Kraków is one of those rare cities that manages to be ancient, artistic, atmospheric, slightly mysterious, full of great food, and endlessly walkable – all at the same time. Whether you love medieval architecture, underground worlds, castles, legends, shopping, or cafés where time seems to stop, Kraków does it brilliantly. If you’re looking for things to do in Krakow, you won’t be disappointed.

And the best part? After you’ve had your fill of sightseeing, you can escape the busy centre and retreat to the calm, warm, deeply relaxing world of Emerald Spa, tucked away in leafy Chałubińskiego 64, South Kraków. It is just far enough from the tourist buzz to breathe… but close enough to reach everything easily.

To fully appreciate the city’s offerings, consider exploring diverse activities and places that highlight the essence of Kraków. From its rich history to vibrant nightlife, there are countless things to do in Krakow.

Below are the five absolute must-see attractions – plus why ending each day with a sauna or massage might just be the smartest travel decision you make.

1. Wawel Royal Castle – Kraków’s Crown Jewel

If Kraków had a postcard, Wawel Castle would be on it. Perched majestically on a hill above the Vistula River, this was once the home of Polish kings, queens, heroic knights, and a legendary dragon (yes, the flame-breathing one).

Inside Wawel you’ll find lavish royal chambers, the State Rooms, the Crown Treasury and Armoury, and the awe-inspiring Wawel Cathedral. Outside, the courtyards and river views are worth the visit alone.

Distance from Emerald Spa:
Around 7 km, roughly 15–20 minutes by Uber/Bolt depending on time of day. There’s also a very easy bus/tram line from the spa area into the centre – perfect if you prefer not to drive.

After exploring grand halls and spiralling staircases, a long session in the Finnish sauna or Jacuzzi feels heavenly. Your legs will thank you, and so will your mood.

2. Rynek Główny – The Medieval Heart of the City

The Main Square (Rynek Główny) is the biggest medieval square in Europe – and it somehow still feels cosy. The horse-drawn carriages, café terraces, gothic towers, street musicians, and the hourly bugle call from St Mary’s Basilica all give it a magical vibe.

Don’t miss:

• The Cloth Hall (great for amber and souvenirs)
• St Mary’s Basilica (one of the most jaw-dropping interiors in Poland)
• The underground museum beneath the square (a literal time-travel experience)

Distance from Emerald Spa:
About 6.5 km, around 15–18 minutes by Uber/Bolt, or again you can hop on a tram from our area straight into the Old Town.

This is the kind of place where you’ll easily walk 10,000 steps without noticing. Which is the perfect excuse to come back to Emerald Spa, stretch out on a heated massage bed, and let someone else take care of your body for an hour.

3. Kazimierz – The Old Jewish Quarter & Hipster Heaven

Kazimierz has a personality of its own: artistic, slightly bohemian, full of history, synagogues, indie shops, wine bars, and some of the best food in the city. It’s the perfect neighbourhood for wandering, people-watching, and discovering hidden courtyards.

You can spend hours here without planning anything:

• Coffee in one of the shabby-chic cafés
• A quiet moment in the Tempel Synagogue
• Zapiekanka on Plac Nowy (trust us – you must try it)
• Vintage shops, street art, bookshops, wine bars… it’s endless

Distance from Emerald Spa:
Around 6 km, usually 12–15 minutes by Uber/Bolt.

After a full afternoon exploring Kazimierz’s narrow lanes, slip back to the spa for a rejuvenating massage or a calming sauna session. It’s the perfect antidote to the city’s energy.

4. Schindler’s Factory & The Podgórze Riverside

This museum, located in Oskar Schindler’s former enamel factory, tells the story of Kraków during WWII through immersive, emotional, and exceptionally well-designed exhibits. It’s powerful, educational, and unforgettable.

After the museum, walk to the nearby river boulevard or the historic Ghetto Heroes Square for more context and beautiful views.

Distance from Emerald Spa:
Approximately 6 km, usually 12–15 minutes by Uber/Bolt.

The museum is emotionally intense – moving, but heavy. Many visitors find that ending the day in a peaceful spa environment helps them decompress. Emerald Spa’s relaxing lounge room offers exactly that soft landing.

5. Wieliczka Salt Mine – A World Underground

Technically just outside Kraków, but absolutely impossible to leave off the list. The Wieliczka Salt Mine is one of Poland’s top UNESCO sites – an entire underground world carved in salt. Statues, lakes, chapels, chandeliers, staircases, tunnels… it’s a real-life fantasy realm.

The guided tours take you deep into the earth, sometimes over 800 steps (don’t worry – they’re gradual).

Distance from Emerald Spa:
About 10 km, normally 20–25 minutes by Uber/Bolt depending on traffic. Very easy from our side of the city.

After climbing up and down underground caverns, nothing feels as good as a full-body massage. Trust us – your shoulders, calves, and lower back will thank you.

Why Emerald Spa Kraków, Is the Ideal Base for Your Kraków Trip

After sightseeing, you need somewhere calm, warm, welcoming, and restorative to return to. That’s exactly what makes Emerald Spa one of the best places to stay near Kraków’s attractions.

Here’s why travellers love basing themselves with us:

1. Close to the city – but not in the city

You avoid the noise and crowds yet reach everything in 15–20 minutes.
Uber/Bolt is cheap and fast.
Public transport is reliable.
Free Parking here is ample (a rare luxury in Kraków).

2. Perfect relaxation after busy days

Every top attraction involves walking, queuing, steps, emotions, and sensory overload. The spa is the complete opposite: warm lighting, quiet rooms, natural essential oils, saunas, Himalayan salt, relaxing music, and highly skilled therapists.

Your body resets. Your mind clears. You sleep better.
And the next day, you’re ready for more adventures.

3. Stay a few days – your body will thank you

Most visitors rush Kraków in a single weekend. But the best trips are slow, with space to unwind.

A few days at Emerald Spa lets you:

• Explore Kraków without stress
• Enjoy daily sauna or steam sessions
• Book one or two massages (or more, we won’t judge)
• Sit in the garden, relax, breathe
• Make your city break feel like a wellbeing retreat

Kraków becomes not just a destination – but an experience.

Ready to explore Kraków the relaxed way?

Base yourself in South Kraków, enjoy the finest attractions, and return each day to the warmth and tranquillity of Emerald Spa.

Whether you’re visiting for culture, cuisine, history, romance, or simply to unwind, we’re here to make your trip unforgettable.

Book up a stay directly with us, (+48 666 937 687) or via booking.com