The Main Square is one of the largest and most recognizable medieval squares in Europe. Here beats the tourist and cultural heart of the city: the Cloth Hall, St. Mary’s Church with its trumpet signal, the Town Hall Tower, numerous townhouses and alleys leading into the Old Town. A walk across the Square is not just about looking at monuments — it is also about listening to the stories, legends and anecdotes that give this place its unique atmosphere.
If you are visiting Krakow for the first time — start at the Main Square. It is an excellent orienting point from which it is easy to plan the rest of your route: the Market Underground, Wawel, Kazimierz and the Vistula boulevards are within reach. In good weather it is worth coming early in the morning — the Square is quieter then and it is easier to take photos without crowds.
During my guided tours I show the Square in the context of its centuries-long history: from medieval markets, through architectural changes, to 20th century events. The stories about the city gain flavor when we connect the view of a particular place with a story and an interesting detail.
The Cloth Hall is an iconic symbol of Krakow — a Renaissance market hall standing in the middle of the Square. On the ground floor there have been stalls selling handicrafts and souvenirs for years, while the upper floor houses the Gallery of 19th-Century Polish Painting, where you can see both famous works and examples of Polish art from that period.
When walking around the Cloth Hall pay attention to the details of the parapet, carved mascarons and the historic interiors. This place combines commercial and museum functions — a mix that makes the Square one of a kind. In high season it is worth planning your visit in advance, because the gallery interiors and some events limit the number of visitors.
The Cloth Hall is also a great spot for a break: many cafés and patisseries are located nearby, so you can combine sightseeing with a short rest.
Although the Main Square is a symbol of tradition and city life, traces of World War II are visible across a wider area of old Krakow. The most important memorial sites and wartime traces are found along a route that includes Kazimierz, the former ghetto area (Podgórze) and the Schindler Factory. A walk helps to understand how the war changed the fabric of the city and the fate of its inhabitants.
Near the Square you will encounter monuments, commemorative plaques and places that recall the experiences of Krakow residents under occupation. It is worth visiting the synagogues in Kazimierz, remnants of the former ghetto and the Museum at the Schindler Factory — these elements help to compose a fuller picture of the city's 20th century history.
During tours I explain the context of these places, show how to read the traces left in the urban space and where to find subtle but important evidence of memory — from plaques and gravestones to architectural marks. If you want to visit exhibitions or museums related to World War II, it is advisable to plan them in advance because visitor limits may apply.
The Market Underground is a unique museum presenting the history of Krakow from its beginnings, located about four meters below the surface of the Square. The exhibition shows remains of medieval streets, foundations and everyday objects — it is a journey through time well worth seeing.
In practice: the Underground is very popular, especially during the tourist season. Many exhibitions and shows have a limited number of places, so it is best to reserve tickets in advance. Booking guarantees entry at the chosen time and helps avoid long queues.
Opening hours change depending on the season, so when planning a visit check current opening times and ticket availability. If you wish, I can help organize a visit to the Underground as part of our route so that everything runs smoothly and comfortably.
As a licensed guide in Krakow (licensed since 2012) I offer tours full of history, anecdotes and practical tips. My tours combine solid knowledge with humor and interaction — making the experience engaging for both adults and children.
For groups I provide audio-guide headsets, which are very helpful when walking in crowded areas. I accept groups of various sizes and tailor the pace and content to participants' expectations — from family-friendly routes to themed tours (history, legends, wartime traces).
If you want to book a tour, I can help reserve tickets for museums (for example the Market Underground or the Schindler Factory) and plan the route to avoid queues and use time optimally. From experience I know which times of day and which weekdays are less crowded and how best to schedule a visit.
A short, comfortable route I often recommend: start at the Main Square and the Cloth Hall, walk to St. Mary’s Church, then visit the Market Underground, from there head toward Kazimierz — see the synagogues and historic alleys, and finally cross to the right bank of the Vistula to visit the Museum at the Schindler Factory. This loop provides a broad view of the city: from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.
This route is flexible and can be shortened or extended depending on interests — including breaks for coffee or a meal. For those interested in deeper exploration of World War II topics I recommend a dedicated route through Kazimierz and Podgórze.
On the walk I highlight both major events and small traces of memory — plaques, street names, meeting places and private memorials woven into the urban fabric.
After intensive sightseeing it is worth resting and tasting local flavors. A few classic suggestions in the Square area: Wierzynek — historic interiors and traditional cuisine; Piwnica pod Baranami — a venue known for its artistic atmosphere; and numerous cafés and patisseries around the Square, ideal for a quick break.
If you prefer something more casual, within a short walk from the Square you will find places serving zapiekanki, local snacks and international cuisine. At Nowy Square in Kazimierz you can try the famous Krakow zapiekanki and feel the unique atmosphere of that area.
If you wish, during the route I can recommend places tailored to your preferences — from traditional Polish dishes to vegetarian and vegan options. That way a lunch break will not disrupt the tour's rhythm and you will taste authentic flavors of Krakow.
How long does a typical Main Square and Cloth Hall tour last? - A regular guided walk lasts 1.5–2.5 hours; if you add the Market Underground or a museum visit, allow 3–4 hours.
Do I need to reserve tickets for the Market Underground and other museums? - Yes, many attractions limit entries and require advance ticket reservations, especially in season. I recommend booking ahead to guarantee entry at your chosen time.
Is the route suitable for children and seniors? - Yes, I adjust tours to the group: pace, length of breaks and storytelling content are modified. For visitors with limited mobility I propose routes with fewer stairs and longer breaks.
How are payments and reservation confirmations handled? - Reservations can be confirmed in advance. We will agree on the payment method when booking — I prefer clear arrangements before meeting to avoid surprises.
Can a tour be combined with a visit to the Schindler Factory? - Yes, that is a common request. It is advisable to plan such a visit in advance because museum entries can be limited. I assist with reservations and planning so you can make all scheduled stops.
If you want a comfortable and meaningful visit, plan the route in advance — especially when you want to visit popular museums or you are coming on a weekend or during high season. Reserving tickets and agreeing on details allows us to make the most of the time on site.
To arrange a tour: use the reservation form on the ZwiedzanieKrakowa website, send a message or call — we will tailor the route to your expectations, group size and available time. I will gladly help reserve tickets to the Market Underground or other museums so your visit is stress-free and full of valuable stories.
I invite you to explore the Main Square, the Cloth Hall and the places of memory that create Krakow's layered story. See you on the tour!
