Kraków’s historic centre is largely a restricted traffic zone — you cannot park directly on the Market Square or on most streets of the Old Town without special permits. Fortunately, practical and convenient parking options are only a short walk from the main attractions, so you can leave your car in a safe place and walk quickly to Wawel, the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) or the Market Square.
If you value time and comfort — choose a central underground car park. The parking under Wawel offers many spaces and is one of the most convenient starting points for visiting the Castle and for a short walk to the Main Market.
For quick access to the Main Market, the car park under Galeria Krakowska is a good choice. It works well when you plan a short stop and want to be close to the train station and the shopping center.
If you are staying longer and want to save money — consider Park and Ride (P+R) facilities on the city outskirts. Leaving your car at a P+R lets you reach the centre by public transport without the stress of hunting for a central parking spot.
The underground Wawel car park is a multi-space facility with electric vehicle charging points and 24/7 service, which makes it very practical for people arriving for short meetings or sightseeing with limited time.
In practice this means: proximity to the Castle (a few minutes on foot), the possibility to reserve a space online, card payment options, and hourly or daily rates that let you match cost to your visit plan.
The car park beneath Galeria Krakowska is often used by visitors who want to combine shopping or a transfer from the station with a short walk to the Market. Opening hours and pricing are convenient for short stays, and older visitors or those with mobility needs will appreciate step-free connections to the tram stops.
It’s worth checking opening hours and current fees before you arrive, and if you plan to come during peak tourist hours — reserve a space in advance when that option is available.
Booking a parking space in advance is the simplest way to avoid wasting time looking for a free spot. Many central car parks offer online reservation or short-term passes.
If you’re arriving with a delegation or important client, consider hotel parking or valet service if your hotel provides it. Hotel valet usually means a swift welcome without your having to find a space yourself.
Plan arrival logistics with the meeting organiser or the hotel reception — they can point out the most convenient entrances, loading zones and short-stay spots (for example, to drop off guests).
Assuming “I’ll always find a space by the Market” — during peak tourist hours central places can be full. It’s better to book online or arrive earlier.
Not checking the paid-parking zone — the Old Town has parking zones (the most central is Zone A) with set hours and rates. Failure to pay for parking can result in a fine.
Overlooking P+R options for longer stays — leaving your car on the outskirts and taking a tram or bus is often cheaper and less stressful than fighting for a central space.
If you travel with a larger group or by coach, plan a pickup/drop-off place in advance — around Wawel and the Old Town there are designated spots for tourist buses and parking areas just outside the tightest centre from which the group can be safely dropped off or collected.
For visitors with reduced mobility, check availability of disabled parking spaces in advance or contact the place you will visit so you can arrange the most convenient arrival and drop-off procedure.
After leaving the car, plan a short stop at one of the well-rated cafés or restaurants. On the Market Square and nearby, longstanding recommended places include the historic Wierzynek restaurant and the atmospheric Cafe Camelot — both are popular with guests who want to feel Kraków’s atmosphere.
If you prefer regional cuisine in a cozy interior, check restaurants and cafés around Kanonicza Street and Grodzka Street — these spots have character and are close to the main sightseeing route.
Some central underground car parks offer special promotions for online bookings — sometimes you can find attractive hourly or daily deals that reduce parking cost.
Some car parks provide electric vehicle charging points — if you drive an electric car, check charger availability and payment method via the operator’s app before you arrive.
Many central places are more accessible on foot than by car — planning short walks between attractions often leads to a more enjoyable and efficient day of sightseeing.
Can I drive onto the Market Square? No — without a special permit, driving onto most of the Market Square surface is restricted. The nearest legal parking places are underground car parks and designated city car parks.
Can I reserve a parking space in advance? Yes — some underground car parks in the centre offer online reservations, which is especially useful for business visitors.
Where can I leave my car for a whole day? Cost-effective options are central underground car parks (daily rates) or P+R facilities on the outskirts, from which you can easily reach the centre by public transport.
Check car park availability and pricing, consider booking online, plan the walking route from the car park to the places you want to visit, and discuss any transport needs with your hotel or meeting organiser.
If you want to avoid logistics stress and make the most of your time in Kraków, consider a private guiding service — Małgorzata Kasprowicz (guide at zwiedzaniekrakowa.com) can help with planning, lead you through the city’s highlights and assist with reservations.
If you found this article helpful, share it with friends or on social media — that way others can more easily plan their visit to Kraków.
