Kraków likes to make an impression: the royal Wawel hill, the vast Main Market Square, the atmospheric streets of Kazimierz and rich museums — including the National Museum, which for art lovers is often a main reason to visit. Three days is enough time to see the key sights, linger over long conversations at a good dinner and avoid rushing through an express sightseeing schedule. Good planning matters — below I’ll suggest how to do it sensibly and romantically.
The National Museum in Kraków is an extensive institution with several branches and collections covering painting, drawing, decorative arts and contemporary art. A well-planned visit to one or two branches will give you a satisfying experience — without tiredness and without the feeling that you still have to see “this and that.”
Day 1: Old Town and Wawel - start with a walk along the Royal Route (St. Florian’s Gate, Floriańska Street, Main Market Square). In the afternoon visit Wawel: the cathedral, the courtyard and a riverside walk along the Vistula. Evening: dinner in an elegant central restaurant.
Day 2: National Museum - dedicate this day to art. Morning at the Main Building of the National Museum (Polish painting collection), afternoon at the Sukiennice Gallery (the Cloth Hall) or a temporary exhibition. In the evening stroll through Kazimierz and dine in one of the recommended local restaurants.
Day 3: Easy pace and small discoveries - a gentle morning walk along the Planty, coffee in a cosy café, optional return to a favourite museum or visits to smaller museums and galleries. For something different consider a Vistula river cruise at sunset or a short trip to Tyniec Abbey just outside the city.
At the National Museum you’ll find comprehensive collections of Polish painting and decorative arts — it’s worth spending time with important works and creators from the 19th and 20th centuries. The most comfortable plan is to choose one permanent exhibition in the morning when it’s quieter and leave the afternoon for a temporary show or the Sukiennice (Cloth Hall) gallery.
Practical tips: buy tickets online when possible, check opening hours of specific branches and plan visits on days without long breaks between exhibition rotations. For a queue-free visit choose early opening hours or late afternoons on weekdays.
If one of you loves painting while the other prefers architecture or relaxed walks, consider a short compromise: a few hours in the museum, then coffee and a shared stroll along the Planty or the Vistula boulevards.
Best locations for couples: Old Town - everything within easy reach and lots of romantic views; Kazimierz - atmospheric cafés and a more intimate vibe; Dębniki/Podgórze - quieter, with lovely views of Wawel and the Vistula.
Recommended hotels (high quality, good reviews and romantic character): Hotel Stary - luxurious, central, with a terrace and atmosphere; Hotel Copernicus - a boutique hotel right by Wawel, perfect if you want a historic feel; PURO Kraków Stare Miasto - more modern, comfortable and close to attractions; H15 Boutique Hotel (H15 Luxury Palace) or Balthazar Design Hotel - if you seek elegance and comfort.
If you prefer more privacy consider an apartment in a historic townhouse or an aparthotel near the Market. When booking, ask for a room facing a quiet courtyard if you want peace — central rooms can be noisy in the evening.
Fine dining: for a special evening reserve ahead. Restaurants at or near the Market and places with a view of Wawel are particularly popular. Consider classic Kraków options like Wierzynek for a historic setting or the hotel restaurants such as the dining room at Hotel Copernicus for a refined experience.
Kazimierz offers intimate restaurants and bars with creative menus — ideal for a later dinner and a stroll through charming side streets. For breakfast try cosy cafés and breakfast spots where you can start the day slowly with good coffee and fresh pastries — Café Camelot or Massolit Books & Café in Kazimierz are cosy choices.
Coffee and wine spots: there are many inviting cafés near the Market and several well-regarded wine bars in Kazimierz for an afternoon glass. For a relaxed riverside vibe try Forum Przestrzenie or one of the small Vistula-bank cafés. Book an evening table — many visitors plan romantic dinners, especially at weekends.
Not checking museum opening hours and arriving on a day when the museum is closed or has a long break — always check current hours online before you go.
Not reserving tables at popular restaurants — lack of reservation is a common mistake for couples who want a romantic dinner at a specific place.
Assuming centre equals quiet when booking accommodation — ask for a courtyard-facing room if you need calm, as central locations can be noisy at night.
Getting around: Kraków is best explored on foot — most attractions are close together and short tram or taxi rides will help you reach further spots.
Tickets and reservations: buy tickets to popular museums and some exhibitions online to save time and stress on the day. If you plan a dinner at a sought-after restaurant, reserve 1-2 days in advance.
Weather and clothing: regardless of season bring layers — evenings by the Vistula can be cooler than the centre. Comfortable shoes are essential — cobbles and long walks can be tiring.
Is it worth reserving a museum entry for a specific time? Yes — especially for temporary exhibitions or if your time is limited.
Can you combine Wawel and the National Museum in one day? Yes, but allow extra time or shorten the list of stops so the visit stays pleasant rather than tiring.
Where to leave luggage before check-in or after check-out? Hotels often store luggage, and stations or selected points offer luggage storage; ask the reception before you arrive.
An evening walk along the Planty finished with hot chocolate or coffee in a cosy café — simple moments are often the most memorable.
A Vistula river cruise at sunset or a walk along the boulevards with a view of the lit-up Wawel creates a special atmosphere.
Visit a small contemporary art gallery — many shows are intimate and allow for longer, quiet conversations.
If this guide was useful, share it with friends or on social media — it will help others plan a great trip.
If you would like a personalised route, help with reservations or a private guided tour — I invite you to use the services of tour guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz. Contact details and the full offer are available on the guide’s website. I wish you an unforgettable stay and many quiet, shared moments in Kraków!
