A One Travellers diary of Krakow

If you've been considering a solo holiday with One Traveller but wished to know more, a previous One Traveller has kindly written to us sharing their memorable holiday to Krakow.

Krakow is just a two hour flight away with short transfer to the hotel giving one time to unpack, relax and enjoy a welcome drink with fellow travellers on arrival. This relaxed start was the prelude of things to come. The get together at an airport hotel the evening before was also a true ice breaker for those of us a little nervous.

The next day we took a city tour including all the sights, the stunning Wawel Castle and a wander to the main square listening to the live bugle player from St Marys Church before a free afternoon. With my fellow band of travellers we took to one of the restaurants recommended by our knowledgeable Tour Manager. Eating and drinking in Poland is great value. None of us could decide what we were to eat so we ate like true friends (we only met the day before!) and each ordered something different to share. Potato pancakes with garlic butter, local filled dumplings, Spinach with raisins, trout, goulash, all washed down with a couple of wines, soft drinks and frothy coffees. We split the bill and despite our over indulgence still spent far less than lunch at home. We tipped the service (we found the locals always helpful).

Now to work it off! In the centre of the square is the ornate "Cloth Hall" with dozens of stores selling amber, handmade jewellery, wooden toys, carvings, crystal ware, and handmade woollens all in a unique architectural setting. Having booked all the excursions I was glad that one was a half day and that we would be brought back here should we wish to seek out yet another bargain. Thank heavens the square has exchange offices and ATM machines!

Our days out were relaxed without lengthy drives on the coach. Zakopane was a hit with its markets but above all its dramatic high Tatra mountain scenery. Encapsulated by this we took the Funicular to get great views and share a glass or two to wash down the local barbecued smoked cheese! Not leaving anyone out we shared three tables and chatted amidst a magnificent scenic backdrop. I personally thoroughly recommend the Salt Mines of Wieliczka. Huge Cavernous excavations with skilled carved life-size figures in salt lit by giant chandeliers. With plenty of time to head back into Krakow and an evening dinner with a wonderful Chopin concert this truly was, well paced, fascinating with different scenic aspects, a friendly folk and inexpensive food, wine, souvenirs and gifts.

I don’t know why I was so nervous. Now it’s back to the One Traveller Brochure to see what’s next, another fabulous European city or maybe somewhere more exotic.