- EATING ON THE MAIN SQUARE: Restaurants directly on Rynek Glowny charge 30-50% more than identical quality one street away. Walk 60 seconds in any direction.
- NOT BOOKING SCHINDLER'S FACTORY: It sells out daily. Book online at least a few days ahead (week+ in summer). Monday free tickets disappear within minutes.
- USING EURONET ATMS: These tourist-trap ATMs charge fees AND offer terrible exchange rates. Use bank ATMs only (PKO BP, mBank, ING).
- ACCEPTING DCC: When a card terminal asks "charge in your home currency?" — ALWAYS say no. Choose PLN. DCC adds 5-8% hidden fees.
- SKIPPING KAZIMIERZ: Many first-timers stick to the Old Town. Kazimierz has the best food, best bars, best street art, and most authentic atmosphere.
- NOT PACKING WALKING SHOES: You will walk 15,000-20,000 steps per day on uneven cobblestones. Fashion shoes will destroy your feet and your mood.
- EXCHANGING MONEY AT THE AIRPORT: The worst rates in the country. Exchange in the city or use bank ATMs.
- TAKING TAXIS FROM THE AIRPORT: The 18-minute direct train costs 12 PLN. Taxis cost 70-90 PLN. The train station is inside the terminal.
- IGNORING NOWA HUTA: The socialist-realist district is one of Krakow's most fascinating areas. Don't skip it.
- VISITING ONLY IN SUMMER: Spring and autumn are better — less crowded, cheaper, often better weather.
- TIPPING IN MILK BARS: Not expected or appropriate. Save tipping for sit-down restaurants.
- NOT TRYING ZUREK: It looks strange (sour rye soup with sausage and egg) but it's one of the greatest soups on earth.
- SHOPPING ON SUNDAY: Most shops close by law. Plan retail for Saturday.
- OVER-SCHEDULING AUSCHWITZ DAY: Don't add activities after. The experience is emotionally exhausting.
- STAYING ONLY ONE NIGHT: Krakow deserves a minimum of two full days. Three is ideal. Five is paradise.
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