Did you know that Rynek Podgórski used to be the market square of a separate town and that, as one of the first squares in the area now belonging to Kraków, it was electrified around 1900? That’s just one of the curiosities that makes Podgórze such a fascinating place to visit — especially if you want to explore it comfortably, partly from the seat of a melex and partly on foot, accompanied by a licensed guide. Expect a bang of history and local anecdotes.
In this article you’ll find a practical three-day plan for touring Kraków that includes a melex ride, logistical tips, dining and accommodation recommendations, and an FAQ with straightforward advice to help you avoid the most common tourist mistakes. Everything is written plainly and friendly so you can leave Kraków feeling like you made the most of your time.
Podgórze is a neighbourhood with a strong identity: for centuries it functioned as a separate town, which explains its different street grid, distinct history and characteristic squares — the most important of which is Rynek Podgórski. A walk around the square, enriched by the guide’s stories, helps you understand how trade routes and daily life here evolved and why Podgórze became such an important place for the city’s memory in the 20th century.
For many visitors a melex is the ideal compromise — it offers comfort and a good pace for sightseeing but still leaves room for short, valuable walking stops: a story by Saint Joseph’s Church, a moment at the Place of the Heroes of the Ghetto (Plac Bohaterów Getta) or the view from the Vistula boulevards are elements worth including in your plan.
Rynek Podgórski also has a less touristy charm than the Main Market Square — intimate townhouses, traces of tram history and local cafés give an authentic Kraków experience off the main route.
Day 1 — Old Town and Wawel: start with the Royal Route, stroll around the Main Market Square, visit Wawel (the castle and cathedral). If you want to save energy, you can cover part of the route between the Market and Wawel by melex, but leave enough time for interiors and museums.
Day 2 — Kazimierz and Podgórze (ideal day for the melex): in the morning explore Kazimierz — synagogues, charming streets and Plac Nowy. In the afternoon take the melex toward Podgórze with stops at: Rynek Podgórski (history and architecture), the Eagle Pharmacy / places of memory connected to the occupation, and finish near Oskar Schindler’s Factory or the Vistula boulevards. The melex is especially comfortable for older visitors, families with young children, and anyone who wants to see more in less time.
Day 3 — themed choice: Nowa Huta and socialist realism, Wolski Forest with the Piłsudski Mound and the Zoo, or a museum day (the Market Underground Museum, city museums of Kraków, temporary exhibitions). It’s also a good moment to leave space for culinary exploration and shopping with local artisans.
It’s wise to plan each day with a buffer for coffee breaks, unexpected street attractions and weather pauses — Kraków often surprises.
Book in advance, especially during high season or for larger groups. Melex operators offer different options — short rides around the Old Town, 1–2 hour routes covering Kazimierz and Podgórze, and longer 3-hour programmes.
Agree ahead of time on the start and end point, planned stops and whether you want a live historical commentary or shorter explanations. The guide (licensed guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz) can propose a route tailored to your interests (history, architecture, World War II memory, street art, etc.).
If you have mobility limitations, inform the organiser in advance — the melex route and stops can be planned to make the tour as accessible as possible.
Around the Main Market Square, Kazimierz and Podgórze there are many highly rated restaurants and cafés — choose places known for good reviews and local cuisine. In Kazimierz you’ll find spots offering traditional Polish dishes and Jewish-influenced flavours; the Old Town has more formal restaurants and cafés for desserts; Podgórze offers cozy bistros and cafés in a less crowded atmosphere.
Accommodation: if you have only three days, staying centrally — in the Old Town or Kazimierz — is best for easy access to most attractions. For a quieter stay you can consider Podgórze — short melex or tram rides connect the neighbourhood to the centre.
When booking a room or a table at popular restaurants remember the season — weekends and holidays fill up quickly.
- Rynek Podgórski was once a bustling market where merchants from the region came to trade; its commercial role weakened only after a tram line was introduced.
- In Podgórze you can still see buildings and urban fragments that tell the story of a separate town — look out for former town halls and the original street layout.
- Melex vehicles cannot always enter every narrow street — in the strict centre and tight route fragments there are traffic restrictions for tourist vehicles, so routes are sometimes flexible and it’s good to discuss them with your guide.
Trying to see everything “at full throttle” — wanting to see everything in one day. A better strategy is to prioritise and focus on one theme per day.
Not checking museum opening hours and reservation requirements — some branches require advance booking or have limited entry; buy tickets in advance or check times beforehand.
Ignoring local events and rules — Kraków occasionally hosts city events, markets or construction work that affect traffic and access. Check your plan with the guide the day before.
Tickets and reservations: for the most popular attractions — especially the Market Underground Museum or exhibits at Schindler’s Factory — buy or reserve tickets in advance.
Transport: the melex works great for short, comfortable sections; for longer trips combine it with walking or public transport. Carry some small cash and a payment card.
Weather and clothing: Kraków’s weather can change — bring a light rain jacket and comfortable shoes for walking.
Safety: Kraków is generally safe for tourists, but as in any larger city keep an eye on documents and luggage, especially in crowded places.
Are melexes eco-friendly and quiet? Yes — they are electric vehicles, so they are quieter and more environmentally friendly than traditional buses.
How long is a standard melex route? Short rides in the Old Town last 30–60 minutes; fuller routes covering three districts usually take 1.5–3 hours, depending on the number of stops.
Can a melex replace a walking tour with a guide? A melex complements guiding very well, but if you want to enter many museums and monuments it won’t replace walking. It’s best to combine both forms.
Is Podgórze safe after dark? Yes, but as everywhere exercise caution and avoid completely deserted streets; plan your return to accommodation in advance.
If you want your three-day stay in Kraków to be run smoothly, interestingly and with passion — consider booking a private guided tour. Share this article with friends or on social media if you found it helpful. You can contact guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz directly to arrange a route tailored to your needs and schedule. Good luck with your planning and enjoy your trip to Kraków!
