"Krakow? Who goes to Krakow?" Emily's boss scoffed in Emily in Paris. After all, Poland isn’t typically at the forefront of many travellers' minds, and even among those considering Poland, Krakow isn’t always the first destination they think of. But Krakow’s charm lies in exactly what it isn’t—Paris. Its compact Old Town, relaxed atmosphere and rich history make it a fitting destination for an alternative European escape.
Set in a developing neighbourhood surrounded by lush green spaces, the AC Hotel Krakow is a sleek and modern choice that is a 15-minute tram ride from the city's Main Square. With its location outside the old town of Krakow, the hotel offers more competitive room rates (the lowest regular rates are around 338 PLN or 78 Euros) than other alternatives like the Sheraton Grand. However, the AC Hotel does offer many amenities for an enjoyable stay, including a full restaurant, spa, pool, and even a kids' club.
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| A one-bedroom suite at AC Hotel Krakow |
A new, modern hotel
This contemporary and midsize hotel, built in 2021, has 300 rooms. Its boxy exterior is accented by large glass windows, giving it a distinctly modern look that stands out in the area. The rooms have balconies or terraces that overlook the surrounding greenery.
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| The AC Hotel Krakow's boxy facade |
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| Stairs connecting the hotel basement |
As guests step into the hotel, they are first greeted by an artistic chandelier suspended from a high ceiling, giving a taste of the hotel’s modern approach right from the start. Guests will find the reception desks and seating area on the left, and the SOBRE de la MESA Restaurant on the right.
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| A striking chandelier in the lobby |
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| Reception desks on the left |
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| The seating area in the lobby |
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| A vending machine |
Check-in begins at 3 pm and check-out is by 12 pm, with special privileges for Marriott Bonvoy members depending on loyalty tier.
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| AC Hotels by Marriott branding |
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| Corridor decorated with artwork |
Upgraded to a Suite
There are 38 suites at this hotel, representing 13% of the total room count. I was fortunate to be upgraded to one of them and appreciated the spacious living area in a modern and subdued style. Being a corner suite, there was a surprisingly large L-shaped terrace. The suite can sleep four and there was plenty of seating.
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| Notice the large terrace outside |
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| A big sofa |
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| Living area |
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| Dining area with four chairs |
Since it was the winter season and I was staying on the top floor, the terrace was completely covered in snow. While the suites directly below would have been better sheltered from the elements, this is a trade-off for a more private experience and a more commanding view of the surrounding area.
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| A huge L-shaped terrace |
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| Beautiful view from the terrace |
The minibar was fully stocked and a coffee machine was present too.
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| Refreshment area with minibar and coffee machine |
The separate bedroom featured a double bed, which I didn’t get around to measuring—but it’s worth noting that the hotel takes pride in offering extra-long beds stretching to 220 cm, perfect for taller guests seeking added comfort. Fresh new bathrobes (still in their plastic packaging!) were found in the wardrobe.
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| The bedroom |
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| A plush double bed |
The bathroom had two separate sinks and included citrusy bath amenities supplied by Korres.
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| Bathroom with double sinks |
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| Shower area |
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| Fresh citrus bath amenities by Korres |
Aliento Spa and Pool
For an AC-branded hotel, it was noteworthy to find a spa in-house. The spa, which is located in the basement, opens at 9 am daily and closes at 8 pm (Sun to Thu) and 10 pm (Fri to Sat).
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| Aliento Spa |
The pool is also open from 9 am to 8 pm (Sun to Thu), and extended hours from 9 am to 10 pm (Fri to Sat). However, the pool closes briefly for maintenance each day from 1 pm to 2 pm.
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| Swimming pool |
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| 24/7 fitness centre |
SOBRE de la MESA Restaurant
The breakfast timings are 6:30 am to 10:30 am (weekdays) and 7:00 am to 11:00 am (weekends). After breakfast hours, the restaurant shifts to a menu of Spanish cuisine. Fittingly, its name translates to "time spent together at the table" in Spanish, capturing the restaurant's inviting and communal dining atmosphere. In the warmer months, there is also outdoor seating in the courtyard.
Halal means are offered at the restaurant. Room service is available from 7:00 am to 11:00 pm and costs an extra PLN 20.
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| SOBRE de la MESA Restaurant |
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| The bar |
Overall Impression: A top-notch AC Hotel
Overall, AC Hotel Krakow certainly stands out as an above-average property within the AC brand. The hotel offers facilities one would not typically find at an AC property, like a spa and swimming pool, which no doubt scores additional points. I also appreciated that rooms feature either a private terrace or balcony, allowing guests to take in the views of the surrounding greenery or plaza from their own space.
Compared to the AC Hotels I've stayed in from
New York to Kuala Lumpur, this property offers more than what I would typically expect from an AC brand, which makes the AC Hotel Krakow a winner.
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| AC Hotel by Marriott Krakow, al. 3 Maja 51, 30-062 Kraków, Poland |
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