Yes — it’s possible, though it requires good organization and prioritizing. Many visitors pair a morning or afternoon moment at the Main Market Square by the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) with travel to Zakopane to experience the contrast between Kraków’s urban beauty and the mountain atmosphere of Podhale.
If your priority is a calm, “classy” break by the Cloth Hall — a coffee in an elegant spot, a short walk and quick souvenir shopping — plan at least 2 hours. The rest of the day can be used for the trip to Zakopane, or you can do it the other way around: a morning in the Tatra Mountains and the afternoon in Kraków.
It’s an excellent way to see two different faces of Poland: the historic center of the former capital and the dramatic Tatra Mountains. The Cloth Hall and the Market Square offer the atmosphere of the city’s historic heart, while Zakopane delivers fresh air, highland architecture and nature.
For school groups or families this combination balances culture and history during a short city stroll with active outdoor time or mountain views in the evening or the next day.
09:00-10:30 - Arrive at the Main Market Square, take a short walk around the Cloth Hall, take photos by the Adam Mickiewicz Monument and near the towers.
10:30-12:00 - Classy break: coffee, dessert or a light lunch at one of the recommended cafes/restaurants by the Square. A moment to rest and watch city life.
12:00-13:00 - Quick shopping in the Cloth Hall: souvenirs, handicrafts, oscypek and local products (if you’re traveling on, choose timing and amount of purchases wisely so you don’t carry heavy bags later).
13:00-15:30 - Transfer by coach or train to Zakopane (times depend on transport and road conditions); upon arrival walk along Krupówki or ride the funicular up Gubałówka.
Wierzynek — a historic, elegant restaurant on the Market Square, perfect if you want the atmosphere of a classic feast. Reserve in advance for larger groups.
Café Noworolski — a traditional café located at the Cloth Hall; a good spot for coffee and cake in a classic interior.
Café Camelot — a cozy, atmospheric café near the Square, recommended for visitors seeking a peaceful setting and pretty interiors for photos.
Szara (Szara Gęś) — a highly rated restaurant that combines local flavors with an elegant setting; a good option for a light lunch before further travel.
The Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) was once a trading hall where merchants sold textiles and luxury goods for centuries. Renaissance and later reconstructions gave the building its distinctive shape and decorations that still draw attention.
Today the upper floor houses stalls with souvenirs and handicrafts, while the ground floor often hosts temporary exhibitions. The corner of the Square and the Mickiewicz monument make a popular photographic backdrop.
Coach — the most popular and often the cheapest option for groups. The journey usually takes about 2–2.5 hours depending on road conditions.
Train — comfortable and less affected by traffic, but may require transfers or prior planning because of timetables.
Car — gives the most freedom, but remember changing mountain weather and possible traffic in season. Parking in Zakopane can be limited, so check parking options in advance.
When planning your day check departure times and book tickets if you travel in high season or with a large group.
Too little time for the city — many visitors try to see everything in half an hour. I recommend at least 2 hours for the Square and Sukiennice if you want to eat and shop.
No reservation at popular restaurants — at weekends and in season the best places fill up quickly. Reserve a table for larger groups.
Overloaded shopping before continuing the trip — if you’re heading to Zakopane later, plan parcels and souvenirs so you won’t be weighed down in the mountains.
Not prepared for the weather — in the Tatras weather changes fast; carry a light jacket and comfortable shoes, even if the day starts sunny in Kraków.
Sukiennice is not just souvenirs — check the upper levels for artisanal products, often unique and handmade.
Morning photos of the Square (before 9:00) give the best shots without crowds. If you want great photos — get up early or schedule a morning walk.
In Zakopane, beyond Krupówki consider less obvious attractions: a walk in Kościeliska Valley, a visit to the Tatra Museum or an evening at nearby thermal baths — great complements to the trip.
Q: How much time should I allow at Sukiennice so I’m not rushing? A: At least 90–120 minutes lets you have a coffee, take a short walk and visit a few stalls.
Q: Where can I leave luggage if I arrive in the morning and depart in the evening? A: Check luggage storage at stations or leave bags at your hotel/hostel if your booking covers the full day.
Q: Do I need to book entry to the Cloth Hall? A: The Cloth Hall as a souvenir market is accessible, but if you plan to visit museums or upscale restaurants, booking is recommended.
Q: Can I combine Zakopane and Kraków in one day without stress? A: Yes, but plan sensibly and decide what’s the priority — mountain views or a relaxed pause in the city center.
For an elegant pause by the Square: Wierzynek — a classic place for a tasty meal in a historic interior. For coffee and cake: Café Noworolski or Café Camelot.
For comfortable central stays: Hotel Stary or other boutique hotels near the Square offer comfort and a location convenient for a walk to Sukiennice before departure.
In Zakopane: choose accommodation with good reviews and proximity to the center or the valleys if you plan mountain walks — this simplifies logistics for shorter trips.
Combining a visit to the Cloth Hall with a trip to Zakopane is a great way to make your trip varied. Planning, reservations and sensible time management will make both experiences pleasant and low-stress.
If you enjoyed this article — share it with friends or on your social media. If you’d like Kraków tours led by a private guide, I invite you to use the services of Małgorzata Kasprowicz — details and contact are available on the ZwiedzanieKrakowa site.
