If you want to escape the crowds of the Main Market Square for a moment, turn toward Augustiańska Street — that's where the Gothic church of St. Catherine and St. Margaret stands. This spot combines a long, colourful history with an intimate atmosphere that every student or exchange participant will appreciate: in just a few minutes you can feel a different side of Kraków, admire beautiful vaults, tombstones and — rare for urban monuments — authentic murals in the monastery cloisters. The calm and a piece of medieval architecture make this church an ideal stop for a short break during a busy day of sightseeing.
For Erasmus students and university visitors there's an extra plus: it's easy to come here off the main tourist routes and get a sense of the district's religious and cultural life — masses, services and events organised by the Augustinian community give the place its own rhythm.
This article includes practical tips on what to see inside and around the church, how to avoid common visitor mistakes, and where to eat or enjoy a good coffee nearby.
Construction of the church began in the 14th century thanks to a foundation by King Casimir the Great; the building therefore has medieval roots, although its history has been full of twists. Over the centuries the church survived fires, floods, reconstructions and extensive restorations, and its appearance mixes Gothic with later Renaissance and Baroque accents.
The Augustinians have cared for the church for centuries; attached to the church is a monastery with cloisters that hide valuable, age-old wall paintings. A local legend about a “curse” placed over the building and the king's penance adds drama to the story — a good anecdote to share with friends over coffee.
In the south nave you can find a late Renaissance tomb of a member of the Jordan family — one of the interesting details worth spotting with a careful eye.
The star-shaped vaults and the Gothic spatial layout are the first things that catch the eye when you cross the threshold. Notice the delicate tracery details in the porch facing Skałeczna Street and the late Renaissance tomb of Spytko Jordan in the south nave.
In the monastery cloisters there are murals preserved from the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance — a rare find in urban churches and one of the site's greatest "hidden" treasures. These paintings depict saints and biblical scenes; if you like art, give them a little extra time.
The chapel of St. Monica and the chapel with the image of Our Lady of Consolation are other points worth visiting; some chapels hold relics and sculptures of local devotional importance.
The monastery cloisters — often skipped by hurried tourists but well worth strolling: quiet arcades, fragments of frescoes and epitaphs create a unique atmosphere, almost like an open-air museum room.
Relics and local rites — the church preserves mementos and rituals that still draw locals; for example, worshippers come on certain days with symbolic offerings. Observing local religiosity can be a valuable cultural experience for visitors.
Tales about figures like Izajasz Boner and stories of “discovering” people of ambiguous reputation through tomb inscriptions give the place local colour and make great material for a short conversation with a native Kraków resident.
The quietest time is in the morning, before the busier tourist hours — the light is often best for photography then, and the interiors are more accessible for calm viewing.
In the afternoon, especially in the warm golden light, the façades and architectural details photograph very well; avoid service times if you only want to look around and take pictures without disturbance.
If you have only a few hours in Kraków, combine a visit here with a short walk around Kazimierz — the neighbourhood is compact, so even a busy student can see a lot.
Address and location: Augustiańska Street 7 — in the heart of Kazimierz, within easy walking distance from Plac Nowy and the district's main routes.
Opening hours and masses: church hours can change and services or Augustinian events sometimes take place — before your planned visit it’s worth checking current times on the parish website or by phone.
Admission: entering the church is often free, but voluntary donations for conservation are welcome; if you see a donation box or information about restoration support, consider leaving a small euro or złoty.
Dress code and behaviour: respect this place of worship — avoid loud behaviour and, if possible, take off your backpack when entering. Simple rule: be polite and discreet, especially during services.
Accessibility: due to the historic layout there may be steps and narrow passages; visitors with limited mobility should ask in advance about access and possible assistance.
Photography: usually allowed without flash, but it’s best to ask on arrival or pay attention to local signs.
Kazimierz is a culinary hub — from traditional Polish food to modern bistros. If you want something tasty and well regarded, consider places around Plac Nowy and Estery Street: Plac Nowy 1 (a modern bistro), Starka (Polish cuisine in a cosy interior), Nolio (authentic Neapolitan pizza) and classic cafés like Cafe Camelot. These spots are popular with locals and generally well reviewed.
For a quick, inexpensive meal look for local bars and small bistros — Kazimierz also offers excellent street food and vegetarian options.
Coffee and a break — after visiting the cloisters I recommend stopping for coffee in one of the nearby cafés, especially if you’re looking for a cosy spot to organise notes or photos from your walk.
Visiting only the Main Market — Kazimierz has its own unique set of monuments and atmosphere; set aside time for a stroll through its streets.
Not checking opening hours — churches can be closed for services, conservation work or religious events; check opening times before you go.
Rushing — this church rewards calm observers: sit for a moment on a bench, study the details and read inscriptions instead of just snapping a photo and moving on.
Lack of respect during a mass — if you encounter a service, keep quiet and discreet; photography may be inappropriate at that time.
How long does a visit take? - A quick look at the interior and cloisters takes 30–45 minutes; architecture and art lovers can spend an hour or more.
Is there an entrance fee? - Generally entry to the church is free, but consider leaving a donation for conservation; special group visits or guided tours may involve a fee.
Can I enter with a backpack? - In historic churches backpacks can disturb other visitors; if it’s crowded, it’s better to leave large bags in a safe place or carry only what doesn’t get in the way.
Is the church open every day? - Hours may change; check parish updates before your planned visit.
Quick plan (1–2 hours): start at Plac Nowy, walk to Augustiańska, visit the church of St. Catherine and St. Margaret, stroll the monastery cloisters and finish with coffee in one of the nearby cafés.
If you have half a day: combine this visit with nearby synagogues and Kazimierz museums — the district allows for an intense but compact cultural programme.
Evening option: dinner in one of the recommended restaurants, then a short walk through the atmospheric streets of Kazimierz — the vibe after dark is very different from daytime.
Surprise: despite turbulent history and several natural disasters, authentic wall paintings and fragments of medieval monastery decoration have survived in the church — a rarity in city churches.
If you enjoyed this text, share it with friends or on social media — you’ll help other students and Erasmus visitors discover less obvious sides of Kraków.
Want to explore with someone who knows Kazimierz inside out? Check the offer of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz at zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. It’s a great option when you want to make the most of a short visit and hear local anecdotes and practical tips.
