Krakow has many places that can be visited without barriers — but some historic sites require careful route planning. Increasingly, institutions publish accessibility information and the city issues practical guides and apps that show ramps, lifts, accessible toilets and equipment rental points. This article will help you choose 10 of the most interesting spots you can visit cheaply or for free, and advise how to spend New Year's Eve in the city safely and comfortably.
Below you will find short descriptions of places, practical transport tips, a few recommended cafés and restaurants, plus common pitfalls and how to avoid them. If you’re unsure whether a particular attraction is fully accessible — ask before you go, as renovations, seasonal changes or new layouts can affect access.
To start: the city offers free access to many public spaces — the Planty, the Wisła boulevards, and the city mounds — and many museums have free entry days; these are great ways to enjoy an affordable and memorable trip.
1. Main Market Square and the Cloth Hall — the heart of city life. A huge, easy-to-navigate square with viewpoints around and flat access to courtyards. Allow time to explore the Cloth Hall and admire St. Mary's Church architecture from the outside.
2. Wawel Hill (the courtyard) — wandering the castle courtyard usually does not require a ticket and is largely step-free; remember that not all indoor exhibitions are accessible, so check exhibition access before visiting.
3. Wisła Boulevards — a long, flat route along the Vistula river, ideal for an afternoon stroll, picnic or watching the sunset. Seasonal walkways and platforms may appear, so check which sections are open.
4. Planty — the green ring around the Old Town; benches, paths and short distances between sights make this walk pleasant and easy to manage.
5. Kościuszko Mound — the mound has areas adapted for people with disabilities, including a lift and viewing terraces; access is possible though some approaches are steep, so consider using accessible public transport for the trip.
6. Kazimierz — the atmospheric streets of the former Jewish quarter: many venues have level access from the street; look for restaurants and cafés with step-free entrances or ramps.
7. Nowa Huta (Central Square) — wide sidewalks and open spaces; a different architectural perspective on Krakow that’s easy to explore independently.
8. Jagiellonian University Botanical Garden and some city parks — beautiful spots to relax; check opening hours and any free-entry days.
9. Wieliczka Salt Mine (parts of the surface route and exhibitions) — parts of the route can be accessible, but it depends on the tour chosen; reserve in advance and ask about wheelchair-friendly options.
10. Museums with free-entry days and accessible exhibitions — many institutions hold days with no admission fee; take advantage of these to see quality exhibitions at low cost.
Check accessibility before you go: official institution sites and city guides gather information about lifts, ramps, accessible toilets and crowd limits. If a route includes cobblestones, roots or gravel, plan shorter legs and breaks.
Public transport: most modern trams and buses in Krakow have platforms or ramps to assist boarding. For longer distances choose low-floor trams or buses and inform the driver if you need help.
Plan alternatives: if a single attraction is partly inaccessible, nearby spots often offer an equally rewarding experience — for example, instead of going underground you can enjoy the surroundings outdoors and visit a nearby café.
For New Year's Eve: if you want to watch fireworks or a concert from your wheelchair, choose areas with even surfaces and easy access. Annual events sometimes include special zones for people with limited mobility; contact the organizer in advance to reserve a spot.
A walk around the Market Square and the Planty — an absolute classic, free and easily accessible. On New Year's Eve the city center has special traffic arrangements, so check maps and designated walking zones.
Wisła Boulevards and Zakrzówek — views, space and fresh air; perfect for a picnic or photos. Dress appropriately and remember winter surfaces can be slippery.
Museum free-entry days — many museums offer free days (check current calendars), a great option for a rainy day or a budget-friendly discovery.
Outdoor events and local concerts — the city regularly organizes free happenings; before New Year's Eve monitor municipal announcements for additional initiatives.
Wheelchair and rehab equipment rentals: Krakow has services offering manual and electric wheelchairs and small rehabilitation aids. City information points can direct you to rental outlets and support centers.
Taxis and specialist transport: some taxi companies operate wheelchair-accessible vehicles — book in advance and inform them if you need a ramp or extra space.
Public transport access: choose low-floor lines and ask the driver for assistance when boarding or alighting; most staff are willing to help. The city publishes information about accessible stops and routes.
Café Camelot — an atmospheric café in the Old Town, popular with locals and visitors; great for breakfast or cake after a walk. In peak season check whether balcony tables and entrances are step-free.
Pod Aniołami and Wierzynek — historic restaurants serving traditional Polish cuisine; both are good options for a hearty meal after sightseeing, though ask about access to cellar dining rooms before entering.
Szara Gęś and Miód Malina — often recommended for quality, good service and atmosphere; they have branches convenient for tourists. If a garden terrace matters to you, ask about step-free access.
Starka and Pod Baranem — reliable spots offering modern takes on Polish cuisine; reserving a table for the evening is a good idea, especially on weekends.
Assuming 'all of Wawel' is accessible — many visitors discover on arrival that some exhibitions are limited; avoid disappointment by calling ahead or checking current information about lifts and exhibits.
Not planning breaks — longer walks on cobble or uneven paths are tiring; leave time for rest and coffee stops in your itinerary.
Ignoring seasonal disruptions — in winter or during renovations some routes can be closed; always check city notices and institution websites before travelling.
No New Year's Eve reservations — if you want dinner in a popular restaurant or a place in a special zone, book early and confirm accessibility options for people with limited mobility.
1) Many city routes and parks have been designed with accessibility in mind — these features aren’t always obvious, but there are maps and city apps that point them out.
2) Some museum exhibitions offer sensory accommodations and audio description — excellent support for visitors with additional needs; ask about these when booking tickets.
3) New Year's Eve in the city often brings closures and traffic changes — organizers sometimes set aside special zones for people with limited mobility, but you usually need to request access in advance.
Q: Can I get into Wawel with a wheelchair? A: You can access the courtyard and some exhibitions; however, some interiors have stairs and narrow passages — contact venue staff before your visit.
Q: Which museums have free days? A: Many museums run free-entry days; schedules vary — check the current calendars of the museums you plan to visit before your trip.
Q: Are there electric wheelchair rentals in Krakow? A: Yes, companies and outlets offer electric wheelchairs and rehab equipment; it’s best to reserve in advance.
Pack sensibly: a layer of clothing, comfortable shoes for your companion and spare batteries for electric equipment are essentials. Always have the phone number of your accommodation and a map marking accessible toilets.
If you want a stress-free, tailor-made tour — consider contacting Małgorzata Kasprowicz, a guide associated with this site; help with route planning and reservations can make your stay more pleasant.
If you found this article helpful — share it on social media or send it to friends. That way more people will learn that Krakow can be accessible and welcoming to every visitor. Safe travels and see you in the city!
