City Guides

Krakow on a shoestring: a weekend that costs less than dinner at home

One of Europe's most beautiful cities is also one of its cheapest. Here's a full weekend on very little.

By Marcus Vela · 2026-04-14

Krakow on a shoestring: a weekend that costs less than dinner at home

Krakow packs a medieval old town, a brooding history and a buzzing food scene into a city where your money goes remarkably far.

A cheap, rich weekend

  • Wander the old town and Wawel hill — the best sights are free to walk.
  • Eat in a 'milk bar' — hearty Polish food for pocket change.
  • Spend an evening in the Kazimierz quarter's bars and music.
Budget noteEven with a nice hotel, a Krakow weekend often costs less than a single night out back home. Spend the savings on an extra day.