Category: Practical travel advice

Practical tips and advice for travellers, including transportation options, accommodation recommendations, budget tips, and useful phrases in Polish.

Practical travel advice

Visiting Krakow: Entry Requirements and Residency Permits

Post author By nessie
Post date May 27, 2023
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For some nationals planning a visit to Krakow, or anywhere else in Poland, understanding the entry and long-stay requirements is an essential step in ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience. This article will walk you through the necessary requirements for various travel purposes and lengths of stay.

Entry requirements

Poland is both a member of the European Union and party to the Schengen Agreement. If you are a citizen of an EU country, a Schengen Area country or a select associated European nation, you can freely enter and exit Poland without encountering border controls, thanks to the free movement of people within member states. This effectively allows you to settle in Poland for an indefinite period if you are seeking a long-term stay.

If you come from certain countries outside of the EU and Schengen Area (e.g. Canada, USA, UK, Australia, Brazil), you may enter the Schengen area for short stays (usually 90 days in any 180-day period) without a visa. Your passport will be stamped on entry and exit, so you should make sure not to overstay.

If you do not come from a visa-waiver country, you will need to apply for a tourist visa which is usually valid for 90 days. The application process involves gathering the necessary documents, filling out the application form, and scheduling an appointment at the Polish consulate or embassy.

The European Union publishes an official list of non-EU countries which require a visa (Annex I) and those which don’t (Annex II) to enter the EU. You can view the up-to-date lists here.

Residence Permits

For individuals planning a long-term stay in Krakow, a residence permit (karta pobytu) may be required. This includes individuals seeking employment, study or family reunification. The application process varies depending on the purpose of your stay, and it’s important to understand the specific requirements and documentation needed for each situation. Contact the City Hall (Urząd Miasta) for detailed instructions. The Department for Foreigners, Malopolska Provincial Office (Małopolski Urząd Wojewódzki. Wydział Spraw Cudzoziemców) can be found at Przy Rondzie 6, 31-547 Kraków.

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Practical travel advice

A Guide to Grocery Stores in Krakow

Post author By nessie
Post date May 17, 2023
1 Comment on A Guide to Grocery Stores in Krakow

For many visitors to Krakow, having a reliable and convenient grocery store is a daily necessity. Fortunately, the city offers a wide range of grocery stores that cater to various budgets and preferences. From local markets offering fresh produce to large supermarkets stocked with international products, Krakow has something for every shopper. Let’s explore the different options, helping you navigate the city’s food scene and make informed choices for your shopping needs.

Local Markets

Krakow boasts numerous local markets, where you can find fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The most famous market is the Stary Kleparz, located near the city centre. Here, you’ll discover a wide range of fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and more. The Hala Targowa market is another popular option, offering a variety of food stalls and specialty shops.

Supermarkets

Krakow is home to several supermarket chains, providing a wide selection of products, including local and international brands. Biedronka and Lidl are two of the most popular budget-friendly options, offering affordable prices on groceries and household items. They even include some speciality imported items in their range of products. Biedronka, for example, boasts a Greek section where you can find affordable imported products like feta cheese, halva, pita bread, olives, stuffed vine leaves, peppers, and so on, depending on what’s on offer. Carrefour and Auchan are larger supermarkets that provide a broad range of products and have multiple locations throughout the city. For a larger supermarket offering more premium products, try Carrefour Premium, located in the Galeria Kazimierz shopping centre.

Convenience stores

Convenience stores in Krakow provide an accessible option for quick purchases and everyday essentials. These small-scale stores are scattered throughout the city, allowing residents and visitors to conveniently grab items on the go. Popular convenience store chains in Krakow include Żabka and Carrefour Express, which offer products such as snacks, beverages, toiletries and basic groceries. These stores often have extended opening hours, with some even operating 24/7.

Organic and Specialty Stores

For those seeking organic or specialty products, Krakow has a range of stores that cater to specific dietary needs and preferences, for example Organic farma zdrowia located at the Galeria Krakowska mall and Natura, which is in the old town at ul. Ludwika Zamenhofa 1.

International Food Stores

Krakow is home to a sizeable multicultural expat community, and it offers various international food stores where you can find ingredients and products from around the world. One of the most well-known of these is Kuchnie Świata, a chain of shops that specializes in global cuisine, offering a decent selection of spices, sauces and specialty ingredients. You can find this shop at the Galeria Krakowska shopping centre.

Online Grocery Shopping

In recent years, online grocery shopping has become increasingly popular in Krakow. Websites like Frisco offer convenient delivery services, allowing you to shop from the comfort of your home and have your groceries delivered right to your doorstep.

Finding the right grocery store in Krakow is a matter of personal preference, budget and location. Whether you prefer to explore local markets, shop at budget-friendly supermarkets, or seek out specialty stores, Krakow has a diverse range of options to meet your needs.

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Practical travel advice

Cost of living in Krakow

When considering a move or an extended stay in Krakow, understanding the cost of living is crucial for budget planning and lifestyle adjustments. Let’s look at the various aspects of the cost of living in Krakow to provide you with a comprehensive overview.

Like almost everywhere else, Krakow has been hit by inflation since 2022. However, for many visitors, the negative impact on living costs will be softened a bit by the relatively weak Polish Zloty, which dropped more than other major currencies. The information below is current as of May 2023.

Accommodation

Accommodation in Krakow ranges from relatively affordable to moderate, depending on the neighbourhood and the type of housing. While the city centre and popular districts like Kazimierz may have higher rental prices, exploring options outside the city centre can reveal more budget-friendly rates.

When it comes to long-term rentals (min. 12 months), a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre can cost around 2,500 to 4,000 PLN per month, while outside the centre, the prices drop to approximately 2,000 to 3,000 PLN.

The cost of short-term rentals in Krakow also varies depending on factors such as location, size, amenities and seasonality. In the city centre and popular districts, the prices tend to be higher, especially during peak tourist seasons. On average, a short-term rental in Krakow can range from around 200 to 500 PLN per night for a one-bedroom apartment, while for larger accommodations or more luxury properties you can expect higher rates. Expect to pay even more on national holidays.

Food and drink

As for groceries and dining out, Krakow offers a range of choices to suit various budgets. Local markets and supermarkets provide reasonably priced groceries, allowing you to cook your meals at home economically. On average, a monthly grocery bill for a single person can range from 900 to 3000 PLN, depending on your diet. Check our guide on grocery stores in Krakow.

For those who prefer dining out occasionally, Krakow has numerous affordable restaurants where you can enjoy a satisfying meal for around 25 to 60 PLN per person, whereas a three-course meal in a mid-range restaurant can set you back around 70-150 PLN.

Transportation

Transportation costs in Krakow are relatively low compared to many other European cities. The efficient and well-connected public transportation system, including trams and buses, offers affordable options for getting around the city. A monthly public transportation pass costs around 150 PLN, and taxis or ride-sharing services are also available at reasonable rates.

Entertainment

Entertainment and leisure activities in Krakow are diverse and cater to various budgets. Exploring the city’s historical landmarks, such as Wawel Castle and St. Mary’s Basilica, often comes with affordable or even free entry fees.

Krakow also hosts numerous cultural events, festivals, and concerts throughout the year, providing entertainment options for all budgets.

When it comes to going out, a 0.5 litre draught beer will cost around 9-15 PLN. However, many of the bars and clubs are free to enter. If you’re looking for a caffeine fix while you’re out and about, expect to pay around 8-16 PLN for a regular coffee or cappuccino.

Health care

Krakow has a well-established healthcare system with both public and private options. Public healthcare in Poland is generally affordable, and many expats choose to obtain private health insurance to have access to a wider range of services and shorter waiting times. Private health insurance costs around 100-300 PLN per month for a one-year policy.

Despite the ongoing inflation, Krakow offers a relatively low cost of living compared to other major European cities, making it an appealing destination for those seeking an affordable yet culturally rich lifestyle. With careful budgeting and planning, it is possible to enjoy a comfortable life without straining your finances.

Sources

https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/in/Krakow-Cracow

https://rankomat.pl/ubezpieczenia-zdrowotne

https://ztp.krakow.pl/en/public-transport/kmk-public-transport/kmk-ticket-guide

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Practical travel advice

Healthy in Krakow: A Guide to Staying Fit during your Stay

Post author By nessie
Post date May 10, 2023
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Krakow is a great destination for those looking to prioritise their health and fitness while traveling. With numerous parks, trails, gyms, and wellness centres, there are plenty of opportunities to stay active and healthy in Krakow.

Green spaces

One of the best ways to stay active in Krakow is by taking advantage of its many green spaces. Blonia, for example, is a large open space located in the western part of the city. It is a parkland that spans over 48 hectares of land, making it one of the largest green areas in Krakow’s city centre. It is a popular spot for outdoor activities, including jogging, cycling, and walking. The Planty Park is a beautiful 4-kilometer-long park that encircles the Old Town area of Krakow. It’s perfect for a morning jog, a relaxing stroll, or a picnic with friends. Additionally, the Twardowski Rocks Nature Reserve is an excellent place for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region.

Fitness centres

For those who prefer indoor workouts, there are plenty of gyms and fitness centers in Krakow. Two of the most popular are My Fitness Place and Platinium Fitness, which have multiple locations throughout the city and offers a variety of classes, including yoga, Pilates, and Zumba.

Healthy eating

In addition to exercise, Krakow also offers plenty of options for healthy eating. One of the best places to find healthy and organic food is Nowy Kleparz, a local market that sells fresh produce, meats, and other healthy ingredients. For a sit-down meal, try Krowarzywa, a vegan burger joint that offers a variety of healthy options made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

Wellness centres

Finally, no health and fitness journey is complete without a trip to a wellness centre to help you relax and rejuvenate. Krakow has a range of wellness centres and spas that offer various treatments and services to locals and tourists alike. These include massage, facials, body treatments and yoga classes. Many of the wellness centres in Krakow are located in upmarket hotels, but there are also many independent options that offer high-quality services at affordable prices.

As you can see, Krakow offers a wealth of options for those looking to prioritize their health and fitness while traveling. Whether you prefer outdoor activities, gym workouts, healthy eating, or wellness treatments, there’s something for everyone. So the next time you visit Krakow, be sure to make time for your health and well-being and explore all that this city has to offer.

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