How HelloCracow Made It Onto TripAdvisor's 'Best of the Best' List

Hello Cracow • September 17, 2025

Every traveler seeks an authentic, memorable experience. It is a search for a story, not only a sight. When a local agency wins the TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Best of the Best award, it signals something greater. The award reflects both the quality and quantity of traveler reviews, becoming TripAdvisor's most prestigious recognition worldwide. HelloCracow now stands among the top 1% of listings, joining a very exclusive group of experiences. Such recognition naturally raises a question: what mission drives a company that transforms simple tours into unforgettable journeys?

A love letter to Krakow

For years, our team at HelloCracow has followed one powerful mission: sharing Krakow's beauty and history worldwide. We are more than a tour company; we are a group of locals deeply passionate about this remarkable city. Our mission is to provide authentic, locally rooted experiences that go far beyond a simple checklist of sights. We believe travel is about connection-with places, with people, and with the stories that bring them to life. Each tour should leave travelers with lasting memories and a true sense of Krakow's unique soul. Receiving TripAdvisor's recognition is humbling proof that our passion resonates with travelers across the globe.

The TripAdvisor 'Best of the Best' distinction

The Best of the Best award is TripAdvisor's highest honor, given only to businesses showing consistent hospitality excellence. This recognition is not a popularity contest; it is earned through a rigorous, transparent process. The award considers both quality and quantity of genuine traveler reviews gathered over a full 12-month period. Its rarity comes from placing winners in the top 1% of all TripAdvisor listings worldwide. This makes it a powerful benchmark of truly world-class service. Our Auschwitz tour was highlighted as being "among the top 1% of things to do worldwide." That recognition shows our ability to approach profound and sensitive topics with deep respect and care.

Top 10 tours for your visit to Krakow

1. Auschwitz-Birkenau

A profound journey to a UNESCO World Heritage site, approached with respect, care, and professionalism. TripAdvisor recognizes this tour among the top 1% of experiences worldwide, proving its importance and exceptional quality.

BOOK HERE

2. Wieliczka Salt Mine

Descend into an underground world of art and history, part of the first 12 UNESCO World Heritage sites. Discover salt-carved chapels and statues, a living testament to 700 years of remarkable history.

BOOK HERE

3. Zakopane

Escape to the Tatra Mountains for breathtaking landscapes and unique highlander culture. Enjoy traditions and taste local delicacies, including smoked oscypek cheese.

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4. Schindler’s Factory

Enter Oskar Schindler’s former enamel factory, now a museum telling Krakow’s gripping wartime story. Learn about his heroic actions saving over a thousand Jewish lives.

BOOK HERE

5. Dunajec River Gorge

Combine nature and tradition with a scenic rafting adventure through the Dunajec Gorge. Skilled local rafters guide visitors along breathtaking river landscapes.

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6. Zalipie Painted Village

Discover folk art traditions in a village where every home is hand-painted. This fairy-tale experience offers charm far beyond typical tourist routes.

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7. Wawel & Vistula River Cruise

Explore Krakow’s royal history at Wawel Castle and Cathedral. Then enjoy a peaceful Vistula River cruise revealing hidden views.

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8. Jewish Quarter Kazimierz

Walk through a district where history and bohemian culture meet. Explore synagogues, courtyards, and sites featured in Schindler’s List.

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9. Street Food & Historical Adventure

Taste authentic Polish dishes while exploring historic streets. This tour blends culinary adventure with a fascinating journey through Krakow’s past.

BOOK HERE

10. Wawel, St. Mary’s Basilica & Rynek Underground

Experience Krakow above and below ground. Visit Wawel Castle, St. Mary’s Basilica, and the medieval streets beneath the Main Square.

BOOK HERE

Your Adventure Awaits

At HelloCracow, we believe that the best way to see a city is to experience it like a local. Our TripAdvisor 'Best of the Best' award powerfully validates this belief. So, why just take a tour when you can have a story? Explore Krakow with a certified leader in cultural tourism and discover the magic for yourself.

HelloCracow Tours

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10 Reasons Why Krakow in Autumn Will Steal Your Heart

By Hello Cracow • September 9, 2025

Autumn in Krakow is a transformative experience, often described as the "Golden Polish Autumn" . During this season, the city undergoes a profound change. The vibrant energy of summer gives way to a quieter, more reflective atmosphere. The landscape turns into a breathtaking palette of golds, yellows, and fiery reds. Crisp autumn air and rustling leaves add to the sense of seasonal beauty. Warm, golden light bathes the city’s historic architecture in a magical glow. This article is a comprehensive guide to Krakow’s autumn wonders. It reveals ten reasons why visiting the city in autumn is unique. The journey presents both iconic landmarks and hidden, authentic charms. Krakow is shown as a city equally rich in nature, history, and culture.

Why September Is the Golden Month to Visit Kraków

By Hello Cracow • September 4, 2025

September is the quintessential month to experience the true essence of Kraków, a time of year locals and seasoned travelers consider the " golden month " for a visit. As the peak summer season recedes, the city sheds its most intense crowds and heat, revealing a more intimate and authentic character. The air becomes crisp, the light softens, and the city's parks and gardens begin to glow with the first hues of autumn. The average daily temperature hovers around a pleasant 19°C, with approximately 12 hours of daylight, providing ideal conditions for exploring both the city's historic core and its vibrant cultural scene without the hustle and discomfort of the mid-summer rush. The convergence of favorable weather, reduced crowds, and a bustling cultural calendar creates a unique synergy that makes a September trip superior to one in the crowded summer months. While the summer heat can make queueing for major attractions and navigating busy streets a less-than-pleasant experience, the gentle weather of early autumn invites unhurried walks along the Vistula River, leisurely picnics in the city's parks, and comfortable exploration of historical sites. This environment acts as a catalyst for a packed schedule of outdoor and indoor events, from bustling markets to sophisticated music festivals. This confluence of ideal conditions positions September not just as a good month, but as the premier time to visit, offering the vibrancy of summer without any of the major drawbacks.

Visiting Auschwitz-Birkenau: A Comprehensive Guide

By Hello Cracow • August 26, 2025

A visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a profound and necessary experience for anyone seeking to understand the darkest chapter of World War II. It stands as a solemn place of pilgrimage and remembrance, where over a million Jews and other prisoners were oppressed or killed. This is not a typical tourist destination but a moving testimony to those who lost their lives. To ensure your visit is respectful and meaningful, understanding the practical rules and requirements is essential. This guide is designed to help you prepare for this solemn journey, ensuring your focus remains on remembrance and reflection rather than on logistical concerns.

Kraków Outdoor Water Activities Guide

By Hello Cracow • August 19, 2025

For countless visitors, Kraków is a city of cobblestone streets, towering Gothic spires, and a rich history etched into every building. Tourists flock to Wawel Castle, explore the Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz, and wander through the grand Main Market Square. Yet, a different, equally captivating Kraków exists just a few steps away, flowing alongside the city's most iconic landmarks-the Vistula River. This majestic artery invites a fresh perspective, offering a diverse array of water-based activities that combine historical sightseeing with active, outdoor exploration. From serene cruises to energetic paddling, discovering Kraków's waterways provides a unique way to experience the city's soul.

The Modern Polish Kitchen: A Renaissance of Tradition

By Agnieszka Mach • August 12, 2025

Polish cuisine has long evoked images of hearty, rustic comfort food. But in the last decade, a quiet revolution has been unfolding across the country, transforming the culinary landscape. This is the era of modern Polish cuisine. It's a bold and creative movement that blends centuries-old traditions with global influences, captivating palates at home and abroad. At the heart of this gastronomic rebirth is Kraków, a city that is not only a monument to history but also a vibrant laboratory for culinary innovation. Here, a new generation of chefs, artisans, and food producers is redefining what it means to eat Polish. They're not just cooking, but telling a story-one of resilience, cultural synthesis, and a profound respect for the land.

Zakopane Adventures: Thrills, Relaxation, and the Tatra Soul

By Hello Cracow • August 8, 2025

Nestled at the foot of the majestic Tatra Mountains, Zakopane is more than just Poland's "Winter Capital". It is a vibrant, year-round destination that masterfully blends breathtaking natural beauty with a rich cultural heritage. From the exhilaration of high-altitude adventures to the restorative bliss of thermal springs, Zakopane offers a multifaceted experience for every type of traveler. To truly unlock this unique region without the hassle of logistics, consider an expertly guided tour. As your gateway to this stunning landscape, we will guide you through Zakopane's iconic landmarks, its hidden gems, and the authentic soul that makes it a must-visit destination.

Exploring the Lesser-Known Wonders of Wieliczka Salt Mine

By Hello Cracow • July 28, 2025

Beneath the earth's surface, just a short journey from the charming streets of Krakow, an extraordinary world unfolds. This is the Wieliczka Salt Mine - a place that transcends the ordinary concept of a tourist attraction. It stands as a living testament to history, art, and the marvels of nature, inviting visitors to delve into its depths. Its global significance was immediately recognized in 1978 when the Wieliczka Salt Mine was among the first 12 sites inscribed on the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List. This distinction instantly elevates its status, indicating its unparalleled universal value.

Kraków's Płaszów Camp: Shadows of History

By Hello Cracow • July 22, 2025

Beyond the better-known sites, Kraków holds the lesser-told story of the Płaszów camp, a place of silence and remembrance. This city, rich in history and countless monuments, also conceals a less-known but significant narrative: the history of the Płaszów camp. It is a place of silence and remembrance, extending beyond the commonly known attractions, offering deep reflection on the tragic events of World War II.

Exploring Krakow’s Most Captivating Museums

By Hello Cracow • July 17, 2025

Imagine a city where every cobblestone whispers tales of centuries past, where art breathes in grand halls, and history unfolds beneath your feet. That city is Krakow, often hailed as the "city of museums," boasting an astonishing 82 institutions. This isn't just a collection of buildings, it's a vibrant tapestry reflecting and shaping the city's identity through the ages. Krakow's museums cater to every curiosity from ancient archaeological finds to cutting-edge contemporary art, from solemn memorials to whimsical, interactive experiences.

Echoes of Zakopane: Highlander Culture, Wooden Villas, and Mountain Myths

By Hello Cracow • July 8, 2025

Zakopane, renowned for its breathtaking mountain vistas and exhilarating ski slopes, consistently draws countless adventurers seeking thrilling experiences. However, beneath the majestic Tatra peaks, a profound and richer narrative unfolds, revealing a vibrant tapestry of Podhale traditions, legends, and a dynamic Highlander culture that proves as rugged and captivating as the landscape. This destination transcends mere sightseeing; it represents an immersive journey into a unique ethnographic heart where each intricately carved wooden villa whispers tales of the past, every haunting melody carries centuries of history, and even the smoky aroma of Oscypek cheese extends an invitation to explore a heritage unlike any other.