St. Mary's Basilica is one of the most recognizable places in Kraków — not only because of the impressive Veit Stoss (Wit Stwosz) altar, but also because of the famous hejnał that sounds every hour above the Main Market Square. Touring this place with a licensed guide is more than a quick look at a monument: it's a story about history, legends and details that often escape printed guides.
As a licensed Kraków guide I will gladly show you the most interesting corners of the church, explain the meaning of the altar, point out architectural curiosities and — when possible — arrange access to the tower from which the hejnał rings out over the whole area.
Note: The empty string above is accidental and will be ignored.
The hejnał is a short melody played from the higher tower of St. Mary's Basilica — traditionally on the hour, around the clock. The tune stops suddenly, and for centuries a legend has accompanied this interruption: a trumpeter cut short his performance after being struck by an arrow while warning the city of an attack. That abrupt break in the melody has become a symbol of the city and moves both locals and visitors.
On the tour I tell both the legend and the practical historical role of the hejnał — as a warning signal and an element of order in medieval city life.
Remember that the hejnał is played toward the four cardinal directions — it’s an experience best felt if you pause for a few moments on the Market Square.
A guided tour is tailored to your interests. The standard route includes the history of the church, an explanation of the Veit Stoss altar, the most interesting architectural and artistic features of the interior, anecdotes and stories connected to medieval and modern Kraków.
If you want to climb the tower, I will arrange that in advance and take care of the organization (depending on availability and the current visiting rules). For families with children I prepare simpler, engaging stories and small tasks so the youngest return smiling.
I welcome questions along the way and adapt the tour’s pace — I prefer a conversation rather than a monologue.
1) The easiest way is to contact me through the form or a message on ZwiedzanieKrakowa.com — there you can check current dates and availability. You can also send a message with your preferred date, time, number of people and the language you want the tour in.
2) After confirming the date we’ll agree on a meeting point on the Main Market Square (usually a visible spot by the Cloth Hall or in front of a named café) and discuss whether you want to climb the tower and how much time you plan to spend on the tour.
3) On the day of the tour, please arrive a few minutes early — this helps us start calmly, especially if we plan to go up the tower or attend at the time of the hejnał.
4) Payment details, cancellation policy and any discounts (for example for school groups) will be provided during booking. Current prices and promotions are also available on the website.
The hejnał is played every hour around the clock — it’s worth being on the Market a few minutes before the hour to feel the atmosphere and see the moment the melody is played up close.
Climbing the higher tower offers a unique panorama of the Market Square and the surrounding area. The tower reaches roughly 81–82 metres and the ascent involves quite a number of steps (sources commonly cite about 239 steps). If you plan to climb, consider the fitness of participants and wear comfortable shoes.
Access to the tower can be limited seasonally or for organizational reasons (conservation works, church events). If tower access is a priority for you, please request it when booking — I will check availability in advance and try to reserve spots if possible.
You can find up-to-date pricing and seasonal promotions on ZwiedzanieKrakowa.com. As an example: winter–autumn promotions and group rates for small and large groups are updated periodically and apply for defined time windows — it’s a good idea to check before booking, as reduced rates may apply during specific periods.
When you book I will provide full information on costs, accepted payment methods and possible extra fees (for example headset rental for larger groups).
Please note that historic interiors and towers have limitations: narrow stairs, uneven flooring and places that are harder to access for people with reduced mobility. If someone in your group has special accessibility needs, mention this when booking — I will propose an alternative plan that is comfortable and friendly.
During busy tourist periods (weekends, holidays, summer season) I recommend booking in advance. For larger groups it’s worth arranging logistical details ahead of time so the visit runs smoothly and enjoyably.
The church remains a place of worship — please show respect for those praying and keep quiet in the most sacred spaces. Whenever possible avoid loud conversations in the aisles and be considerate when taking photographs.
Remember to dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) and silence your phone. If you plan to photograph the interior, I will point out any restrictions (sometimes tripods or flash are not allowed).
Arrive a few minutes early — especially when we plan to climb the tower or when tourist traffic is heavy. This helps us start on time and calmly.
Wear comfortable shoes — touring often involves walking and climbing stairs. If you carry a backpack, keep it in front in tight spaces so you don’t bump other visitors.
Bring water and some small change for possible tower tickets (if fees are collected on site) — occasionally tower entry requires a small additional payment or local registration.
If you’d like to hear the hejnał from above or from a close viewpoint, let me know in advance — I’ll plan the best observation spot as part of the tour.
Is climbing the tower mandatory? - No, climbing the tower is optional. If someone prefers to stay at square level and visit only the church interior, I will adapt the route to those expectations.
Is there a separate fee to enter the church with a guide? - The church interior and special areas (e.g. tower access) may have their own fees or limits on group size. We agree on these during booking and I will inform you about any additional costs.
Can we hear the hejnał during the tour? - Yes — the hejnał is played every hour, so I often plan a part of the route so participants can hear it and discuss its history.
Are tours available in other languages? - When booking, indicate your preferred language; tours are usually offered in Polish and selected foreign languages — details are arranged individually.
What if the weather is bad? - The church interior is an excellent alternative for rainy days and I will adapt the program to ensure comfort despite the weather.
The best way to reserve a slot is through ZwiedzanieKrakowa.com — it’s the quickest way to check availability and get full details. When booking, provide the date, time, number of participants and whether you need tower access.
If you have special requests (for example a themed tour, a family-friendly route, or accessibility needs), please mention them in your message — this allows me to prepare a route perfectly suited to your group.
See you at the Main Market Square! I’m happy to show you St. Mary’s not just as a monument, but as a place full of history, personal stories and small details that make Kraków special.
