Useful "Tips for anyone visiting Krakow"

		I have now visited Krakow three times, I have learned a few things about this lovely city, not that I class myself in anyway an expert. I apologise if this page is written from the point of view of a UK citizen. I have always visited Krakow using Easyjet from Bristol International Airport. Before you go. You may find it useful to search the web for information about Krakow, suprisingly there are lots of links that are in English. You may, as a starter, find my Links page useful. If you think you are going to use public transport it may be useful to download and print off some of the maps from the Krakow Transport Page. If you want to buy a guide book the one that I have found the best is DK Eyewitness Travel Guide, but be warned they spell the city "Cracow" in the title. The TripAdviser Forum contains a wealth of knowledge about Krakow, if you use the search function.
Part of the Tram Map

Although Poland is now part of the EU along with Great Britain it still has not adopted the Euro, but uses the Zloty (PLN). I have found the best value on changing pounds sterling to Zloty is the ATM's in Krakow. But I also take a small amount of the local currency with me, I have found that M&S has always given me competitive rates. Also the Kantors (Bureau de change) in Krakow give better rates than one can get in the UK, but not as good as the ATM's. Do shop around, there are many Kantors in Krakow but most show a board in the window with their daily rates. (see picture on the right). For the Zloty rate against the pound please see this link.

On arrival at the airport, take the train into the centre of Krakow. The cost is just 7 Zloty if you get the ticket from the vending machine at the exit of the terminal building, but still very good value if you purchase the ticket from the conductor on the train. Right outside the exit from the airport you will find a free bus that takes you on a short 5 minute trip to the train stop. The train runs every 30 minutes (for more details and train times please see this Link. The train takes you into Krakow's main train station, from there you may be able to walk to your accommodation, get a tram/ bus or take the lift from the platform to the overhead car park where you will find awaiting Taxis.

The main booking hall at Krakow Railway Station

Lots of the sights of Krakow one can walk, but I find that I use the excellant tram service more now that I'm getting older (too much drinking and smoking doesn't help my mobility). I have found that the 24hr pass is very good value at just 10.40 Zloty (that's less than £3), this covers both the trams and buses. I have travelled miles, or should I say kilometres, in one day using this pass: but please please don't forget to validate it on first time you use it, in the machine provided as you get on the tram/bus. Then just put it into your pocket, and you are free to explore Krakow for a full 24hrs. The maps of the trams and buses can be found by using this *Link*. I think that the best advice I can give to someone visiting Krakow is to relax and don't rush, just take your time.

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