Kraków is the city we all know from Wawel, the Market Square and Kazimierz. But behind those famous sights lie corners that rarely appear in short guidebooks and on postcards. Below you’ll find seven such places — each with a different character: natural, industrial, artistic or completely unexpected. I include practical information, tips on how to get there and what to know before you go.
If you want to see Kraków differently — without the crowds and with local curiosities — pick a few spots from this list and make your own walk off the beaten track.
Zakrzówek is a former limestone quarry that today draws visitors with the color of its water and dramatic cliffs. It’s a great place for a walk among greenery, a picnic and photography, but remember that swimming in unofficial places is risky and in some zones prohibited.
How to get there: easiest by tram or bus from the center, then a short walk. On weekends and sunny days it’s best to arrive early to find quieter spots to relax.
Tip: look for viewpoints on the rocks and follow the less frequented paths — you can find peaceful corners overlooking the water. Avoid going onto cliff edges and follow posted safety signs.
Liban Quarry is a raw, post-industrial space full of concrete structures and fragments of history. The site has a dark past and is popular with urbex fans and photographers searching for distinctive backdrops.
Safety and legality: parts of the area are sometimes closed; some fragments are dangerous. Wear sturdy shoes, do not climb on unstable structures and respect the historical remains.
What to bring: a camera, water and a torch — dusk intensifies the atmosphere but also increases the risk of tripping. If you prefer a safer visit, consider going with a guide who knows the terrain.
Kraków is home to workshops and small museums devoted to stained glass and glass art. A visit lets you see how colorful compositions are made, learn techniques and discover the history of local craft studios.
Why it’s worth it: it’s a perfect break after touring the busy city center — quiet, detail-rich interiors and the chance to talk to an artisan give a different context for getting to know the city.
Practical: not all studios have regular opening hours — check in advance whether you can enter or sign up for a short demonstration. It’s also a great place to buy an original souvenir.
The Garden of Experiments is an interactive space where physics and nature meet in installations for children and adults. It’s a place that tourists focused on monuments often miss, and it’s great entertainment for families and the curious.
What you’ll see: simple physical and nature experiments you can touch and test, combining education with play. An ideal spot for half a day with children.
Getting there and time: reachable by tram or bus from the center; plan at least 1–2 hours, especially when traveling with family.
Podgórze is a neighborhood that has become a site of artistic interventions in recent years: colorful staircases, murals and hidden courtyards form an informal open-air gallery. It’s an ideal area for a stroll without crowds.
Where to look: wander the streets of Podgórze and look for unusual stairwells, installations and quotes painted on steps — many of these were created as part of local community projects.
Photography note: the best light is in the morning and late afternoon; outside the high season it’s easier to catch the authentic atmosphere.
Bednarski Park is one of those green enclaves where you can feel like you’re on a private walk: old trees, benches and views over the city. From the park it’s easy to reach Krakus Mound — a viewpoint that is not always as crowded as the most famous terraces.
Why go here: if you want to breathe after walking the Old Town, choose this place for an afternoon rest and to watch local life.
Tip: bring something to sit on and a thermos of coffee — it’s a lovely spot for a short break before continuing your sightseeing.
The Polish Aviation Museum houses an impressive collection of aircraft and aviation exhibits, and the grounds of the former airfield have an interesting industrial atmosphere. This place will appeal to fans of technical history as well as families looking for an engaging afternoon.
Good to know: the exhibitions are extensive, so plan at least a few hours. The displays include military aircraft, civil exhibits and themed exhibitions.
Getting there: easy to reach by public transport; check opening hours and look out for special events that can enrich your visit.
1 - Don’t assume all “hidden” places are free and open around the clock. Check opening times and any legal restrictions.
2 - Avoid entering closed or dangerous areas: quarries and abandoned buildings can be risky. Respect residents’ privacy and posted signs.
3 - Wear comfortable shoes and carry water — many of these spots require walking on uneven ground.
4 - Plan your route: combining two or three points from the list makes for a pleasant, less tiring day than trying to tick off everything in one day.
After a walk, if you want to sit in a cozy café I recommend well-known cafés and restaurants in the center and Kazimierz. One atmospheric spot in the center is Cafe Camelot — famous for its moody interior and good coffee.
In Podgórze and the surrounding area you’ll find small eateries serving local and seasonal dishes — choose places with good reviews to taste authentic Kraków flavors after a day of discoveries.
- Many of the places described have two sides: by day they are peaceful and invite contemplation; in the evening — if accessible — they may change mood and be less safe. The time of your visit matters.
- Some of the most photogenic spots are the result of local artistic projects rather than large tourist investments — treat them with respect.
Are all the places on the list accessible for people with limited mobility? Unfortunately not. Some areas, like quarries or parts of Podgórze, have uneven terrain. Check specific locations and choose accessible options if mobility is limited.
Do I need a guide? You can explore on your own, but hiring a local guide allows you to learn stories and details that are easy to miss on your own. If you’d like help, I invite you to contact me — I’m happy to help tailor a route.
Are these places safe at night? Most sites are safe during the day; at night some are poorly lit and it’s better to avoid walking alone after dark.
Morning - Start at Bednarski Park and Krakus Mound for a short walk and a city panorama.
Before noon - Head toward Zakrzówek for a stroll by the water (allow time to rest).
Afternoon - Visit the Stained Glass Museum or the Polish Aviation Museum depending on your interests.
Evening - Walk around Podgórze, photograph the colorful steps and enjoy dinner at a recommended local restaurant.
If you liked this text, share it with friends or on social media — it will help others find less obvious but beautiful places in Kraków.
If you want to explore Kraków in an intimate group with someone who will show you hidden corners, I invite you to use the private guiding services of Małgorzata Kasprowicz — details and contact information can be found at zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. I’ll gladly help design a route that fits your interests and pace.
Enjoy discovering Kraków beyond the usual trail!
