In this guide, you’ll get an overview of the best areas to stay in, whether you’re a first-time visitor, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking for authentic local experiences in one of Poland‘s finest cities.

Let’s get started: where to stay in Krakow?

Best Areas in Krakow

Here’s a quick overview of the best areas to stay in Krakow:

• Stare Miasto (Old Town) – UNESCO gem with everything within walking distance
• Kazimierz – Hip Jewish quarter with cafés and nightlife
• Podgórze – Up-and-coming area with local authenticity

Click on the area name to see the best hotels in that neighbourhood.

1. Stare Miasto (Old Town) – Best Area for First-Time Visitors

Stare Miasto is the heart of Krakow and the obvious choice if it’s your first time in the city. Here you’ll wake up to the sound of horse-drawn carriages on cobblestones and have all the major sights right on your doorstep.

The old town is compact and incredibly easy to navigate – you can cross the entire area in under 20 minutes on foot. At its centre, you’ll find the enormous Rynek Główny, one of Europe’s largest medieval squares, surrounded by colourful buildings, cosy cafés, and the iconic St. Mary’s Basilica with its famous trumpet call every hour.

Wawel Castle sits majestically at the southern end, and the entire area is encircled by the beautiful Planty Park, which follows the route of the old city walls.

See the best hotels in Stare Miasto here.

The atmosphere is a blend of touristy charm and genuine Polish cosiness. During the day, the streets buzz with tourists and street vendors, but just head a few side streets away from the main square and you’ll find authentic restaurants and local bars.

The evening brings a magical ambience as the buildings are lit up and restaurants set their tables out on the cobblestones. Think of it a bit like Nyhavn in Copenhagen, but with medieval architecture and Polish prices.

The price level is the highest in Krakow, but still very affordable compared to Western European cities. Expect to pay a little extra for the location, but you’ll save on transport in return.

• The area is extremely safe – you can walk around late at night without any worries.

Quick Info: Stare Miasto

Distance to centre: You’re in the centre!

Nearest station: Kraków Główny (main railway station) – 10 min walk

Time to airport: 20-25 minutes by train

Supermarket: Several within 5 minutes’ walk

Price level: €€€€ (4/5)

Safety: (5/5)

Hotels in Stare Miasto

Hotel Stary

One of Krakow’s finest luxury hotels, housed in a beautifully restored 14th-century historic building. Here you’ll get elegant rooms with exposed brick walls and modern amenities, a fantastic spa with a basement pool, and a location just steps from the main square. Perfect for those who want to treat themselves.

Previous guests particularly highlight: “The location was fantastic – right next to the square, the spa was wonderful, and the breakfast was unmatched.”

See more photos and book here.

Hotel Wentzl

A charming boutique hotel directly on the main square with views of St. Mary’s Basilica. The hotel combines historical elegance with modern comfort – think original beamed ceilings and contemporary bathrooms. Its truly unique location makes it an excellent choice for romantic stays.

A guest recently wrote: “We woke up to views of the square and St. Mary’s Basilica – absolutely magical. The staff were incredibly helpful.”

See more photos and book here.

Best Western Plus Krakow Old Town

A solid and reliable choice for budget-conscious travellers who still want to stay centrally. Modern and clean rooms, good breakfast included, and a location on the edge of the old town, giving you peace and quiet while still being able to walk to all the sights in just a few minutes.

Guests especially love: “Fantastic value for money – clean and comfortable with a really good breakfast. Perfect for a weekend break.”

See more photos and book here.

2. Kazimierz – Best Area for Culture Lovers and Nightlife

Kazimierz is Krakow’s coolest neighbourhood – a fascinating mix of Jewish history, hipster cafés, and buzzing nightlife. If you love exploring authentic neighbourhoods rather than polished tourist areas, this is where you should stay.

The historic Jewish quarter was once a separate city and has today been reborn as Krakow’s cultural epicentre. The streets hum with life between synagogues, galleries, vintage shops, and countless bars and restaurants.

See the best hotels in Kazimierz here.

Plac Nowy is the neighbourhood’s heart – here you’ll find the famous zapiekanka (Polish street food baguette) and a sea of small bars ranging from raw underground aesthetics to trendy cocktail bars.

• It’s a bit like Kreuzberg in Berlin or Nørrebro in Copenhagen – just with more history and cheaper beer.

From Kazimierz, it’s a 15-20 minute walk to the main square in the old town, and on the way you’ll pass Wawel Castle. The area is perfect if you want to experience Krakow like the locals – this is where university students and creative types hang out, and prices are noticeably lower than in Stare Miasto.

The nightlife is undoubtedly the city’s best, so expect some noise at weekends if you’re staying close to Plac Nowy.

For history buffs, Kazimierz also holds important memories from the Second World War – from here it’s just a few minutes’ walk to Oskar Schindler’s Factory and the former Jewish ghetto in Podgórze.

Quick Info: Kazimierz

Distance to centre: 15-20 min walk to Rynek Główny

Nearest tram: Several lines along Dietla Street

Time to airport: 25-30 minutes

Supermarket: Several within 5 minutes’ walk

Price level: €€€ (3/5)

Safety: (5/5)

Hotels in Kazimierz

Hotel Copernicus

A unique luxury hotel on the border between Kazimierz and Wawel, housed in a Renaissance building with original 14th-century frescoes on the ceilings. The rooms are spacious and elegant, and the hotel’s pool and spa in the historic cellars are an experience in themselves. Perfect for couples who want something truly special.

Previous guests particularly highlight: “The historic details in the rooms combined with modern luxury – and the fantastic breakfast with views of Wawel.”

See more photos and book here.

PURO Kraków Kazimierz

A modern design hotel with Scandinavian-inspired décor and a focus on sustainability. PURO offers stylish rooms, a cosy lounge area with a bar, and free guided city walks for guests. Located in the heart of Kazimierz’s bustling scene, but with good windows so you can sleep in peace.

A guest recently wrote: “Fantastic modern hotel with the perfect location. The breakfast was outstanding, and the bar makes the best cocktails.”

See more photos and book here.

Hotel Kazimierz

A simple but cosy hotel in the heart of the neighbourhood. The rooms are basic but clean and comfortable, and its location just steps from Plac Nowy means you have everything within reach. Ideal for budget travellers and backpackers who’d rather spend their money on food and experiences.

Guests especially love: “Good value for money in a fantastic area. The staff were friendly and helped with restaurant recommendations.”

See more photos and book here.

Planning a trip around Poland? Check out my guide on where to stay in Gdansk too.

3. Podgórze – Perfect for the Authentic Experience

Podgórze is Krakow’s best-kept secret – a quiet neighbourhood on the other side of the Vistula River that attracts locals and experience-hungry travellers who want to escape the tourist crowds.

The area was formerly an independent industrial district and holds a dark history as the Jewish ghetto during the Second World War.

Today, Podgórze has reinvented itself with hip cafés, art galleries, and a relaxed atmosphere that feels a world away from the tourist bustle – even though you’re actually only a 20-minute walk from the old town.

See the best hotels in Podgórze here.

The beautiful Kładka Bernatka footbridge connects Podgórze with Kazimierz and offers fantastic views over the river and Wawel Castle.

Here you’ll find some of Krakow’s best restaurants and bars along the riverbank – perfect for an evening beer at sunset with views of the castle. Schindler’s Factory is in the area and has been turned into an excellent museum about Krakow during the occupation.

For the more adventurous, Krakus Mound is a great excursion offering panoramic views over the entire city.

Podgórze is the cheapest of the three recommended areas and offers plenty of space and tranquillity. It’s ideal for digital nomads, long-term travellers, or anyone who prefers a more local pace. The area is perfectly safe, even if it feels less polished than the touristy quarters.

Quick Info: Podgórze

Distance to centre: 20-25 min walk to Rynek Główny

Nearest tram: Several lines along Limanowskiego

Time to airport: 30-35 minutes

Supermarket: Several within 10 minutes’ walk

Price level: €€ (2/5)

Safety: (4/5)

Hotels in Podgórze

Stradom House

Technically located on the border between Kazimierz and Podgórze, but with easy access to both. This 5-star boutique hotel was designed by the people behind Soho House and is considered by many to be Krakow’s finest hotel. The interior is a beautiful blend of historic elements from the 600-year-old building and modern luxurious details.

Previous guests particularly highlight: “An absolutely fantastic hotel – perfect location, beautiful décor, and top-class service.”

See more photos and book here.

Hotel Pod Wawelem

With its location at the foot of Wawel Hill, this hotel offers some of the best views in Krakow. The rooms are comfortable and clean, and breakfast is enjoyed with panoramic views of the castle. An excellent mid-range choice for those who want a great location without paying old town prices.

A guest recently wrote: “The best view we’ve ever had from a hotel room – waking up to the sight of Wawel was magical.”

See more photos and book here.

Where Should You Not Stay in Krakow?

Generally, Krakow is a very safe city and you can walk around everywhere – even at night. But there are some areas I’d recommend avoiding as an accommodation base, simply because you’ll have a better experience elsewhere.

Nowa Huta: This communist model district from the 1950s is interesting for a day visit, but it’s far from the centre (30-40 minutes by public transport) and has limited tourist infrastructure. You’ll simply spend too much time on transport if you stay here. Visit it on a guided tour instead and enjoy the fascinating architecture.

Areas around the main railway station (north of Planty): While conveniently close to trains and buses, this area is less charming and can feel a bit dreary compared to the old town’s atmosphere. You won’t get the authentic Krakow experience here.

The suburbs (Kurdwanów, Bieżanów-Prokocim, and similar): These residential areas are fine to live in, but as a tourist you have no reason to stay so far from the centre. You’ll waste unnecessary time on transport, and there are no sights or restaurants of interest. Book in one of the three recommended areas instead – prices are affordable enough that it doesn’t make sense to save a few pounds by staying on the outskirts.

The great thing about Krakow is that the city is so compact you can easily experience all three areas regardless of where you stay. Trams and buses run frequently, and an Uber or Bolt costs next to nothing. So choose the area that best suits your travel style, and enjoy this fantastic city!

One last tip: Book your hotel well in advance, especially if you’re travelling during the summer months or around Easter and Christmas.

Krakow is a popular destination, and the best hotels sell out quickly.

The post Where to Stay in Krakow? The 3 Best Areas & Places to Stay (+ Avoid!) appeared first on Destination Well Known.

Let me start by saying that Gdansk is incredibly easy to get around, and with its efficient public transport, you can quickly travel from one area to another.

I won’t bore you with a long introduction, so let’s get straight to the point: where to stay in Gdansk?

1. Główne Miasto & The Old Town – Best for First-Time Visitors

Główne Miasto means “Main City,” and this is also where everything happens in Gdansk – it’s simply where you should stay if you come as an ordinary tourist.

The Old Town is without a doubt Gdansk’s crown jewel and the area most people associate with the city.

Here, you’ll find the famous colourful merchant houses, the historic waterfront, and narrow cobblestoned streets steeped in history from the Hanseatic era.

This is the part of Gdansk that really showcases its heyday, offering a unique blend of Polish, German, and Hanseatic heritage.

Główne Miasto stretches primarily along the Royal Route, which runs from the Golden Gate through Długa Street (The Long Street) and Długi Targ (The Long Market) to the Green Gate by the Motława River.

See the best hotels in the Old Town here.

Unlike many other historic city centres in Europe (I’m thinking especially of Prague, Florence, Edinburgh, and Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter), Główne Miasto isn’t just a tourist showpiece.

While this area is the city’s main tourist hub, you’ll still find plenty of locals enjoying coffee at cosy cafés or meeting for drinks at traditional beer halls.

In the evenings and early mornings, when the tourist crowds are thinner, you can really feel the authentic atmosphere.

The streets of the Old Town each tell their own story. Take Mariacka Street, for example, famous for its distinctive stone steps and decorative tin drainpipes.

Or explore the area around St. Mary’s Basilica, Europe’s largest brick church.

The narrow side streets hide charming restaurants and specialty shops selling local crafts and the famous Baltic amber.

What to expect in Główne Miasto:

• A packed tourist experience with shops, restaurants, and bars side by side
• Higher prices than the rest of the city (especially for restaurants and hotels)
• Lively atmosphere from morning to evening with entertainment and street musicians
• Historic buildings everywhere – you’ll feel like you’re living in a postcard
• Busy streets filled with tourists from 10 am to 6 pm
• Plenty of guided tours and excursions available
• A wide selection of restaurants
• Easy access to the riverside with its iconic cranes
• Cosy beer halls in historic cellars
• Walking distance to all major attractions

Places to stay in the Old Town

Let me introduce you to four of my favourite hotels in Gdansk’s Old Town.

Radisson RED Gdansk

Imagine starting your day with a swim in the hotel’s indoor pool on the 16th floor.

That’s the everyday luxury at Radisson RED, where the high-rise pool is one of the city’s most unique hotel highlights.

But the hotel offers more than just that – its ultra-trendy rooms will delight even the most discerning design enthusiasts, and the rooftop bar has become a hotspot for both tourists and locals.

Located on the quieter side of the Motława River, the location is brilliant – away from the noise but just a 5-minute walk to Długa Street. Guests rave about the breakfast buffet served with panoramic city views.

See more photos and book here.

Hotel Grano Gdańsk Old Town

Picture yourself unwinding in a stylish indoor pool after a day of exploring Gdansk’s Old Town – that’s the everyday luxury at Hotel Grano.

With its modern design and attention to detail, the hotel exudes style without losing its cosy vibe. The rooms are spacious, with a touch of luxury that makes you feel pampered.

The location is ideal, just a few minutes’ walk from the river and cobblestoned streets, but far enough from the hustle and bustle.

Guests particularly love the relaxing atmosphere and the many small details that make the stay extra special.

See more photos and book here.

Apart Neptun

Imagine having your own little apartment in the heart of Gdansk’s Old Town, where you can start your day with a peaceful cup of coffee – or dive straight into the city’s buzz.

Apart Neptun offers you that freedom. The spacious apartments with their own kitchens make it easy to feel at home, and the prices are so reasonable, you might feel a bit guilty.

The location is spot on, and guests especially praise the helpful service and comfortable rooms. Here, you’ll get maximum flexibility without compromising on comfort.

See more photos and book here.

Liberum Residence Old Town

Stay right in the heart of it all without breaking the bank. Liberum Residence is located on one of Gdansk’s most iconic streets, with windows that open to the Old Town’s vibrant charm.

The rooms are simple yet stylish, and the service exceeds what you’d expect for the price. Guests highlight the cosy atmosphere and clean design.

It’s the perfect base if you want everything within walking distance – and still have money left over for pierogi and souvenirs.

See more photos and book here.

2. Brzeźno – Best for Beaches and Summer Holidays

Now, let’s step outside the city centre – because Gdansk is such a small city, it doesn’t make much sense to stay in other areas for a classic city break.

However, if you’re visiting Gdansk in the summer and want something more than just city life, this area might be for you.

Brzeźno is Gdansk’s charming beach district, offering a completely different vibe from the rest of the city.

Here, you’ll find a lovely mix of seaside charm and local life, just a 20-minute tram ride from the centre.

This is the perfect spot for those who want to combine a city break with beach days and long walks along the Baltic Sea.

Discover the best hotels in Brzeźno here.

Brzeźno has developed from a historic fishing village into a popular beachside neighbourhood with a delightful mix of old villas and modern apartment complexes.

The long promenade is the heart of the area, especially in summer, when both locals and tourists flock to beach bars, cafés, and the 130-metre-long pier.

Brzeźno is particularly popular among families and those seeking a more relaxed holiday vibe. The pace here is much slower than in the city centre, giving you a more authentic feel for how Poles spend their holidays.

What to expect in Brzeźno:

• Direct access to sandy beaches
• Relaxed seaside atmosphere
• Plenty of outdoor activities
• Local restaurants and cafés
• A long promenade with shops and bars
• Better air quality than in the city centre
• A calmer pace than in the urban areas
• Great opportunities for walking and hiking
• Cycling paths along the coast
• Cheaper dining options compared to the city centre

Places to stay in Brzeźno

If you’re looking for a great hotel by the beach in Gdansk, here are three excellent options:

Rezydencja Merwede Aparthotel

Imagine waking up to the sound of waves and starting your day with a coffee on a balcony with sea views – that’s exactly what Rezydencja Merwede offers.

These ultra-modern holiday apartments combine stylish interiors with all the practical amenities you could wish for.

Located right by the beach in Brzeźno, it’s perfect for those who love being close to nature while staying in comfort.

Guests especially highlight the tranquil vibe and beautiful surroundings, giving you a holiday feeling from the very first moment.

See more photos and book here.

Dom Zdrojowy

Dom Zdrojowy is for those who want to stay in elegant surroundings near the sea.

This beautiful historic building has been transformed into a modern hotel with sleek rooms and views so stunning, you might never want to leave.

You can step straight onto the beach or enjoy a relaxing walk in the nearby park areas.

Guests praise the luxurious atmosphere, which manages to be sophisticated without being pretentious, and the fantastic location, where the sea is practically your neighbour.

Here, relaxation and style go hand in hand.

See more photos and book here.

Hotel Lival

If you’re looking for an affordable beach hotel that still has plenty to offer, Hotel Lival is an excellent choice.

The rooms are simple but comfortable, and you can’t beat the location right on the beach.

Start your day with a jog along the sand or enjoy a drink with sea views on the hotel’s terrace.

Guests love the laid-back environment and friendly service. It’s the perfect choice for a genuine beach holiday without blowing your entire budget on accommodation.

See more photos and book here.

I hope you found my guide on where to stay in Gdansk helpful.

Gdansk is a city that pleasantly surprises many visitors with its unique mix of history, beaches, and modern urban life. While the city isn’t large, each area offers its own unique take on this historic Hanseatic city.

Remember, you can always use the city’s efficient public transport to explore all areas, no matter where you decide to stay. The most important thing is to choose a location that matches your travel style and priorities.

Have a great trip to Gdansk!

Frequently asked questions:

The post Where to Stay in Gdansk? The 2 Best Areas & 7 Great Places to Stay 🇵🇱 appeared first on Destination Well Known.