The Rynek Underground and Zakrzówek are two very different faces of Kraków: one reveals the city beneath the surface - layers of history, medieval streets and archaeological finds - the other is a natural spectacle formed in a former limestone quarry, with turquoise water, limestone walls and modern platforms. In one day you can feel the contrast between the lively Old Town and the calm of green, recreational Zakrzówek. It’s a great choice for visitors who want a tasty snapshot of what Kraków does best.
The Rynek Underground usually requires reservations - the route lasts about 60-90 minutes; it’s worth arriving early or buying a ticket online to avoid queues. Zakrzówek, by contrast, is outdoor relaxation: the bathing areas and platforms operate seasonally, and during the season access can be limited for safety reasons. In practice, a morning in the centre and an afternoon by the water works perfectly.
8:30-9:00 - Breakfast by the Market. Start the day with coffee and breakfast at one of the charming cafés near the Main Market Square. It’s a good moment to plan the day and buy tickets if you don’t have them yet.
10:00-11:30 - Rynek Underground Museum. Enter via the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) and dive into the medieval layers of the city. The visit usually lasts one to one-and-a-half hours; allow at least that much time and check the museum shop if you like historical souvenirs.
12:00-13:30 - Stroll the Market, lunch. After leaving the underground museum you can visit the Cloth Hall, view St. Mary’s Basilica from the outside (or go up the tower if planned) and have lunch at one of the recommended restaurants around the Market or near St. Mary’s Square.
14:00-14:30 - Travel to Zakrzówek. From the centre to Zakrzówek it takes about 20-30 minutes by public transport or less by taxi. It’s worth checking the route and any possible detours in advance.
15:00-18:00 - Relax and activities at Zakrzówek. Walk along the platforms, use the bathing zones (if the bathing area is open), sit by the water or choose short nature trails. On a hot day this is an ideal way to finish an intense day of sightseeing.
18:30-20:00 - Dinner or an evening walk along the Vistula. After returning to the centre, a good idea is dinner at a recommended restaurant or a short walk on the Vistula boulevards. If you have the energy, the Market Square at night has a special atmosphere.
The Rynek Underground operates as part of the Museum of Kraków and has set visiting hours; the route is usually paid, with regular, reduced and family tickets available. On some weekdays there are free admission days - check the rules in advance and reserve your spot, because popular times fill up quickly.
During the season the bathing area at Zakrzówek operates within specific dates and hours; in recent seasons the bathing season has opened in June and lasted until early September. Access to the bathing area is sometimes free, but there are limits on the number of people on platforms and specific rules for using the basins. Before visiting, check the current regulations, opening hours and any limits.
Both entry to the Underground and the bathing area at Zakrzówek can be busy on weekends and public holidays - if comfort matters, choose an early start in the day or a later afternoon at Zakrzówek.
From the Main Market Square to Zakrzówek the most convenient options are tram or bus - the journey usually takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on transfers and traffic. A taxi or ride-hailing trip is faster, especially if you travel with luggage or as a group.
If you drive, check parking availability in advance: the centre is a paid parking zone, and there are parking options near Zakrzówek along Norymberska Street. Remember that during the season the bathing area has limits on the number of people on the platforms - even if you find parking, you may face temporary waiting at the entrance.
The Rynek Underground is located directly beneath the Main Market Square; the entrance is through the Cloth Hall from the side of St. Mary’s Basilica. The route is suitable for most visitors, and some museum facilities offer amenities for people with limited mobility - however, confirm details in advance if you need full accessibility.
For breakfast and coffee near the Market consider well-reviewed cafés and atmospheric places - it’s a great way to start the day before entering the Underground. For lunch in the Market area we recommend restaurants with traditional Polish cuisine and good service; in the evening the Kazimierz neighbourhood offers more authentic, intimate spots with local flavours. (Examples of highly rated places include classic restaurants and cafés known for good value - check current reviews on the day of your visit.)
If after Zakrzówek you feel like something light, consider cafés and small eateries on the route back to the centre; Kraków has a rich food scene, from bistros to elegant restaurants - choose according to your mood and book popular places for the evening.
Zakrzówek is a former limestone quarry - that’s why the water has a distinctive, intense colour, and the bottom is very deep in places (the maximum depths of the reservoirs reach several dozen metres). In recent years the area has undergone a large transformation: platforms, designated bathing basins and recreational infrastructure have appeared, while the natural qualities remain.
At Zakrzówek you can encounter protected species and rare habitats in places; it’s a good opportunity to learn a little about local nature during your walk and to be careful in areas closed to the public.
Not booking a ticket for the Underground in time - popular times disappear quickly in season. Buy your ticket in advance or come outside the morning/afternoon rush.
Assuming Zakrzówek is always freely and fully accessible - in summer there can be limits on the number of people or shorter bathing hours. Check the seasonal schedule and the bathing regulations for the day.
Wearing the wrong footwear for Zakrzówek - comfortable shoes are essential on platforms and stony paths; if you plan to swim, bring a towel and a change of clothes because it can get crowded in season.
Do I need to buy tickets for the Underground in advance? It is recommended to buy tickets online in advance, especially on weekends and during the tourist season.
Is Zakrzówek free? In recent seasons the bathing area at Zakrzówek has sometimes been made available free of charge, but limits and rules apply - check current information before your visit.
Is the Underground suitable for children? The museum route is planned with families in mind; there are often additional educational elements for children, but check age restrictions for specific exhibits.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring a water bottle - even a "short" day in Kraków can involve a lot of walking. Book tickets for the Underground in advance and set a reminder for your entry time. At Zakrzówek stick to the designated bathing zones and follow lifeguard instructions - safety is the priority.
If you’d like a more tailored day, consider a private guiding service. If you are interested in help from a local guide, contact details for Małgorzata Kasprowicz are visible on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com - it’s worth using the experience of someone who will show the best perspectives.
Finally: if you found this article useful, share it with friends or on social media - a simple recommendation helps others plan their visit to Kraków.
