Hi jayru, I would say it depends. Both cities are good places to stay for a while. It always depends what you want. I lived for 6 month in Warsaw. Must say, it was a really good time there. I visited Krakow for a few days. In contrast to Warsaw Krakow seems to be like “Disneyland”. Very touristy but also much more beautiful as Warsaw – at least at the first look. But for me Warsaw is the better town – ;)
I had a flat with braodband Internet via Cable TV (Chello). For me it was fast enought. I think it was around 2Mbps.
greets
speda

I’ve been for a week in Krakow. And although very touristy as stated, it still had a warm feeling. For me it felt just right. I haven’t been to Warsaw, so I cannot compare both of them.

But I think that the accommodation you seek is achievable and with good prices. I remember having half a large pizza and half a liter of beer for 3,5 euro… So you get the picture.

Also, Krakow is a place with many schools, so during school time the city is filled with youth. :)

Yes, Cracow (Kraków) is a student city and that’s a good thing!

I never lived for a longer period od time in Warsaw, but when I’m talking to my friends who did they always say they would choose Krakow no matter what.

The first visit here is usually just about the castle and old town. But when you live here, you begin to find out whats magic everyone is talking about. Really, man.

Life is slower here then in Warsaw, more cultural, people are riding bikes and stuff ;)
Still, it is also a city of business.

Check out my Cracow photos:
http://www.funkysideoftown.com/cgi-bin/mt/mt-search.cgi?tag=Cracow&blog_id=1
(I’ll post someting from warsaw next week)

(More pretty girls in Cracow, too ;))

I have been to both cities only for a few days. Warsaw unfortunately is not a happy town. It is a frowning city, the people don’t seem ok, the city is somehow carrying the burden of the Iron Curtain, at least that was the feeling I got. Although Lazienski Park in Warsaw is one of the beautiful parks I have seen, I would prefer Krakow.

Yes it’s a tourist site and the youth is pouring in from all over, but there is a reason for that. Krakow is more of a cultural capital for Poland I believe. It’s a happier town compared to serious and sad Warsaw.

In your case you are lucky since the towns are approx. 2 hours apart by train and you can go to the other one to spend the weekend.