The Town Hall Tower stands alone in the middle of the Main Market Square and often surprises visitors to Krakow — it is about 70 metres tall, leans slightly off vertical (by several dozen centimetres) and is reached via a narrow stairwell of roughly 110 steps. From the top you get one of the nicest views of the Cloth Hall, St. Mary’s Basilica and the rooftops of the Old Town — but to enjoy it fully it helps to know what to expect and how to avoid common mistakes.
Climbing the Town Hall Tower is also a short history lesson: it is the only remaining fragment of Krakow’s medieval town hall, whose cellars once held storage rooms and a jail. Consider combining your visit with a short walk around the Market Square and plan your time so you can appreciate both the views and the interior of the tower.
The tower can be seasonal — in winter access may be limited or the site closed, while in the summer months regular opening hours usually apply. Museum branches often set the last entrance about 30 minutes before closing, so it’s worth checking current opening hours before you leave your hotel.
If you want fewer crowds and better light for photos, consider going early just after opening or in the late afternoon; around midday the Square is often busiest. Note: on some days, for example public holidays or during city events, traffic arrangements and access to the site can change — it’s a good idea to check official city or Museum of Krakow information before your visit.
A narrow stone stairwell leads to the top — comfortable shoes and light clothing are a good choice. Bring water, especially on hot days; there is usually no drinks point at the top. If you are afraid of heights or have difficulty with narrow passages, consider an alternative viewpoint nearby, because the climb may be uncomfortable.
On colder days remember that medieval walls hold the chill — even if it’s warm outside, the interior can be noticeably cooler. When planning for a group, allow for different paces on the stairs — older people and families with small children may need extra time.
The Town Hall Tower is a branch of the Museum of Krakow and admission is ticketed. Usually there are individual and group entries and concession rules apply (students, seniors, etc.). Prices and ticketing rules may change, so it’s best to check the Museum’s current information before your visit.
Avoid buying tickets from random sellers in the Square — the safest option is to buy directly at the ticket office or through official sales channels. Remember the last entry time — buying a ticket close to closing may not leave you time for a calm visit.
Inside the tower you’ll find reconstructions and exhibits related to the history of the town hall and the city: fragments of former interiors, gmerki (guild and personal marks), the clock mechanism and parts of the cellars that once served as storage and a jail. On the upper levels you can also see the clockwork and admire the city panorama.
If you’re interested in the history of technology, pay attention to the clock and its mechanism — it’s an intriguing feature enjoyed by both adults and younger visitors. The cellars sometimes host a stage and a café — a good place to rest after descending the stairs.
Mistake: assuming there’s an elevator to the top. There is no lift — you must climb narrow and relatively steep stairs. Plan your visit accordingly if you have mobility or fitness concerns.
Mistake: ignoring opening hours and seasonality. The tower may be closed off season or have reduced hours on Mondays and during museum event days. Check current information before you go.
Mistake: buying tickets from street sellers in the Square. Always buy at the official ticket office or through official channels to avoid scams and misunderstandings.
Mistake: arriving at the last minute. Last entry is usually about 30 minutes before closing — if you want to explore the upper floors calmly and take photos, arrive earlier.
Mistake: planning your visit for the busiest hours. Midday is often the most crowded; morning or late afternoon gives more comfort and better light for photography.
Mistake: wearing inappropriate shoes. Narrow stone steps can be slippery, especially after rain — choose sturdy footwear.
Mistake: expecting an extensive multimedia exhibition. The tower is primarily a viewpoint and historical site — displays are often modest, so don’t count on long interactive exhibitions.
Mistake: not considering the weather. On rainy or very windy days views may be limited and time spent at the top less pleasant.
The nicest photos from the tower are taken in the soft light of morning or late afternoon. The Cloth Hall, the surrounding tenement houses and St. Mary’s Basilica create compositions worth spending a few extra minutes at the top. Keep in mind the limited space — a large tripod can block other visitors, so it’s better to use a monopod or rely on camera stabilization.
If you want to make a panorama, take several horizontal frames and stitch them later in photo software. Also respect other visitors — longer photo sessions are best scheduled outside peak hours.
After descending the tower you can choose one of the well-reviewed restaurants and cafés around the Main Market Square. Classics I often recommend to visitors include Restauracja Wierzynek — a place with a long tradition and distinctive historical interior; Wentzl — with views of the Square; Pod Nosem; as well as cozy cafés such as Café Camelot. These are reliable spots with good reputations where you can recharge after the climb.
If you want to stay close to the sights, the best option is hotels and guesthouses within the Old Town — you save time and have the Market within reach in the evening, when the monuments are beautifully lit. When booking, pay attention to guest reviews and the location relative to the places you plan to visit.
Do I need to book in advance? Not always — during the season and for larger groups booking is recommended. On regular days you can usually buy tickets at the ticket office, but for organised visits it’s worth contacting the Museum in advance.
Is the tower accessible for people with limited mobility? Because of the stairs and lack of a lift, accessibility is limited — people who have difficulty climbing should consider alternative viewpoints in the city.
How much time do I need to visit? A standard visit usually takes 30–60 minutes, depending on pace and the time spent photographing or reading exhibits.
Can I do a photo shoot here? Casual tourist photography is allowed. Professional shoots may require the Museum’s permission or a special reservation — check in advance.
The tower is not the only attraction of the Square — beneath its surface are historic cellars and spaces used for various stage and cultural events. Also, the tower has long been a “small record-holder” — its tilt and the peculiar layout of the stairs often surprise visitors.
In the past the town hall cellars housed the famous Piwnica Świdnicka with its drinks and guests; it’s a historical taste of local culture that still resonates in stories about the Main Market Square.
When planning your visit, allow time, wear comfortable shoes and check the opening hours. Avoid the biggest afternoon crowds, buy your ticket at the official box office or official sales channel and remember that the climb is not only a viewpoint but also a short journey into the city’s history.
If you’d like a guided visit that highlights the most interesting details and offers more than exhibition labels, you are welcome to contact Małgorzata Kasprowicz — private guide cooperating with the zwiedzaniekrakowa.com service. All contact details are available on the site. If you found this article helpful — share it on social media or send it to friends planning a trip to Krakow. Good luck and enjoy your visit!
Carry a small bottle of water and a light jacket—the top can be cooler and windier than street level.
Travel with comfortable shoes and avoid oversized bags that may be awkward on narrow stairs.
If you’re visiting with children, keep them close on the stairs and plan short breaks.
Are there toilets in the tower? Public toilets are usually available nearby on the Market Square and in some cellar cafés; facilities inside the tower are limited.
Is photography with flash allowed? Flash is generally allowed for casual photography, but be mindful of other visitors and any exhibit restrictions.
Can I combine the visit with other nearby attractions? Yes — the Cloth Hall, St. Mary’s Basilica, the Underground Museum and many cafés and museums are within easy walking distance.
Be mindful of pickpockets in busy areas of the Market Square—keep valuables secure and within sight.
If you feel unwell on the stairs, inform staff at the ticket office before you start the climb.
The Town Hall Tower is a compact but memorable stop in the heart of Krakow—planned well it offers history, a great view and a pleasant visit. Enjoy!
