1. If you're planning on visiting some museums when in Krakow, you may want to go to one that has a 'free day'. For instance, Cloth Hall Gallery (Rynek Glówny 1) is free on Thursdays, as is the Jan Matejko House (Florianska 41). Others may choose to visit the Manggha Centre of Japanese Art & Technology which is just south of the river on Konopnickiej and is free on Sundays.

2. Like in many European cities, some of Krakow’s most beautiful buildings are its churches, and entrance to most is free. The best known are the Church of SS Peter & Paul (Grodzka 52) due to the statues of the Twelve Apostles at the front and the Church of St Andrew (Grodzka 56) which dates back to the 11th century.

3. It's hard to think of another city in Europe with as much live music staged in its pubs and clubs as Krakow. All around Rynek Glówny are jazz clubs where musicians from both home and abroad play, while indie and rock bands play in others. Entry to gigs is almost always free.

4. If you're looking to take it easy for a couple of hours, take a break in one of Krakow's parks. Park Jordana and Blonia Common are two of the best known. The former has many nooks and crannies and has a large pond perfect for lazing at. The latter is a large unbroken meadow without the flowerbeds of its counterparts that also boasts good views of the city's steeples.

5. If you wish to gain entrance to the attractions of Wawel Castle you'll have to fork over a few Zloty for your tickets. If you aren't in the position to do so it doesn't mean you have to avoid it - to simply gain access to the castle's grounds is absolutely free.