Are you looking for a special walk around the Main Market Square, want to capture the best shots of St. Mary's Basilica and hear the hejnal played from the tower? Or would you like to go up the tower or visit the interior without standing in a long queue? This route is prepared with photographers in mind and for visitors who want to see the most important places in comfort, with a local guide who can help reserve tickets and choose the best times for photos.
As a licensed Krakow guide since 2012 I have led thousands of people around the city. In my tours I combine history, anecdotes and practical photography tips so that everyone leaves the tour with a great photo and a pleasant memory.
In this article you will find: - what to know about St. Mary's Basilica and the hejnal; - a recommended photographic route around the Market and nearby areas; - information on booking tickets and going up the tower; - practical day-by-day tips and an FAQ.
Welcome — Malgorzata (ZwiedzanieKrakowa.com).
St. Mary's Basilica is one of Krakow's symbols: an impressive façade, richly decorated interior and the famous tradition of the hejnal played from the tower. The hejnal is a short melodic call, usually played on the hour from the church tower; it is both a musical emblem of the city and a remembrance of historical events.
If you dream of hearing the hejnal up close or climbing the tower, it's worth planning ahead. Access to some parts of the church and the tower can be limited for safety and visitor-flow reasons. With a reservation you can avoid long waits and be sure you'll see the most important sights.
During the visit we will pay attention to details: Veit Stoss's altarpiece, stained glass and sculptures, but also to spots that photograph particularly well – wide interior shots as well as close-ups of sculptural details and architectural elements.
Practical note - if you want to climb the tower: - let the guide know when you book; - keep in mind limits on the number of people allowed on the tower at once; - check availability for the specific day and time, especially in high season and during special ceremonies.
The route is flexible and can be adapted to your gear and preferences (a short walk 1.5–2 hours or a full tour of 3 hours with entries). Here is a sample plan focused on great shots:
- Start: Main Market Square, meeting point agreed near the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) – a short talk about your photographic expectations.
- St. Mary's Basilica: photos of the façade and entry to the interior – details of the altarpiece, best angles for interior shots and information about the option to go up the tower.
- The hejnal: if we arrange the right time, we will experience the hejnal either from the tower viewpoint or from a nearby square that gives a good composition.
- The Cloth Hall and the Town Hall Tower: architecture, brick textures, vault details – ideal places to play with light and shadow.
- Streets around the Market: townhouses, gateways and details, unconventional shots from low and high angles.
- Optional: a short trip to Wawel or nearby photo spots if time and conditions allow.
In practice the best light comes: - in the morning (approx. 6:00–9:00) – soft light and fewer people; - late afternoon and the so-called golden hour – warm tones and dramatic skies; - evening – illuminations and atmosphere, but larger crowds.
If you shoot with a phone, use HDR or portrait modes. With a camera, avoid heavy tripods in crowded places – use a monopod or in-body stabilization instead. A powerbank and spare memory card are must-haves.
One of the biggest advantages of a private tour is help with booking entries. I can assist with: - reserving tower entries at St. Mary's Basilica (if available); - buying tickets to nearby attractions worth combining with the walk; - scheduling the tour time so you catch the hejnal or the best light for photos.
Booking in advance gives you comfort and saves time. Reservations are often necessary in peak tourist season, during long weekends and on dates with religious or cultural events.
When booking it's good to provide: - number of people; - preferred date and time; - whether you want to climb the tower; - whether the tour will focus mainly on photography (I will then adjust the pace and locations).
Booking and payment - reservations are made by email or phone; - details about prices and promotions are agreed at booking; - for groups and themed tours there are possible packages and tailored routes.
For clarity - sample price options for private tours (indicative and reflecting seasonal promotions in autumn–winter):
- 2-hour tours (Polish) - promotional price available in selected periods.
- 3–4 hour tours - extended option with additional entries and photographic spots.
Prices vary depending on tour length, group size and language. When you book I will give the current offer and available promotions.
If you have specific photographic needs – e.g. a shoot with a model, longer equipment setups or using lights – write ahead so we can discuss logistics and any required permissions.
- Clothing: choose comfortable shoes – the Market's paving can be uneven. Bring a lightweight rain jacket for changeable weather.
- Photo gear: powerbank, extra memory card, light monopod or small tripod if you plan long exposures in the evening.
- Timing: if you want few people in the frame, schedule a morning meeting; for evening light plan the golden hour and after-dark shots.
- Drones: there are restrictions in the historic centre of Krakow – check rules and needed permits before planning aerial photos.
- Protecting your gear: stay alert in crowded spots. Small backpacks with zipped closures work better than open bags.
Will we go up St. Mary's tower? - The possibility depends on availability and conditions on the day. When you book I will check availability and help organize the tower visit if possible.
Is the route suitable for beginner photographers? - Yes. The route is designed for people of all skill levels. I will help choose compositions, suggest camera settings and give practical tips.
How many people can take part in a private tour? - The tour is flexible – from individuals to small groups. Larger groups require prior arrangement and may have additional organizational costs.
Can you help book tickets to other attractions (e.g. Wawel)? - Yes, I can help plan and reserve entries to attractions near the route to make the most of your time.
How long is the photo-walk? - Usually 1.5–2 hours for the short version or 3–4 hours for the extended program with entries.
The easiest way is to contact me by email or phone, giving your preferred date, time, number of people and photographic expectations. At booking we will agree the meeting point on the Market (e.g. by the Cloth Hall or another agreed landmark).
The day before the tour I will confirm the meeting time and send directions and a short list of things to bring. On the day we start punctually so we can make the most of the best light and entry times.
It's good to have with you: - ID if we book group tickets; - extra batteries and space for photos; - comfortable shoes.
My tours combine solid knowledge with a sense of humour and practical tips. I try to adapt the pace to the group, and in photography tours I allow plenty of time for taking pictures and short sessions. I want each participant to leave the tour with a new interesting fact about Krakow and at least one successful shot.
If you wish, I can prepare a strictly photographic route focused on particular themes – architecture, sculptural details, atmospheric streets or evening illuminations.
I look forward to hearing from you and seeing you on the Market!
