Poland, Europe
Krakow in May
Cafe tables fill the Main Square and the day trips are comfortable. A top month.
The straight answer
May is one of the best months of the year to visit Krakow. Cafe tables fill the Main Square and the day trips are comfortable. A top month.
- Weather
- Pleasant, highs near 67F (19C)
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What May is like in Krakow
May is one of Krakow's best months. Highs reach about 67F (19C), cafe tables spread across the Main Square, and day trips to Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka are comfortable. Crowds and prices are moderate. The Lajkonik procession can fall in late May in years when Corpus Christi is early.
It suits everyone: first-timers, couples, and families with kids of any age. Book the main sights ahead, since spring is getting busy and Auschwitz-Birkenau slots go quickly. If you want long days and festivals, June is also excellent. If you want lower prices, April is a good fallback.
Make the most of May
What is especially good about Krakow this month.
Cafe life on the Main Square
Warm days bring the outdoor tables back, a great spot to hear the hourly trumpet call from St. Mary's tower.
Comfortable day trips
Mild weather makes the trips to Auschwitz-Birkenau and Wieliczka easier than in summer's heat.
Kazimierz evenings
The old Jewish quarter's synagogues by day and cafes around Plac Nowy by night are at their best in spring.
What to pack for May
- Light layers and a jacket
- A light rain shell
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunglasses
Our timing tip
Visit the Main Square and St. Mary's early in the morning in May before tour groups arrive.
Book Krakow for May.
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- Hotels for May
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in KrakowOpens a hotel search for Krakow in May, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in KrakowWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in KrakowTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Krakow for May. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in May
Lajkonik procession
The Thursday a week after Corpus Christi, usually June
A costumed rider on a hobby horse parades from the Salwator district to the Main Square.
Things to do in Krakow
Wawel Royal Castle and Cathedral
Timed tickets for the state rooms and the treasury. Arrive at opening in summer; some exhibits have reduced hours on Mondays.
Main Market Square and St. Mary's Basilica
The trumpet call (hejnal) plays from the tower every hour. See Veit Stoss's carved altarpiece inside.
Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum
Entry is free but must be reserved online, often weeks ahead in season. Educator-guided visits are required during peak hours.
Wieliczka Salt Mine
Underground chapels carved from salt, about 30 minutes from the city. Book a timed tour in summer.
Schindler's Factory and the Rynek Underground
Two branches of the city history museum, both with timed entry that sells out in summer.
National Museum in Krakow
The Czartoryski Museum branch holds Leonardo da Vinci's Lady with an Ermine.
Beat the crowds
- Book Auschwitz-Birkenau entry and Wieliczka tickets online as soon as your dates are set in summer. Walk-ups are often turned away.
- Visit the Main Square and St. Mary's early in the morning before tour groups arrive.
- Stay in Kazimierz or Podgorze for a quieter base with better food than the Old Town tourist strip.
- Avoid Friday and Saturday nights in the Old Town in summer if you want calm; the bar crowds peak then.
Know before you go
- The Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial closes on January 1, December 25, and Easter Sunday.
- Poland restricts Sunday trading, so most shops close on most Sundays. Restaurants and museums stay open.
- Some museums, including branches of the city history museum, have free or reduced hours on specific weekdays and close on others. Check each museum's schedule.
- Major holidays like Easter, All Saints' Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day close many shops and some sights.
Krakow in May, quick answers
Is May a good time to visit Krakow?
May is one of the best months of the year to visit Krakow. Cafe tables fill the Main Square and the day trips are comfortable. A top month.
What is the weather like in Krakow in May?
Pleasant, highs near 67F (19C).
Is Krakow crowded in May?
Crowds in Krakow are moderate in May; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
What is happening in Krakow in May?
Lajkonik procession (the thursday a week after corpus christi, usually june).
Keep planning Krakow.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in May
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