Yes — in many ways. Krakow is a city where tradition and the avant-garde meet around almost every corner: alongside repertory institutions you’ll find independent stages, clubs with long artistic histories and outdoor performances that can turn a square into a theatre. For a group of friends, a private route gives you control of the pace, the chance to go behind the scenes or arrange meetings with creators, and the freedom to choose repertoire — from classic plays to performance art and object theatre. That makes the evening more intimate and personal than a single night out at one show.
A private tour lets you combine venues (for example Cricoteka, Teatr KTO, Łaźnia Nowa) with food and bar stops — it’s perfect when you want to spend time together while experiencing different sides of Krakow. When planning, remember to check room availability, age restrictions and make reservations, especially if you plan to visit popular exhibitions or outdoor shows during the summer season.
Cricoteka – the museum and cultural centre linked to the work of Tadeusz Kantor. It blends the history of the avant-garde with new curatorial projects and often hosts exhibitions, performances and events focused on experimental theatre practices.
Teatr KTO – known for large-scale outdoor spectacles, object theatre and productions for broad audiences. Their street and outdoor shows are a great choice if you want something loud, theatrical and impressive to share with the group.
Teatr Łaźnia Nowa – a stage that connects independent roots with the local public; based in Nowa Huta, it offers a chance to see the theatrical perspective of this part of the city, which many tourists don’t know well.
Off and independent scenes (small halls, clubs, performance groups) – Krakow has a rich catalogue of non-institutional initiatives, from experimental theatre to improvisation and puppet theatre (Teatr Figurki). Check the current programmes of local clubs and foundations.
Clubs with an artistic history: Klub Pod Jaszczurami, SPATiF, Piwnica Pod Baranami — venues that serve as stages for music, cabaret and intimate performances; you can begin the evening with a short concert or recital and then move on to a play.
Seasonal events: Night of Theatres and local festivals — moments when the whole city becomes a stage. If you visit in June or during festival periods, check the events calendar and book tickets in advance.
Decide the mood and pace: do you want an evening of drama, improvised comedy, or a tour of alternative spaces with a few short stops? For a group of friends a good mix works well: one longer main show plus two shorter visits to a club or gallery.
Reservations and contacting venues: many institutions accept group bookings or can arrange backstage tours. It’s best to write at least 2–3 weeks ahead, and earlier in the high season. A private guide can handle formalities and schedule entries to avoid queues.
Arrange logistics: pick a starting point (for example the Old Town or Kazimierz), schedule coffee and meal breaks, and plan transport between farther locations (Nowa Huta). Allow buffer time between performances — enjoy the evening without rushing.
Choose a theme: you can request a route devoted to the avant-garde, puppet theatre, cabaret history or street theatre. A theme helps focus the programme and gives the evening coherence.
Adapt to the group: if someone has mobility issues, check venue accessibility; if children are joining, pick family-friendly shows or workshops at Teatr Figurki or Łaźnia Nowa.
Half day (afternoon + evening): start with coffee and dessert in Kazimierz (Siostra Coffee Bar or Ranny Ptaszek), a short visit to a small gallery or Cricoteka exhibition; stroll to a club for an intimate recital or improv; finish with an evening performance at Teatr KTO or a small off-stage production. End with dinner and a conversation about the shows.
Full day (culture + Nowa Huta): morning walk in the Old Town, quick breakfast, visit Cricoteka; afternoon transfer to Nowa Huta and a performance at Teatr Łaźnia Nowa or a theatre workshop; return to the centre for an outdoor show or a small stage production; dinner with live music (for example Harris Piano Jazz Bar, Piwnica Pod Baranami) and a short afterparty in a club.
Plac Nowy and zapiekanki — a quick, local and social option if you want a simple snack before the next event. It’s an iconic point on the Kazimierz evening map.
Good Lood — popular ice cream to sweeten the evening after a performance. Lines can be long, but the taste is worth it.
Ranny Ptaszek and Siostra Coffee Bar — reliable places for morning coffee and conversation before your route; ideal for groups starting a day of culture.
Harris Piano Jazz Bar, Alchemia, Piwnica Pod Baranami — venues with a great musical atmosphere; after a show you can continue the conversation over good music and wine.
Recommended restaurants — choose places with consistently high reviews and steady quality: restaurants serving regional and contemporary cuisine tend to be popular. Book a table for theatre evenings, especially on weekends.
Krakow is a city of many stages: according to municipal listings there are dozens of theatrical institutions and many non-institutional initiatives, so almost everyone can find something — from movement theatre to cabaret and puppet shows.
Night of Theatres is an event when the whole city becomes a stage — institutions and independent groups present performances and open backstage spaces normally closed to the public. It’s a great moment for intimate group discoveries.
In Krakow experimental institutions like Cricoteka connect the past with the present: exhibitions often include performative and educational programmes, which add an extra layer to a private route.
No reservations and planning too late — popular shows and exhibitions sell out quickly. Book tickets and contact venues well in advance.
Mismatched pace — an overly tight schedule makes the evening exhausting. Leave time for breaks and spontaneous decisions.
Ignoring age restrictions and accessibility — check show information before buying tickets. If someone in the group has mobility issues, ask about entrances and lifts.
No plan B for outdoor shows — weather can change plans. Agree on an alternative in case a performance is cancelled or postponed.
How long does a typical private theatre tour last? Usually from two hours (short thematic route) up to a full day; a typical evening includes one main performance and 1–2 additional stops.
Can you arrange a backstage tour? Many institutions allow backstage visits by prior arrangement; it depends on the repertoire and rehearsal schedule, so ask when booking.
How much does a private tour for a group cost? Prices depend on the programme: tickets, guide or backstage fees, transport and meals. For clarity ask for a tailored offer — a guide can propose several options.
Is a private route suitable for people unfamiliar with theatre? Absolutely — a guide will adapt the narration to the group’s level, add historical context and curiosities so everyone leaves with more knowledge and enjoyment.
Dress comfortably but smartly — intimate theatres often have a relaxed yet cultural atmosphere; some venues prefer smart casual.
Check opening hours and the day’s schedule in advance — festival and exhibition plans change, and local events can affect parking and city traffic.
If you want the evening to be truly polished, use the services of a private guide who will handle reservations, tailor the programme and arrange small surprises.
If you found this article useful — share the plan with your friends. If you’d like the route arranged from A to Z, consider booking a private guide: Małgorzata Kasprowicz can design a thematic, stress-free evening with handpicked venues and local recommendations. Enjoy the show and have a wonderful, inspiring evening!
