Arriving for three days and want to feel the heart of the city - the Main Market Square - and taste some of Krakow’s best pierogi? You’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you step by step through what’s worth seeing, where to eat (including specific pierogi places I recommend) and practical tips that make exploring easier. Everything in a friendly, clear style so you leave with great memories and a very happy stomach.
Start in Krakow’s heart - the Main Market Square. In the morning, stroll around the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), pop into St. Mary’s Basilica and admire the facades of the historic townhouses. If you prefer quieter moments, walk along a stretch of the Planty - the green belt that encircles the Old Town. After a morning of sightseeing, plan lunch just off the Square - several pierogi restaurants are within a short walk and make a perfect break between attractions.
In the afternoon you can climb the Town Hall Tower or visit an exhibition in the Cloth Hall. In the evening the Square comes alive - street musicians, lights and lots of cozy cafés. Pierogi recommendations near the Square: Pierogarnia Domowa (Szpitalna 3) and Przypiecek (Sławkowska 32) - both are very close and serve hand-made pierogi, from classic fillings to more inventive versions.
Reserve the morning for a walk around Wawel - the cathedral, courtyards and terraces above the Vistula are must-see. From there it’s a short walk to the historic Jewish quarter of Kazimierz - today full of atmospheric cafés, galleries and restaurants. Kazimierz is a great place for a leisurely lunch and to sample local flavors.
In Kazimierz look for smaller, authentic places that offer pierogi and regional dishes. Przystanek Pierogarnia (several locations near the city centre) and spots like Pierogowy Raj are good options for those who want to try both the classics and more unusual fillings. In the evening enjoy the neighborhood atmosphere - many bars and restaurants offer a wide drink selection, and a stroll along the Vistula bank is a pleasant way to end the day.
Start with a gentle walk through the Planty - the green belt around the Old Town is an ideal spot for morning coffee. If you enjoy art, visit one of the nearby museums: the National Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art MOCAK (if you have the energy to return to Kazimierz) or one of the lesser-known galleries.
For lunch choose one of the more modern pierogi places - Eat Pierogi (Mazowiecka and other locations) or Okraszone - if you want to try creative and seasonal fillings. Before you leave, take a final quick walk around the Market Square, buy souvenirs and, if time allows, try sweet pierogi for dessert (for example with blueberries or sweet cheese).
Below are tried-and-true addresses and short notes - each place has its own character and fits well into a three-day plan:
Pierogarnia Domowa - Szpitalna 3: a few steps from the Main Market Square, homely atmosphere, wide range of fillings; great for a quick, tasty lunch after sightseeing.
Przypiecek - Sławkowska 32: an iconic spot near the Planty and the Square; good at any time of day and offers some unusual varieties.
Pierogarnia Krakowiacy - Szewska 23 (and other locations): traditional recipes and a cozy interior; recommended for those looking for classic flavors.
Przystanek Pierogarnia - locations in the center (including Bonerowska): a small chain with a homely feel, a good choice when you want something quick in the centre.
Eat Pierogi - Mazowiecka 26B (and others): a modern approach to pierogi with seasonal fillings and creative combinations.
Pierogowy Raj - Gustawa Morcinka 14a: large selection of flavors, including vegan options; a warm, intimate spot.
Zielony Kredens - Świętego Krzyża 3: homemade, traditional pierogi in a charming interior.
Cesarsko-Królewskie Pierogi - Podwale 7: wide selection and interesting, non-standard flavor combinations.
Świat Pierogów - Królewska 92: a rich menu (over 30 varieties), good for groups with different tastes.
Okraszone - Dąbska 18d: hand-shaped pierogi, seasonal offers and intriguing fillings.
Love Pierogi - Dietla 77: praised for excellent dough and quality ingredients.
Classics worth trying: pierogi ruskie (potatoes and cottage cheese), meat-filled, cabbage and mushroom, and sweet versions (for example blueberries with cottage cheese). Also look for local variants: pierogi with chanterelles, beetroot with goat cheese or signature creations with ricotta and pistachios.
How to spot a good pierogi? Check the dough - it should be soft, elastic and not too thick. The filling should be tasty and pronounced, not overly watery. Well-made pierogi are neatly sealed and don’t fall apart when served. If the menu offers a fried version - try it, as the different texture brings out new flavors.
Toppings: fried onion, sour cream, melted butter or cracklings often enhance the flavor. For dessert, pierogi with blueberries or sweet cheese and a vanilla sauce make a perfect end to a culinary day.
If you visit in summer, check the dates of the Pierogi Festival - it usually takes place in August on the Mały Rynek and lasts several days. It’s a colorful event with many stalls where you can try different pierogi versions, from traditional to highly creative. Competitions for the best pierogi are often organized, which gives you a chance to taste award-winning dishes. If your trip coincides with the festival - it’s a great opportunity to try a dozen varieties in a short time.
Opening hours: many pierogi places operate from morning until evening, but smaller venues may have shorter hours - especially outside the high season. Weekends and evenings get busy, so if you want a table consider arriving earlier or booking in advance when possible.
Prices: portions in the centre generally fall into a low-to-moderate price range; a traditional serving is usually reasonably priced, though special or signature versions can cost more.
Diets: most places offer vegetarian options and increasingly vegan choices. If you have allergies or need gluten-free dishes, ask the staff - some places provide appropriate options or can prepare pierogi more safely if informed beforehand.
Payments: central venues usually accept cards, but in smaller, intimate places it’s wise to have some cash just in case.
Want to avoid crowds? Best times for lunch are late morning (about 11:00-13:00) or early afternoon after 14:00. Evenings are lively and atmospheric, but also busier.
If you want to compare flavors: order small portions at two different places instead of one large portion at one restaurant. It’s a great method for food lovers who enjoy tasting and comparing.
Try sweet pierogi as a dessert after lunch or as a snack on the Square - many places offer versions with blueberries, strawberries or apple-and-cinnamon variations.
Krakow in three days is a lot of fun: mornings full of sights, afternoons for tasting local cuisine and evenings rich in atmosphere. Focusing on the Main Market Square gives you an excellent base, and the many nearby pierogi spots make for quick and delicious breaks during sightseeing. I recommend trying both the classics and modern variations - that’s the best way to discover the city’s culinary side.
If you’d like, I can create a personalized three-day plan for your visit to Krakow - I will take into account your food preferences, sightseeing pace and any dietary restrictions. Feel free to get in touch!
Enjoy the flavors and unforgettable walks in Krakow - Małgorzata Kasprowicz, tour guide.
