November 19, 2025 | 08:23 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Krakow, the historic city in Poland, has been crowned Europe's best "quick escape" destination. This ranking, released in the Easy Breaks Index by LateRooms, determined that the former Polish capital offers an ideal combination of comfort and affordability without the usual chaos associated with international travel.
In the ranking, which compared 50 European cities based on metrics like flight duration, costs, airport transfer time, hotel prices, and attraction ratings, Krakow secured the top spot.
The transfer from the airport to the city center is notably efficient, taking only 17 minutes by train, one of the fastest in Europe. The airport station is even directly connected via a pedestrian bridge, allowing tourists to bypass taxi queues and often navigate challenges.
Upon arrival, the city center further indulges visitors. Krakow is highly regarded as a pedestrian-friendly city, with a downtown area that can be entirely explored on foot. This central area is surrounded by the green belt of Planty Park, according to the local tourism site.
Harvard Health research suggests that a 20-minute walk in green spaces can lower stress hormones, indicating that Krakow's city structure naturally supports relaxation, as reported by the New York Post.
History and Culture of Krakow
Krakow is not just easy and relaxing; it is also one of Europe's richest centers of history and culture. According to Britannica, Krakow is one of the largest cities in Poland, situated on the banks of the Vistula River. Its city center, featuring the Rynek Glowny (Main Square) dating back to the 13th century, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978. The city is filled with thousands of historic buildings, including St. Mary's Church with an altar by Veit Stoss and magnificent 14th-century stained glass windows.
The Wawel Cathedral complex, which has been rebuilt several times since the 11th century, features a number of chapels and royal burial spaces. Two remaining medieval defensive structures, the Barbican and Florian Gate, stand as evidence of the city's frequently besieged past.
The Kazimierz district, the former Jewish quarter, houses the well-preserved Remu'h Cemetery with 16th-century tombstones. Near the main square, the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) stands as a prominent example of Renaissance architecture.
A Culturally Vibrant City
In addition to its historical heritage, Krakow maintains its reputation as a dynamic cultural center with renowned museums, universities, theaters, and opera houses.
The National Museum showcases 20th-century Polish art, while the Jagiellonian University Museum houses a collection of rare artifacts in the 14th-century Collegium Maius building.
Not far from the city, the Wieliczka Salt Mine—another UNESCO World Heritage site—offers underground corridors spanning 300 kilometers, subterranean chapels, and a unique sanatorium.
Krakow also spoils tourists with a wide range of cafes and restaurants scattered around the main square and in historic underground spaces, offering a relaxed atmosphere and affordable cuisine. The city's tourism site notes that food prices in Krakow are even cheaper than in other budget destinations like Berlin or Lisbon, costing about a third less.
ANNISA NUR ALIMAH
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