Kraków County is a rural county in southern Poland, in the Lesser Poland Voivodeship. It surrounds the city of Kraków but does not include it, so visitors who come for the old capital can easily step beyond the city limits into a quieter landscape of small towns and villages.
The county is known for its historic towns and its cultural heritage sites. Its proximity to Kraków, the former royal capital, makes it a natural companion to a city visit, and many travellers use it as a base or as a day's outing from the centre.
What a visit offers
- Historic towns set in the countryside, each with its own character and street layout
- Cultural heritage sites spread across the county, reflecting the region's long history
- A slower pace compared with the city, suited to walking and unhurried sightseeing
- Easy access to Kraków, so a trip out can be combined with time in the city
Planning your trip
Because the county is spread out, it works best for visitors with some flexibility, whether that means travelling by car or arranging connections in advance. Checking the details of individual sites before you set out will help you make the most of each stop. Kraków County suits anyone who wants to see the wider region of Lesser Poland beyond its best-known city.