The Barbakan is one of Krakow’s most recognizable defensive structures — an impressive, circular fort located next to St. Florian’s Gate. It’s an excellent place to begin a walking tour: easy to find and a natural starting point for the Royal Route that leads straight through the heart of the Old Town. The Barbakan itself has an interesting story — it was built in the late 15th century in response to changes in military technology and still draws visitors’ attention today.
Starting a walk at the Barbakan also gives the guide natural narrative frames: from fortifications and medieval defenses, through the Main Market Square and its legends, to Wawel and Kazimierz. It’s an ideal place for a brief outline of the tour, pointing out landmarks and agreeing on the pace depending on the group’s needs.
If you plan a weekend walk — remember that the area around the Barbakan can be crowded, especially in summer and on long weekends. It’s a good idea to arrange a specific meeting time and arrive a few minutes early to find a meeting spot (usually beside the Barbakan, between its walls and St. Florian’s Gate).
1) Start: the Barbakan and St. Florian’s Gate - a short talk about the city walls, the role of barbicans and how medieval city defenses worked.
2) Floriańska Street - the main historic shopping artery leading to the Market Square; here the guide can tell stories about trade, the townhouses and guilds of old Krakow.
3) Main Market Square - the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), the Town Hall Tower, monuments and the everyday life of the square; mandatory anecdotes and the legend of the bugle call (hejnał).
4) St. Mary’s Basilica - viewed from outside and (if time and tickets allow) a visit inside; the Veit Stoss altarpiece and the symbolism of the interior.
5) Grodzka Street and approach to Wawel - the cathedral, the castle courtyard, royal tombs; practical notes about entering interiors and possible queues.
6) Crossing the bridge to Kazimierz - a story about the district’s history, its synagogues and its contemporary atmosphere; suggestions for a short coffee break.
7) (Optional) Walk to Podgórze - for those interested, a short riverside walk, Ghetto Heroes’ Square or the view of Krakus Mound.
- A pace adjusted to the group: the guide will set a comfortable speed for everyone, with short stops for photos and questions.
- Stories and historical context: the guide will not only point out sights but tell their stories — from anecdotes and legends to historical facts, connecting them to everyday life in modern Krakow.
- Practical on-the-spot tips: where to buy tickets, how to avoid queues, which entrances are barrier-free, and where it’s worth taking a coffee or lunch break.
- Duration: a standard walking tour covering the main points of the Old Town and Wawel usually takes 2–3 hours; if you want to visit museum interiors, allow extra time or book a longer tour.
- Meeting point: agree on a clear spot by the Barbakan (between the Barbakan and St. Florian’s Gate) and arrive a few minutes early.
- Tickets and entrances: visits to St. Mary’s Basilica, the royal crypts and some rooms at Wawel require separate tickets; your guide will tell you when it’s worth booking these in advance.
- Weather and clothing: the tour is on foot — comfortable shoes are essential. In summer bring a hat and water; in autumn and winter wear warm layers. For rain, a light waterproof is useful.
- Accessibility: some parts of the route (for example towers or certain interiors) may be limited for people with reduced mobility; if someone in the group has special needs, inform the guide in advance so an alternative route can be suggested.
- Pod Aniołami (near the Market/Grodzka) - traditional Polish cuisine in a historic interior; a good place for a full meal after visiting Wawel.
- Café Camelot (Kazimierz) - a cozy café perfect for a short rest, coffee and cake after exploring the synagogues.
- Forum Przestrzenie (on the riverbank) - a great spot to relax by the Vistula, especially in summer; a nice option for a light lunch or a drink with a view.
- Stara Zajezdnia (Kazimierz) - for those looking for craft beer and a relaxed atmosphere after a busy day of sightseeing.
Remember that popular spots can be busy at weekends — if you have a larger group, consider reserving a table in advance.
- Families with children: choose a shorter, more interactive walk — legends, short tasks and stops in squares and small parks will help keep the little ones engaged.
- Seniors: plan a route with fewer steep sections and more rest stops; let the guide know about the preferred pace and need for breaks.
- If you have little time: focus on the Royal Route — the key points (the Barbakan, Floriańska, the Market Square, Wawel) can be shown in a compact 90–120 minute tour, though this won’t include many interior visits.
Q: Exactly where is the meeting point? - Usually next to the Barbakan, between its walls and St. Florian’s Gate; the guide typically has a visible sign or will call beforehand to confirm.
Q: How much does the walk cost? - Prices depend on the type of tour (private, small group, themed tour). Check the provider’s website or contact the guide for current information on prices and any extra fees for museum entries.
Q: Does the guide speak English or other languages? - Many walks are conducted in Polish, but guides often offer tours in other languages on request; if you need a specific language, mention it when booking.
Q: Do walks take place in all weather? - Most walks go ahead regardless of weather; in extreme conditions the organizer may change the date or route. The guide will inform you of any changes.
- Ask questions! A guide’s presentation is a conversation, not a monologue. Your questions often lead to more interesting stories and anecdotes than a dry narration.
- Take a pause: don’t try to see everything at once. It’s better to soak in a few places and feel their atmosphere than rush through a checklist of sights.
- Taste local: try an obwarzanek from a street vendor, have coffee in a small Kazimierz café and return later to a spot you liked. Krakow is best enjoyed slowly.
If you’d like to arrange a walk with the local guide Margaret Kasprowicz, check the offer on the service provider’s website or contact her directly to set the date, length of the route and language of the tour. When booking, it’s helpful to provide the number of people, preferred time and any mobility limitations — this allows the guide to prepare a route tailored to your needs.
Wishing you a great walk — Krakow has so many stories and little details that there’s always something left to discover on your next visit! Greetings from the guide and see you at the Barbakan. (Guide: Margaret Kasprowicz)
