Every tourist destination has its attractions. However, because every tourist is different, these attractions have greater or lesser value. In this series Gary’s gives his reasons for traveling to a particular place. Hopefully some of his thoughts will entice you to consider adding this particular place to your itinerary. The entire series is being categorized under the heading, “Spotlights.” You may find more about these locations in the archives of this website, under headings such as, “Great Places,” “Things to Do in,” “Best of,” “Top 10” and “Places of a Lifetime.” In addition, there may be “Walking Tours” of these places available for purchase on the website for the low price of $1.49 each.

Krakow, although reduced to rubble during World War II, has been lovingly restored and rebuilt. It has become a premier travel destination in Eastern Europe and deservedly so. As a former Polish capital, Krakow has a wealth of attractions. Include Krakow in your Eastern European itinerary for at least the following reasons:

1. Krakow boasts the largest public square in Europe. Its centerpiece is the Sukiennice (Cloth Market) which is now an indoor flea market.

Cloth Hall, Krakow

2. At one corner of the square is St Mary’s Church, with its glorious interior. A bugler begins his interrupted song every hour, recreating an important moment in Krakow history.

Altar, St Mary’s Church

3. Above the Old Town is the Wawel Castle complex, the home of Polish rulers for many years.

Wawel Castle

4. Opposite St Mary’s Church, on Krakow’s Main Square, is its prominent Town Hall.

Town Hall, Krakow