Yes — and you don’t have to give up the best views or the city’s most important sights. Krakow rewards walkers: many of the city’s most beautiful places are publicly accessible and don’t require an entry fee. Of course there are paid attractions, but even without them you can spend several eventful days in Krakow.
In this article you’ll find tested ideas for free sightseeing — from classic walks around the Old Town, through the city’s mounds and viewpoints, to days when museums open their doors for free. I’ll also suggest practical routes and tips for arranging your day so you make the most of free options.
Practical note: rules for free entry at museums or opening hours of some attractions can change — it’s wise to check before you head out.
Let’s go explore Krakow — comfy shoes on, camera ready, and an appetite for discovery!
The Main Market Square, the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), the old streets and the panorama from Wawel are must-sees — and most of them can be admired for free. Simply walking across the square, viewing the Cloth Hall from under the arcades and listening to the bugle call from St. Mary’s Tower are experiences that don’t cost a thing.
Wawel Hill and the castle courtyard are open to strollers — access to the hill and the courtyard (and often to the outer gardens) is free. The castle interiors and some exhibitions require tickets, but a walk around the hill and the views of the Vistula already give you much of Krakow’s atmosphere.
It’s also worth stepping into the nave of several churches — many allow free visits to their interiors (exceptions being special exhibitions or tower climbs). This is a great way to soak up the city’s feeling.
If you want a panorama of the city without paying for an observation deck, choose one of Krakow’s mounds or nearby hills. The most popular are Kościuszko Mound, Krakus Mound (Kopiec Krakusa), Piłsudski Mound and Wanda Mound. Each has its own character and history — and access is free.
Wolski Forest with its viewpoints, as well as the Błonia meadows and their surroundings, are great for a longer walk outside the strict center. In many spots you can spread a blanket, rest and feel a less “touristy” side of Krakow.
The Vistula boulevards are another free way to enjoy a pleasant evening — especially at sunset. A walk along the river, the view of Wawel and the atmosphere of the cafés on the left bank create a memorable setting; the only cost is comfortable shoes.
Many cultural institutions in Krakow offer free admission on selected days of the week. This is a great opportunity to see permanent exhibitions without spending money — when planning, find out which day is “free” for a given venue.
Keep in mind that rules can change — some museums have a permanent free day, others occasionally open exhibitions for free during special events. It’s a good idea to check a museum’s current schedule or call ahead before you go.
If you plan to visit several museums, consider city cards or combined offers — sometimes buying a pass pays off if you want to see many places in a short time.
The courtyard of Collegium Maius at Jagiellonian University features a mechanical clock and figurines — a small but charming attraction. The show happens regularly and is accessible without a ticket; check the times and drop in for a short visit.
Planty is the green belt that surrounds the Old Town — perfect for a relaxing walk between sights. It’s a good way to feel the city’s atmosphere while escaping the noise of the Main Market Square.
Podgórze, Kazimierz and historic streets outside the strict center are full of character: old tenement houses, murals, monuments and memorial sites can be explored for free, and each tells a piece of the city’s story.
1) Start early: in the morning places like the Market Square or Wawel are less crowded and allow you to enjoy views without the crowds. The walk is more pleasant and photos turn out better.
2) Check free-entry days: if a particular museum matters to you, find out which days offer free admission. Many institutions have “free days” — plan around them.
3) Dress comfortably: Krakow is a city for walking. Comfortable shoes and a light jacket/umbrella (in case of weather) make exploring much easier.
4) Bring snacks: buying something at a local bakery or shop and eating on a bench in a park or on the Błonia is both economical and relaxing.
5) Use free tourist information points — they often have maps, current tips and leaflets about events that may be free or inexpensive.
6) Avoid spontaneous paid entrances if you’re on a strict budget — keep a list of “must-see” and “nice-to-see” places so you don’t overspend.
Children usually love movement and stories — try this route: a walk around the Main Market Square, a short stop by the Wawel Dragon (the dragon shows that breathe fire are seasonal), a walk along the Vistula boulevards and playtime on the Błonia meadows. All of this is free and full of attractions for kids.
Many museums also offer free entry or discounts for children and youth on selected days — check current offers and plan museum visits for free-entry days when possible.
A picnic on the Nowa Huta Meadows, a walk in Wolski Forest or playtime at one of the city playgrounds are other options for a low-cost, enjoyable family day.
Morning: breakfast at a local café, a walk through the Planty and a quick visit to the Main Market Square. See the Cloth Hall and pause beneath St. Mary’s Tower for the bugle call.
Late morning: head to Wawel, explore the courtyard and the surrounding area. Take photos of the views over the Vistula.
Afternoon: stroll the Vistula boulevards, cross a bridge and hike up to Krakus Mound or another mound for a panorama; alternatively choose a route in Wolski Forest.
Evening: return through Kazimierz — you can discover culinary flavors on your own, but if you want to save, pick up local bread and snacks for a picnic while watching city life.
Krakow has plenty of free attractions — from grand monuments to small local delights. Rather than trying to “see everything,” pick a few places and experience them attentively.
Be flexible: if weather or crowds disrupt your plan, change the route — much of Krakow’s charm is outdoors, so you can adapt your walk to conditions.
Appreciate the local: small bakeries, markets and parks often give more pleasure than another paid attraction. Talk to residents, ask about their favorite spots — these are often the best tips.
And most importantly — have fun. Krakow tells stories at every step and you don’t need much to capture them.
Where can I find public toilets? — Public toilets are available in major squares, some museums and near transport hubs; small cafés also often allow customers to use restrooms.
How safe is Krakow for tourists? — Krakow is generally safe for visitors; usual precautions apply: watch your belongings in crowded areas and be cautious at night in poorly lit streets.
Public transport tips — Krakow’s trams and buses cover the city well. Buying a short-term ticket or a daily pass at ticket machines, kiosks or via mobile apps is practical if you plan to use public transport.
Currency and payments — Poland uses the złoty (PLN). Cards are widely accepted, but it’s useful to carry some cash for small purchases in market stalls or small shops.
Eating cheaply — choose local bakeries, milk bars (bar mleczny) and casual cafés for budget meals. Buying products from local shops and creating a picnic is a pleasant and economical option.
Best seasons for free walking — spring, summer and early autumn are ideal for outdoor exploration and mounds; winter walks can be magical but check weather and daylight hours.
If something is closed — adapt your plan: try a different neighborhood, visit a park, or enjoy a long coffee and people-watching — Krakow has charms even off the beaten path.
