Kraków 101

A friendly first-timer’s guide to the city

So you’re coming to Kraków for WordCamp Europe 2026. Maybe you’ve never been to Poland before. Maybe you’ve never even thought much about Central Europe. That’s perfectly fine, because you’re about to discover one of the continent’s most charming and welcoming cities.

Kraków has the rare quality of feeling both grand and intimate at the same time. It’s a city of nearly 800,000 people, yet somehow it never feels overwhelming. The historic centre is compact enough to explore on foot, but there’s always another courtyard, another café, another story waiting around the next corner.

Why Kraków makes such a great host city

There’s a reason WordCamp Europe chose Kraków. This city has been hosting visitors for centuries, and honestly, it shows in the best possible way. The infrastructure works. People speak English. The food scene is fantastic. And perhaps most importantly, there’s a genuine warmth here that you’ll feel from the moment you arrive.

The tech community in Kraków is vibrant and growing. You’ll find coworking spaces tucked into historic buildings, startups occupying converted industrial spaces, and a real sense of innovation happening alongside all that medieval architecture. It’s a city that respects its past while enthusiastically building its future, which feels rather appropriate for a WordPress gathering.

Getting your bearings

When you first look at a map of Kraków, the layout is surprisingly straightforward. At the heart of everything is the magnificent main square (Rynek Główny), dating back to the 13th century. This is where you’ll probably spend a good chunk of your time, and it’s genuinely one of Europe’s most beautiful historic centres.

The vibe of the city

Kraków has this interesting energy where history is constantly present but never feels like it’s drowning out contemporary life. Yes, you’re walking on cobblestones that have been here for 700 years, but that café you just passed is serving speciality coffee that would hold its own in any world capital.

The pace here is slower than in many European cities. People actually take time to sit and enjoy their coffee rather than rushing everywhere. Locals will stop to chat with shopkeepers. There’s a sense of community that you don’t always find in bigger, more hectic places.

At the same time, there’s real sophistication here. The restaurant scene is diverse and creative. The art galleries and museums are world-class. The nightlife ranges from cosy cellar bars to proper clubs. You can have a quiet evening in a centuries-old café or dance until dawn in a former industrial space. Often in the same neighbourhood.

Culture and traditions

One thing you’ll notice quickly is how much Poles value their cultural traditions. This isn’t about dusty museums (though there are excellent ones). It’s woven into daily life. The bugle call played every hour from the tower of St. Mary’s Basilica has been sounded since the Middle Ages. The flower sellers in the main square aren’t there for tourists; they’re there because that’s where flower sellers have always been.

Safety and comfort

Let’s be direct about this because it matters when you’re travelling somewhere new. Kraków is a safe city. You can walk around the centre at night without worry. The most common issue tourists face is pickpocketing in very crowded places, which is true of any popular destination.

The city has excellent infrastructure. Public transport is reliable and easy to use. Tap water is perfectly safe to drink. Healthcare facilities are modern if you need them. ATMs are everywhere, though most places accept cards these days.

As a visitor, you’ll generally find people helpful and welcoming. Yes, there’s a language barrier with older generations, but younger Poles almost always speak English, and people in tourist-facing roles definitely do. Don’t be surprised if someone goes out of their way to help you find your hotel or recommend a restaurant.

Practical considerations

Poland uses the złoty (PLN), not the euro. This can be off-putting at first, but it’s actually an advantage. Prices feel remarkably reasonable compared to Western European cities. A good dinner that would cost 40€ in Paris or Berlin might cost 15-20€ here. Your coffee habit won’t break the bank either.

The climate can surprise people. Kraków has proper seasons. If you’re coming in June for WordCamp Europe, you’re hitting the city at one of its best times. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for exploring on foot or sitting at outdoor terraces. Days are long, with the sun setting well after 9 pm, providing ample daylight for both conference activities and evening exploration. You might get the occasional afternoon thunderstorm, but they usually pass quickly. Pack light layers and comfortable walking shoes, and you’ll be set.

Why this matters for WordCamp

All of this comes together to create an ideal environment for a conference. You’ll have a beautiful, walkable city to explore during breaks and after sessions. You’ll find excellent cafés to continue those hallway track conversations. The food and drink scene means evening socials will be memorable. And the cost of living means your budget goes further, whether that’s extra nights in the city or trying that fancy restaurant you’ve been eyeing.

Plus, there’s something energising about experiencing the WordPress community in a city that’s less familiar to many attendees. You’re not just going to another conference. You’re discovering a place many people haven’t experienced before, sharing that discovery with fellow community members, and likely making memories that will stay with you long after the sessions end.

June in Kraków means the city is fully alive. Outdoor terraces are buzzing. The Vistula boulevards fill with people enjoying the evening sun. Street musicians perform in the courtyards. It’s the perfect backdrop for connecting with fellow WordPress enthusiasts from around the world.