Krakow is a city that rewards curiosity in many ways — especially when it comes to lunch experiences that combine good food with memorable activities. Whether you’re craving a meaningful historical visit like Auschwitz-Birkenau or seeking a lively mountain adventure with mountain views and thermal baths, Krakow’s diverse options suit every traveler. One of our favorites is the Auschwitz Guided Tour with Pickup and Lunch, which offers both education and a convenient meal, making it a great choice for those interested in Poland’s profound history.
Krakow’s lunch experiences range from somber, educational tours to active outdoor adventures, each with unique highlights. We’ve included everything from tours exploring WWII sites to mountain excursions with panoramic views, ensuring there’s something for every taste. Keep reading to find the perfect fit for your trip.
What Types of Tours Made the List?
Our list includes a variety of tour types: historic guided visits to Auschwitz and Wieliczka Salt Mine, scenic mountain trips to Zakopane, adrenaline-filled quad bike adventures, and relaxing thermal baths. Each offers a distinct way to enjoy your midday meal—whether included with sightseeing or paired with outdoor fun. For a full overview, check out the list below, which highlights the best lunch experiences in Krakow.
1. Krakow: Auschwitz-Birkenau Guided Tour with Pickup & Lunch
At number one, this Auschwitz-Birkenau Guided Tour with Pickup & Lunch is perfect for history enthusiasts who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning logistics. The tour covers both Auschwitz I and Birkenau, with professional guides sharing detailed stories of the Holocaust. The included lunch makes it easier to stay engaged during this emotionally intense day. With a 4.5/5 rating from over 9,000 reviews, the organization and depth of the tour receive high praise.
The itinerary includes pickup from five locations, a 1.5-hour transfer, and guided visits to the original barracks and the infamous main gate. Guests comment on how well-organized and professional the guides are, making this a profound yet accessible experience. The value is clear—around $10 for a full-day, impactful tour with lunch included, ideal for those wanting a meaningful historical experience with convenience.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking depth and ease, with strong reviews affirming the quality of guides and organization.
2. Krakow: Auschwitz Guided Tour with Pickup and Optional Lunch
Still holding a high rating of 4.5/5 from over 2,400 reviews, this Auschwitz Guided Tour with Pickup emphasizes the emotional gravity of visiting Nazi’s largest concentration camp. The tour includes transport, a guide, and the option to add lunch, making it flexible for different budgets and timeframes. The carefully curated itinerary visits both Auschwitz I and Birkenau, with plenty of time to absorb the powerful history.
Guests describe the guides as “exceptional” and mention the thoughtful, respectful presentation of the site. The tour’s value lies in its straightforward logistics and comprehensive coverage, suitable for those who want to focus on the experience rather than worry about arrangements. The small price point—just $10—makes it an accessible way to honor history while enjoying a smooth day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a respectful, detailed visit with optional lunch, backed by enthusiastic reviews.
3. Zakopane Tour from Krakow with Transfers and Lunch Option
A scenic escape to Poland’s ski capital, this Zakopane Tour offers a blend of mountain vistas, traditional architecture, and local culture. The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, and stops at Chochołów, famous for its wooden houses. The highlight is a funicular ride up Gubałówka Mountain, where panoramic views of the Tatras are breathtaking. Free time on Krupówki Street offers a chance to browse local bazaars or enjoy regional dishes.
This trip is rated a perfect 5.0, with travelers praising the “beautiful scenery” and “excellent guide” who shared insights about Polish mountain life. The inclusion of funicular tickets and free time makes it a balanced and value-packed day out, suitable for outdoor lovers and culture seekers alike.
Bottom Line: A scenic day trip with cultural charm and stunning mountain views, ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed yet active experience.
4. From Krakow: Zakopane and Thermal Baths with Optional Lunch
This Zakopane and Thermal Baths tour combines mountain scenery with relaxation, perfect for those who want both adventure and unwinding. After hotel pickup, you’ll explore the town and take a scenic funicular ride up Gubałówka Hill. The highlight is a visit to Chocholowska Thermal Baths, where you can soak in warm outdoor pools amid snowy or green landscapes.
Rated 4.8/5, travelers love the mix of sightseeing and leisure, especially the thermal baths’ relaxing atmosphere. The tour also includes cheese tasting and a scenic drive back to Krakow. The value lies in the combination of active exploration and restful soaking, making it ideal for couples or families wanting a varied day.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded experience for those seeking outdoor adventure coupled with relaxation, perfect during colder months.
5. Krakow: Auschwitz-Birkenau & Wieliczka Salt Mine with Lunch
For a full day of exploration, this Auschwitz-Birkenau & Salt Mine combo offers a powerful historical and cultural experience. The tour includes guided visits to both sites, plus a delicious Polish lunch, all for around $133. The visit to Wieliczka’s underground tunnels reveals intricate salt carvings and chapels, while Auschwitz visits confront the brutal history of the Holocaust.
Guests praise the “well-organized” itinerary and the “knowledgeable” guides who help make sense of these heavy sites. The value is high considering transportation, entry fees, guides, and food are bundled together, making it an efficient and meaningful day trip.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive option for history and culture lovers wanting both WWII and salt mine experiences in one day.
6. Krakow: Extreme Off-Road Quad Bike Tour with BBQ Lunch
Looking for adrenaline? The Quad Bike Tour is perfect for active travelers who want dirt under their nails and scenic countryside as their backdrop. This 4-hour experience includes a professional instructor, safety gear, and guiding through forest trails and fields. It’s a lively, fun way to see Poland’s outskirts.
Rated 5.0 by recent travelers, many mention how “great fun” and “friendly” the guide was. After riding, relax with a BBQ lunch and local beer, making this an energetic lunchtime choice for adventure-minded visitors.
Bottom Line: Best suited for adventure seekers who want to combine outdoor fun with hearty food, all in a safe, guided environment.
7. From Krakow: Zakopane Full-Day Tour with Lunch Option
This full-day Zakopane trip offers a comprehensive look at Poland’s mountain town, including free time on Krupowki Street, a cable car ride up Gubałówka, and cheese tasting. It’s a great choice for travelers wanting an all-in-one experience with a relaxed pace.
Rated 4.5, travelers appreciate the “beautiful scenery” and the guide’s helpful tips. The day is well-structured with stops for photos, shopping, and local food, providing good value for around $72.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a thorough yet leisurely mountain visit with cultural highlights.
How to Choose the Right Lunch Experience in Krakow
When selecting your tour, consider your budget, available time, and interests. Want a heartfelt historical visit? The Auschwitz tours are deeply moving and educational. Craving mountain scenery and fresh air? The Zakopane trips and thermal baths offer scenic views and relaxation. Adventure lovers should look at the quad bike options for a high-energy day.
Booking early is advised, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time and avoid disappointment. Think about whether you want a quick half-day or a full-day experience, and match that with your fitness and curiosity levels.
Final Thoughts
Krakow offers a surprising range of lunch experiences that go beyond just dining—many include guided visits, outdoor activities, or culture. For a meaningful history lesson, the Auschwitz tours stand out, especially with their well-organized guides and emotional depth. If mountain scenery and relaxation appeal more, the Zakopane options offer panoramic views and delicious local food.
Adventure travelers will enjoy the quad biking tours, perfect for active days, while those seeking a mix of history and leisure might opt for the Salt Mine and Auschwitz combo. Whatever your style, booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable Krakow lunch experiences.