Yes — you can see the main attractions of the Old Town and parts of Wawel on a route that has been minimised for stairs and thresholds. In the centre there are also several accessibility solutions: tactile models of monuments, Braille descriptions and audio recordings that help people who are blind and those who prefer to avoid steep climbs. It's worth downloading or asking for a printed Kraków guide for tourists with disabilities before you go — it contains pictograms and information about the accessibility of institutions, routes and services.
In this article I describe a route and practical tricks worth knowing before you set out — so your sightseeing is pleasant, safe and full of surprises.
Walking time: at a relaxed pace 2–3 hours with breaks. The route starts at the Barbican and St. Florian's Gate, continues along Floriańska Street to the Main Market Square (Sukiennice), then follows Grodzka Street toward Wawel, and finishes on the Vistula boulevards or with a short stretch to Kazimierz.
Point-by-point details: Barbican / St. Florian's Gate — access to sidewalks and nearby parking; Main Market Square and Sukiennice — open space, tactile models and easy access to parts of the market area; around St. Mary's Basilica — you can view the façade and surroundings from Market level (entrance to the tower involves stairs); Grodzka Street — stretches without steps lead up to Wawel Hill; Wawel — the castle courtyard and selected points offer solutions for visitors with limited mobility, but not all parts of the lower castle are barrier-free, so check in advance which entrances are step-free.
If you prefer to avoid any slopes, consider taking short tram rides or a taxi between points — this shortens distances and lets you rest without missing the places you want to visit.
Pavements and sidewalks: in the centre you will still encounter sections with cobbles and setts that can be bumpy. When planning the route, pay attention to sidewalk width and the presence of curbs or thresholds.
Trams and buses: many lines run low-floor vehicles, but not all. Before boarding look for low-floor carriage markings, and if in doubt ask the driver to stop where there is a low platform. Taxis and ride-hailing apps often allow you to request a vehicle adapted to your needs.
Toilets and rest areas: there are municipal toilets in the centre, and near main attractions you’ll find cafés and restaurants with seating. Plan breaks every 45–90 minutes.
Information and printed guides: at InfoKraków points you can ask about current accessibility information and obtain free materials. Before you set off, download or print the guide for tourists with disabilities — it includes maps and pictograms that make orientation easier.
When choosing places to eat, check reviews and ask in advance about step-free entrances and access to an accessible toilet. A few well-known places with good reputations: Wierzynek (traditional cuisine and historical atmosphere), Pod Aniołami (traditional dishes near the Market), Cafe Camelot (classic café on the Old Town), Massolit Books & Cafe (friendly spot in Kazimierz), Charlotte (popular bakery and café).
Accommodation: established hotels often offer adapted rooms; consider Sheraton Grand Kraków and PURO Kraków Stare Miasto as examples of hotels with modern amenities and lifts. When booking, ask clearly about the room type, door widths and step-free bathroom access.
Remember: even in recommended venues accessibility can vary between rooms or dining areas — always confirm specific details before arrival.
Tactile models and audio: several tactile models of key monuments are placed in the historic centre, often with Braille descriptions and audio recordings — a great way to sense the city's layout without climbing.
Hidden courtyards and passages: Kanonicza Street and the areas around Wawel hide charming, less-frequented courtyards that often have gentler approaches than main entrances. Watch for passages between tenement houses — they can be even and comfortable to pass through.
Błonia park and the Vistula boulevards: wide, flat areas ideal for an afternoon rest without steps. Błonia offer open space easily navigable by wheelchair or on foot.
Assuming 'old' means 'impassable' — many historic sites have special entrances or routes for visitors with limited mobility; instead of giving up, ask at the information point.
Relying only on online photos — a photo of an entrance may not show ramps, temporary works or seasonal obstacles. Contact the place you want to visit in advance.
Underestimating surfaces — even short stretches of cobbles or tram tracks can make movement difficult; plan routes to minimise exposure to rough surfaces.
Overambitious plans — schedule fewer stops and leave time to rest.
Is Wawel fully accessible? Partly — the courtyard and some areas have solutions that ease access, but not all exhibitions and underground sections are step-free. It's best to check current accessibility information before your visit.
Are trams low-floor? Many modern trams in Kraków are low-floor, but lines and sets vary. Look for markings and ask the driver for help if needed.
Where can I find a public toilet or changing table? There are municipal toilets on the Market and along main tourist routes; many food venues do not offer changing tables, so check in advance or ask staff.
Can I rent medical equipment? There are rental services for rehabilitation equipment in Kraków — if you need a wheelchair or other equipment, order it before arrival to ensure availability.
Download the Kraków accessibility guide or pick it up at an InfoKraków point.
Charge your phone and carry documents and contact information for places you plan to visit (hotels, restaurants).
Wear comfortable shoes and bring a small first-aid kit / basic repair kit for your wheelchair if you travel with your own equipment.
Book accommodation and request confirmation of an accessible room.
If this guide was helpful, share it with friends or on social media — recommendations help other travellers.
If you want to visit Kraków without stress and get the most from the city's stories, consider the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — details and offerings are available on the Zwiedzanie Krakowa website.
Feel free to get in touch and enjoy a safe, discovery-filled stay in Kraków!
