Want to hear the famous hejnał from the tower and see Veit Stoss's altar up close? Great — St. Mary's Church is a must-see stop in Kraków. If you want an engaging and stress-free way to learn the history of this place, a tour with a licensed guide gives the most value: context, anecdotes and answers to all your questions.
As a guide I lead tours of St. Mary's with passion — I point out the most important places, tell the secrets of the altar and explain the tradition of the hejnał. Below you'll find my current (2025) price list, practical information about entrances and tips that will make your visit easier.
The current offer and price list for the autumn–winter season are partly covered by a promotion. The promotion runs from October 1, 2025 to March 1, 2026 — if you plan a visit in that period, you can use the reduced rates.
Tours in Polish — small groups (1–35 people): - 2 hours: promotional price 300 zł (regular price 350 zł) - 3 hours: promotional price 400 zł (regular price 450 zł) - 4 hours: promotional price 500 zł (regular price 550 zł) - Each additional hour: promotional price 80 zł (regular price 100 zł) - Themed tours (shorter, specialist programs): about 370–420 zł for 2 hours (depending on the program).
Tours in English — small groups (1–35 people): - 2 hours: promotional price 400 zł (regular price 450 zł) - 3 hours: promotional price 500 zł (regular price 600 zł) - 4 hours: promotional price 650 zł (regular price 750 zł) - Each additional hour: promotional price 120 zł (regular price 160 zł).
Large groups (36 people and more) — charging per person (example promotional rates): - 2 hours: 12 zł/person (regular price 14 zł/person) - 3 hours: 15 zł/person (regular price 17 zł/person) - 4 hours: 18 zł/person (regular price 20 zł/person) - Each additional hour: 5 zł/person (regular price 6 zł/person).
Additional amenities: - Comfortable headset sets (audio-guide/tour guide) for groups: about 8 zł/person. - Entry to some parts of the site (for example the tower) requires separate tickets — ticket prices for attractions are set by the site managers and can change depending on the season.
A typical tour focuses on the basilica's highlights: the building's history, architecture, the symbolism of Veit Stoss's altar, curiosities about craftsmanship and sacred art, plus legends and stories from the city's life.
During the walk I show the parts of the church that are accessible to visitors and explain the context of the artworks. If the group wishes to climb the tower — I provide information on ticket availability; in season the tower is sometimes open to visitors at specific times.
For school or themed groups I prepare programs adapted to age and interests — tours can be more interactive, with tasks and short quizzes for younger participants.
Opening hours and availability: parts of the basilica are open to visitors at set times; some areas may be reserved for services. It's best to plan your visit in the morning or early afternoon and check the current opening hours before you come.
Tickets for the interior and tower: access to certain parts (for example the tower) requires a separate ticket. Ticket prices are set by the site manager and may change, so it is useful to have some cash or a card ready to purchase tickets.
Dress code and behaviour: remember that this is still a place of worship — modest clothing and respectful behaviour are essential. If you plan to enter areas used by worshippers, avoid loud conversations and follow posted signs.
Accessibility: the hejnał tower requires climbing stairs — unfortunately it is not accessible for people with limited mobility. The basilica interior has some accessible areas, but always ask in advance for the best route.
Photography: in most parts of the interior you may take photos without flash, but please be respectful and observe any local restrictions.
The bugle call played from the tower of St. Mary's Basilica is one of Kraków's most recognizable traditions. The melody is played from the tower and for many visitors it is a symbolic experience — often captured in photos and recordings.
The hejnał is performed regularly — the exact manner and frequency can vary with events and parish arrangements. The best way to enjoy it is to stand in the Main Square under the tower and listen — it's a moment that's hard to forget.
Do I need to book a guided tour in advance? - I recommend booking in advance, especially on weekends and during the tourist season. Booking secures a convenient time and lets me plan the route so you see the most important sights.
How long does a typical tour of St. Mary's last? - Usually 1.5–2 hours, depending on the group's needs. We can adapt the program to a shorter walk or extend it with additional attractions (Wawel, the Royal Route, Kazimierz).
Are children and teenagers welcome? - Of course — I run programs adapted to different age groups. For schools I propose interactive elements and curiosities that keep younger visitors engaged.
Does the tour include climbing the tower? - Tower access depends on ticket availability and opening status. If the group wishes to go up, I'll help check availability and organize tickets, but tower tickets are usually sold separately.
Are there discounts for large groups? - Yes — for groups above a certain size there are per-person rates (special group prices).
The easiest way to book is to contact me directly — provide the date, approximate number of people, preferred tour language and estimated tour length. That lets me prepare a program tailored to your expectations.
For school bookings please include the ages of participants and the trip's purpose — that helps me prepare suitable materials and themes. For large groups I suggest considering headset sets (about 8 zł/person) — they improve audibility and order during the visit.
If you plan a visit on a religious holiday or during special ceremonies — check in advance whether planned entries will be possible (access may be limited due to services).
Kraków has many faces, but a walk across the Main Square and a visit to St. Mary's Church are always a great choice. If you want to feel the atmosphere of the city, hear the hejnał and learn what lies behind Veit Stoss's altar — come on a tour. I aim to make every trip lively, full of curiosities and tailored to the participants.
If you have extra questions or want to arrange a date — write or call, tell me about your group and preferences, and I will prepare a program just for you. See you in Kraków!
