The Planty form a green ring around Kraków’s historic Old Town — an ideal place to begin sightseeing at an unhurried pace. Walking the park’s alleys gives you a break from city noise while allowing you to see fragments of the old town layout and step onto the Royal Route in a comfortable, ‘warm-up’ way.
For first-time visitors especially, the Planty are an excellent orientation point. They’re also a great space to explain what a medieval city looked like and why the historic boundaries are still so readable from the park’s perspective. This route combines nature and history — right in the center of Kraków.
During the tour I point out interesting details tied to the most important sections of the Planty — monuments, small squares, and what hides behind the seemingly peaceful paths. It’s a perfect starting place because it relaxes the group and makes it easier to introduce the busier, more ‘urban’ stories about Kraków.
- if you like photos - the Planty offer great shots with greenery and monuments in the background, often without the crowds you find on the Main Market Square.
- if you’re traveling with children - a short walk in the Planty is a fun way to start the day before longer sightseeing.
Florian Gate is one of the most recognizable entry points to the Old Town. Even without exact dates or numbers, a look at it is enough to feel the place’s historic character: it’s a remnant of the old city defenses and a natural beginning of the Royal Route.
On the walk I talk about the role of city gates in everyday life of past residents, the legends connected to the area, and how the site evolved over the centuries. At Florian Gate it’s easy to visualize how the city’s defenses once looked and how significant the city walls were in medieval times.
Take time to notice the architectural details, remnants of earlier structures, and the nearby Barbican — together they tell a coherent story about Kraków’s former defensive system. During the tour I explain these elements in plain language so everyone can feel the atmosphere of those times.
- The Gate is also an excellent spot for a short break and photos — so we often spend a little extra time here.
- For those interested in military history and architecture I have extra anecdotes and comparisons with other European cities.
My tours combine knowledge, anecdotes, and interaction. I like to ask questions, highlight little ‘tastes’ of city life, and tell stories so that everyone can find something for themselves — whether a child, teenager, student, or senior.
Routes are adapted to the group — pace, length, and topics depend on who I’m guiding. Popular segments include the Royal Route from Florian Gate through the Market Square to Wawel, but I often start from the Planty because it introduces the history step by step.
For larger groups audio headset sets are available so everyone can hear clearly even in crowded places. I work with school groups, individual tourists, companies and VIP guests — I always try to make each walk have a tempo and tone suited to the participants.
- I lead both general and themed tours (legends, art-related places, routes for children).
- I hold a municipal guide license and have extensive practical experience — this ensures the route is informative and safe.
Children enjoy stories full of characters and vivid comparisons, so during family and school walks I focus on interaction and simple, fun anecdotes. Outdoor games, questions and small tasks keep younger participants active and engaged.
Teachers and carers often appreciate that I can combine historical elements with engaging activities — this way the trip is educational without being a boring lecture.
For school groups I offer time options and scenarios tailored to participants’ ages — from shorter walks to longer programs with tasks. Headset sets make communication easier in larger groups.
- For school classes I often propose routes with tasks — this helps consolidate knowledge back at school.
- For families I recommend a gentler pace and more frequent breaks.
Prices depend on route length, the language of the tour, and group size. For small groups a shorter walk usually starts around 300–350 PLN for two hours. There are also packages for larger groups and themed offers.
In practice it’s best to provide group size, preferred walk length, and any additional needs (e.g., headset sets, a child-friendly route) when booking — that way I can prepare an optimal plan and cost estimate.
Booking in advance helps secure the preferred date and equipment — especially in the tourist season. If you need an invoice, help planning the whole day, or corporate integration support, I’m happy to assist with organization.
- Special rates and educational programs are available for schools and large groups.
- Headset sets for rent make sightseeing easier in crowds and cost a small amount per person.
People who’ve joined my walks most often emphasize passion and the storytelling style — many reviews mention the anecdotes and humor that make even a longer walk fly by pleasantly.
Guests also appreciate the approach to children and youth — teachers notice that students participate more willingly and remember more when the story is lively and interactive. Individual clients often highlight that topics are presented accessibly, focusing on curiosities rather than dry facts.
I frequently hear comments like: “the walk passed in the blink of an eye,” “great stories,” “lots of humor,” and that the tour was well-timed with good breaks. That feedback is my best recommendation and reason to keep a high standard.
- Feedback from business and educational groups shows that flexibility and solid preparation are highly valued.
- Reviews also stress availability and a willingness to adapt the route to the group’s needs.
Where we meet - we usually agree on a meeting point in the Old Town depending on the route: at the Planty, at Florian Gate, or at the Main Market Square. Exact place and time are always confirmed when booking.
What to bring - comfortable shoes, a light snack and a water bottle. Even a short walk can extend if the group decides to see extra places. On cooler days bring an extra layer — wind near historic walls can be sharp.
Duration - most popular walks last 2–3 hours. Longer programs (4 hours or more) are great when we want to combine several sites, e.g., Planty, Florian Gate, the Market Square and Wawel.
Accessibility - routes are accessible for most participants, but if someone has mobility limitations please let me know when booking — I’ll choose a route and pace so everyone feels comfortable.
- If you’d like a private themed walk (e.g., legends, a route for seniors), write in advance and I’ll prepare extra materials.
Is the walk suitable for children? - Yes. I have prepared stories and tasks that engage younger participants and help keep their attention.
Are tours offered in other languages? - I offer tours in Polish and collaborate with translators or guides in other languages depending on demand. Please state your preferred language when booking.
How many people can be in a group? - I lead both small private groups and larger organized groups. For large groups I recommend headset sets so everyone hears clearly.
Is a reservation required? - Yes, a reservation helps secure the date, equipment and lets me tailor the program to the group. It’s especially recommended during the tourist season.
How long does a standard walk last? - Usually 2–3 hours, but I can offer shorter or longer options depending on your needs.
