Walks.
One cannot deny that the best way to see Krakow is on foot. With the majority of the city's old town pedestrianised, Krakow's most impressive sights can be accessed within walking distance from each other. Each street and alley way exhibits its own unique character and urban life is palpable in its cafes, pubs, galleries, little shops and open venues.
There are two main walking tours to take in Krakow. The first, and most obvious, is through the Old Town. The Royal Road is the backbone of city and it connects the main city gate, Florianska gate, and Wawel castle through a myriad of historical streets. The Royal Way takes in all the major sights including St. Mary’s Basilica, Cloth Hall, the Town Hall Tower and the Market Square. Lesser known sights include the Jama Michalika café -- an art nouveau hotspot for artists and writers established in 1895 – the house of the 19th century painter Jan Matejko, the basilica of St. Frances, the basilica of the Holy Trinity and the Renaissance houses of Kanonicza Street. The Royal Way ends at Wawel Castle.
After a couple of hours in the castle you can then pop over to the Planty Gardens for a more relaxing stroll under the leafy chestnut groves. The second significant walking tour in Krakow takes in the historical Jewish area, Kazimierz. Leading from the castle, Stradom Street escorts you to the backbone of the Jewish district – Krakowska Street. On this route you will have the opportunity to explore the ancient streets of Kazimierz, visit one of its many synagogues and market squares as well as stop by the beautiful Renaissance Jewish cemetery – Remuh. Crossing the Vistula river from Kazimierz to Podgorze, one is bitterly reminded of the Jewish Ghetto that was established here during World War II. During this time, the Jewish population were removed from Kazimierz to Podgorze and from there they were deported to the death camps.
Once you have strolled around the city and you feel like picking up the pace a little, how about heading for a more challenging hike around one of the many routes in the proximity of Krakow. Possible options include Las Wolski forest park, Ojcow National Park or through the Eagles’ Nests route. If these aren’t challenging enough then it is possible to head for the Tatra Mountains for a more exhaustive leg workout.