The Market Underground (Podziemia Rynku) is one of those places in Kraków that can surprise even someone who already knows the city from the surface. Walking on glass walkways above medieval streets and foundations lets you see Kraków from a completely different perspective — layers of history from the 11th century, multimedia reconstructions and archaeological finds create a story you can’t fully experience while standing on the Main Market Square. It’s a great starting point for a weekend because when you exit you’re literally in the heart of things and can continue exploring on foot or… by carriage.
A visit below ground usually takes about 60–90 minutes; for families with children the museum offers special educational elements and a play corner. It’s worth planning your visit in advance — during the tourist season the museum is very popular and some days and time slots fill up quickly.
If you love history, photos from an unusual perspective and spectacular multimedia, the Market Underground will be one of the most memorable highlights of your Kraków visit.
Start the morning at the Market Underground — it’s best to book tickets online or arrive for the first entry to avoid crowds. After leaving the museum, walk around the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), step onto the Main Market Square, see St. Mary’s Basilica and the Adam Mickiewicz monument. For lunch choose one of the well-rated restaurants by the Square — for example a long-established place where you can try local dishes in a pleasant setting.
In the afternoon stroll along Planty Park or make a short visit to a nearby museum (if you still have energy), and in the evening take a short carriage ride to add charm to your visit and rest after a day of walking. A carriage ride pairs perfectly with dinner near the Market or along the Vistula.
If you plan to stay in the center, pick a hotel within a 10–15 minute walk of the Market — you’ll save time and feel the rhythm of the city at night.
Start day two early — you can visit Wawel Castle, walk the Vistula Boulevards and drop into one of the less-known cafés around the Old Town. If you like museums and galleries, leave time to visit them or to shop for souvenirs in artisan boutiques.
If you enjoy market atmosphere and stalls, check local food markets and small shops — they’re great places to buy regional treats. To finish the weekend, I recommend dinner at a highly rated restaurant, ideally with a view of the Market or a cozy interior, so you’ll remember Kraków for a long time.
Remember the pace — two days are short, so set priorities and don’t try to do everything at once.
The museum under the Market operates seasonally and opening hours can vary during the week — check current hours before you go. Often there are longer hours in summer and shorter hours off-season, and there are specific closure days to consider when planning a weekend.
Tuesdays are sometimes days with free admission, but advance reservation is usually required — it’s a great opportunity but may require flexible timing. Tickets come in categories: regular, reduced, family and group; typical prices range from a few dozen zlotys depending on the category, but always check the current price list before arrival.
On-site you’ll find modern multimedia displays, interactive stations for children and a small cinema showing films about the archaeological research. Because of the exhibition’s nature you must follow designated routes and take care of the exhibits — remember the ban on flash photography and avoid blocking information panels.
A carriage ride around the Market is a classic that adds special atmosphere to a Kraków visit, especially in the evening under the lamps. Carriages usually stand at the edges of the Square and by the Cloth Hall; drivers often offer various routes and ride lengths.
Agree the price before getting in — many carriages charge for the whole vehicle (not per person), so it’s worth negotiating and confirming how long the ride lasts. Typical rides last from a few minutes to several dozen minutes. Make sure the coachman holds a license and that the route follows approved, safe streets.
If you prefer to skip this attraction, replace it with a short walk around Planty Park or an evening dinner at a restaurant with a view of the Market. A carriage is an experience, not an obligation — choose based on taste and budget.
There are many well-rated places in Kraków’s center. For classic local cuisine choose an established restaurant with good reviews; for quick coffee stops I recommend highly rated cafés and bookcafés. Popular names often praised by visitors include Wierzynek, Noworolski, Café Camelot and Massolit Books & Cafe, as well as restaurants serving contemporary cuisine with a local twist.
For accommodation, boutique hotels and well-rated properties in the center are convenient for weekend trips — look for places with strong reviews and a location within a short walk of the Market. Book ahead, especially for weekends and festival season.
If you want to eat like a local, look for restaurants ranked highly in local listings; avoid places with suspiciously low prices right on the Market — quality may not match the price.
Beneath the Market you can see fragments of medieval streets and buildings that have survived for centuries — these are not reconstructions but actual unearthed pieces of the city’s history.
The exhibition often uses multimedia reconstructions and animations that make it easier to imagine how trade and city life once buzzed here. For the curious — occasional evening shows and themed events add another dimension to the visit.
One more thing: carriage rides don’t always cost what you might expect — some coachmen offer more souvenir-style short routes while others provide longer, more tourist-oriented rides; ask before you start.
Underestimating the time needed — the Underground can take longer than expected, especially if you watch the films and use the interactive stations. Allow extra time for breaks and photos.
Failing to reserve ahead in peak season — queues can be long and some entries sell out quickly. Buy a ticket online or come for an early time slot.
Getting into a carriage without agreeing the price — negotiate the fare before the ride and confirm how many people are included. Some carriages charge per vehicle, others per person.
Is it worth booking Market Underground tickets in advance? Yes — especially on weekends and during the tourist season; booking helps avoid long waits.
How much does entry cost? Prices vary by ticket category and season; roughly, regular tickets fall in a range from several to a few dozen zlotys. Check the current price list before your visit.
Are carriage rides safe? Yes, provided you choose a licensed coachman and approved routes. Always confirm the price and duration before you start.
Is the Market Underground good for children? Yes — the exhibition has elements for young visitors, interactive stations and a play corner; it’s an interesting and educational trip for families.
Dress comfortably and in layers — it can be cooler underground than on the surface. Bring a light jacket even on warmer days.
If you come by car, remember the center has restrictions and paid parking zones — consider leaving the car farther out and using public transport.
To avoid crowds, consider morning or late-evening visiting hours — the Market has a unique atmosphere by lamplight and is less crowded at night.
If you liked this plan and think it might help friends, share the article on social media or send it to them. Every weekend in Kraków can be different — pick what interests you most and stay open to small discoveries.
If you’d like to explore with a local guide, consider booking a private guided tour with Małgorzata Kasprowicz — a personal guide can tailor the visit to your expectations.
Wishing you a wonderful weekend in Kraków and many unforgettable moments!
