Collectables for comrades

Multiple open-air markets around the formerly-communist Krakow are a feast for bargain-hunters. Medals, pins, and statuettes featuring the many faces of Lenin can be found at affordable prices.

The Old Kleparz Market is nearest to the city center. On Tuesday and Friday, you’ll find interesting old trinkets for sale. (On other days, the market sells food, flowers and clothes.)

The vendor scene on Grzegorzecka Street near the Market Hall is the busiest in Krakow, and you’ll find books and unearthed antique treasures every Sunday. (On other days, you’ll find meat, fruits and vegetables for sale.)

More vendors sell their wares at the Tomex Market in Nowa Huta, while Krakow’s antique dealers are mainly located around the Platy gardens.

Note: Although we recommend picking up some cheapo communist bric-a-brac, especially valuable antique items predating 1945 are illegal for export without special permission. However, items of lesser value from this period are not only safe for export, but plentiful.

While you’re at it…

Hit the Propaganda Pub, located at 20 Miodowa, for a beer. The walls are covered and the tables are chock full of communist memories.

Also see: Our recommended budget hotels in Krakow, along with our review of the Good Bye Lenin Hostel.

The post Krakow cheap souvenir: Communist mementos appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.

Visiting Wawel Castle

General admission tickets to the castle, which include entrance into most rooms and exhibits, cost 15 zloty (about $7.50).  But, visit the castle on a Monday from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. (from April 1 to October 31) or on a Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (from November 1 to March 31), and your entrance is free.

What free admission allows you to see:

The Lost Wawel: This exhibit, which is permanent and first opened in 1975, showcases the archaeological findings at the base of Wawel Castle. Pass through old Renaissance kitchens and a temple for the Virgin Mary, and check out what remains of Gothic-era defense walls and fortifications.

State Rooms: You’re free to traipse through the royal apartments, an impressive collection of rooms that could occupy your entire day. The visit includes many rooms: the suite for the Governors of Krakow with its original Renaissance wooden ceilings, the ornate “Envoy Stairs” leading up to the “Envoys’ Room” (and another well-crafted ceiling), the Governor’s parlor, the royal chapel, and the Senator’s Hall. (And, that’s just the first floor!)

Join us again tomorrow, dear Cheapos, as find something fabulous and free in Lisbon!

The post Krakow: Visit Wawel Royal Castle for free appeared first on EuroCheapo's Budget Travel Blog.