You’re standing on the Main Market Square, looking at the two different towers of St. Mary’s Basilica and wondering — where do you get the best shot? How do you hear the famous hejnal and can you climb all the way to the top? This text was created to help you plan a photographic walk through the heart of Kraków with me, Małgorzata Kasprowicz. I’ll tell you which spots are worth visiting, when to come for the best light and what to watch for when climbing the tower and visiting the basilica interior.
The article is friendly and practical — you’ll find short routes, gear tips, information about tower access and an FAQ with the questions my guests ask most often.
I won’t list other guides — I want to show you how to make the most of your time on the Square and nearby while walking with me or doing a solo photo session.
Let’s get started!
Sometimes the best frames are the ones you find by accident — keep your eyes and camera ready.
St. Mary’s Basilica (The Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary) is a Gothic gem of Kraków with two unequal towers, from the taller of which the Mariacki Hejnal sounds every hour — a melody known around the world. The hejnal is played regardless of weather or season, so if you’re on the Market Square it’s worth standing by the church just before the hour to hear this short, abruptly ending tune.
The taller tower, called the bugle tower, is open to visitors seasonally — usually from spring through autumn. The ascent is by many stairs — it’s a proper leg workout, so plan accordingly if you have mobility or fitness concerns.
Tickets for the tower are usually bought at the basilica ticket office on St. Mary’s Square. For safety reasons the number of people allowed on the tower is limited per hour, so factor this into your plan — there can be a queue in high season.
A historical anecdote I like to tell on walks: the hejnal suddenly cuts off — legend ties this to a Tatar raid when a trumpeter saved the city’s alarm but was struck by an arrow. It’s part of local identity and a must-see moment on your itinerary.
Expect to see a panorama of the Market Square and parts of the Old Town from the tower — great views for photos, but remember the limited space and safety rules.
I suggest a short, focused photography route of 1.5–2 hours, ideal for people who want to leave the Square with a nice collection of shots without buying museum tickets. The route works both in the morning and in the late afternoon — it depends on the light effect you’re after.
Example order of places — quick route (approx. 2 hours):
- Main Market Square - façade of St. Mary’s Basilica and the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) - architectural shots and exterior views of the Veit Stoss altar details; if you want photos with fewer people, come very early in the morning.
- Floriańska Street - a perspective toward St. Florian’s Gate and great shots of the cobbled street with scenes of city life.
- Father Bernatek Footbridge (Kładka Ojca Bernatka) - nice views of the Vistula and Wawel, a good spot for wide-angle sunset shots.
- Kazimierz - Plac Nowy, Szeroka and Józefa streets - colors, café scenes and local atmosphere with contrasts perfect for street photography.
Some photographic tips:
- Best times of day: morning (about 6:00–9:00) — soft light and fewer people; late afternoon and the so-called golden hour — warm tones and dramatic skies. In the evening the city lights create mood and night scenes.
- Gear: a phone with HDR handles a lot well, but if you have a camera a wide-angle is useful for panoramas and a portrait lens for details. A powerbank is very helpful.
- Composition: use leading lines — cobbles, streets and gates guide the eye. Look for natural frames — doorways, arches, windows.
- Respect residents’ space and don’t block walkways. Narrow streets are residential, so setting up a tripod can get in the way.
The climb to the tower is by stairs — wear comfortable shoes. Sometimes, for safety or organizational reasons, access is limited — in practice, in season it’s worth allowing waiting time or checking availability in advance.
Tickets are purchased at the basilica ticket office on St. Mary’s Square. Because of seasonality and religious events the tower opening hours may change, so if you plan to go at a specific time it’s a good idea to check current information on the day of your visit.
Remember the rules inside the church — dress modestly and keep quiet in the interior. Photographing the basilica interior is possible, but during services please be discreet and avoid using flash.
For people with reduced mobility access to the tower is difficult due to the stairs — if in doubt, ask the basilica staff in advance about options and alternatives.
If you plan to bring larger photo gear, keep practicality in mind — a camera backpack is more comfortable than a shoulder bag during the climb.
If you’d like me to guide you around the Market Square and the best photo spots, you can book a private walk. From experience I know small groups are most flexible for photography — we can linger longer in places that interest you the most.
Sample practical details — what to know before the tour:
- Duration: typically 2–4 hours — shorter routes focus on the Square and Kazimierz; longer ones can include Wawel and Vistula panoramas.
- Group size and pricing: the offer depends on group size — current options and seasonal promotions are available on the site. Headset sets are also available for larger groups so everyone can comfortably hear the guide.
- Language: I guide in Polish and English — please ask about availability when booking.
We usually meet at an agreed point on the Market Square — a convenient starting location close to many key spots. Together we’ll plan the route to make the most of the light and avoid the worst crowds.
Is the hejnal played every hour all the time? - The hejnal is played every hour and is a constant tradition you won’t want to miss while on the Market Square.
When is the best time to come to avoid crowds? - Very early morning is the best time if you want clean frames without tourists. If you can’t come that early, try the golden hour before sunset — the light is most flattering then.
Can I use a tripod and flashes while visiting? - Tripods in narrow streets and inside the church can obstruct others — use them considerately. Flashes inside the church should be limited, especially during services.
Can I fly a drone in the city centre? - Drones over the historic centre require special attention and usually permits. Generally, flying drones in the historic core without permission is restricted — check regulations before a planned session.
What if I want to climb the tower with a big group? - The tower has limits on group size. For organized groups it’s worth contacting the basilica in advance to arrange possibilities and potential bookings.
How should I dress? - Comfortable shoes are a must — cobbled streets and stairs need stable footwear. In the church please wear neat, modest clothing.
Is there a place to charge batteries or use toilets near the Market Square? - Around the Square there are many cafés and venues where you can use a toilet or charge your phone — it’s handy to carry a small emergency charger.
If you have specific questions or unusual requests for a photo session — write in advance. I’ll gladly help plan the best route and the places that interest you.
Bring patience and open eyes — Kraków rewards those who give it a little attention. Sometimes the best shots are the most unassuming: a sculptural detail, the play of light in a gateway or a shot of a local vendor on the square.
If you wish, I’ll guide you on a route focused on photography — during the walk I’ll match the pace to your needs and help find frames you can later post or hang on your wall.
See you on the Market Square!
— Małgorzata Kasprowicz
PS. Don’t forget your charger and comfortable shoes — those are the most common things that save a photo day.
