10 biggest attractions of Małopolska – what is worth seeing in this region?

Małopolska is a region full of historical, cultural and natural wealth, which attracts tourists from all over Poland and the world. Known for its picturesque landscapes, historic castles, historic cities and folk traditions. Everyone will find attractions for themselves here.

Here is a guide to the ten most interesting places you absolutely must visit in Małopolska.

Krakow - the city of Polish kings

Krakow, the former capital of Poland, is a true pearl of Małopolska. The city centre, listed on the UNESCO list, is full of medieval monuments, museums and atmospheric cafes. It is worth visiting Wawel with the royal castle and cathedral, where Polish kings are buried. The heart of Krakow is the Main Market Square with the Cloth Hall, St. Mary's Church and the Town Hall Tower. Also very popular are the Florian Gate and the Barbican, and not far from the majestic Słowacki Theatre.
Kazimierz is a historic Jewish district with numerous synagogues and art galleries. Krakow is also a cultural center of the region, organizing festivals, concerts and exhibitions.

Wieliczka Salt Mine

Wieliczka is right next to Krakow. The Wieliczka Salt Mine is one of the oldest salt mining sites in the world, and one of the most popular monuments in Poland. The tourist route leads through impressive chambers, chapels and underground lakes. The most famous is the Chapel of St. Kinga - beautifully decorated, with salt sculptures and chandeliers. The mine is on the UNESCO list and is considered a true miracle of architecture and history. Like the Old Town in Krakow, the Wieliczka Salt Mine was entered on the first UNESCO list in 1978.

Zakopane and the Tatra Mountains

Zakopane, known as the winter capital of Poland, as well as the Tatra Mountains, are a true paradise for mountain lovers. In the summer season, tourists can take advantage of numerous hiking trails. The most popular are the Kościeliska Valley and the Chochołowska Valley, Kasprowy Wierch with a cable car, Giewont - the symbol of Zakopane, or Morskie Oko - the largest lake in the Tatras, surrounded by picturesque peaks. Zakopane also attracts lovers of folklore, highland cuisine and traditional handicrafts. In winter, Zakopane offers numerous attractions for lovers of winter madness.

Ojców National Park and the Kraków-Częstochowa Upland

Ojców National Park is the smallest national park in Poland, but definitely worth a visit. Its attractions include limestone rocks from the Jurassic period, picturesque valleys and caves, such as Łokietek's Cave. The park also includes the ruins of the castle in Ojców, the castle in Pieskowa Skała and Hercules' Club - a peculiar, 30-meter-high rock with a characteristic shape. These are the symbols of this charming place. Ojców National Park is located in the picturesque Kraków-Częstochowa Upland, where it is also worth visiting the Dolinki Podkrakowskie. Beautiful castles are located on the limestone hills, which are connected by the Trail of the Eagles' Nests.

Castles in Niedzica and Czorsztyn on Lake Czorsztyn

Niedzica Castle is a medieval stronghold located on Lake Czorsztyn, which makes it one of the most picturesque places in Małopolska. The castle houses a museum that presents the history of the castle and the lives of its former inhabitants. It is also worth visiting the nearby Castle in Czorsztyn, which allows you to admire the views of the lake and mountains. Tourist boats sail on the Czorsztyn Reservoir.

Szczawnica health resort and rafting down the Dunajec Gorge in the Pieniny Mountains

Szczawnica, one of the most beautiful Polish health resorts, is a perfect place for relaxation and contact with nature. Patients and tourists can use the mineral water pump room, spa and numerous walking trails. Pieniny is also a place for lovers of kayaking and the popular Dunajec rafting, which provides wonderful experiences and unforgettable views of the mountains.

Wadowice – the city of John Paul II

Wadowice, known as the hometown of John Paul II, attracts many pilgrims. It is home to the Family Home of John Paul II, now a museum dedicated to his life and pontificate. It is also worth seeing the Basilica of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary and tasting the famous cream cakes mentioned by the Pope.

Kalwaria Zebrzydowska – the Passion-Marian sanctuary

Kalwaria Zebrzydowska is a unique place of religious worship, listed on the UNESCO list. It is one of the most beautiful sanctuaries in Poland, which, together with the complex of chapels and Calvary paths, is a destination for pilgrimages. During Holy Week, spectacular passion mysteries take place here, which attract believers from all over Poland.

Tarnów – the pearl of the Renaissance

Tarnów, often called the "Polish heat pole", is a city with a rich history and beautiful architecture. Its market square with Renaissance tenement houses and the town hall is considered one of the most beautiful in Poland. In Tarnów you can also visit the cathedral with its unique tombstones and mausoleums and numerous museums, including the Ethnographic Museum, which houses the only permanent exhibition in Poland devoted to Roma culture.

Nowy Sącz with the royal castle

Nowy Sącz is another historic city in Małopolska, where you can find monuments such as the Royal Castle, Market Square and St. Margaret's Basilica. The city is also home to the Sądecki Ethnographic Park, presenting the culture and tradition of the region. Also worthy of attention is the Galician Town, where 19th-century Galician architecture has been recreated - a perfect place for a family walk and a journey through time.

Małopolska is a region that delights with its diversity. From historic cities and castles, through majestic mountains and picturesque valleys, to places of religious and cultural significance. Each of these places is a different story waiting to be discovered. To reach these most interesting places in Małopolska, the optimal solution is a car rental in Krakow (you can rent a car at the Krakow airport, among others).