Situated on the banks of the Vistula River, in the southeast of the country, Krakow is considered to be the cultural capital of Poland. The city possesses one of the best preserved medieval city centres in Europe and is rapidly becoming one of the most up-and-coming city destinations for travellers interested in history, culture and value for money.

International Festival of Sea Shanties: for three days in February, Krakow becomes the European sailors’ capital, with 150 performers spread over 11 events at various venues throughout the city. The events consist of all things maritime including classical shanties, sea songs, ballads and maritime poetry.

Normal Krakow business hours are from 08:00 to 16:00, Monday to Friday, with most businesses being closed on Saturdays and Sundays. The larger department stores and shops typically stay open until 20:00, six days a week, with an increasing number of shops opening until 15:00 on Sundays.