Local flavours

When in Krakow, try at least the most popular dishes, to get the scoop of what Polish cuisine is. Poland used to occupy a much larger territory and as a result, the dishes are diverse, the preparation is sometimes complex, but the result is always amazing.

Polish cuisine may not be the lightest, but it surely offers some of the tastiest dishes in the world. There are plenty of places to try out our local, Polish specialities, especially around the Main Market Square.

Here we present some of the most well known Polish dishes.

Bigos - sauerkraut, sausages, meat, spices, mushrooms and many more...

A unique, "sky is the limit" dish, which is very traditional in Polish cuisine. It dates back to the 15th century and has as many ways of preparation, as there are cooks.

Pierogi - dumplings

The limitless stuffing ingredients make pierogi a dish for all tastes. They are not the simplest to prepare, but delicious to devour. The most traditional stuffing: meat, sauerkraut with mushrooms, cheese and onion. The most unusual stuffing: fish (salmon, tuna), shrimp, duck.

Gołąbki - cabbage rolls stuffed with meat i.e. pork and rice

Yet another example of a cabbage dish in Polish cuisine that is an unforgettable culinary experience that can be easily prepared at home.

Due to the fact that Jews settled almost all over the world, every Jewish community had their own dishes which were very often based on the ingredients obtainable locally. Jewish cuisine was influenced by local dishes, but in turn it also influenced local cuisines.

There are quite a few places that offer Jewish-style dishes. There are some traditional specialities worth trying out. Having visited the former Jewish quarter it would be a nice ending to your day. However, there are only three places that offer Glat Kosher Jewish dishes.

An all day snack - obwarzanek - has gained its popularity with Krakovians from all walks of life. Nowadays, it is sprinkled with either poppy seed, sesame seed, flaxseed, melted cheese or salt. Fresh, crispy and simple. A piece of heaven for less than 50 cents.

In the shape, they are similar to bagels, known widely in the USA. In fact, the American bagels trace their origin back to Krakow, where they were a popular snack amidst the Jewish population. Some say the American bagels were invented in order to compete with Krakow bagels, which were known as early as the 14 century and enjoyed by members of the court and even by the king and the queen.

Nowadays, they are very popular among students, as they are both tasty and inexpensive. There are almost 150 thousand Krakow bagels sold daily.

Klezmer music originated in Central and Eastern European villages and ghettos. It is the traditional secular music of Ashkenazi Jews. Skilful Klezmer musicians were invited to perform at bat mitzvah, bar mitzvah and other important joyful events, such as weddings.

A visit to the former Jewish Quarter in Krakow is a good occasion to enjoy a Klezmer music concert and an original Jewish-style dinner. That would be a total, cultural immersion. Many restaurants in Kazimierz district offer such concerts to their guests.

A very popular way of exploring the city, especially around the Main Market Square and the Royal Route. That is what they call - sightseeing in style.

How much is a ride?

• up to 15 minutes - 70 PLN
• up to 30 minutes - 200 PLN
• up to 1 hour - 300 PLN

It is hard to believe, but Krakow boasts an impressive 50 museums. The most famous one is The Czartoryski Museum that holds the masterpiece by Leonardo DaVinci, the painting titled The Lady with an Ermine.

For those who wish to visit a great number of museums in two or three days, we recommend - Krakow Tourist Card. A two day card costs 50PLN, a three day card costs 65PLN.

The card entitles the holder to limitless use of public transport and entrance to 30 different Krakow museums free of charge.

Krakow is known for its love of music. There are plenty of good music bars, pubs, clubs, cultural centres and even restaurants that offer all possible kinds of music. Tourists can enjoy both annual music events, such as concerts, festivals and competitions; as well as, various performances that take place especially on and around the Main Market Square.

Krakovians, students and tourists are blessed with the fact that apart from sightseeing, dining and relaxing there is always something more to do. For the full list of events click here: www.krakow.pl