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Is Krakow Safe? Essential Tips for a Worry-Free Visit
Krakow is a very safe city that ranks among the safest places to live in the European Union, according to Eurostat. However, this doesn’t mean you should let your guard down when traveling to Krakow. Stay aware of your surroundings, keep safe, and enjoy everything this beautiful city has to offer.
Eurostat Statistics Explained
According to Eurostat, Sweden recorded the highest number of police-reported offences in Europe in 2022, with 3,584 incidents per 100,000 inhabitants—equivalent to one offence for every 28 people. Theft accounted for the majority of these crimes, followed by burglary and robbery. In comparison, Poland reported significantly fewer offences, with only 500 per 100,000 inhabitants, or one offence per 200 people, reflecting much lower levels of theft and burglary than Sweden.
The EU average stood at approximately 1,500 offences per 100,000 inhabitants, meaning Poland’s crime rate was just one-third of the EU average, while Sweden’s was more than double, illustrating substantial regional disparities.
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In 2022, the Baltic countries of Latvia and Lithuania recorded the highest and third-highest homicide rates in Europe, with Latvia leading at over four homicides per 100,000 inhabitants, according to data from Statista. In stark contrast, Poland reported one of the lowest rates in Europe, with only 0.6 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants, highlighting a significantly safer environment compared to its Baltic neighbours.
Don’t break the law during your stay in Krakow
While it may seem obvious to follow the rules, visitors are sometimes unaware of certain laws that differ from those in their home country. For example, it is illegal to drink alcohol in public places in Krakow. If caught, you could face a fine or even be arrested by the police. Additionally, if you are found drunk in a public area, the police can take you to a sobering-up clinic for medical assessment. You will need to stay there until you are sober, which may mean overnight, and you will also be required to pay for the stay.
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As advised in the Foreign Travel Advice article on the UK government website, remember to validate your public transport ticket at the start of your journey. Ticket inspectors regularly patrol trams and buses in Krakow, and travelling with an unvalidated or invalid ticket can result in a fine. The process is simple—insert your ticket into the validation machine as soon as you board. Remember, even if you have purchased a ticket, it is not valid until it is stamped.
Is Krakow safe to visit with the war?
Despite the ongoing war in neighbouring Ukraine, Krakow remains a very safe destination for travellers. Ukraine is a vast country, and the conflict is concentrated in the eastern regions, which are an extremely long way from Krakow. The city continues to function as usual, welcoming tourists from around the world and offering its rich history, vibrant culture, and numerous attractions. Visitors can feel secure while exploring Krakow, as the local authorities ensure safety and stability throughout the area.
Is Krakow safe for solo females?
As a female Krakow city guide who has enjoyed countless solo walks around the city, I wholeheartedly recommend Krakow to both solo and female travellers. The city offers an abundance of activities for every kind of traveller and is generally safe for women exploring alone. However, it’s important to exercise caution as you would in any destination. Avoid isolated areas, especially at night, and take care when withdrawing cash, as this can make you vulnerable—only use ATMs in secure, well-lit locations.
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For female travellers visiting Krakow for its vibrant nightlife or pub crawl experiences, remember to never leave your drink unattended, consume alcohol in moderation, and ensure you have safe transport back to your accommodation. These are universal safety tips, but they’re worth reiterating even in a city as safe as Krakow, where, like any big city, unfortunate incidents can occur. Stay vigilant, but most importantly, enjoy your trip and create unforgettable memories in Krakow!
Need more information? Tourists also asked:
How to stay safe while travelling?
As a Krakow-born city guide, I truly feel at home in this beautiful city. I’ve spent countless hours walking its streets, both during the day and late at night, and using public transport to explore every corner. In all that time, I’ve never experienced a single dangerous situation or felt unsafe.
One thing I can say about Polish people is that, while generally polite or neutral, they aren’t particularly inclined to strike up conversations with strangers. So, unless someone has a good reason, it’s unlikely you’ll be approached out of the blue. This quiet, respectful attitude adds to the sense of security in Krakow, making it a peaceful and enjoyable place to explore.
1. Buy travel insurance
Buying travel insurance is a smart way to protect yourself from unexpected situations that could disrupt your trip. Whether it’s a medical emergency, a canceled flight, lost luggage, or an unforeseen event, travel insurance gives you peace of mind. Knowing you're financially protected allows you to fully enjoy your travels without worrying about the “what-ifs.” It's a small investment for stress-free journey.
2. Split your money and documents
When traveling, it’s important to stay prepared and minimize risks. One simple but effective tip is to never keep all your important documents and money in the same wallet or place. By spreading them across different pockets or bags—such as keeping some cash in a hidden wallet and your passport in a secure jacket pocket—you reduce the chances of losing everything if you fall victim to a theft. This small precaution can make a big difference in ensuring your trip remains smooth and stress-free.
3. Share your itinerary with family or friends
To stay safe while traveling, it's a good idea to share your itinerary and accommodation details with a trusted family member or friend. This ensures that someone knows where you’re staying and your plans in case of an emergency. It’s an easy way to stay connected and provides peace of mind, knowing that someone is aware of your whereabouts throughout your trip.
4. Exchange your currency at verified exchange offices or banks
The currency of Poland is the zloty (PLN). When travelling to Poland, it's important to exchange your currency at trusted and verified exchange offices or banks to avoid scams and unfavourable exchange rates. While there are many currency exchange options available, it's best to avoid exchanging money at street vendors or unregulated outlets, as they may offer poor rates. Additionally, always double-check the exchange rate before making a transaction to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.
5. Stay alert in crowded places
Even though I truly believe that Krakow is a safe and relaxed place to be, it's important to stay alert and prepared, as no matter how secure a location might seem, there's always the possibility of encountering one malicious individual among many friendly, well-wishing locals. The truth is, even in the safest cities, opportunistic criminals like pickpockets can be a concern, especially in popular tourist spots.
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Pickpockets tend to target areas with large crowds, where people are distracted by the sights and sounds around them. In places like bustling Christmas markets, crowded train stations, or busy public squares, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of exploration and let your guard down. However, this is exactly when thieves are looking for an easy target.
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To protect yourself, keep your belongings close and be mindful of your surroundings. Use anti-theft bags or money belts that are harder to access, and avoid carrying too much cash or valuable items all in one place. If you’re carrying a backpack, always keep it in front of you in crowded areas, and be cautious when someone bumps into you or tries to start a conversation out of nowhere - these can be diversion tactics.
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By staying aware and taking these small precautions, you can enjoy the beauty of Krakow without unnecessary worry and avoid falling victim to opportunistic crimes. Remember, most people in Krakow are kind and helpful, but a little awareness goes a long way in keeping your trip safe and enjoyable.
6. Don't get scammed by taxt drivers
Krakow, like any popular tourist city, has its share of opportunistic taxi drivers, so it's important to take precautions to avoid being scammed. Always use recognised taxi ranks or pre-book a cab through an official app or reputable company to ensure fair pricing. Avoid accepting rides from drivers who approach you directly on the street, as they may overcharge or take longer routes to increase the fare. If you prefer a more comfortable or personalised experience, consider renting a car or arranging private transport, especially if you're unfamiliar with the city. This way, you can travel safely, with the peace of mind that you're not overpaying or being taken advantage of.
7. Drink tap water in Krakow unless advised otherwise
Tap water in Krakow is safe to drink. The city’s water supply is well-regulated and meets European Union standards, so you can confidently drink tap water straight from the tap. In fact, many locals and visitors prefer it for its clean, fresh taste. However, if you're staying in older buildings or have concerns about the plumbing, you may want to use a water filter or drink bottled water. As a general tip, if you are dining out, it's always a good idea to ask for "woda z kranu" (tap water) if you prefer it over bottled water, as it’s sometimes offered free of charge in restaurants.
8. Learn basic words in Polish language
While Poland is generally a safe country for travellers, knowing a few basic words in Polish can be incredibly useful for your safety and navigation. In the rare event that you need help or find yourself in an emergency situation, simple phrases like pomocy (help) or gdzie jest szpital? (where is the hospital?) can make a big difference in getting assistance quickly. Additionally, understanding common signs, such as wyjście (exit) or zakaz wstępu (no entry), can help you avoid misunderstandings in unfamiliar places. Even if you don't become fluent, learning a few key phrases will help you feel more confident and better prepared to handle any situation that may arise.
9. Take with you a first-aid kit
Carrying a small first-aid kit with essentials is a simple but effective way to stay prepared for any minor health issues while traveling. Additionally, remember to stay hydrated, especially if you're walking around the city or spending long hours outdoors. Keep a water bottle with you and take regular breaks to drink.
Don't forget to pack any daily medications you rely on, as pharmacies may not always carry exactly what you're used to, and you may need a doctor's prescription. By staying prepared and hydrated, you’ll ensure that your trip remains comfortable and stress-free.
10. Save the emergency numbers
112
112 is an emergency number which is available free of charge throughout the European Union.
997
Dial 997 to contact the police directly in case of theft, assault, or any other criminal activity.
998
Call 998 for immediate response to fires, gas leaks, or other hazards requiring the fire brigade.
999
For medical emergencies such as accidents, sudden illnesses, dial 999 to request an ambulance.
It's always a good idea to be prepared for any situation. Have a list of emergency contacts, including local emergency numbers, your country's embassy, and any important contacts back home. Keep this list both digitally and in a physical copy - you never know when they might come in handy!
In Poland, you can dial 112 for any type of emergency - it’s the universal number that connects you to police, fire services, or medical assistance. Alternatively, you can use these specific numbers: 997 for Police, 998 for Fire Brigade, and 999 for Ambulance. Above all we sincerely hope you’ll never need to use them and that your time in Krakow will be nothing but safe and enjoyable!