TAURON Arena is not only a venue for concerts and sporting events — it is also a modern complex that can be visited with a guided tour. On the tour you will see areas usually closed to the public: VIP boxes, stands, locker rooms, technical backrooms and some of the spaces used to organize large events. It’s a great idea for a rainy day or when you want to see Kraków from a different angle than the Castle or the Market Square. Tours run on specific days and usually require prior reservation — places are limited, so plan ahead.
If you are looking for a short, light attraction between other sightseeing points, combining a visit to the Arena with lunch nearby is a sensible solution: you save travel time and can relax in one of the local dining zones.
Before booking a tour check the Arena’s current schedule and reservation rules — organized groups may have visits at different times, and individual entries usually happen on set days of the week. Keep in mind that on the day of a major event (concert, match) tours can be limited or unavailable.
Arrive a few minutes before the meeting time. Tickets for tours are usually symbolic (often around 10–15 PLN, though prices and rules can change), and children below a certain age may enter free or under adult supervision — check details when booking.
If you plan to visit on an event day, read information about parking and traffic arrangements — the Arena has a large parking area, but on busy days public transport is often the better option.
TAURON Arena is located in the Czyżyny district, about 4 km from the Main Market Square. The venue is well connected by trams and buses — tram lines stop near the Arena, which makes travel from the centre usually take about 15–25 minutes depending on traffic.
On large event days extra services and traffic changes are often introduced — check the public transport timetables and city announcements before you set off. If you are driving, remember that parking at the Arena is often paid on event days; to avoid queues consider arriving earlier or leaving your car at a park-and-ride lot and taking the tram.
If you prefer a short outdoor meal, see whether Arena Garden is operating — this seasonal zone of food trucks and soft bars often runs near the Arena and is a convenient option for visitors.
If you want to eat immediately after the tour and stay close to the Arena, you have several convenient choices: Arena Garden — when open it’s the fastest and most pleasant option: a few food trucks serve burgers, pizza, international dishes and drinks, and the atmosphere is ideal for a quick informal meal.
Galeria Plaza and the M1 shopping centre are nearby and offer restaurants and fast-service bars. In Galeria Plaza you can find places such as Molto Bene, a practical choice for a straightforward lunch in the area. This is a good solution if you travel with a group and everyone wants to choose something different.
If you can spend an extra 15–25 minutes travelling, head to the city centre (Old Town, Kazimierz) — you’ll find far more restaurant choices there and often higher quality than in the immediate Arena area.
The Old Town and Kazimierz are classic choices after visiting the Arena — you can reach them quickly by tram, and there’s a wide selection of places: from traditional Polish restaurants to modern bistros and international cuisine.
If you prefer highly rated and award-winning places, Kraków has restaurants recommended by guides and many venues recognised by culinary polls. Examples often recommended by guests and critics include Bottiglieria 1881 (fine dining), Zazie Bistro (French bistro in Kazimierz), ORZO and Nolio (known for quality and fresh ingredients). When choosing such venues, reserve a table in advance — evenings can be very busy.
For a more relaxed street-food vibe, Plac Nowy in Kazimierz offers quick and tasty options, and the Kazimierz neighbourhood is full of small restaurants with good reputations.
Bottiglieria 1881 — a restaurant with critical acclaim and gastronomic awards; excellent for a special lunch or dinner.
Zazie Bistro — a French-flavored spot in Kazimierz, often praised for good value and high dish quality.
ORZO, Nolio, MAZI, Starka — examples of places regularly appearing on “must eat” lists and culinary rankings; each has its own character so choose according to your group’s mood.
Molto Bene (Galeria Plaza) — a practical option right next to the Arena if you want a quick meal without travelling further.
Arena Garden / food trucks — when active, a great place for a fast, informal outdoor lunch.
Relying only on food options immediately next to the Arena — the closest outlets (especially in shopping zones) do not always offer the highest quality. If you want something truly good, travel to the centre or Kazimierz.
Not checking timetables and event schedules — on big event days transport and parking can be difficult. Check the event calendar before planning lunch or parking.
Skipping reservations at popular restaurants — recommended and award-winning places are often full, especially in the evening. Book in advance.
Settling for the first fast-food option out of fear of time — it’s often better to spend a few extra minutes travelling to a trusted place than to be disappointed by low quality.
How long does the Arena tour last? Tours usually take about 60–90 minutes, but confirm when booking.
Is the tour paid? Yes — tours are paid, though the price is typically symbolic. Check exact rates when reserving.
Are there food options at the Arena? Yes — the Arena has food zones inside, and in season Arena Garden with food trucks operates nearby; there are also outlets in the adjacent shopping centre.
How do I get to the centre after the tour? The quickest way is by tram — the connection to the Main Market Square usually takes 15–25 minutes. Check the tram line and stop before you leave.
Should I reserve a table in the centre after the tour? If you plan to dine at a popular place (especially in the evening) — yes, a reservation is recommended.
TAURON Arena runs a seasonal Arena Garden that works like a small street-food park — it’s perfect for those who want a varied local meal without leaving the area.
During some organized visits guests can arrange catering service in VIP boxes — a rarely advertised option useful for corporate groups and large outings.
At weekends and in the high season trams and buses run more often, but on event days local timetables may be reorganized — it’s handy to have a transport app or check MPK announcements before you go.
If you need a tailored plan combining an Arena visit with lunch at Kraków’s best spots, we’re happy to help. Private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz prepares bespoke routes — you can find contact details on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. We recommend this service if you value saving time and local recommendations.
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