Ben Robson in Lesser Poland: 4 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Kraków

Must-try foods in Kraków

• Spanish Tapas & Pintxos
  Spanish Tapas & PintxosA major trend for 2026 in Podgórze is the rise of Spanish-influenced dining. Following the success of Vamos! (led by Michelin Young Chef of the Year Ada Wójcikowska), small plates featuring local Lesser Poland ingredients treated with Iberian techniques are currently the district's most sought-after dinner experience.
• Obwarzanek Krakowski
  Obwarzanek KrakowskiThe quintessential Kraków street snack, this chewy, braided bread ring is a protected regional specialty. In Podgórze, you'll find the iconic blue carts near Rynek Podgórski. Locals prefer them early in the morning when they are freshest, typically topped with salt, poppy seeds, or sesame.
• Zapiekanka (Podgórze Style)
  Zapiekanka (Podgórze Style)While tourists crowd Plac Nowy, locals in Stare Podgórze head to spots on ul. Długosza for zapiekanki made with real gouda and fresh forest mushrooms rather than frozen mixes. These open-faced baguettes are toasted until crisp and finished with a characteristic swirl of spicy garlic sauce.
• Syrian Meze (Hummus & Muhammara)
  Syrian Meze (Hummus & Muhammara)Podgórze has become the city's hub for Middle Eastern flavors. Trending in 2026 are the elaborate meze platters at Mezzalians, where the muhammara (walnut and roasted pepper dip) and silk-smooth hummus are considered some of the best in Poland, reflecting the district's diverse, modern palate.
• Paczki (Traditional & Vegan)
  Paczki (Traditional & Vegan)Traditional Polish donuts are a staple, but the trend in Stare Podgórze is toward high-quality, small-batch bakeries. For 2026, the focus is on creative fillings like rose hip jam or pistachio cream, with a significant surge in artisanal vegan options that rival the traditional lard-fried versions.
• Żurek in Bread Bowls
  Żurek in Bread BowlsThis sour rye soup is a Polish classic, but in the cozy cellars of Podgórze, it is served 'luxury style'—heavily loaded with white sausage (biała kiełbasa), halved boiled eggs, and a deep, fermented tang that defines Lesser Poland comfort food.

Trip guide

• About Kraków
  About KrakówStare Podgórze is a district in Kraków located on the right bank of the Vistula River. Historically, it functioned as an independent settlement before being granted the status of a Royal Free City by Austrian Emperor Joseph II in 1784. The town officially merged with Kraków in 1915.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Stare Podgórze is during late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October), when the weather is mild and the district’s many parks and riverside walkways are most scenic. Summer offers the warmest temperatures and vibrant outdoor cafe culture, but it is also the peak tourist season with higher prices and larger crowds. For a quieter experience.
• Getting around
  Getting around Kraków

  • Tram (Lines 3, 8, 13, 17, 19, 24) Trams are the most efficient way to reach Stare Podgórze from the Old Town or Kazimierz. Key stops include 'Plac Bohaterów Getta' and 'Korona'. Tickets must be validated immediately upon boarding using the yellow.
  • Walking (Father Ojca Bernatka Footbridge) The district is highly walkable and easily accessible from Kazimierz via the scenic Father Bernatek Footbridge. This pedestrian-only bridge connects the two historic districts and offers a direct.
  • Jakdojade Mobile App This essential navigation app provides real-time schedules, route planning, and digital ticket purchasing for all Kraków public transport. It is the most reliable way to navigate local tram and bus connections within.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Validate your tram or bus ticket immediately upon boarding to avoid heavy fines from plainclothes inspectors.
  • Greet shopkeepers and restaurant staff with 'Dzień dobry' to follow local social etiquette.
  • When paying by card in restaurants, state the total amount including the tip before the server processes the transaction.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Kraków

  • Traditional Rękawka Festival at Krakus Mound (April 2026).
  • St. Joseph’s Fair in Rynek Podgórski.
• Gmina Czarny Dunajec↗
  Gmina Czarny DunajecThe official tourism and recreation portal for the Gmina Czarny Dunajec, which encompasses the historic village of Chochołów and its cultural attractions.