Krakow is famous for its grand monuments, but it’s often the smaller spaces — arcades, cloisters and quiet courtyards — that leave the most lasting impression. Courtyards combine history, architecture and an intimate atmosphere: they are places where you can escape the crowds, take a lovely photo and feel how the city breathes on several levels.
In this article I pick 10 of the most beautiful courtyards and gardens in central Krakow and add some practical tips on how to visit them cheaply or for free.
Wawel is Krakow’s calling card, and its arcaded courtyard is one of the city’s most recognizable spots. A walk up the hill and a first glimpse into the castle cloisters give a sense of the power and centuries of history held there.
It’s worth visiting in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds; entry to some interiors requires a ticket, but wandering the courtyard and enjoying the view of the cathedral is free.
Collegium Maius is the oldest building of the Jagiellonian University, and its Gothic courtyard with cloisters and a well is very impressive. It’s also home to a charming "musical clock" — at certain hours figures appear and music plays, drawing both adults and children.
The courtyard is open to visitors — check the museum opening hours and the clock schedule, because this is one of the most photogenic corners of the Old Town.
Right next to Collegium Maius you’ll find the restored Professors’ Garden — a peaceful green spot with benches, small sculptures and interactive models of scientific instruments. The garden’s history stretches back to the 15th century, and today it’s a great place for a short break between sights.
The garden is seasonally open to the public; on a nice day it’s perfect for soaking up an academic atmosphere and escaping the bustle of the Market Square.
The Szołayski Tenement at Szczepański Square has a charming inner courtyard with arcades, a fountain and plantings — recreated with an interwar vibe. It’s a lovely place to rest after intensive sightseeing in the centre.
The courtyard is sometimes used for exhibitions and events by branches of the National Museum; if you catch a show or concert there, the atmosphere is especially pleasant.
The Dominican church features historic cloisters and a monastic courtyard — a place with centuries of history and a surprising calm right in the city centre. The Gothic architecture and sacred atmosphere give this spot a distinctive character.
Access to the cloisters is occasionally limited during religious events or special exhibitions, but you can often peek inside and enjoy the silence among the stone arcades.
Potocki Palace, close to the Main Market Square, has recently opened more to the public as a cultural space. Its courtyard and interiors marry historic character with contemporary events — exhibitions, meetings and workshops.
This is worth a visit not only for the architecture but also for the interesting cultural initiatives now taking place there.
The Palace of Art is an Art Nouveau gem of Krakow. Around the building and on its grounds you’ll find representative spaces that create a pleasant, artistic microclimate — ideal for lovers of art and architecture.
Check current exhibitions and drop by for a walk through the courtyard — the place often hosts cultural events that give it a lively character.
If you want to relax with good food, the hidden courtyard of La Campana on Kanonicza Street is a great option. The restaurant’s courtyard is praised for its atmosphere — herbs, lanterns and an intimate setting make it easy to forget the Market’s bustle.
I recommend stopping there for coffee or a light meal — it’s also a nice way to experience the everyday courtyard life of the Old Town.
Near the Market is the intimate courtyard of Klub RE (Św. Krzyża) — quiet by day, it transforms into a hub for concerts and gatherings in the evening. This is an example of a courtyard that plays different roles depending on the time of day.
If you enjoy live music and a relaxed vibe, check the club’s program — independent bands and cultural events are frequently held there.
Zakąski is a cosy courtyard where lights are switched on in the evening and the atmosphere becomes very welcoming. The restaurant garden is ideal for a quieter dinner away from the most touristy spots — a good place to try well-regarded dishes and unwind.
Courtyard restaurants like this are often the nicest surprises during a city walk — plan a pause in less obvious places to better learn everyday life in Krakow.
Many museums and historic sites in Krakow offer free-entry days or hours — these change from time to time, so it’s worth checking current schedules on official pages before your trip. Even when interiors require a fee, walking through the courtyard is often free.
The best times to visit are early mornings and late afternoons on weekdays — there are fewer tourists and you can take photos in peace. In colder months courtyards can be emptier and have a unique play of light and shadow.
If you plan to dine in a courtyard restaurant, booking ahead for an evening in the high season is sensible. Choose places recommended by locals whenever possible — good local reviews are often a reliable sign of tasty food and friendly service.
Many gardens and courtyards in central Krakow had historic functions — some used to be monastic gardens, others served as granaries or service yards for tenement houses. While walking, look out for details: old wells, sculptures or fragments of historic paving.
Sometimes even a small, easily missed passage leads to a hidden courtyard with a restaurant or a community garden — peer into gates and portals, because many of the prettiest spots aren’t on the main tourist routes.
Mistake 1: Planning an overly intense Market Square itinerary and forgetting the neighbouring courtyards. Tip: set aside time to explore side streets — many gems sit just off the main attractions.
Mistake 2: Not checking opening hours. Tip: academic courtyards, seasonal gardens and cloisters may be open only at limited times — check before you go.
Mistake 3: Eating only at tourist restaurants around the Market. Tip: opt for courtyard restaurants or gardens recommended by locals — the food and atmosphere are often much better.
Are all courtyards free to enter? Some are public and free, while others belong to museums or restaurants and interior access may be ticketed. A simple walk through many courtyards is, however, possible without charge.
How do I find hidden courtyards? Look into gateways and portals; city maps often mark museums and institutions with courtyards. Wandering without a rigid plan is also a good idea — many interesting yards are discovered by chance.
Are the courtyards family-friendly? Yes — many offer calm places to rest, and some museums prepare attractions for younger visitors.
If this guide helped you discover new places, share it with friends or on social media. Let us know which courtyards you liked most — that helps others plan a walk around Krakow.
If you’d like to explore Krakow comfortably with someone who knows the city well, consider a private tour with Małgorzata Kasprowicz — details are available on the Zwiedzanie Krakowa website. A private walk will let you see not only the well-known courtyards but also the most hidden corners recommended by locals.
