Kraków

Kraków, one of Poland's oldest cities, stands as a vibrant mix of history and modern life. The stunning Main Market Square (Rynek Główny) forms the heart of the city, where medieval architecture shares space with lively cafes and street performers. Walking through the Old Town feels like stepping into a living museum - it survived World War II largely undamaged, allowing its unique charm to remain intact.

The iconic Wawel Castle perches on a hill overlooking the Vistula River, telling stories of Polish royalty and national pride. Nearby, the Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz offers a moving glimpse into the community's rich heritage before WWII, now transformed into a cultural hotspot with unique shops and atmospheric restaurants.

Beyond the city center, Kraków has a darker historical connection as the base for Nazi operations during World War II. The nearby Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial serves as a profound reminder of the Holocaust's horrors.

The locals are known for their warmth and hospitality, and the food scene is excellent - from traditional pierogi to innovative Polish fusion cuisine. With over 750 years of history, Kraków balances its significant past with a forward-looking energy driven by its large student population from Jagiellonian University, one of Europe's oldest educational institutions.