is one of the most fascinating and vibrant areas of Krakow. Established in the 14th century by King Casimir the Great as a separate town, Kazimierz was not incorporated into Krakow until the 18th century. For centuries it was the center of Jewish life, as evidenced by the synagogues, cemeteries and distinctive architecture that have survived to this day.

It's best to start your wandering around Kazimierz at Szeroka Street, where you'll find the Old Synagogue - the oldest surviving synagogue in Poland, now housing a museum of Judaism. Nearby you can also see the 16th century Remuh Synagogue and the adjacent old Jewish cemetery, where the famous Rabbi Moses Isserles, known as Remuh, is buried. His grave is to this day the destination of pilgrimages by Jews from all over the world, who leave request slips on it, according to tradition.

Kazimierz is not only history, but also a modern, vibrant district full of art galleries, antique shops, atmospheric cafes and restaurants. It was here that the scenes for Steven Spielberg's film 'Schindler's List' were shot, contributing to the revival of this part of the city. The New Square is worth a look, where a flea market is held on weekends, and every day you can enjoy the famous casseroles from the round building known as 'Okrąglak'.

After exploring Kazimierz, it's time for a culinary adventure at the Cafe Oranżeria Restaurant, located at 1 Kossak Square. This unique place, located in the glass orangery of the Kossak Hotel, offers not only delicious dishes, but also a spectacular view of Wawel Castle and a bend in the Vistula River. The restaurant is famous for its fusion cuisine, combining elements of Polish, Mediterranean and Asian cuisine.

Cafe Orangerie's menu changes seasonally, but you can always count on fresh fish and seafood, excellent steaks and creative vegetarian dishes. Appetizers, such as beef tenderloin tartare with truffles or octopus carpaccio, are especially recommended. The restaurant also offers an impressive wine list from around the world and cocktails prepared by experienced bartenders. Prices are high, but they are compensated by the quality of the food and the unforgettable view.

In the evening, head to the Amarylis Restaurant, located at 60 Dietla St. This elegant place, decorated in art déco style, offers an intimate atmosphere and refined Polish cuisine with a touch of French finesse. The Amarylis chef specializes in game dishes and seasonal specialties, such as chanterelles, boletus and asparagus, depending on the season.

At Amarylis, you can enjoy traditional Polish dishes with a modern twist, such as pierogi with duck confit, beef cheeks braised in red wine or pike-perch with saffron sauce. The restaurant is also famous for its excellent desserts, prepared by master pastry chefs. Prices are high, but justified by the quality of the ingredients and the craftsmanship of the preparation. Service is professional and unobtrusive, which adds to the comfort of the visit.

After dinner, you can take a night walk around Kazimierz, which takes on a special character after dark. The atmospheric streets illuminated by lanterns, the music coming from the clubs and bars and the atmosphere of mystery make this part of Cracow exceptionally charming at night.

Day three: Hidden Treasures and a Culinary Farewell to Krakow

The third day of a luxury weekend in Cracow should start with the discovery of lesser-known, but equally fascinating places. One such treasure is the Museum of the Market Underground, a modern archaeological exhibition located 4 meters below the surface of the Main Square. The museum was created as a result of excavations conducted between 2005 and 2010 and presents the fascinating history of medieval Krakow. Here you can see the original fragments of cobblestones, the foundations of the first Cloth Hall, as well as thousands of artifacts of everyday use that give a glimpse into the life of the city's inhabitants centuries ago.

Another place worth visiting is the Botanical Garden of the Jagiellonian University - the oldest botanical garden in Poland, founded in 1783. It is a green oasis in the center of the city, where you can admire a variety of plant species, including many rare and exotic specimens. Especially noteworthy are the greenhouses with tropical plants and the collection of aquatic plants. The garden is an ideal place for a quiet walk and a moment of respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Near the Botanical Garden is the Collegium Maius - the oldest building of the Jagiellonian University, dating back to the 15th century. It was here that Nicolaus Copernicus studied, and today it houses the university museum with priceless collections, including scientific instruments used by the famous astronomer. Note the courtyard with Gothic cloisters and the astronomical clock, which at 11am and 3pm launches a parade of wooden figures depicting figures associated with the history of the university.

After the tour, it's time for a culinary adventure at Farina Restaurant, located at 16 St. Mark's St. This is a place that specializes in Italian cuisine, but with strong Polish influences, which creates a fascinating combination of flavors. The restaurant is located in a historic building, and its interior combines historical elements with modern design.

Farina Restaurant's menu features excellent homemade pastas, risottos prepared according to traditional recipes, and pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven. Particularly recommendable are dishes combining Italian techniques with Polish products, such as ravioli stuffed with oscypek and mushroom sauce, or risotto with chanterelles and smoked cottage cheese. The restaurant also offers an extensive selection of Italian wines, which the sommelier selects to match each dish. Prices are moderate to high, but the quality of the dishes fully justifies them.

At the end of a luxurious weekend in Krakow, it is worth going to the Biała Róża Restaurant, located at 16 Floriana Straszewskiego St. This is an elegant place with a rich history, located in a historic building overlooking the Planty Park. The restaurant is famous for its classic Polish cuisine at its best, served in stylish interiors with a piano at which a pianist plays in the evenings.

Biala Roza's menu is a veritable treasure trove of traditional Polish flavors - from borscht with ravioli, through wrapped scions, duck with apples, to hot apple pie with vanilla ice cream. All dishes are prepared with the highest quality ingredients, often sourced from local suppliers. The restaurant also has an impressive menu of Polish liquors, which perfectly complement the meal. Prices are high, but they match the quality and prestige of the place.

After dinner, take a final stroll through the Planty - a ring of greenery surrounding the Old Town, which was built on the site of the demolished city walls. On warm evenings, the Planty is bustling with life, and while strolling along the alleys you can admire the illuminated monuments of Krakow and soak up the atmosphere of this unique city. This is the perfect end to a luxurious weekend full of historical discoveries and culinary experiences in the former capital of Poland.

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