Kraków is the Boston of Poland—a charming and vital city buzzing with history, college students, and tourists. Though not the capital, Kraków is the cultural and intellectual center of the country—and easily Poland’s best destination.
At the center of the Old Town is the Main Market Square, one of Europe’s most gasp-worthy public spaces, and a great place to enjoy a drink. Knowing this is one of Europe’s least expensive countries, I choose the fanciest café on the square and order without considering price. Sinking deep into my chair, I ponder the scene. The square is vast and grand, but still retains a folksy intimacy. It bustles with fragrant flower stalls, horse carriages carting tourists, and loitering teenagers. A folk band—swaggering in their colorful peasant costumes—gives me a private little concert. Feeling flush, I tip them royally. Perhaps too royally (a big tip gets you “The Star-Spangled Banner”)….