...and then I had to pick just 3 things. Man, these rules are tough! Still, I never say no to a challenge, so here we go...
Underground Bars
Walking around Krakow you'll pass lots of inconspicuous doorways. Slightly dubious looking, they don't really give any idea of where they lead, except for the odd small sign, or poster. Good job I don't need a bigger invitation than an arrow saying "pub" to walk down a darkened spiral stone staircase, because these places are brilliant! It's like walking into an underground world full of stone archways lit by candlelight, and plenty of delicious beer (and vodka shots, if you're feeling brave!) to sample. Trust me - try the Zywiec.
Me and my crew from Tutti Frutti Hostel go underground
So Much to See, So Little Time
Krakow really does have an amazing amount of things to experience and I did my best to pack them all in during the 4 days I had there. The main square is a must - and climb St Mary's Church tower if you can, for great views. I spent a long time exploring Wawel Castle - there's a lot to see there, from the Cathedral to the Bell Tower, and the Krakow Dragon's cave at the bottom. I also took trips to the nearby Wieliczca Salt Mine (pretty mind blowing - the artistic carvings, and the scale of the place) and Auschwittz-Birkenau concentration camp, which is truly harrowing - but I'm glad I went, and paid my respects at the Holocaust memorial in the Jewish Quarter later that day. I may try to sum up the experience in a blog at some point, but it's hard to put into words. Horrific.
View of the main square from above
Random Sights
I went to Krakow with a good idea of the sights I would see, and the places I would visit (see above - all fab). However, I had absolutely no idea that I would arrive - rucksack on my back - right in the middle of a sausage dog parade. Yes that's right - a parade of sausage dogs (and their smartly dressed owners) parading through the streets and onto a stage set up in the main square to be awarded various prizes. This parade was very well attended - the crowds were huge. I still have no idea what it was all about, but it was a great way to welcome me to the city!
I was also lucky enough to experience what I think was an art installation of hundreds of plastic weasels, interspersed with occasional golden weasels. Again - I have no clue, don't ask. Oh, and there was the paper mache torture museum too (which I mentioned in My ABCs of Travel under Q). Also random.
Weasels? Ohhh-kaaaaay...
So there you have my 3 things in the city I love. I do love Krakow - I was there in late 2009 and would love to go back soon - hopefully during the snow next time :) Have you been to Krakow? What did you think? Have I missed anything?
