Krakow is a city that tempts with history, flavors and a unique atmosphere — in three days you can see the most important sights and get a feel for the city, and a fourth day gives you breathing room, the option to visit Wieliczka or to explore nearby neighborhoods more slowly. This guide will help you plan the days so you’re not racing through a checklist but really experiencing the city.
Instead of rushing from spot to spot, combine walking with one melex ride — a comfortable option for those who want to limit walking while still seeing the most interesting parts of the Old Town, Kazimierz and Podgórze. Melex routes typically last 30-45 minutes and often offer an audio guide option.
The fourth day is a great opportunity for: relaxing in Las Wolski and visiting the ZOO, a trip to the Wieliczka Salt Mine, or a deeper dive into the alternative scenes of Kazimierz and Zabłocie.
Start at the Main Market Square: the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), St. Mary’s Basilica and a stroll through the streets around the Square are must-dos. Buy tickets for museums in advance if you plan to enter interiors — that will save valuable time.
A walk along the Royal Route to Wawel takes some time, but it’s worth visiting the cathedral and the castle courtyards. The view of the Vistula River from the castle embankment is one of those panoramas that stays with you.
In the evening, consider dinner at one of the well-rated restaurants in the centre — places serving traditional Polish cuisine are close to the Square, and dining next to historic townhouses makes the meal part of the experience.
Kazimierz is a district to be explored slowly: synagogues, the Remuh cemetery, narrow streets and atmospheric cafés create an unforgettable impression. I recommend starting at Nowy Square (Plac Nowy) and slowly making your way toward Szeroka Street.
In Kazimierz you’ll also find great restaurants and bars with high ratings — consider trying local favorites that serve Jewish-inspired dishes and modern takes on tradition, and visit well-regarded cafés for a short break.
Don’t miss evening events — Kazimierz comes alive after dark: small concerts, intimate clubs and cafés often host themed nights.
Podgórze adds a 20th-century layer to the city’s story: the Ghetto Heroes Square (Plac Bohaterów Getta) and Oskar Schindler’s Factory are emotionally powerful stops. A walk here gives a different context to Krakow’s history.
Alternatively, you can devote the third day to Las Wolski and the Krakow ZOO — a great option especially for families. Keep in mind that melex vehicles usually operate in the historic centre and rarely go directly to Las Wolski, so if you plan melex + ZOO ask the operator about a custom transfer or plan to continue by public transport or taxi.
In Las Wolski you’ll find paved paths suitable for strollers, though some trails are natural, so bring comfortable shoes and layered clothing.
By adding a fourth day you can: spend it in Wieliczka (to visit the salt mine), return to favourite spots in the city, or relax in Las Wolski without rushing. The extra day is also perfect for a bike ride along the Vistula boulevards or visiting museums you missed earlier.
If you love local flavors, use this time for a culinary stroll through Kazimierz and Podgórze, stopping at the best cafés and restaurants recommended by residents.
The fourth day is also a chance to book a shorter private themed tour — for example culinary, street art or historical — that will show the city from a different perspective.
A melex is a comfortable electric vehicle ideal for short, relaxed rides around the centre: a typical route lasts 30-45 minutes and covers main points of the Old Town, Kazimierz and sometimes Podgórze.
Practical tips: check whether the price is per person or per vehicle, ask about the route and whether the driver offers an audio guide in your language. Don’t assume a melex will take you to the ZOO — that’s rare. If you want a transfer outside the centre, agree on it up front.
A common tourist mistake is agreeing to an “attractive” offer without clarifying time and route — always ask for details and restrictions (for example, some cobbled streets are not passable). Melex rides are eco-friendly and comfortable, but they won’t replace a well-planned walk if you want to soak up the city’s atmosphere.
Krakow has a great restaurant scene: in the centre and in Kazimierz you’ll find places praised for traditional Polish dishes as well as modern international variations. Choose venues celebrated for local ingredients and strong guest reviews.
For reliable accommodation options, well-rated hotels in the centre include boutique properties near the Market or classic hotels close to the Planty — these locations make getting around on foot easier. Book ahead in season to avoid disappointment.
When choosing a restaurant, look at current reviews — rankings and guest photos usually give the best picture of quality. Ask locals for recommendations too — they often point to lesser-known gems.
Kazimierz was once a separate city and developed independently from Krakow for centuries, which you can see in its street layout and architecture — this gives the district a distinct character.
Many melex operators offer audio guides in several languages, but the content and quality vary — if you want deeper historical context, consider a short walk with a local guide.
In Las Wolski you’ll find viewpoints with wide panoramas of the city that are less crowded than the usual lookout spots — a good place to pause away from the tourist buzz.
Trying to “tick off” everything in a single day — better to plan realistic sections and leave time for a break and coffee. This increases the pleasure of sightseeing.
Not checking opening hours of museums and attractions — many sites have seasonal hours or closed days. Check them before you go, especially outside peak season.
Not negotiating or clarifying arrangements with melex operators and transport providers — agree on the route and price before you start to avoid misunderstandings.
How to get to the ZOO from the centre? The quickest way is by public transport or taxi — a melex may not offer direct transfer unless you order a custom route.
How long is a melex ride? Usually 30-45 minutes, depending on the route and agreed stops.
Is it worth buying a Wieliczka ticket in advance? Yes — it’s one of the most popular attractions outside the city and tickets often sell out in season.
Bring comfortable shoes and layered clothing — weather can change, especially outside the summer season.
Plan time for a break in a café or local restaurant — the best memories are often made at a table with good conversation and local food.
If you value comfort and want to know the city more deeply, consider using the services of a private guide — it saves time and guarantees you’ll see what’s worth seeing at a pace that suits you.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with friends or on social media — it will help others plan a successful stay in Krakow.
If you want to explore Krakow without stress and with stories that stay with you, I invite you to use the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz. Contact and details of the offer are available on the website; I will gladly prepare a route tailored to your needs.
