Krakow Shopping Guide

Are you planning a trip to Krakow and looking for the best places to shop? Look no further! In this guide, we’ll take you through the top shopping districts and markets in Krakow, so you can make the most of your shopping experience.

Krakow is a vibrant city with a rich history, and its shopping scene is no exception. From bustling markets to modern shopping centres, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs, high-end fashion, or local delicacies, Krakow has it all. So, grab your shopping bags and let’s get started!

Exploring Krakow’s Shopping Districts

When it comes to shopping in Krakow, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for high-end boutiques or local markets, you’re sure to find something that suits your style and budget.

Here are some of the top shopping districts to explore in Krakow:

Old Town

Krakow’s Old Town is home to some of the city’s most charming shopping streets. Here, you’ll find a mix of local shops and international brands, all set against a backdrop of historic architecture. Some of the best shopping streets in Old Town include Ulica Florianska and Ulica Kanonicza.

These streets are lined with shops selling everything from handmade crafts to designer clothing.

Kazimierz

Located just south of Old Town, Kazimierz is another popular shopping district in Krakow. This historic Jewish quarter is known for its bohemian vibe and eclectic shops.

Here, you can browse vintage clothing stores, antique shops, and art galleries. Some of the best shopping streets in Kazimierz include Ulica Józefa and Plac Nowy.

Main Square

Krakow’s Main Square is the heart of the city, and it’s also a great place to go shopping. Here, you’ll find a mix of souvenir shops, high-end boutiques, and local markets.

The Cloth Hall, located in the centre of the square, is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for traditional Polish souvenirs.

Galeria Krakowska

If you’re looking for a modern shopping mall experience, head to Galeria Krakowska. This large shopping centre is located just steps from the Main Square, and it’s home to over 270 stores.

Here, you’ll find everything from fashion and beauty to electronics and home goods.

Galeria Kazimierz

Another popular shopping mall in Krakow is Galeria Kazimierz. This mall is located in the heart of Kazimierz, and it’s known for its trendy fashion boutiques and upscale restaurants. In addition to shopping, you can also catch a movie at the mall’s cinema or relax at one of its cafes.

Bronowice Mall

Bronowice Mall is another popular shopping destination in Krakow. This mall is located in the west of the city, and it’s known for its large selection of fashion and beauty stores. In addition to shopping, you can also catch a movie at the mall’s cinema or grab a bite to eat at one of its restaurants.

No matter where you go shopping in Krakow, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye. With so many options to choose from, you can easily spend a whole day exploring the city’s shopping districts and malls.

Discovering Krakow’s Markets

When it comes to shopping, Krakow has a lot to offer. From traditional markets to modern shopping centres, the city has something for everyone. In this section, we will explore some of the best markets in Krakow, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts.

Plac Nowy

Plac Nowy is an iconic market in the heart of the Jewish Quarter, Kazimierz. It is a historic square that used to be a Jewish market before the war.

Today, it is a bustling hub of activity with food stalls, bars, and shops selling everything from souvenirs to clothing. The market is particularly famous for its zapiekanki, a traditional Polish snack made from baguette halves topped with cheese, mushrooms, and other toppings.

Nowy Kleparz

Nowy Kleparz is one of the largest and oldest markets in Krakow. It has been operating for almost 100 years and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

The market sells fresh produce, flowers, and other goods, and is especially busy on weekends. The market is located just a short walk from the Old Town, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the city.

Stary Kleparz

Stary Kleparz is another popular market in Krakow. It is located near the Main Market Square and has been operating since the 16th century.

The market sells fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other goods. It is a great place to sample some of the local delicacies and pick up some souvenirs to take home.

Plac Imbramowski

Plac Imbramowski is a modern market that opened in 2017. It is located in the Podgorze district and offers a wide range of products, including fresh produce, clothing, and electronics. The market also has a food court with a variety of options, making it a great place to grab a quick bite to eat.

Sukiennice

Sukiennice is a historic market hall located in the Main Market Square. It has been operating since the 14th century and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Krakow.

The market hall is home to a variety of shops selling souvenirs, crafts, and other goods. It is a great place to pick up some unique gifts for friends and family back home.

Flea & Street Markets

Krakow also has a number of flea and street markets that are worth exploring. These markets offer a variety of products, including antiques, vintage clothing, and handmade crafts.

Some of the most popular flea and street markets in Krakow include the Hala Targowa, the Plac Nowy flea market, and the Sunday market at the Forum Przestrzenie.

Unique Finds in Krakow

Looking for unique and authentic souvenirs to take home from your trip to Krakow? Look no further than these shopping districts and markets that offer a variety of items from Polish designers, young artists, and artisans.

Recommended activities and tours:

Polish Design

Krakow is home to a thriving design scene, and you can find a range of locally-made products that showcase Polish design. From fashion to home decor, these items are stylish and unique.

Gifts and Souvenirs

If you’re looking for traditional Polish souvenirs, you won’t be disappointed by the selection in Krakow. From amber jewelry to hand-painted pottery, there are plenty of options to choose from.

World of Amber

Amber is a popular souvenir item in Krakow, and there are plenty of shops that specialize in this beautiful gemstone. You can find everything from simple amber pendants to intricate amber sculptures.

Galeria Plakatu

If you’re a fan of posters and graphic design, be sure to check out Galeria Plakatu. This shop specializes in vintage and contemporary posters, including Polish film posters and political posters from the communist era. You can also find posters from international artists.

Judaica

Krakow has a rich Jewish history, and you can find a range of Judaica items in the city. From menorahs to mezuzahs, these items make for unique and meaningful souvenirs.

Food Shopping in Krakow

When it comes to food shopping in Krakow, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for fresh produce, artisanal cheeses and meats, aromatic spices, or freshly baked goods, you’ll find everything you need in the city’s markets and shops.

Produce

Krakow’s open-air markets are the best places to get local fruit and produce beyond the selection of strictly white root veggies found in most shops. Stary Kleparz is one of the oldest and most popular outdoor markets in the city, offering a wide range of fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs.

You can also find organic produce at the Plac na Stawach Market, which takes place every Saturday.

Cheeses and Meats

If you’re a cheese or meat lover, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Krakow. Delikatesy Targowe is a great place to start, offering a wide selection of local and international cheeses and meats. You can also check out the cheese stalls at Stary Kleparz or the Plac Nowy Flea Market, where you’ll find a variety of traditional Polish cheeses like oscypek and bryndza.

Spices

Krakow is known for its aromatic spices, and you’ll find plenty of them at the city’s markets and spice shops. You can also check out the spice stalls at the Plac Nowy Flea Market, where you’ll find everything from paprika to saffron.

Baked Goods

If you have a sweet tooth, you’ll love the baked goods in Krakow. The city is famous for its traditional pastries like paczki and sernik, which you can find at bakeries like Stara Pączkarnia and Cukiernia Sowa. You can also check out the stalls at the Plac Nowy Flea Market, where you’ll find a variety of sweet treats like gingerbread and honey cakes.

Overall, food shopping in Krakow is a delightful experience, allowing you to explore the city’s culinary traditions and discover new flavours and ingredients.

Planning Your Shopping Trip

When planning your shopping trip to Krakow, there are a few things to consider to ensure that you have the best experience possible. Here are some tips to help you plan your shopping trip:

Apps

There are several apps that can help you plan your shopping trip in Krakow. One such app is the Krakow Travel Guide, which provides information on the best shopping districts and markets in the city.

Another app that can be helpful is Google Maps, which can help you navigate around the city and locate the shopping areas you want to visit.

Trip Planner

When planning your trip to Krakow, be sure to include time for shopping in your itinerary. You may want to dedicate a whole day to shopping or spread it out over a few days.

Research the shopping districts and markets ahead of time to determine which ones you want to visit and how much time you will need to spend at each one.

Accommodation

Choosing the right accommodation can make a big difference in your shopping trip. Look for hotels or apartments that are located near the shopping districts and markets you want to visit.

This will save you time and money on transportation and allow you to easily return to your accommodation to drop off your purchases.

Dining Options

Shopping can be tiring, so it’s important to plan for dining options during your trip. Look for restaurants or cafes that are located near the shopping areas you want to visit. This will allow you to take a break from shopping and refuel before continuing your shopping trip. You may also want to consider packing snacks or water to keep you energized throughout the day.

By following these tips, you can plan a successful shopping trip to Krakow. Remember to take your time, enjoy the experience, and don’t forget to haggle for the best prices!

Experiencing Krakow Beyond Shopping

Krakow is a city with a rich history and culture, and there are many attractions to experience beyond the shopping districts and markets. Here are some of the top historic sites, museums, art galleries, and architectural buildings to check out during your visit to Krakow.

Historic Sites

Krakow is home to many historic sites, including the Wawel Royal Castle, which dates back to the 14th century and was the home of Polish kings for centuries.

You can also visit the Main Market Square, which is the largest medieval town square in Europe and has been a hub of activity for over 700 years.

Another must-see historic site is the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, which is located just outside of Krakow and is a sobering reminder of the atrocities committed during the Holocaust.

Check also:

Museums

Krakow has a variety of museums to explore, including the National Museum, which features a collection of Polish art, as well as the Museum of Contemporary Art in Krakow, which showcases modern and contemporary art from around the world.

If you’re interested in science, check out the Museum of Municipal Engineering, which has exhibits on transportation, energy, and communication.

Art Galleries

Krakow has a thriving art scene, with many galleries showcasing both traditional and contemporary art. Some of the top galleries to check out include the Bunkier Sztuki Contemporary Art Gallery, the Starmach Gallery, and the Manggha Museum of Japanese Art and Technology.

Architectural Buildings

Krakow is known for its stunning architecture, and there are many buildings to admire during your visit. One of the most iconic is St. Mary’s Basilica, which dates back to the 14th century and features a stunning Gothic interior.

Another architectural gem is the Cloth Hall, which is located in the Main Market Square and has been a trading hub for over 700 years. The building features a beautiful Renaissance-style façade and is home to many souvenir shops and small galleries.

Overall, Krakow has a rich and diverse cultural scene, and there are many attractions to experience beyond the shopping districts and markets. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or architecture, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find the best designer shops in Krakow?

If you’re looking for designer boutiques, then the district of Kazimierz is the best place to go. This area is known for its trendy shops and unique fashion finds. You can find a range of designer shops here, including local and international brands.

What are some popular souvenirs to buy in Krakow?

Krakow is famous for its amber jewelry, traditional Polish pottery, and handmade lace. You can find these souvenirs in many of the shops and markets throughout the city. Other popular souvenirs include wooden toys, leather goods, and local food products like pierogi and oscypek cheese.

Which shopping district is the most recommended for visitors?

The Old Town district is the most recommended shopping district for visitors. It has a mix of high-end designer shops and more affordable stores, as well as many souvenir shops. The district is also home to the famous Cloth Hall, a historic marketplace that has been in operation since the 14th century.

Are there any good shopping malls in Krakow?

Yes, there are several good shopping malls in Krakow. The most popular mall is Galeria Krakowska, located in the city centre. It has a wide range of shops, including many international brands. Other popular malls include Bonarka City Center and Galeria Kazimierz.

What is the main shopping street in Krakow city centre?

The main shopping street in Krakow city centre is Floriańska Street. It runs from the Main Market Square to the Barbican, and is lined with shops and cafes. You can find a range of stores here, from souvenir shops to high-end boutiques.

Is it possible to find affordable clothing in Krakow?

Yes, it is possible to find affordable clothing in Krakow. There are many stores and markets that offer reasonably priced clothing, including second-hand shops and street markets. The district of Podgórze is also a good place to find affordable fashion.