City Break to Kraków, Poland
Following the Cornwall/Devon weekend success last year, some of our group booked a city break to Kraków, Poland, for 2019.
DAY 1 – MARKET SQUARE IN OLD TOWN & SUNSET VIEWS AT WAWEL CASTLE.
Our flight left Gatwick at 9am on Wednesday morning and arrived in to Poland at 12:30pm. A 30 minute drive later and we were stepping out on to the streets of Kraków.
First thing on the agenda was to locate the AirBnb Laura and Mark had booked. Situated a short walk from the main square, the apartment was a good find – well done Laura and Mark! It accommodated the eight of us perfectly. There were four large bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen and a living room, all of which was located on the ground floor. The host had also been helpful in arranging a taxi pick up/drop off, as well as, an excursion to Auschwitz.
After bedrooms had been assigned and our luggage had been dumped, we headed back outside in search of a late lunch; being greeted to our first views of Kraków’s stunning Market Square along the way.
Settling down in one of the heated, outdoor areas in Sphinx, we ordered large mezzes to share between two and of course, started on the drinks. The food was fantastic and incredibly cheap. One thing that struck and astounded us during the trip was how reasonably priced everything was. Therefore, at roughly £5 to 1 Polish złoty, our massive lunches cost roughly £8 per person – including two rounds of beer and two bottles of prosecco.
With a full belly, I took a quick walk around the Main Square to capture the gorgeous light that was dousing the buildings. History seeps through every nook, cranny and corner of this city and I couldn’t help but admire my surroundings.
Joining back up with the group, we went on a leisurely stroll to Wawel Royal Castle. Wednesday was the best weather day of the trip and boy, was it good.
The sun was setting as we reached the top of Wawel Hill and we were graced with the most stunning sunset over Vistula River.
After drinking in the view, we wandered inside the grounds of Wawel Castle. This impressive castle originally housed the royal family and dates back to the 11th century.
Wednesday’s ‘Golden Hour’ – the period of time just before sunset or after sunrise, where the light is softer and warmer – was definitely something special. I snapped away at the architecture and of my friends, taking everything in as I did so.
After admiring the glorious sunset view for the last time, we made our way back towards to Market Square and to our home for the trip.
Once we’d returned to the apartment and had freshened up, it was time for a pre-dinner drink. We ladies were lucky enough to go out sporting some incredibly pretty handbags from Sarah Dunbar Design. Although I’m currently working on some photographs for the lovely designer, Sarah, I’m being completely honest when I say that I adore these pouch clutches. Not only do they look wonderful and come in a variety of colours and patterns to suit every outfit, they’re also the perfect size to hold all your bits and pieces. In other words, they’re ideal for any occasion! See more and buy your own beautiful bag by clicking here.
During our handbag decision making and getting ready period, the men went ahead, eager to try more beers. So, once we were ready, we joined them at the Free Pub.
From the outside, this bar was nothing to shout about. In fact, us girls were wondering where an earth we were being met! But the inside was a different story. Based underground, the Free Pub was full of rustic character and charm. The guys had beers, whilst we went for cocktails. The White Russian was especially delicious. And our handbags looked lush!
When the glasses had been drained, we made our way to Pod Wawelem Kompania Kuflowa for dinner. For me, this was the best meal of the entire trip – thank you to Char’s family for the recommendation! It was cosy and comfortable, with the staff being friendly and efficient. The food was the shining star of the evening though.
I opted for the Deska “Oficer Grilluje” – the Officer’s Platter. This dish consisted of a selection of meats and sausages from the grill, on a bed of rice, cabbage and farmer-style potatoes. In other words, it was huge and divine! All washed down with deliciously sweet Prosecco. At around £8, it was honestly fantastic. I would highly recommend trying this restaurant if you’re visiting.
Whilst the men carried on with another drink, the ladies headed back to apartment and to bed. We had a brilliant first day in Kraków and couldn’t wait to see more.
DAY 2 – OLD TOWN WALKING TOUR & BEERS WITH A VIEW.
DAY 3, PT. 1 – TRIP TO AUSCHWITZ CONCENTRATION CAMP.
DAY 3, PT. 2 – VODKA TASTING & VIEWS.
DAY 4 – HOME TIME.
The flight home was another early one, but it meant we arrived in to the U.K. before midday on Saturday. As a result, this gave us the afternoon to get home and enjoy a relaxed evening.
Dave and I had an excellent break in Kraków with our brilliant friends. Many adventures were had, beer and prosecco drunk and we had plenty of laughs to go with it.
An extra special mention also needs to go to Laura and Mark, who came up with the idea, found and booked the flights and accommodation – thank you both! And to Naomi for arranging the taxi to/from Gatwick – thank you too!
The group has already started to throw around some ideas for our next trip, so I’ll be sure to keep you posted…
Beautiful blog, you are one talented lady :-). Keep up the good work
Thank you for your kind words Sarah! ☺️ But the talented one is definitely you, your bags are gorgeous! 😍