- 1️⃣ Wawel Castle and Cathedral
- 2️⃣ Market Square and Cloth Hall
- 3️⃣ St. Mary's Church and the bugle call from the tower
- 4️⃣ Kazimierz - the former Jewish quarter
- 5️⃣ Oskar Schindler's Emalia Factory
- 6️⃣ Underground Market Square
- 7️⃣ Barbican and Walls
- 8️⃣ Planty - the green heart of Krakow
- 9️⃣ Collegium Maius - the oldest building of the Jagiellonian University
- 🔟 Kosciuszko Mound - panorama of Cracow
- 1️⃣1️⃣ Bielany Monastery and Wolski Forest
- 1️⃣2️⃣ Nowa Huta - the Socialist Realist face of Krakow
- 1️⃣3️⃣ National Museum and "Lady with an Ermine"
- 1️⃣4️⃣ Tyniec - Benedictine Abbey on the Vistula River
- 1️⃣5️⃣ The Wawel Dragon and the Legend of the Dragon
- Summary
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Krakow is a city where every stone tells a story. Poland's former capital impresses with both its architecture and unique atmosphere. It is here that royal splendor, medieval streets, traces of Jewish culture and lively cafes meet. Whether you are visiting Krakow for the first time or coming back again - there will be no shortage of places that will surprise, delight or... move you.
We have prepared a summary for you Krakow's 15 biggest attractions, which are worth seeing. Here you will find both classic sights and places less obvious, but equally fascinating. Ready for a walk through the most beautiful corners of the city?
1️⃣ Wawel Castle and Cathedral
🏞 Looking for views that will take your breath away?
👉 Viewpoints and terraces in Krakow
Wawel is the heart of Polish history and a symbol of national identity. Located on a hill overlooking the Vistula River, the castle complex has for centuries been a the seat of the kings of Poland and the site of the coronation. Here you will find not only a monumental castle, but also a Wawel Cathedral, where the greatest rulers and national heroes rest.
During the visit it is worth:
🔹 see royal chambers and representative halls,
🔹 enter Sigismund Tower and admire Sigismund Bell,
🔹 visit crypts and royal tombs,
🔹 get to know the legend of the Wawel Dragon At the foot of the hill.
📍 Access: The walk from the main square takes approx. 10 minutes. The nearest streetcar stop: Wawel (Lines 6, 8, 13, 18, among others).
🕐 Tour time: minimum 2-3 hours - It is best to book tickets in advance online.
This is a must-see on any visit to Krakow - a place where Polish history comes alive at every turn.
2️⃣ Market Square and Cloth Hall
Main Market Square in Krakow is Europe's largest medieval square and the true heart of the city. It bustles with life at any time of the year - surrounded by historic houses, cafes, restaurants and full of street artists. At its center are the famous Clothworkers, which is a former market hall, today housing galleries, stores and a museum.
During the visit it is worth:
🔹 take a stroll between the the stalls of the Cloth Hall and take a look at the floor to Gallery of 19th Century Polish Art,
🔹 Sit in one of the cafes overlooking the St. Mary's Church,
🔹 listen bugle call of St. Mary's, played every hour from the tower,
🔹 see Monument to Adam Mickiewicz, a favorite meeting place for residents.
📍 Access: Streetcar and bus stops at Starowislna Street, Bagatela Theater or the Main Railway Station. Walking from most points in the center will take a few minutes.
🕐 Tour time: ca. 1-2 hours for a walk and relaxation - it is best to visit in the morning or evening to feel the atmosphere without crowds.
It's the perfect place to start or end a day in Krakow - full of charm, history and city life.
3️⃣ St. Mary's Church and the bugle call from the tower
🎡 Going to Krakow with your kids?
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St. Mary's Basilica is one of the most recognizable symbols of Krakow. Its two towers tower over the Main Square, and every day from the higher of the two towers resounds the bugle call, played to the four corners of the world. The interior of the church hides a real treasure - altar of Veit Stoss, considered one of the most outstanding works of Gothic sculpture in Europe.
During the visit it is worth:
🔹 go inside and see richly decorated altar,
🔹 take a look at stained glass and polychromes by Jan Matejko,
🔹 climb the mariacka tower, from where the bugle is won by a guard - the bugler,
🔹 learn the legend of the trumpeter interrupted in the middle of a tune.
📍 Access: The church is located directly next to the Main Square - A walk from anywhere in the center.
🕐 Tour time: ca. 30-60 minutes; entry to the tower requires advance reservations.
This is a place where history, art and tradition come together in a unique way - not to be missed during your stay in Krakow.
4️⃣ Kazimierz - the former Jewish quarter
Kazimierz is one of the most atmospheric and unique parts of Krakow. For centuries it was a separate city and the center of Jewish life, and today it combines the rich history, historic synagogues and artistic atmosphere. Here you will find pubs with soul, galleries, charming courtyards and traces of old times.
During the visit it is worth:
🔹 see Old Synagogue and visit Museum of Jewish History,
🔹 walk down the street Wide - The heart of the district,
🔹 take a look at the iconic cafes and restaurants with Jewish cuisine,
🔹 visit New Square And try the famous casserole from the roundhouse.
📍 Access: by streetcar to the stop Honey or Stradom (Lines 3, 19, 24, among others).
🕐 Tour time: minimum 1.5-2 hours, although you can spend the whole evening here.
Kazimierz is a place where the past meets the present - perfect for strolling, dining and exploring history with other senses.
5️⃣ Oskar Schindler's Emalia Factory
🏛 Do you like sightseeing, but don't want to spend a fortune?
👉 Top 10 - free museums in Krakow
Museum at Schindler's Factory is one of the most moving places in Krakow. It is located in the building of a former enamelware factory, where the Oskar Schindler saved more than 1,000 Jews During World War II. The exhibition depicts the fate of the residents of Cracow under German occupation - in a modern, emotional and highly evocative way.
During the visit it is worth:
🔹 learn the history Oskar Schindler and its employees,
🔹 see authentic factory interiors,
🔹 go through multimedia exhibitions showing life in occupied Krakow,
🔹 watch excerpts from the film "Schindler's List" and locate places associated with it.
📍 Access: by streetcar to the stop Ghetto Heroes Square or Zablocie (Lines 3, 9, 24, among others).
🕐 Tour time: ca. 1.5-2 hours - Tickets are worth booking in advance online.
It is a place that is deeply memorable and allows you to look at the history of Krakow from a completely different perspective.
6️⃣ Underground Market Square
Market Underground is a fascinating museum located... under the surface of Krakow's market square! Thanks to a modern, multimedia exhibition, you can literally travel back in time and see what Krakow looked like several hundred years ago. The relics uncovered during archaeological work are a unique journey through the medieval city.
During the visit it is worth:
🔹 pass on the trail of medieval merchants,
🔹 see Original cobblestone roads, foundations of houses and stalls,
🔹 take advantage of interactive screens, holograms and projections,
🔹 learn about the daily life of the residents of Krakow centuries ago.
📍 Access: The entrance to the museum is located directly on the Main Square, next to the Adam Mickiewicz monument (marked with a signboard "Underground Market").
🕐 Tour time: ca. 1-1.5 hours - Due to entry limits, Online booking is strongly recommended.
This is one of the most modern museums in Poland, which will appeal to both adults and children.
7️⃣ Barbican and Walls
Barbican is an impressive Gothic defensive structure that once formed part of Krakow's urban fortifications. Today it is one of the few such structures in Europe that has survived in such good condition. Together with the nearby fragments of the city walls i Florian Gate Takes us back to the days of knights and sieges.
During the visit it is worth:
🔹 go through the monumental entrance and learn about the history of the city's defense,
🔹 see interior of the Barbican With displays and seasonal exhibitions,
🔹 stroll along the ramparts And enter their crown,
🔹 stop by Floriańska Gate, leading directly to the Main Square.
📍 Access: streetcar stops Słowacki Theatre or Basztowa LOT (Lines 2, 4, 14, 24, among others). The walk from the main square takes 5 minutes.
🕐 Tour time: ca. 30-45 minutes - Barbican open seasonally (from spring to autumn).
It's a great attraction for medieval lovers - perfect for a short stop while exploring the old city.
8️⃣ Planty - the green heart of Krakow
Planty is a vast park surrounding the Old Town, which was built on the site of the former defensive walls. It's the perfect place to take a stroll, relax in the shade of the trees or take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. The Planty forms a green ring about 4 kilometers long, full of benches, monuments and charming alleys.
During the visit it is worth:
🔹 walk the stretch between the Wawel Hill and the Barbican,
🔹 stop by monuments to famous Poles, such as Mickiewicz, Slowacki and Dlugosz,
🔹 relax in the shade of the trees overlooking the historic walls and gates,
🔹 see garden at Collegium Novum, often full of flowers and birds.
📍 Access: The Planty surrounds the entire Old Town - entrances are located at the main streets and streetcar stops (including. Słowacki Theatre, Philharmonic, Wawel).
🕐 Tour time: any - you can go through the whole thing in approx. 1 hour Or stop just for a moment.
This is an ideal place for a quiet walk and contact with nature - here Krakow shows its most romantic face.
9️⃣ Collegium Maius - the oldest building of the Jagiellonian University
Collegium Maius is a gem of Gothic architecture and the oldest building Jagiellonian University, one of the oldest universities in Europe. It was here that, among others, studied. Nicolaus Copernicus and Jan Kochanowski. The interiors have retained their old atmosphere, and the museum provides a glimpse into the world of science centuries ago.
During the visit it is worth:
🔹 watch courtyard with cloisters, which impresses with its symmetry and tranquility,
🔹 visit lecture halls, library and rector's office With preserved original equipment,
🔹 see the collection historic globes, scientific instruments and manuscripts,
🔹 listen mechanical clock with figures, which at full hours comes to life in the courtyard.
📍 Access: streetcar stop Philharmonic or Bagatela Theatre, it takes 3-5 minutes to walk from the main square.
🕐 Tour time: ca. 45-60 minutes - Individual and guided entries are possible.
This is a place that will delight not only history and science lovers, but anyone who wants to feel the spirit of old Krakow.
🔟 Kosciuszko Mound - panorama of Cracow
Kosciuszko Mound is an impressive national memorial mounded in honor of the Tadeusz Kosciuszko - hero of Poland and the United States. Located on a hill Sikornik, offers one of the the best views of Krakow And the surrounding area. On a clear day you can even see the Tatra Mountains!
During the visit it is worth:
🔹 enter top of the mound And admire the city's skyline,
🔹 visit Kosciuszko museum With a multimedia exhibition,
🔹 walk around fortifications surrounding the mound, which are part of the Fortress of Krakow,
🔹 relax in the nearby green areas Wolski Forest.
📍 Access: By bus No. 100 (sightseeing line) from Salwator or on foot through the Wolski Forest; access by bicycle or car is also possible (parking under the fort).
🕐 Tour time: ca. 1.5 hours, preferably in good weather.
This place is ideal for those who want to combine history with beautiful views and a bit of physical activity.
1️⃣1️⃣ Bielany Monastery and Wolski Forest
Camaldolese monastery in Bielany district is one of the most picturesque and mysterious places in Krakow. Located on a hill in the heart of Wolski Forest, offers not only a spiritual atmosphere, but also a great views of the city. The area around the monastery is an ideal place for a walk or picnic away from the hustle and bustle of the center.
During the visit it is worth:
🔹 see whitewashed monastery buildings With distinctive towers,
🔹 take the opportunity to enter the temple (Note - limited days and times for laypersons apply),
🔹 take a walk Wolski Forest trails, full of wildlife,
🔹 visit a nearby Zoological Garden - A popular destination for family outings.
📍 Access: By bus #134 from under the Cracovia Hotel (to the zoo) or by car - parking at Kamedulska Street. Continue on foot about 10 minutes uphill.
🕐 Tour time: ca. 2-3 hours, depending on the walking route and availability of the monastery.
It is a peaceful and green oasis within the city limits - ideal for relaxation, reflection and communing with nature.
1️⃣2️⃣ Nowa Huta - the Socialist Realist face of Krakow
New Steelworks is a completely different face of Krakow - a district designed as a model socialist city, with monumental architecture, wide avenues and sprawling squares. Although it was built after World War II, today it is a fascinating monument of urban planning of communist Poland and attracts lovers of history and unusual tourist routes.
During the visit it is worth:
🔹 take a walk around the Avenue of Roses - A representative square with a former monument to Lenin,
🔹 see Ark of the Lord - The famous church built "against the system."
🔹 visit Shelter under the Nowa Huta Cultural Center or other underground facilities,
🔹 take a look at stylish milk bars And feel the atmosphere of a bygone era.
📍 Access: By streetcar from the center (lines 4, 10, 16, 21, among others) - it takes approx. 25-30 minutes.
🕐 Tour time: min. 2 hours, a full guided tour - even half a day.
It's a real trip back in time - contrasting with the romantic Old Town and showing a different face of Krakow.
1️⃣3️⃣ National Museum and "Lady with an Ermine"
National Museum in Krakow is one of the most important museums in Poland, and its greatest gem is the famous "Lady with an Ermine" by Leonardo da Vinci - one of only a few works by the master located outside of Italy. It is not only an art gallery, but also a place where history, painting and culture come together in a unique way.
During the visit it is worth:
🔹 see "Lady with an Ermine". In a specially prepared, air-conditioned room,
🔹 go through the exposure Polish art of the 20th and 21st centuries,
🔹 visit temporary exhibitions, often dedicated to world artists,
🔹 Take a look at the museum store or cafe on site.
📍 Access: streetcar stop National Museum (lines 1, 2, 20, among others); on foot from Market Square approx. 10-12 minutes.
🕐 Tour time: min. 1-1.5 hours, with a full tour of up to 3 hours.
This is a must-see for art lovers and a unique opportunity to come face to face with a true Leonardo masterpiece.
1️⃣4️⃣ Tyniec - Benedictine Abbey on the Vistula River
Tyniec is a picturesquely located benedictine abbey, whose origins date back to the 11th century. The monastery rises on a limestone hill just above the Vistula River and attracts both pilgrims and tourists seeking peace, spirituality and beautiful views. Today it is also an important center of culture and education.
During the visit it is worth:
🔹 visit church and monastery buildings with a guide,
🔹 listen to Gregorian chants and learn about the life of the monks,
🔹 take a look at abbey museum And a store selling Benedictine products,
🔹 take a stroll along the Vistula River or sit in a cafe overlooking the river.
📍 Access: by bus no. 112 or 203 from the bus stop Podwawelskie Estates; you can also get there by bicycle on a path along the Vistula River (about 12 km from the center).
🕐 Tour time: ca. 1.5-2 hours; more if you plan to walk around the area or visit a museum.
Tyniec is the perfect place for a spiritual break from the hustle and bustle of the city - with history, nature and silence in the background.
1️⃣5️⃣ The Wawel Dragon and the Legend of the Dragon
Wawel Dragon is the most famous hero of Cracow legends. His cave is located at the foot of the Wawel Hill, right on the banks of the Vistula River. Next to it stands the famous statue of a fire-breathing dragon, which attracts both children and adults. This is a must-see on any trip to Krakow!
During the visit it is worth:
🔹 go down to Dragon's Den - The legendary dragon's habitat (open in season),
🔹 take a picture at sculpture breathing fire, which "yawns" every few minutes,
🔹 listen to the different versions legends of Shoemaker Dratewko,
🔹 take a walk Vistula boulevards And look at Wawel from the perspective of the river.
📍 Access: On foot from the Old Town or by streetcar to the stop Wawel. The dragon is located at the exit of Wawel Hill from the Vistula River.
🕐 Tour time: ca. 30 minutes - longer if you plan to walk along the Vistula River.
It's a fairytale ending to a visit to Krakow - full of magic, legends and smiles.
Summary
It is difficult to see everything in one visit to Krakow, but these 15 attractions are excellent starting point, to get to know what is most beautiful and characteristic in the city. From the royal Wawel Castle, through the bustling Market Square, to the mysterious Underground and the atmospheric Kazimierz -. Krakow combines history with modernity Like few cities in Europe.
Whether you're a lover of art, architecture, history or just a good cup of coffee with a view - you can't go wrong. In Krakow, there is something for everyone.
