Yelp Review 2023 #264:
Wawel Castle and Cathedral is an important landmark in Krakow. It's been around since the 11th century and expansions and renovations have happened since then. Wawel has witnessed lots of political/ historical state events, different kings/ rulers.
To learn more about Kraków's and Wawel's history, you can visit the museum for a fee but some days you can get in for free. It's a big area and you can spend hours here. But if your time is limited, you can walk around the perimeter in an hour.
Within the castle grounds is the cathedral. You'll see a statue of Karol Wojtyla, aka Pope John Paul II, Poland's son who was born in a town an hour away from Krakow called Wadowice. He was the archbishop of Krakow for several years.
This castle has been demolished and occupied. After World War I, Poland regained the castle and made it the official resident of their president.
If you have time, two things you need to look for when you visit the castle: a sword (that has a name I cannot remember), and Dragon's Den. Both have interesting stories attached to them but I don't think they're related. You'll also see a statue of a dragon.
This castle is easily accessible. There's a tram stop in front of it downhill. read more