The Sanctuary of Divine Mercy in Kraków-Łagiewniki combines an important religious history with modern architecture and spaces that encourage reflection. It draws pilgrims and visitors from around the world primarily because of the painting "Jesus, I trust in You", the tomb of Saint Sister Faustina, and a rich offer of national and international chapels. For many guests an extra attraction is the 77-meter viewing tower — on a clear day you can see Kraków’s panorama and even the Tatra Mountains from it. The place is very much alive: services, adoration and lectures led by the Sisters take place here, so it’s worth planning your visit with sensitivity to the schedule and respect for those who have come to pray.
The basilica and chapels – the centerpiece is an impressive basilica with mosaics and chapels dedicated to different countries and spiritual traditions; each chapel has its own character and is worth a moment of attention.
The Chapel with the Divine Mercy painting and Saint Faustina’s tomb – this is for many the most important place, where most prayers and testimonies take place. Keep in mind that access to the altar may be limited at certain times (cleaning, services).
The viewing tower – a freestanding structure about 77 meters high, reached by stairs (315 steps) or by lift. The viewing platform offers a wide panorama of Kraków and the surrounding area; it’s a great spot for photos.
The House of Saint Sister Faustina and the information point – on the sanctuary grounds you’ll find a gift shop, exhibitions and a cafeteria; the information point gives practical tips, helps groups and handles reservations.
Other attractions on the grounds – outdoor stations of the Way of the Cross, a carillon of bells and the “Bridge of Mercy” connecting the sanctuary area with nearby walking routes.
Not all parts of the sanctuary require tickets. The most commonly paid attractions are access to the viewing tower and occasional exhibitions or a museum within the John Paul II Centre; many sacred spaces remain free to enter, although organized groups often need to notify the sanctuary in advance.
Discounts are usually available for children, pupils, students, seniors and people with disabilities; rules and the scope of concessions can vary depending on the specific attraction (tower, museum, exhibitions). For school groups or pilgrim groups there are often separate rates or free entry for supervisors when certain ratios are met.
Organized groups and reservations – if you’re coming with a larger group (pilgrimage, school), it’s best to inform the pilgrim service ahead of time; talks and guided tours are usually led by the Sisters and require scheduling. This ensures the group sees the most important places and avoids waiting.
Where to buy tickets and how to check discounts – tickets for the tower or exhibitions are sometimes sold at the information point on site or online if electronic sales are offered. Check current prices and ticket types before your visit, as they can change seasonally or for special events.
Service times and interior availability – the sanctuary has a full daily schedule of masses, adorations and prayers; the mass and prayer timetable is published on official channels. When planning your visit, allow for the times of major celebrations, when spaces may be crowded or access to some chapels limited.
Getting there and parking – Łagiewniki is easy to reach by public transport from central Kraków; the sanctuary has parking spaces for cars and coaches. The information point can indicate the most convenient parking area for groups and individual visitors.
Accessibility for people with reduced mobility – the tower has a lift and many areas are adapted for visitors with disabilities; however some nooks and historic elements may require assistance from a companion.
Time needed for a visit – to see the basilica, chapels, attend a short lecture and go up the tower, plan a minimum of 1.5–2 hours. For groups with a lecture and a museum visit reserve half a day.
The tower’s height is not accidental – it symbolically refers to the age of Pope John Paul II when he signed the project for the sanctuary, which gives the place additional historical significance.
The sanctuary hosts many national chapels — it’s rare to find such a variety of liturgical styles and traditions in a single complex, so take time to notice details of decoration and gifts from different countries.
The carillon of bells near the basilica bears names of saints and figures important for Kraków; the melodies played during ceremonies create a unique and recognizable atmosphere.
Arriving during peak services – many visitors come during the biggest celebrations expecting to explore freely; the result is crowds and limited access to key points. Solution: arrive early on a weekday or check the service schedule.
Not notifying the sanctuary when traveling with a group – large groups without prior reservation may not be served as expected. Solution: contact the pilgrim service before arrival via the information point.
Assuming everything is free – some sacred spaces are free, but the tower, museum or exhibitions can be paid. Solution: check which elements require tickets and what discounts apply.
Do I need to buy a ticket for the tower? Not necessarily always, but access to the viewing platform is often ticketed; check the current rules on ticket sales before your visit.
Are there discounts for students and seniors? Yes — most ticketed attractions offer concessions for pupils, students and seniors, though the scope of discounts and how to prove eligibility (e.g. ID) depends on the specific point. When in doubt, ask at the information point.
Is photography allowed? Photography is usually allowed in general areas and on the tower, but please be discreet in chapels and during services; in some places flash or tripods may be restricted.
Is it worth coming with a guide? For visitors interested in history and the spiritual context of the sanctuary, talks led by the Sisters or an experienced guide add value; groups should request a guided visit in advance.
On the sanctuary grounds you’ll find the House of Saint Sister Faustina with meal options and a gift shop — a convenient choice after visiting. Nearby there are also well-reviewed cafes and restaurants in the Podgórze area for a longer break.
Combine the visit with a day trip through southern Kraków — Łagiewniki can be a starting point for visiting other sites related to John Paul II or for peaceful walks nearby.
Łagiewniki is worth visiting for both spiritual and tourist reasons. Plan your visit to allow time for prayer, reflection and a moment on the viewing tower — that way the trip will be more complete. If you’d like, I’m happy to help organize a Kraków itinerary — guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz offers private tours and assistance with planning; contact information is available on the guide’s page. If you found this article helpful, share it with friends or on social media — it helps others planning a visit to Kraków.
Practical details such as opening hours, ticket prices and schedules can change. Before your trip check the sanctuary’s official information channels or contact the information point to confirm current arrangements.
If you plan to visit during the Hour of Mercy (around 3:00 PM) expect more pilgrims and limited access to some areas — this hour is very special here but also busy.
