Poland continues to assert itself as a premier destination in Europe, deftly balancing the preservation of its illustrious historical sites with an aggressive drive to upgrade critical transport infrastructure. While the medieval charm of Krakow attracts global globetrotters, the industrial hub of Wrocław is witnessing a massive overhaul of its railway network to cater to the burgeoning demands of modern commuters and freight logistics. This dual approach highlights a nation keen on honouring its past while robustly preparing for the future.
The Timeless Allure of Krakow
For the discerning traveller, Krakow remains the jewel in Poland’s crown. As the former royal capital, the city largely escaped the catastrophic destruction that befell many of its neighbours during the Second World War. Consequently, it retains one of the most exquisite medieval centres in Europe, characterised by Gothic spires, cobbled grandeur, and riverside castles that shimmer beautifully at dusk. The vast market square is a spectacle that arguably outdoes Prague’s in scale, while the Wawel Hill complex stands as a fairytale guardian over the Vistula River.
Yet, Krakow is not merely a relic; it possesses a surprising penchant for reinvention. Centuries-old spires now share the skyline with Communist-era blocks transformed into creative hubs, and basement jazz clubs thrive beneath ancient foundations.
Exploring the Subterranean and Sacred
A journey into the city’s history often begins underground at the Rynek Underground museum, located beneath the Cloth Hall. This facility utilises multimedia wizardry to transport visitors back to the Middle Ages, showcasing reconstructed market stalls and original cobbled slabs unearthed during a 2005 archaeological dig. Above ground, the St Mary’s Basilica demands attention. This two-towered Gothic edifice houses the stupendous High Altar by Veit Stoss. It is a sight to behold, particularly at 11:50 am daily, when its six hinged wings open to reveal the largest piece of medieval art in Poland.
National identity is deeply entrenched in the Wawel Royal Castle, the coronation site and burial ground of kings. Despite being used as a headquarters by the Nazis, the complex miraculously survived the war. The adjacent 14th-century Wawel Cathedral is equally significant, serving as the final resting place for monarchs and, more recently, President Lech Kaczynski. Visitors are often encouraged to climb the wooden steps to the St Sigismund Bell to touch its clipper for good luck.
Reflecting on War and Resilience
The narrative of Krakow is incomplete without acknowledging the somber echoes of the 20th century. Oskar Schindler’s enamel factory, immortalised in film, now stands as an engrossing museum. It chronicles the salvation of over 1,200 Jews and vividly portrays the terror of the Nazi occupation, giving visitors a distinct sense of walking through the city amidst conflict.
Beyond the city limits, the preserved barracks of Auschwitz offer a disturbing but necessary encounter with history, while the Wieliczka Salt Mine provides a different kind of subterranean experience. This massive underground world, utilised for seven centuries, features galleries and chapels that make for a compelling day trip.
Strategic Overhaul of Railway Infrastructure
As tourism numbers swell and urban populations expand, the pressure on Poland’s transport network has become undeniable. Addressing this challenge, stakeholders in the rail sector have initiated a landmark project in Wrocław. On November 17, 2025, Polens staatlicher Schienennetzbetreiber PKP PLK and the Centralny Port Komunikacyjny (CPK) signed an agreement to coordinate the expansion of the Wrocław Railway Junction. The primary objective is to facilitate the high-speed “Y” line—connecting Warsaw, CPK, Łódź, and Wrocław/Poznań—ensuring that high-speed trains can seamlessly access Wrocław Główny Central Station.
This development is critical not only for the functionality of the main station but also for the future growth of regional and freight transport. The structural design for the entry of these high-speed trains, slated for 2035, is of paramount importance.
Engineering Feats and Station Revitalisation
The scope of the engineering works is extensive. To the southeast, high-speed trains arriving from the direction of Jelcz-Laskowice will see a reorganisation of tracks at Siechnice, establishing a boundary between CPK and PLK investments. In the Święta Katarzyna and Brochów areas, collision-free junctions are being constructed to ensure smooth operations. Furthermore, the main station’s platforms will be elongated to accommodate the new high-speed rolling stock. Notably, the line to Świdnica will be elevated within the city, creating space for a new tram route to Jagodno.
Northwest of the main hub, a significant resuscitation of infrastructure is underway. After 37 years of dormancy, the Wrocław Świebodzki terminus is set to be brought back to life. By 2029, trains are expected to depart from here towards Środa Śląska, Wołów, and Kąty Wrocławskie, thereby decongesting the main station. Additionally, the western entry near Grabiszyń will receive a fourth track and a flyover, transforming Wrocław Świebodzki into a pivotal station for inter-regional connections.
Optimising Freight and Capacity
The expansion also promises to significantly improve the modalities for freight transport. A dedicated line branching off between Bierutów and Czernica Wrocławska will be constructed, leading directly to the marshalling yard at Wrocław Brochów. This strategic move will effectively separate goods traffic from passenger services in the city centre.
These interventions are timely, as the railway node is already operating at its zenith. In 2024, the main station recorded a historic throughput of nearly 29 million passengers. With the rapid development of suburban and regional connections, the expansion of the junction is no longer a luxury but a necessity to maintain efficiency and accommodate the envisaged fixed-interval timetables.
