Things to do in Krakow

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Krakow is recognised nationally as the cultural capital of Poland, with an abundance of museums, theatres and masses of art galleries. Naturally, the city's events calendar is also loaded, with festivals and seasonal events covering a wide range of activities to cater for every visitor.

Krakow hosts more annual events than most other European countries, yet the festivities remain intimate, despite the city's sprawling population. Events in Krakow are mainly centered around music and the arts due to its cultural heritage, however, it also hosts a major sports event each year and several small independant film festivals.

Read more on this destination in the AA CityPack Guide to Krakow.

Top Krakow events

January (20th - 22nd)
World Cup Ski Jumping
A prestigious skiing championship held in the nearby resort of Zakopane, which is home to the world's sixth largest ski jump.

February (23rd - 27th)
Shanties-
Officially called the International Sailors' Song Festival, this event celebrates the sea and the locals descend upon the city's cultural venues to sing.

April (7th)
Cracovia Marathon
Each year the residents of Krakow descend upon Blonia for a 26 mile race through several of they city's districts. Entry is €30-€40for international visitors.

May (5th - 10th)
Krakow Juwenalia
A huge student festival held across the city, with parades, live music and exhibitions. The mjority of the city pull out all the stops with their fancy dress and the party continutes into the small hours.

June (23rd - 30th)
Lajkonik Festival
A free festival celebrating the Tarters defeat in the 13th century. Colourful processions take place and parties run well through the night.

July - Streetart
A celebration of street performances centered around Rynek Glowny, where magicians, dancers, and puppeteers pull in thousands of visitors every year.

August (19th - 20th)
Coke Live Music Festival
This annual camping festival has hosted some of the biggest names in the industry such as Muse and Jay-z and is expanding every year. Tickets are 150zl (£36) for a camping weekend ticket and 85zl (£18) for day tickets.

September (11th - 18th)
Sacrum-Profanum Festival
This geographically inspired music festival hosts some of Europe's finest artists and composers, including Jónsi from Icelandic band, Sigur Rós. Tickets available from the Culture Information Centers on Jana Street and the Town Hall Tower.

Oct/Nov (28th - 7th)
All Souls Jazz Festival
The oldest jazz festival in Europe that takes place around All Soul's Day. Venue's in the city are transformed into musical havens, where locals and visitors come to admire the talent on display.

December
Christmas Season
Krakow becomes a snowy wonderland in the winter months and in the run up to Christmas there are excellent markets and stalls, with food, crafts, gifts and traditional mulled wine to enjoy.