Krakow Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Essential Preparations

Effective planning readies you for Krakow.

Planning Timeline

Organize your preparations well in advance of your departure.

1

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Confirm passport validity and Schengen visa requirements.

Flights & Stay

Book international flights and main lodging early.

Travel Insurance

Secure comprehensive travel insurance coverage. World Nomads

2

Month Before

Itinerary Finalization

Plan your day-to-day activities, including day trips.

Day Trips & Tours

Reserve spots for high-demand attractions like Auschwitz-Birkenau.

Bank Notification

Inform your bank of your travel dates to prevent card freezes.

3

Week Before

Packing

Complete your packing with organized essentials. Eagle Creek

Confirmations

Double-check flights, accommodation, and tour bookings.

Digital Tools

Download essential apps like Jakdojade, Google Maps, and Google Translate.

Advance Bookings

Secure aspects of your trip ahead of time.

Core Bookings

International and any required domestic flights.
All hotel, hostel, or apartment bookings.
Popular tours like Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka Salt Mine.
High-demand restaurants for special dining experiences.

Pre-Trip Research

Deepen your connection with the destination.

Reading & Viewing

Read guidebooks and blogs for Krakow's history and attractions.
Explore official tourism websites like krakow.travel.
Watch documentaries (e.g., "Schindler's List") to immerse yourself.
Learn basic Polish greetings and polite phrases. Babbel

Home Readiness

Prepare your home for your absence.

Home Security

Lock all doors and windows, set alarms.
Stop mail or newspaper deliveries.
Arrange for pet and plant care.
Unplug unnecessary electronics.

Digital Safeguards

Backup important data to an external drive or cloud.
Confirm cloud sync for photos and documents.
Set up a VPN for secure browsing abroad. NordVPN
Store emergency contacts digitally and physically.

Financial Preparedness

Review your travel budget and spending plan.
Check credit card limits and expiration dates.
Plan for obtaining local currency (PLN).
Organize access to emergency funds.

Important Reminder

Confirm passport validity and necessary visa arrangements well in advance. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance for unexpected events.

Arrival Checklist

Your first hours in Krakow set a positive tone for your visit.

Airport Procedures

1
Clear Immigration & Customs
Have your passport and any required visa documents ready.
2
Collect Luggage
Retrieve your bags from the baggage claim.
3
Locate Airport Transfer Options
Follow signs for trains, buses, or taxi stands.

Immediate Orientation

Navigate to Accommodation
Use pre-planned routes or essential apps to reach your hotel.
Familiarize Yourself
Understand your accommodation's immediate surroundings: transport, stores, landmarks.
Currency & Initial Purchases
Withdraw PLN from an ATM; purchase public transport tickets.

Getting to Your Stay

Pre-booked Transfers

If arranged, look for your chauffeur in the arrivals hall.

A convenient, stress-free option for direct transport.

Airport Train

The fastest way from John Paul II International Airport to the central area.

Takes about 17 minutes having frequent departures.

Ride-Sharing/Taxi

Utilize official taxi stands or book via apps like Uber/Bolt.

Offers door-to-door service directly to your accommodation.

Traveler Advice

Upon arrival, consider withdrawing Polish Złoty from an ATM for more favorable exchange rates. Purchase a multi-day public transport ticket if you plan extensive use.

Departure Preparation

Organize a smooth exit from Krakow.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Factor in souvenirs when considering luggage allowance.
Research options for shipping larger items home from local postal services.
For non-EU residents, eligible purchases qualify for a VAT refund.
Obtain customs stamps at your final EU departure point.

VAT Refund Process

Obtain a VAT refund form from participating stores.
Present purchases, receipts, and passport to customs officials.
Process the refund at a designated counter or by mail.
Ensure your form is stamped by customs.

Departure Timing

Plan your departure time from Krakow carefully.

Airport / Station Times

International Flights:2-3 hours before
Domestic/Flights Within the schengen area:1.5-2 hours before
Train Station:30-45 minutes before
Bus Station:30-45 minutes before

Return Trip Checklist

Confirm your flight status before heading to the airport.
Pack required documents, medications, and valuables in your carry-on.
Perform a final check to ensure nothing is left behind in your accommodation.
Arrange your transport to the airport or train station in advance, especially for early morning departures.

Departure Reminders

Confirm your flight status prior to heading to the airport.

Arrange your transport to the airport or bus station in advance, especially for early morning departures.

Krakow Travel Checklist

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