Four days is a perfect amount of time to get to know Kraków’s heart: Wawel, the Main Market, Kazimierz and Podgórze, and still add one larger trip outside the city (Wieliczka, Tyniec or Ojcow National Park). With a licensed guide, each day receives historical context and local anecdotes you won’t find in tourist brochures. Think in advance whether you prefer intense sightseeing with museum entries, relaxed walks with coffee breaks, or themed tours (Jewish culture, architecture, food).
If you want a low-stress plan, split the programme: dedicate day one to the city centre and Wawel, day two to Kazimierz and Podgórze, day three to museums or less obvious districts, and day four to an excursion outside the city or a slower day with recommended dining and shopping at a local market.
Start with a walk along the Royal Route — from Florian Gate along Floriańska Street to the Main Market and onwards to Wawel. With a licensed guide you’ll see the key spots and hear the stories that connect them into Kraków’s larger tale. Allow time to visit the Cathedral and the castle courtyard; your guide will advise whether to visit the royal crypt the same day or leave it for a calmer afternoon.
Don’t miss the trumpeter’s call (hejnał) from St. Mary’s Tower — a short but very Kraków moment. It’s best heard on the Market Square, and your guide will tell the legend of the trumpeter halted by an arrow. In the evening I recommend a stroll to atmospheric Kazimierz or dinner at one of the well-reviewed restaurants near the Market.
Kazimierz is the heart of Kraków’s Jewish heritage: synagogues, historic cemeteries and cafes with a unique atmosphere. A guide will show places that are easy to miss and explain the significance of individual buildings and customs. In the afternoon cross to Podgórze, visit Ghetto Heroes’ Square and, if you have time, the former Schindler’s Factory — these parts of the city’s history are best experienced with someone who can place them in context.
Kazimierz in the evening is also an excellent place for dinner: coffee and desserts in small cafes or a meal at a restaurant serving local cuisine. Your guide can recommend the best spots according to your preferences (vegan, regional, fine dining).
On the third day you can choose: rich museum collections (National Museum, Rynek Underground Museum, Czartoryski Museum or other temporary exhibitions), a walk around the Planty and the university area, or a bike trip along the Vistula. A licensed guide will help pick exhibitions so the day doesn’t become exhausting and so each visit has narrative meaning.
If you prefer something less museum-focused, learn about the history of Nowa Huta, visit Kościuszko Mound, or go to the Ogród Doświadczeń (interactive science park) — everything depends on the pace you set with your guide. It’s also a good time to stop by the local market Stary Kleparz and buy souvenirs from traditional craft stalls.
Save the fourth day for an excursion outside the city or for a calm wrap-up of your visit. The Wieliczka Salt Mine is a classic — half a day or a full day depending on the route; book tickets in advance, especially in high season. An alternative is Tyniec with its abbey and possible Vistula boat trip, or a trip to Ojców and Pieskowa Skała: nature and a castle in one. A guide can arrange the itinerary with transport and timed entries so you don’t waste time on logistics.
If you prefer to stay in the city, use this day for culinary exploration (workshops, markets, a tasting dinner) or a free afternoon with a recommended café and craft shopping.
Kraków’s food scene is wide: charming bistros and cafés in Kazimierz, traditional Polish inns, and restaurants praised by culinary guides. Ask your guide about current availability — recommended places often fill up for evening service.
A few names that consistently rank highly and enjoy excellent reviews: Bottiglieria 1881 (fine dining), ZAZIE Bistro (French-inspired bistro), ORZO (modern cuisine), Kolanko No 6 (regional and international dishes), MAZI (Mediterranean cuisine in Podgórze). For breakfast and good coffee, look for cosy cafes around the Market and in Kazimierz.
When it comes to accommodation — the city centre (Old Town, Kazimierz) gives the greatest convenience for walking. If you value peace, consider small boutique hotels or apartments near the Planty. Book ahead in season and check cancellation policies.
Common mistakes include trying to “see everything” at once, not planning breaks and not checking opening hours. Museums, mines and some churches have limited hours or require reservations — it’s better to check in advance or ask your guide to help with tickets.
Wear comfortable shoes — the centre is very walkable and cobblestones can be tiring. Avoid the cheapest souvenirs sold at the most touristy spots — ask your guide for trusted craft workshops. Also book dinner tables if you plan to eat at popular restaurants in the evening.
Wawel is more than a castle — under the hill there are lesser-known chambers and secrets related to royal administration that your guide can reveal. The hejnał from St. Mary’s is always cut off at the same moment — a tribute to the trumpeter who, according to legend, warned the city of an attack in medieval times.
In Kazimierz you’ll find small artist studios and galleries not listed in mainstream guides — a walk with a guide makes them easier to find than wandering alone. There are also less obvious viewpoints for city panoramas beyond the classic spots — your guide will show where to take great photos without the crowds.
Are 4 days enough? Yes — it’s enough time to see the main attractions and feel the city’s atmosphere if the programme is well planned. If you want deeper thematic visits (for example art museums), consider adding a day or two.
Is it worth hiring a licensed guide? Definitely — a guide saves time (logistics, tickets, the best order of visits) and, most importantly, gives historical and cultural context so sightseeing becomes more interesting and easier to understand.
Can you visit Wieliczka and Auschwitz in 4 days? Technically yes: Wieliczka takes half to a full day, while a visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum requires at least half a day and emotional preparation. Both should be booked in advance; a guide can help arrange the logistics.
If this plan was helpful, share the article with friends or on social media — a well-planned trip makes better memories. If you’d like to tour with a private guide and have an itinerary tailored to your interests, consider booking a private guided tour with Małgorzata Kasprowicz — contact and booking details are available on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com.
Wishing you a wonderful stay and many unforgettable discoveries in Kraków! If you’d like, I can help prepare a personalized 4-day plan — tell me your interests, preferred pace and food preferences.
