Before we could begin our day of exploring Kraków, Poland, we needed energy and that meant food. Just a short walk from where we started, we found Restauracja Orientalna Hoang Hai 13, a cozy restaurant known for its authentic and mouth watering Asian delicacies.
The restaurant is not big but It's a popular Asian restaurant in Kraków And they serve a variety of Asian cuisine, including Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese dishes. My husband searched for it and we must try it. And all I can say is that it was so delicious. A great food to kickstart our day exploring Kraków.
After our delicious food, we begin our exploration. We're not even started and we're just around the corner. The Kawiarnia Cafe Millimo caught our kids attention. The café’s front was charming and no wonder the tempting colorful donuts, cakes and muffins on the display case kids wanted it and ice cream too.
So we stop for a while, the kids have their ice cream and we have freshly brewed coffee.
Aya smiles and says it all. 😍
Everyone was full and in a good mood, and were all ready to explore.
It was our first time in Kraków with Aya. With the excitement of discovering one of Poland’s beautiful cities-Kraków.
The streets and beautiful architectural buildings were just a glimpse and it was eye-catching. Every corner was a photo opportunity with a picturesque blend of old and new architecture.
⛪️Majestic Wawel Castle and Wawel Cathedral.
-Wawel Bernardine Gate-
On the top of hill was the grandiose Wawel castle and cathedral and the crown jewel of Poland. Two green copper domes and red-brick towers stood out against the soft morning sky. While walking up the cobblestone path, passing beneath ancient arched gates and defensive walls on our way to the castle.
The courtyard was spacious and grand, surrounded by elegant white arcades and windows that looked like for centuries.
Unfortunately, we couldn’t go inside due to limited visitors allowed at a time and to preserve its exhibitions and his building.
Wawel Castle's design is more than a landmark and we were captivated in architectural design showcasing the blend of Renaissance, Gothic and Romanesque styles. The exterior is magnificent and a true masterpiece.
It was a great experience for us to witness its cultural heritage and offer breathtaking views.
For Aya and I it was an unforgettable experience.
Despite not going inside the Wawel, Castle left a lasting impression. And there's a Miniature Replica made in a beautiful metal miniature of Wawel Castle outside.
We look forward to exploring interior design in the future.
⛪️**Wawel Cathedral. **
As we explored the historic Wawel Hill, we visited the timeless beauty and another masterpiece of Polish architecture-The Wawel Cathedral.
That time Wawel cathedral was undergoing some renovation work. The renovation was a meticulous process and ensuring every detail was carefully preserved and restored. It stands as a testament of timeless elegance, history and its architectural beauty and they're working to protect the cathedral's rich history for generations to come.
Outside the Cathedral there's picturesque views of the Vistula River. Even though we weren’t near the river. I couldn’t resist taking photos, especially to my daughter.
The architectural buildings in the distance were breathtaking. And the landscapes and trees surrounding the city creating a picturesque backdrop. A perfect moment for capturing memories.
It was impossible not to be impressed both natural and man-made beauty. It was undeniable perfect.
Our next journey, we headed into the heart of the Old Town. City streets were alive with locals and tourists. Summer is the peak season, tourists from other countries roaming around, taking videos and photos and the sound of the street musicians.
The Old Town of Kraków is a treasure of culture, history and architecture.
📌Rynek Główny.
Rynek Główny is the heart of the city's Old Town and one of the biggest and most iconic medieval market square in Europe with a rich history.
📌The Cloth Hall Or Sukiennice.
It is Kraków stunning Renaissance-era trading hall turned into the main Market Square.
⛪️A Glimpse Of St. Mary's Basilica And The Magnificent Altarpiece.
Another masterpiece that took our breath away, as we approached the stunning Gothic architecture St. Mary's Basilica. The second under renovation basilica we visited. The basilica's breathtaking majesty and beauty still impressed despite the construction work .
Kraków is one of the most iconic landmarks and its tall twin towers stood proudly into the sky. The one tower was wrapped in scaffolding. The aim for restoration was to preserve its timeless beauty.
We stepped inside, the main door and exterior were struck by the intricate details and ornate decorations. The red brick and pale stone were elegantly complimented with detailed carvings and charming green tower like structure.
Stepping through the wooden doors of St. Mary’s Basilica, we were struck and left us speechless. I immediately caught my attention at the main altar and my eyes drowned upward to the ceiling. It was a mind blowing masterpiece. The ceiling was painted in blue with golden stars. We felt the cool air inside and the smell of candle wax and old wood.
The breathtaking altarpiece stood at the center and it is one of the largest in Europe. With the detailed carvings and sculptures. The walls of the Basilica come alive with captivating murals and with its vibrant colors and detailed murals the walls are a masterpiece. The murals tell the stories from the Bible and saints. The testament and lessons of faith, hope and devotion.
As I prayed as if I was connecting to heaven. My worries and concerns are gone and replaced by a sense of hope. And I am ready to face my challenges in life.
⛪️St. Andrew’s Church.
A short walk from the Main Square brought us to St. Andrew’s Church,
it rises majestically with its striking twin towers. And the details showcase the beauty of Romanesque design. Church was not just a place of worship and it's part of Kraków's heritage and a treasure passed down through generations.
⛪️Church of Saints Peter and Paul A Baroque Masterpiece.
The stunning architectural style is a masterpiece and crowned with a golden cross that touches the sky.The detailed frame, the tall arched windows and the grand entrance feels like a gateway into the past.
Stepping inside was breathtaking. Same with the other churches we visited the scent of the wood and candle was, the golden altar was masterpiece. The interior was masterpiece from marble floors, to windows illuminating, and up to the magnificent ceiling that brought to life.
The air is cool and still carrying the scent of aged wood and candle wax. The interior was a feast in the eyes, golden altars, and masterful sculptures drawing your attention to the heavens above.
The Saints Peter and Paul Church is beyond its role as a place of worship it’s a living with history, art and monument to faith. It's one of Krakow's landmarks with imposing structure and beautiful architecture.
📌Florian's Gate and Barbican.
A well-preserved medieval gate and fortification that once protected the city. The path to Florian Gate was a feast of senses, the sounds, sights and vendors line the street filled with colorful souvenirs and jewelries, painted ceramics, wooden crafts and more.
We found ourselves completely captivated and capture our hearts. The feeling of being there and where every corner turned reveals a new breathtaking view something we will always treasure. It more than just photos and my snapshots are cherished moments.
📌Kraków Barbican.
⛪️St. Florian’s Church.
📌Grunwald Monument.
📌Senacki Hotel.
📌Hotel Polonia.
📌Academy of Fine Arts in Krakow.
📌Czyncielów House
📌Church of St. Giles.
📌Church of the Conversion of Saint Paul, Krakow.
As we explored through the city streets, Kraków city's charm unfolded like a timeless tale, its grand cathedrals, chapels and other architectural buildings where history lingers in every step.
I'm obsessed with Kraków’s beauty.
