The Town Hall Tower is one of the most recognizable symbols of the Main Market Square — the only surviving remnant of the former seat of the city authorities, built in a Gothic style and tall enough to offer a great panorama of the old city. It’s worth visiting the tower not only for the view: inside you’ll find parts of historic clock mechanisms, stone details and displays that tell the story of the old town hall.
The ascent is via narrow stone stairs, so be prepared for a short, authentic climb — the reward is a panorama of the Old Town, viewing scopes and atmospheric interiors. The tower is part of the Historical Museum of the City of Krakow, so opening hours and visiting rules may vary by season and exhibitions — it’s worth checking current information before your visit.
A small curiosity I like to share: the tower still houses an old clock mechanism which, after modernizations, keeps fairly precise time — one of those details that link the building’s former function with the life of the city.
Start the morning at the Main Market Square: see the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), St. Mary’s Basilica and — of course — the Town Hall Tower. Many Old Town attractions are close to each other, so you can plan the first day on foot and save the tram for longer hops between farther points.
From the Market, follow the Royal Route along Grodzka Street to Wawel. The Castle and Cathedral will take at least 1–2 hours — allow time to enter the cathedral, see the chapels and, if you wish, visit the castle rooms (check opening hours and tickets).
If you want to save energy or have limited time, you can use trams from major stations and some termini to reach the edges of the Old Town and walk in from there. Remember that trams don’t run directly onto the Market Square — the nearest stops include "Wszystkich Świętych", "Teatr Bagatela" or the underground stop "Dworzec Główny Tunel" — from any of these it’s just a few minutes’ walk to the Market.
After breakfast, spend the morning in Kazimierz — the heart of Krakow’s Jewish history: Szeroka Street, the Remuh Synagogue, cozy cafés and galleries. Walking through Kazimierz you’ll discover small courtyards and little museums, and at the same time great places for coffee and lunch.
In the afternoon you can take a tram toward Podgórze and the Oskar Schindler Factory or beyond — modern tram sections make it easier to reach the southern parts of the city, and recent investments have improved comfort. If you want to visit the sanctuaries in Łagiewniki or the Kościuszko Mound, the tram is often the fastest and most reliable option for longer trips.
In the evening return to Kazimierz or the Old Town for dinner — the atmosphere after dark is unique. If you’re planning longer trips (for example to the Wieliczka Salt Mine), better leave them for a separate day or treat them as an optional extra beyond this two-day plan.
Krakow has an extensive tram and bus network. You can buy tickets at machines, in kiosks or through mobile apps (for example jakdojade, SkyCash, moBiLET, iMKA — apps and operators may change, so check availability before you travel). Time-based tickets (for example 20, 60, 90 minutes) and day or weekend passes give you flexibility during intensive sightseeing.
I strongly recommend using an app to buy and manage tickets — it saves time and avoids having to hunt for a machine. If you buy a paper ticket, remember to validate it before boarding — most vehicles have validation machines. Because track works and temporary route changes happen from time to time, check the timetable in an app or on the carrier’s official announcements before each trip.
Packing for two days: comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestones, a light rain layer and a small backpack with water. In the tourist season (spring–autumn) plan early mornings or late afternoons for the most popular attractions to avoid crowds.
Around the Market Square you’ll find a range of options — from elegant restaurants to cozy cafés. If you’re after refined local cuisine with history, consider venues known for quality and tradition; on the Old Town you’ll also find intimate cafés serving homemade pastries and hot chocolate.
In Kazimierz you’ll find many well-rated bars and restaurants offering Polish and international dishes; it’s a great place for dinner after a day of sightseeing. I always recommend booking a table for weekend evenings because the best places fill up fast.
When planning to see Krakow in 2 days, tourists often try to fit too many places into a short time — result: rushing and fatigue. I advise choosing 4–6 key points and seeing them at a relaxed pace; leave less important things for another visit.
Be careful with tickets and validators: visitors sometimes forget to validate a paper ticket or don’t confirm their app purchase — a simple mistake that can lead to a fine. Make sure you have purchase confirmation and the ticket is active.
Don’t schedule too many attractions that are far apart in a single afternoon — the tram helps, but traffic and track works can lengthen travel time. Always have a plan B and allow some time buffer.
Do trams reach the Market? - Trams do not drive directly onto the Market Square. Nearest stops are on Wszystkich Świętych Street, by Teatr Bagatela and in the underground tunnel at the Main Station — from there it’s a few minutes’ walk to the Market.
Is it worth climbing the Town Hall Tower? - Yes, if you enjoy city panoramas and don’t have problems with narrow stairs. The view and the interior displays make a nice addition to a walk around the Old Town.
How do I buy tickets? - The most convenient way is through mobile apps or at ticket machines; if you plan intensive use of public transport for 48–72 hours, consider a day pass or a 48/72-hour ticket.
If you liked this plan, share the article with friends — sharing helps others plan a great weekend in Krakow. I’m also happy to help tailor the route to your preferences — if you’re looking for a private, intimate tour with a local guide, please consider services by Małgorzata Kasprowicz (contact available on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com). Wishing you a wonderful stay and many memorable views from Krakow’s towers and gates!
