Yes — it’s very doable if you plan the day smartly. The Main Market Square, Wawel and Kazimierz are close to each other; walking between the main points usually takes a few minutes to half an hour depending on route and pace. You can spend the morning immersed in the historic center, visit Wawel around midday, and enjoy the afternoon and evening in atmospheric Kazimierz.
In this article you’ll find a concrete “one-day” plan, practical logistics tips, recommended places for coffee and meals, and common mistakes to avoid.
Start your day at the Main Market Square, ideally in the morning before the crowds arrive. A short walk through the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), an exterior view of St. Mary’s Basilica, a stroll around the Town Hall Tower and a quick visit to the Market Underground (Rynek Underground) if you have tickets will quickly explain why this place is the heart of the city.
If you plan to go inside St. Mary’s Basilica, book tickets in advance — lines can be long in high season. The Market Underground is worth including in your plan; entrances can be limited, so booking in advance gives you convenience and certainty.
For coffee or a quick breakfast you can stop at one of the well-rated cafés on the edge of the Square — places like Café Camelot or historic Jama Michalika are charming options to rest and gain energy before continuing your walk.
From the Main Market Square head toward Wawel. You can see the castle courtyard in a short time, but decide in advance whether you want to enter the Cathedral, the Royal Crypts or the State Rooms — each attraction takes a bit of time.
If your time is limited, pick one option: a quick walk around the courtyard and a visit to the Cathedral (if you’re interested in the monarchy’s history), or a reserved entry to the State Rooms (which requires more time and often prior booking).
After visiting Wawel it’s nice to take a short break and have something to drink before heading to Kazimierz — the castle area has several comfortable cafés and snack spots.
The walk from the Main Market Square to Plac Nowy in Kazimierz usually takes about 15–25 minutes depending on pace and route. This is one of the most enjoyable parts of the day — along the way you’ll pass historic streets, small galleries and cafés that are easy to fit into your plan.
You can walk using picturesque short routes (for example along Grodzka street toward Kazimierz) or, if you prefer to save energy, take a short public transport ride or taxi. Choose what’s most comfortable for your group’s mobility and preferences.
Enter Kazimierz via Szeroka street, visit the Old Synagogue and the Remuh Synagogue with its cemetery, then head to Plac Nowy — there you’ll feel the real pulse of the district.
Kazimierz is known for diverse and excellent dining. If you’re looking for Jewish or Mediterranean flavors, consider well-known local spots that serve fresh, seasonal dishes. Near Plac Nowy you’ll also find quick snacks and the legendary zapiekanki stalls in the Okrąglak building.
If you prefer a more intimate sit-down meal, choose a restaurant or café with positive reviews — Kazimierz has many places that combine local atmosphere with high-quality food. Reserving a table at popular venues is advisable, especially on weekends.
For special dietary preferences Kazimierz offers vegetarian, vegan and international options; many restaurants proudly display good reviews from international visitors.
After lunch visit the main sites: the Old Synagogue (now a museum), the Remuh Synagogue with its historic cemetery, and consider museums about Jewish history in Poland if you have time.
Kazimierz also has charming side streets with small galleries and boutiques. Allow time for a relaxed stroll, photos and stops at interesting shop windows — these are often the most memorable parts of a visit.
To end the day, consider returning to Plac Nowy or a side street for an evening drink — Kazimierz has a great evening atmosphere with live music and many cozy bars.
Most of the route between the Market, Wawel and Kazimierz can be covered on foot. This not only saves time waiting for transfers but also lets you stop at interesting points along the way.
Check opening hours of museums and churches before visiting. Some sites have limited entry, midday closures or days off, especially during holidays or special events.
If you plan to enter specific attractions (for example the State Rooms at Wawel, the Market Underground, or synagogues), buy tickets online or reserve places in advance. This saves time and avoids disappointment.
Comfortable shoes are the most useful item — cobbled streets and a lot of walking are standard when sightseeing in Krakow. Dress for the weather and consider modest clothing if you plan to enter churches.
Bring water and some small change for tickets or small purchases. In summer sunscreen and a hat will help, while in winter a warm jacket and layers are essential.
Carry an ID if you plan to use discounted tickets (students, seniors, etc.).
Trying to “see everything” in one day. It’s better to focus on a few key places and really get to know them than to rush through a long list of attractions.
Not booking Wawel, the Market Underground or popular exhibitions. That can mean long queues or being turned away — booking ahead gives peace of mind.
Eating only right on the Market Square without checking reviews. It’s worth walking a little off the most touristy spots to find restaurants with better quality and value.
Is one day enough for the Market, Wawel and Kazimierz? Yes, if you accept a selection: for example a quick look at the Market, a short visit to Wawel (courtyard or Cathedral) and an afternoon in Kazimierz. If you want to enter many museums, plan extra time.
How to move between the points? The most natural way is on foot. Routes are short and pleasant. For people with mobility limitations consider short tram rides or taxis.
When is the best time to visit the Market to avoid crowds? Early morning or late afternoon. Kazimierz is best at lunchtime or in the evening when the neighborhood comes alive.
If you want to feel the calm of the Old Town, look for smaller side streets — they are often quieter and the architectural details are just as beautiful.
Plac Nowy is not only zapiekanki — in the evening there are cultural events and markets worth checking in the local calendar.
Keep a short list of backup places to eat on your phone — if your first choice is full, you’ll have alternatives without stress.
08:30–09:30 - arrive at the Main Market Square, quick coffee and a walk through the Cloth Hall and around St. Mary’s Basilica.
09:30–11:00 - optional visit to the Market Underground or a quick look inside St. Mary’s Basilica, then walk toward Wawel.
11:00–13:00 - Wawel: courtyard, Cathedral or State Rooms (depending on reserved tickets).
13:00–14:30 - walk to Kazimierz and lunch at a recommended spot near Plac Nowy - try a zapiekanka at the Okrąglak or a sit-down meal at one of the local restaurants.
14:30–17:00 - visit synagogues, museums and enjoy a relaxed walk around Kazimierz; time for small galleries and cafés.
17:00–19:00 - rest, dinner or an evening drink in Kazimierz. Optionally return to the Market in the evening to see illuminated monuments.
Combining the Main Market Square and Kazimierz in one day is a great way to feel the contrast between the royal, monumental part of the city and the intimate, artistic vibe of the former Jewish quarter. The key is a reasonable pace, early reservations where needed, and using walks as part of the experience.
If you’d like this day to be truly polished and stress-free, I’m happy to help with planning: tailoring the route, booking tickets and tables, and arranging transport or accommodation. Małgorzata Kasprowicz - Margaret Kasprowicz, guide cooperating with zwiedzaniekrakowa.com, will advise, plan and guide you around Krakow and handle logistics and reservations.
If you found this article useful, share it with friends or on social media. For a personalized itinerary or guided tour, contact us through zwiedzaniekrakowa.com where you’ll find Małgorzata’s contact details and offer information.
