The Main Market Square in Krakow is one of those places where even the simplest breakfast tastes special thanks to the view of the Cloth Hall, the towers of St. Mary’s Basilica and the lively square. In this article you’ll find practical advice, trusted addresses and a few surprising tips to help you pick the perfect morning spot — whether you’re after a cozy café with a terrace, an elegant breakfast in a historic interior, or a quick brunch before sightseeing.
Cafe Noworolski (in the Cloth Hall) – a classic: if you dream of a breakfast in a historic interior with immediate access to the Market, Noworolski is a must. It sits on the ground floor of the Cloth Hall and offers both the atmosphere of an old-style café and a convenient view of the square.
Wentzl – a terrace with history: the Wentzl restaurant and hotel have a terrace overlooking the Market where you can admire the Cloth Hall and St. Mary’s Basilica. It’s a great choice for a calm, slightly more elegant breakfast; book a table in advance if you want the best spots.
Wierzynek – a special breakfast in a historic setting: while Wierzynek is mainly known for festive dinners, its location by the Market and the restaurant’s atmosphere make it an interesting option for anyone looking for tradition and a distinctive vibe.
Cafe Molenda and cafés with terraces on the adjoining streets – if the view matters, look for places with a terrace or garden facing the Market; there are spots with a very good quality-to-price ratio.
For an alternative: several excellent cafés just off the Market (for example Charlotte, Massolit, Cafe Botanica) offer outstanding bread and breakfasts — walking a few steps from the main square often means lower prices and a more authentic atmosphere.
If you want to feel the local vibe, try classic scrambled eggs or a plate with fresh curd cheese and bread. In specialty cafés, choose seasonal boards, sandwiches on homemade bread or signature toasts. Coffee lovers will find everything from espresso to pour-over and specialty brews.
For fans of sweet breakfasts I recommend croissants, challah or artisan pastries; some places near the Market also serve creative dishes with local cheeses or oscypek served in modern ways.
If you’re traveling with small children, opt for menu items that are simple and quick to serve — this will help you avoid long waits and frustration.
The best time for a breakfast with a view is early morning, right when places open (usually around 8:00), or late morning on weekdays — that’s when there are the fewest tourists. On weekends and during summer most terraces and outdoor seating fill up very early.
If you care about a particular view (for example a terrace facing the Cloth Hall or a table at Wentzl), reserve in advance — the best seats are often booked by hotels and tour groups.
Watch out for “tables in the middle of the Market” offered by some restaurants — prices there can be significantly higher than on nearby streets. It’s a good idea to check the menu before sitting down or ask the server about prices if the menu isn’t displayed outside.
To save money, have breakfast in one of the cafés a few steps off the Market and then stroll with your drink to the Planty or a smaller street. Often the quality is the same while the bill is much lower.
Sit at the nearest table without checking the menu — a classic mistake. Before you sit, ask for a menu or check prices online when possible.
Assume that every place with a view is better — view isn’t everything; pay attention to reviews about food and coffee, especially if you have limited time.
Think that being in season means you don’t need to reserve — if you plan a weekend breakfast or want a terrace table, book ahead.
Arrive too late for museums and exhibitions after breakfast — remember that popular sights (for example the Cloth Hall exhibitions or the National Museum) open at set times; plan time for walking and possible ticket lines. Official museum guides work in many museums and can help with the collections — using a guide can be especially rewarding in the Cloth Hall.
Cafe Noworolski is located in the Cloth Hall and recalls the tradition of turn-of-the-century cafés — it’s not just coffee, but coffee with history behind it.
Not every place that advertises a “view of the Cloth Hall” sits directly on the Market. Sometimes better panoramas come from first-floor cafés in nearby tenement houses or hotel terraces, so it’s worth looking around a little wider.
Many popular cafés near the Market start serving breakfast from early hours; if you want to combine your morning with visiting museums, pick a place with quick service or the option to take your breakfast 'to go'.
In Krakow you’ll find several places that combine a bakery and a café — if fresh bread matters to you, look for venues that bake on site (this is often a guarantee of quality).
Do I need to reserve a table? Recommended if you want a specific view or plan to visit on a weekend or during high season. Reservations are useful especially for places such as Wentzl or terraces by the Cloth Hall.
How much will I pay for breakfast on the Market? Prices vary widely: a simple breakfast and coffee can cost modestly in independent cafés, while places with terraces directly on the Market tend to be more expensive. It’s worth comparing menus before you sit down.
Do cafés near the Market offer vegan and gluten-free options? Yes — more and more places include plant-based and gluten-free options. If you have dietary restrictions, ask staff about ingredients and availability.
Can I have breakfast during museum opening hours? Yes. An early breakfast is a good idea before sightseeing; allow about 30–60 minutes for the meal and the walk to the museum. Check museum opening hours and whether you need to reserve tickets in advance.
Cloth Hall / Cafe Noworolski – style, history, Market view.
Wentzl – terrace with a Market panorama, ideal for an elegant breakfast.
Wierzynek – for those who want to feel old traditions and exceptional interiors.
Cafe Molenda, Cafe Botanica, Charlotte, Massolit – excellent bread and quality, close to the Market.
Cafe Manggha – if you want breakfast with a view of the Vistula and Wawel (a few minutes’ walk from the center).
Check opening hours and reservation options — many places change hours and reservation policies in high season.
If you’re organizing a morning sightseeing plan after breakfast and need help with logistics (museum tickets, transport, restaurant reservations, group options), consider contacting private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz, who can help with planning and bookings and adapt the schedule to your needs.
Share this article on social media and send it to friends planning a trip to Krakow — it will help them start the day the right way.
If you want a stress-free, perfectly organized morning in Krakow, I invite you to use the private guiding services of Małgorzata Kasprowicz. Małgorzata can plan the route, reserve a table at your chosen café, arrange transport and museum tickets, and guide you through Krakow’s and Wawel’s most interesting sights. You can find contact details for Małgorzata on the zwiedzaniekrakowa.com website — she will be happy to advise and tailor the plan to your expectations.
