Polish is the official language, however English is widely (and fluently) spoken in central Kraków. Many will find the language difficult to pronounce, but it's good to learn the most basic phrases. To say “hello” or “goodbye” informally, use “Czesc” (pronounced “cheshch”).

Yes, you can speak English very easily in Krakow, especially within the historic Old Town (Stare Miasto) and the Jewish Quarter (Kazimierz). As one of Europe's top tourist destinations and a major hub for international technology corporations, Krakow has a very high level of English proficiency among its younger residents and service industry workers. Most restaurant menus, museum signs, and public transport kiosks are bilingual. While the older generation may only speak Polish or Russian, you will find that almost anyone under the age of 40 has a functional to fluent command of English. However, learning a few basic Polish phrases like "Dzień dobry" (Good morning) or "Dziękuję" (Thank you) is highly appreciated by locals and can open doors to more authentic experiences. In 2026, Krakow remains extremely welcoming to English speakers, making it one of the most accessible cities in Central Europe for solo travelers and families alike.