Survival Guide
Cześć! Welcome to Kraków!
Kraków is a magnificent city where centuries of European history effortlessly blend with vibrant, modern student energy. To ensure your stay is flawless, safe, and fun, we have compiled this ultimate practical guide.
Arrival & Public Transport
Getting from Kraków Airport (KRK)
The smartest option is taking the Kraków Airport Train which runs directly to the Main Station (Kraków Główny) every 30 minutes. It takes only 20 minutes and costs around 17 PLN. Alternatively, apps like Uber, Bolt, and FREENOW work perfectly. Avoid unbranded taxis outside the terminal.
Getting Around the City Center
Kraków has a brilliant network of trams and buses. Download the app called jakdojade – it is the ultimate local tool that plans your routes and lets you buy digital tickets online via your phone.
International students under 26 get a 50% discount on public transport. However, ticket inspectors will ONLY accept an ISIC Card or Euro26 Card. Your regular university ID from your home country is not enough. Failure to have a valid ticket may result in a penalty fare. In Kraków, the fine is typically around 400 PLN, with a reduced amount of about 200 PLN if paid promptly.
Money & Currency
Poland does NOT use the Euro. Our currency is the Polish Złoty (PLN). Good news: Poland is almost completely cashless:)
For the best exchange rates, it’s usually worth avoiding airport exchange counters and the booths located directly on the Main Square or Floriańska Street, as their rates tend to be less favorable. If you need cash, an official bank ATM (Bankomat) is often the most convenient option. When withdrawing money, select „Without Conversion” to help avoid additional exchange fees.
Iconic Local Dishes
Want to experience authentic Polish cuisine?
- Pierogi: The absolute king of Polish comfort food. These are traditional dumplings filled with various ingredients. Try „Pierogi Ruskie” (potato and cottage cheese) or meat options.
- Obwarzanek Krakowski: The legendary, local ring-shaped braided bread topped with salt, poppy seeds, or sesame. You will see small blue mobile carts selling them on almost every street corner for just 3-4 PLN. It’s the ultimate local snack!
- Zapiekanka at Plac Nowy: When exploring Kraków’s famous nightlife in the Jewish Quarter (Kazimierz), head over to the central square called Plac Nowy. Inside the round building, multiple stalls serve giant, open-faced toasted baguettes with mushrooms, melted cheese, and garlic sauce. They stay open until the early morning hours!
- Żurek: A unique, sour rye soup traditionally served with a boiled egg and Polish white sausage.
July Weather, Electricity & City Life Hacks
- The Summer Paradox: July is the warmest month (up to 30-35°C), but it also features sudden, heavy afternoon thunderstorms. Bring sunscreen, but keep a tiny umbrella handy.
- Electricity & Sockets: Poland uses standard European Type E and Type C plugs (two round pins, with Type E having a female grounding hole). The standard voltage is 230V with a frequency of 50Hz. If you are traveling from the UK, USA, or Asia, make sure to pack a proper power adapter.
- No Drinking in Public: It is strictly illegal to drink alcohol on public streets, squares, or parks. You can only drink inside licensed bars, clubs, or designated restaurant gardens. The police will fine tourists without hesitation.
- Sunday Shopping Ban: Major supermarkets and shopping centers are closed on Sundays in Poland. Only tiny „Żabka” convenience stores remain open.
Key Locations
Main Venue: Międzywydziałowe Centrum Edukacyjno-Badawcze PK „Działownia”
Student Accommodation: Qubus Hotel Kraków
Gala Dinner: Stara Zajezdnia Kraków
Congress Events
Gala Dinner
The Gala Dinner is the most elegant and ceremonial event of the IEEE Region 8 SYP Congress. It is a special evening dedicated to celebrating the achievements of the conference and enjoying a memorable experience with the IEEE community in a refined and festive atmosphere.
Expect a truly distinguished evening with formal dining, inspiring conversations, and a unique opportunity to connect in a more sophisticated setting.
The dress code for the evening is formal. Suits are strongly recommended for gentlemen, while ladies are encouraged to wear evening gowns, cocktail dresses, or similarly elegant attire.
Multicultural Evening
The Multicultural Evening is a traditional and one of the most anticipated events of the IEEE Region 8 SYP Congress. It celebrates cultural diversity and gives everyone the opportunity to present their country in a relaxed, open, and welcoming atmosphere.
- Traditional clothing or cultural-inspired outfits representing your country
- Small flags, accessories, or symbolic cultural items
- Choose easy-to-share, already portioned items
- Finger food, sweets, and small snacks work best
- Label homemade items, especially if they may contain allergens
- Dishes requiring heating or cooking on site
- Items that are messy or difficult to serve
- Foods that are hard to portion or share easily
Health & Travel Insurance
Participants from EU and EEA countries are encouraged to bring their valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC/EKUZ). However, we strongly recommend that all attendees have travel insurance covering medical care and travel disruptions.
Safety & Emergency Numbers
Poland is very safe, but keep these numbers just in case:
Closest 24/7 Pharmacy: Apteka Całodobowa Dr. Max, ul. Karmelicka 23, DOZ Apteka Całodobowa, ul. Kalwaryjska 94
We look forward to an unforgettable week with you. See you soon in Kraków!