For years Kraków has been developing as a city of street art: large-scale works by well-known creators appear here, local initiatives prepare maps and themed routes, and cultural institutions include street art in their event programmes. Because of this, a mural walk can be planned as a comfortable, “premium” experience — with a map, breaks for good food and short visits to galleries or museums.
If you want to feel the city differently than on the classic historical trail, a mural route offers a new perspective: industrial Zabłocie, artistic Kazimierz and the lively Podgórze provide both monumental, signature pieces and discreet interventions in the urban space.
Kazimierz, Podgórze and Zabłocie form the natural centre of Kraków’s street art. In Kazimierz you’ll find a dense network of murals in side streets and around small squares, including works closely connected to local history and culture. Podgórze and the area around Bohaterów Getta Square hide murals with strong memory contexts and contemporary reflection. Zabłocie, formerly an industrial zone, is today where murals meet new architecture and museums such as MOCAK (the Museum of Contemporary Art in Kraków).
In practice it’s worth starting in one place and making a loop: for example, a morning in Zabłocie with a visit to MOCAK, an afternoon walk toward Podgórze and an evening discovery of Kazimierz when many day visitors move toward the Main Market Square. That pace lets you enjoy details and take breaks in recommended cafés and restaurants.
Kraków hosts works by recognizable artists and collectives that create large-format projects on building façades. In several locations you can spot pieces by names that regularly appear in local street art guides: authors of large murals, competition projects commissioned by the city and galleries, and works from festival cycles.
Pay attention to murals created as part of larger municipal projects and mural competitions — these are often the biggest and most carefully executed pieces, remaining for years and becoming part of the urban landscape. Some mural routes are described in local guides with maps, which makes planning a premium route easier.
A good plan is essential: download a mural map before you set out, save the key points in your map app and plan a walking route with realistic breaks. Offline maps (for example, offline mode in a popular mapping app) will protect you against connectivity problems.
When planning your route keep a few rules in mind: don’t try to see everything in one day — choose 6–10 spots you want to view closely; estimate realistic walking and break times; allow time for photos and short rests. If you prefer comfort — plan taxis between distant points or short tram rides.
If you want the premium version: bring a small printed map or ask for a printed route before the walk — this is especially convenient if you want to avoid constantly looking at your phone.
Sample premium day: start in the morning in Zabłocie with coffee and a short visit to MOCAK; then walk to the largest nearby murals and have a light lunch at a recommended bistro; spend the afternoon in Podgórze and Kazimierz; finish the evening at one of the riverside cafés or bars such as Forum Przestrzenie.
For an extended version add: a dinner reservation at a highly rated restaurant, a short visit to a local gallery or an extra stop at a contemporary art space. Premium experience is also about pace: go slower, with sensitivity, and leave time to discuss the context and history of individual works.
During such a tour it’s worth using places that are known and well rated by visitors. In Kazimierz plan a break in one of the classic cafés with good reviews — great for relaxing and observing local life. In Zabłocie and around MOCAK you’ll find a comfortable choice between modern bistros and cosy cafés.
If you plan dinner after the walk, pick restaurants with strong reviews and book in advance — popular places in Kazimierz and the Old Town can be full, especially at weekends. The evening programme can be rounded off with a bar by the Vistula, where the atmosphere nicely completes a day spent viewing murals.
Not all works are visible from main streets — many interesting details are hidden in passages, courtyards and on side façades. Some murals are created as part of local social projects and have a deep connection to the place’s history.
Many mural initiatives are documented by local foundations and cultural organisations that publish guides and maps — great resources if you want to go deeper beyond the best-known spots. Temporary works also appear from time to time, so the city’s look can change from year to year.
Trying to see too many points in one day — result: fatigue and not enough time to appreciate individual works. Better to choose a shorter, well-thought-out route and leave room for unplanned discoveries.
Lack of respect for residents and private spaces — remember some murals are on residential buildings. Don’t enter private courtyards without permission, don’t block passageways, and be mindful when photographing.
Not planning breaks and meals — well-rated places in popular neighbourhoods can get busy; reserving a table or choosing less touristy spots will save stress.
How long does a typical mural walk take? - It depends on pace and number of stops, but a comfortable, relaxed route covering 6–8 murals should take 3–4 hours including breaks.
Are murals available all year? - Most works are outdoors, so you can see them year-round, although weather affects walking comfort. In winter bring warm clothing and comfortable shoes.
Do I need a ticket to see murals? - No, the murals on façades are usually free and viewable from the street. If the route includes a private courtyard or entry to an institution (for example a museum) check entry rules and possible fees in advance.
Is it worth hiring a guide? - For those interested in historical and artistic context and local anecdotes, a private guide can significantly enrich the experience. For comfort and deeper explanations, consider the services of the private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — details and offers are available on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com.
Different works appear in different contexts: some are commissioned and protected, others are independent interventions. Respect the works and their context: don’t attempt to touch up, cover elements or damage installations.
If you photograph using a tripod, position yourself so you don’t block pedestrian traffic. When photographing private individuals, ask for permission — especially in private spaces.
Murals in Kraków are an excellent complement to classic sightseeing — art that lives on the streets and tells the story of the city here and now. A premium experience lets you see them with more comfort: a considered map, pauses for food and optional guide commentary make the walk fuller and more intimate.
If this article helped you — share it with friends or on social media. And if you want to explore Kraków with the support of a private guide, consider contacting Małgorzata Kasprowicz — information and offers are available directly at zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. Enjoy your discoveries on Kraków’s walls!
