One of my favorite parts of studying abroad in Prague is realizing just how much of Europe is within reach. What once felt like faraway destinations are now places I can explore over a weekend. With a semester in a new country, I've been given the opportunity to experience different cultures, discover unfamiliar cities, and make memories that extend far beyond the classroom.
For our first weekend trip, we traveled to Kraków, Poland! From wandering through historic streets to trying traditional Polish dishes, every part of the weekend gave us something new to discover. It was a reminder that some of the best parts of studying abroad happen when you step outside your everyday routine and embrace the opportunity to explore somewhere new.
Capturing the Atmosphere
Standing in Kraków’s main market square, the town hall tower immediately catches your eye. Surrounded by the history and the energy of the old town, it’s hard not to look up at this landmark in awe. Moments like this are what make you appreciate what surrounds you and how special it is to experience these places in person rather than seeing a photograph.
Life on the Vistula
After a busy morning, watching these boats go by on the Vistula River gave us a chance to slow down and take in our surroundings. Standing in the Wawel Royal Castle complex gave us the opportunity to view the beautiful city and enjoy where we were traveling.
Ivy-Covered Walls
There's something about buildings covered in ivy that makes a city feel especially warm and inviting to me. I love seeing how nature becomes part of historic architecture. Even while exploring a place as grand as Wawel, it's the little details that catch my attention. These are the kinds of things I love about traveling: discovering something beautiful in an unexpected place and appreciating the character that makes each city unique.
A Tribute to Jan Karski
While exploring Kraków’s Jewish Quarter, we came across a memorial to Jan Karski, a Polish diplomat and resistance figure. Discovering this memorial was a reminder that the history of a city goes far beyond its beautiful architecture. Walking through the Jewish Quarter gave us an opportunity to reflect on Poland’s complex past and the people whose stories continue to shape how we understand it today.
The Golden Domes of Wawel
The Wawel Castle was unlike anything I’d seen before. The architecture, the details, and the golden domes of Wawel Cathedral immediately took my breath away. As we explored the grounds, it was easy to imagine the important role this place played in Poland’s history as the former royal capital. It’s one thing to learn about another country’s past, but it’s something entirely different to stand there and see it.
Tasting Tradition: Pierogi & Goulash
We couldn’t visit Kraków without diving into Polish food culture! One of our meals included a delicious plate of pierogi sprinkled with chives, paired with a drink. We also tried flavorful goulash served over potato pancakes, which quickly became one of the highlights of the weekend. Trying traditional dishes is one of my favorite ways to experience a new place because food offers a glimpse into local culture and traditions.