In recent months Wawel has added several new attractions that complement the classic visitor routes. The most important is the new permanent underground exhibition "Międzymurze" - a route that reveals the layered remains of the fortifications and the history of the Wawel hill. It’s a great moment to see Wawel not only from the courtyard but also from the inside and from a different perspective.
In addition to the underground route, there are temporary exhibitions that combine historic spaces with contemporary art, making the castle appealing both to history lovers and to fans of modern art. Plan your visit so you can see the royal chambers and also the new displays and lesser-known corners of the hill.
Międzymurze (the underground) - a new permanent route opened in the 2025 season, presenting layers of walls from the early Middle Ages to the 19th century, elements of the hill’s geology and a clear, accessible story of archaeological research. The route was opened to the public in May 2025 and offers an immersive experience between the fortification walls.
Temporary exhibitions that connect history with the present - seasonal displays showcase contemporary artists working within castle interiors; some of these have distinct seasonal hours, for example extended opening times in July and August.
Many of the new displays use discreet multimedia and special lighting to highlight wall structure and archaeological value without excessive commercialisation.
Opening hours for the new exhibitions at Wawel are often seasonal and vary between routes. Generally, during the tourist season (spring - summer) most routes are open from morning until late afternoon, and in July - August some exhibitions have extended hours.
For example, temporary exhibitions in the castle complex usually operate daily around 9:00 - 17:00 in the mid-season, and during the peak season some may stay open until 18:00. Underground routes may have limited capacity and shorter entry windows.
Last entry is often allowed 30 - 60 minutes before closing, but rules can differ by route - check the entry time when you buy your ticket.
Because of limited capacity on the new routes, especially the underground ones, it’s recommended to reserve tickets online in advance - during the high season entries can sell out.
Occasionally there are promotions or special days with free access to selected exhibitions - for example certain days in November or events like Night of Museums. Not every route is included in free-access promotions, so check which exhibitions are covered before your visit.
Ticket prices vary by route - entrance to the royal chambers, the underground route or the Dragon’s Den may be priced separately. Reduced tickets are often available for families, students and seniors.
Mistakes at the entrance - different routes have different entry points. The new underground route may start at a different spot on the hill than the classic chambers, so check the entrance address on your ticket and in the advance information.
Confusing Międzymurze with the Dragon’s Den - both routes are close to each other but they are separate attractions: the Dragon’s Den is a natural cave and a separate tour, while Międzymurze shows archaeological remains between the walls.
Lack of suitable footwear and clothing - the underground can be cooler and has stairs; wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket.
Buy your ticket in advance and choose a specific entry time - this is the surest way to avoid long waits.
Arrive earlier, especially on weekends and public holidays; short technical breaks or special events can change the availability of some spaces.
If you care about photos, plan your visit for the morning when crowds are smaller. Castle interiors can be dimly lit, so photography may require longer exposures - tripods are not allowed in some areas.
For families with children: not all underground sections are suitable for strollers - ask about accessibility and possible alternatives.
After touring, stop at well-rated places near the Old Town. Recommended cafés and restaurants close to Wawel include Cafe Camelot - a cosy spot near the Market Square, and Charlotte - a popular bakery and café. For lunch consider restaurants that serve regional and modern Polish cuisine - choose places with strong reviews.
If you plan to stay close to the Wawel hill, consider hotels and apartments in the Old Town - they make returning after a long day of sightseeing easy. Book in advance, especially in summer and during major city events.
Archaeological research on Wawel continues to reveal new finds - in recent years small valuable objects from various periods have turned up, confirming that the hill still holds many undiscovered layers of history.
The Międzymurze route links scientific narration with local legends, including the story of the Wawel Dragon, which makes the presentation engaging for younger visitors as well.
Do I need to reserve a ticket for a specific time? Yes - for many routes you buy a ticket with a timed reservation. Reservation secures entry at a specific time.
Are the underground areas accessible for people with limited mobility? Not all underground sections are fully accessible; people with limited mobility should check accessibility information before visiting and consider contacting staff for assistance.
Can I combine visiting Wawel with other attractions (for example the Cathedral or the Dragon’s Den)? Yes - when planning your day, allow time and distance between entrances, because each attraction has its own opening hours and capacity.
Don’t check opening hours in a hurry - hours are seasonal and can differ between routes; always check current information before you leave.
Don’t rely solely on general descriptions - the exact entrance for a given exhibition may differ from the entrance to the main courtyards; read the location details on your ticket.
Don’t leave your visit to the last minute in summer - entries often sell out and queues can be long.
If you enjoyed this guide, share it with friends or on social media - you’ll help others plan a better visit to Wawel.
If you’d like to explore Wawel with a private guide, I invite you to use the services of Małgorzata Kasprowicz - touring with Margaret Kasprowicz helps you make the most of your time and learn the most fascinating stories connected to the Wawel hill.
