Did you know that Krakus Mound is one of the oldest visible traces of human activity within today’s Kraków, probably dating back to the early Middle Ages (or even earlier)? Wawel Cathedral, on the other hand, is not only the most important church in Polish history but also the resting place of royal tombs, home to monumental chapels and the Sigismund Bell — a symbol of national events and ceremonies.
Both attractions can be seen in one day if you plan the route so you first climb the mound in Podgórze and then walk across the Vistula to Wawel Hill. In this guide you’ll find practical tips: how to get there, when it’s best to come, which tickets to buy and which mistakes tourists most often make.
What it is: Krakus Mound (Kopiec Kraka) is about 16 m high and stands on the Lasota Hill in the Podgórze district. Legend says it is the burial place of the city’s founder, Prince Krak, although archaeological research has not confirmed this definitively.
Getting there and walking: from Rynek Podgórski the walk is less than a kilometre — about 10–15 minutes at a relaxed pace. You can also go by bike or use public transport; Wawel is relatively close from the mound — a riverside walk is a pleasant scenographic option.
Accessibility and fees: Krakus Mound is publicly accessible — there are no entrance tickets or gates. It is a public space, so visiting is free, but don’t expect the same level of tourist infrastructure as at Kościuszko Mound.
Best time to visit: sunrise and sunset offer the most beautiful views — mornings are quieter, and late afternoon light beautifully models the city panorama. In spring (the Tuesday after Easter, Rękawka) there is a traditional festival with historical displays — a lively (though crowded) time to visit.
Fun fact: in summer, especially on June 21, locals sometimes meet on Krakus Mound to watch the legendary sunrise “over Wanda Mound” — an informal local tradition that can surprise with its atmosphere and crowds.
What to see: inside the cathedral are royal tombs and graves of prominent Poles, chapels with rich decoration (including the Sigismund Chapel) and the Sigismund Bell — its ringing is always a special event. Often entry to the main church is possible without a ticket, but visiting the museum parts, the Royal Tombs or the Cathedral Museum requires a fee.
Types of tickets: there are several options — tickets for the cathedral and cathedral museums, tickets for the Royal Tombs and options with an audio guide. Normal and reduced fares are available (for students, seniors, children), and combined tickets make it easier to visit several sites at once.
Hours and restrictions: the cathedral is sometimes closed to tourists during services or important church ceremonies — before planning your visit check the mass schedule and notices about closures. Opening hours change seasonally (longer in spring–summer, shorter in autumn and winter).
Practical tip: if you want to enter the Royal Tombs or the Cathedral Museum, buy a ticket in advance or come in the morning. An audio guide is a handy way not to miss the most important details of history and art.
Morning: sunrise on Krakus Mound or a short walk around Podgórze — a chance for quiet photos and to discover a less touristy part of the city.
Midday: walk along the Vistula toward Wawel, stop for coffee or lunch near Wawel. Aim to arrive on Wawel Hill at least one hour before your planned entry to the museum parts to allow time for ticket purchase and short waiting.
Afternoon: visit Wawel Cathedral — the exterior, chapels, tombs and possibly the Cathedral Museum. Finish with a stroll through the Planty or the Old Town.
Logistics notes: the walk between Krakus Mound and Wawel is under 3 km on foot (depending on the route). You can also take a tram or a short taxi/ride‑hailing trip if you are short on time.
Confusing Krakus Mound with Kościuszko Mound or Wanda Mound — each mound has a different location, history and infrastructure; check a map before you set off.
Not checking mass times and ceremonies — the cathedral may be closed to visitors during services, holidays and ceremonies. Check notices before you arrive, especially on national and church holidays.
Assuming there are toilets and ticket offices everywhere — Krakus Mound does not offer extensive infrastructure; plan stops at Rynek Podgórski or a nearby café before climbing the mound.
Trying to ring the Sigismund Bell yourself — it is a historic instrument whose ringing is limited to official occasions; do not attempt to ring it.
Around Wawel and in Podgórze you’ll find many well‑rated places — for classics consider historic and established restaurants near the Main Market Square and around Wawel. If you want to feel Podgórze’s local vibe after visiting the mound, look for small cafés and bistros on Kalwaryjska Street or near Rynek Podgórski.
A few practical suggestions: many popular restaurants are busy on weekends — consider booking. After sightseeing, try an espresso and cake or regional dishes before continuing your explorations.
Practical: if you plan a picnic on the mound — bring a mat and drinks, respect public space and take your rubbish with you.
Is entry to Krakus Mound paid? No — entry is free, it is public land.
Do I need to buy a ticket for Wawel Cathedral? Entry to the main church is often free, but visiting the Royal Tombs, the Cathedral Museum and other parts requires paid tickets — it’s best to have cash and card or buy tickets in advance when possible.
Can you visit the cathedral on Sunday? The cathedral is open, but part of the time is reserved for services — on Sundays tourist entry may be limited, so I recommend visiting on weekdays or checking opening hours before you go.
Can visitors access the Sigismund Bell? The Sigismund Bell is not accessible to visitors; it is rung occasionally for liturgical and state occasions.
Rękawka — a tradition connected to Krakus Mound celebrated on the Tuesday after Easter; modern celebrations combine historical reenactments, craft demonstrations and local tastes, so it’s a great chance to see the mound in a non‑touristy setting.
Solar legend — some locals and associations organize early morning meetings around the summer solstice to watch whether the sun rises over Wanda Mound when viewed from Krakus Mound — a quirky event that attracts enthusiasts of unusual happenings.
Views that surprise: from Krakus Mound you can see a panorama that reaches beyond the city centre — on a clear day you may spot distant hills and green areas that many tourists focused only on the Main Market miss.
Comfortable shoes — the path up the mound is stony and sometimes steep.
Water and a small snack — with limited infrastructure it’s good to be self‑sufficient.
Check the cathedral’s opening hours and notices about closures.
Documents for reduced tickets — if you plan to use a reduced fare at the cathedral or museum.
If this guide was helpful, share it with friends or on social media so more people planning a trip to Kraków can benefit.
If you’d like to explore Kraków with a local guide and see these places without stress, with historical commentary and practical tips, consider booking a private guiding service with Małgorzata Kasprowicz — contact and details are available on the guide’s website. Wishing you wonderful walks and many beautiful photos!
