Tourist attractions of Lesser Poland, Top places that you must see while in Krakow

Today we will be exploring the best places to visit in Lesser Poland, from its historical castles and monuments to its stunning natural landscapes and vibrant cities. We will also be helping you plan your trip by providing you with tips and ideas on how to make the most of your stay. So, if you’re looking for some great places to visit in Lesser Poland, then this is the perfect place to start!

Wawel – royal castle in Krakow

Wawel is a royal castle located in Krakow, Poland. It was built in the early 13th century and is an important landmark in the city. It is most well known for housing the tombs of many Polish Kings, such as Casimir the Great, and is home to a variety of historic artifacts. It is a symbol of Polish culture and national identity. The castle complex has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and is a popular tourist destination. It serves as a museum, displaying works of art, furniture, weaponry, and armor. It also houses a Dragon’s Den, where visitors can learn about the legendary Krakow dragon. Wawel is an iconic symbol of Krakow and is a must-visit destination when visiting the city.

Main Market Square in Krakow – one of the largest and most beautiful markets in Europe

Main Market Square in Krakow is one of the largest and oldest squares in Europe. Located in the center of the Old Town, it was established in 1257 and served as an important trading hub for centuries. The square is surrounded by historical buildings, including the Cloth Hall and St. Mary’s Basilica, and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Poland. It is also the site of many festivals and events, such as the annual Christmas Market. The square is a vibrant and lively place, with many cafes and restaurants, offering traditional Polish cuisine and international dishes. The square also hosts many street performers and vendors, making it a great place to explore and enjoy the city.

The National Museum in Krakow – the largest museum in Krakow with a rich collection of art and culture

The National Museum in Krakow is one of the largest and oldest museums in Poland, located in the historic city center. It holds an extensive collection of art and culture from the Middle Ages to the present day. The permanent exhibitions include works from Polish, European and world art, from ancient times to the present day. The museum also has a library, an educational center and a research institute. It is a major cultural center and hosts regular events, such as lectures, concerts, and exhibitions. The museum is open year-round and is free to enter. It is a must-see attraction in Krakow and a great place to learn more about Polish art and culture.

Wieliczka – a picturesque town famous for its beautiful salt mine and the church of St. Kinga built of salt

Wieliczka is a city in southern Poland, located in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship, approximately 20 km southeast of the city of Krakow. It is most famous for its salt mine, a World Heritage Site, which has been in operation since the 13th century. The mine has a vast network of tunnels, galleries, and chambers, some of which are open to visitors. Other attractions in the city include the historic Royal Salt Works, the Church of St. Kinga and the Wieliczka Saltworks Museum. The city also has a number of parks and gardens, with the most popular being Park Wodny and Park Miejski. Wieliczka is a popular destination for tourists from around the world, with its picturesque landscape, historic sites, and interesting attractions.

Wieliczka Salt Mine – one of the oldest and largest underground museums in the world

The Wieliczka Salt Mine is a world-renowned tourist attraction located in Wieliczka, Poland. It is one of the oldest and largest underground museums in the world, having opened in the 13th century and stretching over 300 kilometers. Visitors can explore the mine’s network of tunnels, chambers, and chapels, as well as its sculptures, carvings, and rock formations created over the centuries by miners. The mine is also home to an underground lake, an array of technological and engineering feats, and a large collection of historical artifacts. In addition, it holds regular concerts, events, and other attractions. The Wieliczka Salt Mine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-see for anyone visiting Poland.

Sanctuary of Divine Mercy in Łagiewniki – an important place of religious worship for Catholics

The Sanctuary of Divine Mercy in Łagiewniki, Poland is a significant place of religious worship for Catholics. It is the home of the tomb of St. Faustina Kowalska, who is known for receiving the message of Divine Mercy from Jesus Christ. The sanctuary consists of a church, a convent, and a museum dedicated to Divine Mercy. The church is a popular pilgrimage site, where visitors come to pray, venerate relics, and receive special indulgences. The convent has a parish and a community of nuns who serve the pilgrims. The museum offers information about the history of the Divine Mercy devotion, its message, and the life of St. Faustina. Visitors can also find a variety of religious items for sale in the gift shop. The Sanctuary of Divine Mercy is a place of peace and spirituality, and it is an important destination for Catholics from around the world.

Ojców National Park – a picturesque landscape park with caves and a castle in Pieskowa Skała

Ojców National Park is one of the smallest national parks in Poland, located in the southern part of the country. It covers an area of 21.3 square kilometers and is renowned for its limestone rocks and ravines, as well as its numerous caves, rock formations, and other geological features. The park is also home to a wide variety of plants and animals, as well as an abundance of historic sites, including Pieskowa Skała Castle. Built-in the 14th century, the castle’s main structure is a Gothic castle, with Renaissance and Baroque additions. Inside, visitors can explore the castle’s halls and chambers, as well as its observation deck, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The castle also features a museum and a garden, both of which provide an insight into the castle’s history. Ojców National Park and Pieskowa Skała Castle remain popular destinations for both domestic and international tourists.

Castle in Niedzica – a beautifully situated castle on Lake Czorsztyńskie

Niedzica Castle, located on the picturesque Lake Czorsztyńskie in southern Poland, is a magnificent medieval fortress surrounded by stunning mountain views. Built-in the late 14th century, the castle is one of the oldest and most important fortresses in the region. It served as a strategic stronghold for the Hungarian-Polish border and is now a popular tourist attraction. The castle is filled with a wealth of historical artifacts, including sculptures, paintings, and furniture. Visitors can explore the castle’s four towers, three courtyards, and cellars, as well as the lovely gardens. The nearby dam and lake are great for outdoor activities such as canoeing, fishing, and swimming. The castle is also home to a wide range of events, from concerts to festivals. With its captivating scenery and rich history, Niedzica Castle is a must-see for any traveler.

Zakopane – a popular ski and tourist resort in the Tatra Mountains

Zakopane is a small town located in the Tatra Mountains of Poland. It is a popular destination for ski and snowboard enthusiasts, as well as a popular tourist destination. The town is home to the highest mountain in Poland, the Giewont, and is surrounded by stunning views of the mountains. There are many activities to do in Zakopane, such as skiing, hiking, snowboarding, and sightseeing. The town is also known for its traditional Polish cuisine, which includes dishes like oscypek (smoked cheese) and kwaśnica (sauerkraut soup). Zakopane is the perfect place to visit for those looking for an adventure-filled holiday in the mountains.

Tatra National Park – the largest national park in Poland with beautiful landscapes and unique flora and fauna

Tatra National Park is the largest national park in Poland, located in the southern part of the country in the Tatra Mountains. Established in 1954, the park covers an area of over 21,000 hectares, making it the largest protected area in the country. The park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including rare species such as the Tatra chamois, brown bear and lynx. The park also boasts some of the most impressive mountain landscapes in the region, with its highest peak, Mt Rysy, reaching a height of 2,499 meters. There are numerous walking and hiking trails available for visitors to explore, with plenty of opportunities for camping and mountain climbing. Tatra National Park is a popular destination for visitors from all over Europe and provides a unique and spectacular experience.

Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum – a place of remembrance and tribute to the victims of the Holocaust and Nazi concentration camps.

The Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum is a memorial and museum dedicated to the victims of the Nazi concentration camp. It is located in the former camp in Oświęcim, Poland. The museum was established in 1947 and is a branch of the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum. It consists of more than 300 buildings, including barracks, gas chambers, crematoria, and watchtowers. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, documents, and works of art related to the camp. It also includes a library and archives, which contain testimonies from survivors and other victims of the Holocaust. Visitors can learn about the history of the camp, and gain an understanding of the impact of Nazi policies and racial hatred on millions of people. The museum also serves as a place for research, remembrance, and education about the Holocaust.