The Mariacki hejnal (bugle call) breaks off unexpectedly — it’s one of those moments that sticks with you after your first walk around the Market Square. If you plan to visit both Kazimierz and St. Mary's Basilica in a short time, it’s worth planning the route thoughtfully so you don’t rush and yet still see the most important things.
For people who like convenience and want to save energy, a melex transfer (an electric tourist vehicle) can be tempting. In practice a short, booked transfer between Kazimierz and the Main Market Square can take about 10–20 minutes if traveled without stops; typical melex city tours usually last 30–60 minutes because they include stops and a guide’s commentary.
St. Mary’s Basilica is above all the high altar by Wit Stwosz — a Gothic masterpiece that deserves a calm, attentive look. Visitors normally have access to the presbytery and the front part of the nave, while the central area may be used for prayer.
If you want to climb the tower and stand where the hejnal is played, remember that tower entries are organised in groups roughly every 30 minutes and places are limited. Tower tickets (so-called small donations or ‘bricks’) are purchased on the day at the tourist service point at Mariacki Square 7.
Opening hours for the interior and the tower can vary; check them before you go, because liturgies or special events may restrict access to parts of the church on certain days.
The Market Square Underground is a multimedia exhibition based on archaeological research, where you can see remains of medieval stalls, streets and water systems. It’s a great complement to a visit to the Square — it shows how life here looked centuries ago.
In high season tickets are available online and at the museum ticket office; if you want convenience and a fixed entry time, buy your ticket in advance, especially on days when admission is popular.
A melex is an ecological, comfortable electric vehicle used in Kraków for short transfers and themed tours. Companies offer different options: from simple transfers to extended routes with commentary.
If you only want to shorten the walk between Kazimierz and the Market, you can book a short ride without stops; in that case travel time usually ranges from 10–20 minutes depending on the route and traffic. If you want a guided tour with stops, plan for 30–60 minutes.
Remember that not all vehicles can enter the strict city centre or certain parts of the Market and Planty. Always agree the drop-off/pick-up point with the operator and ask about the rules for moving inside the Cultural Park area.
Half day (quick but sensible): start in the morning with the Market Square Underground (1–1.5 hours), then a short walk through the Cloth Hall to the Square, a quick visit inside St. Mary’s Basilica and, if you wish, a short melex transfer to Kazimierz for an afternoon stroll.
Full day (slower, with breaks): morning visit to the Underground, longer exploration of the Market and the Basilica, lunch near the Square or in Kazimierz, afternoon visit to the Old Synagogue, wandering Kazimierz’s streets and an evening meal at a recommended restaurant.
Always leave a time buffer for coffee, possible queues and unplanned discoveries.
In Kazimierz consider Hamsa on Szeroka Street, praised for Middle Eastern cuisine and good vegetarian options. Alchemia on Estery Street is a cult spot with a musical atmosphere and good coffee.
If you prefer a place near the Main Market Square, Cafe Camelot on Św. Tomasza is a cozy café with a literary vibe. For a more formal lunch, there are several well-rated restaurants around the Square — remember to reserve a table at weekends.
Common mistakes include assuming “you can buy everything on the spot” and ignoring differences in opening hours between attractions. In season queues can be long and some entrances (for example the Mariacka tower) are limited.
Buy museum and exhibition tickets online if you want a guaranteed entry time. Tower tickets for St. Mary’s are sold at the tourist service point on Mariacki Square 7 only on the day of the visit; the number of places is limited.
If you need accessibility assistance (for example wheelchair access), contact the museum or venue in advance to confirm arrangements.
Under the Market archaeologists have uncovered layers reaching back to the Middle Ages; the exhibition shows real fragments of old stalls and streets, not just models.
The Mariacki hejnal breaks off suddenly to commemorate a trumpeter who, according to legend, was shot while warning the city of an attack. It’s a short moment but very moving, especially when standing on the Square.
In colder months some melexes are heated; if you plan a winter ride, ask the operator about passenger comfort.
Is entry to the Basilica paid? Yes, visiting the interior usually requires a small donation; prices and rules can change, so check before your visit.
Can you climb St. Mary’s tower? Yes, but entries are limited and tower tickets are sold only at the tourist service point on Mariacki Square 7 on the day of the visit.
How long does a melex ride between Kazimierz and the Market take? A short transfer without stops can take about 10–20 minutes, while tours with stops and commentary typically last 30–60 minutes.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with friends or on social media — it helps others plan a better visit to Kraków.
If you want to explore with someone who will reveal local, less obvious stories, consider booking a private guide — Małgorzata Kasprowicz offers guided tours and local knowledge tailored to visitors.
