Krakow hides a history that stretches back hundreds of thousands of years — the new exhibition “Międzymurze. Podziemia Wawelu” presents artifacts found during recent research, including very ancient discoveries. This is just one of the new additions changing how we visit the city. This guide will help you plan your visit: what to see, how to buy tickets, and which places to avoid at busy times so you don't waste time or money.
1. Main Market Square and the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) — the heart of the city and the largest medieval market square in Europe; it's worth going inside the Cloth Hall, visiting the underground museum and listening to the trumpet call (hejnał) from St. Mary’s Tower. 2. Wawel Royal Castle with the Cathedral — set aside separate time for the royal chambers, the cathedral and the new exhibitions (see the Wawel section). 3. The Market Underground (Rynek Underground) — interesting archaeological finds and multimedia presentations of the city's history. 4. Kazimierz district — the historic Jewish quarter with atmospheric streets, synagogues, cafés and restaurants; perfect for an evening walk. 5. Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory (Museum of Krakow) — a powerful, moving exhibition about Krakow during World War II; visits require advance reservation. 6. MOCAK — Museum of Contemporary Art in Krakow — an engaging permanent collection and temporary shows, often combined with a walk through Podgórze. 7. Kościuszko Mound — a viewpoint that offers a pleasant walk and great panoramas of the city; the views reward the effort. 8. The Planty and city gates — a green belt encircling the Old Town, ideal for a calm walk between attractions. 9. The Barbican and Floriańska Street — a surviving section of the old city walls, symbolizing the city's defenses and marking the start of the Royal Route to Wawel. 10. National and private museums — the National Museum, the Czartoryski Museum (check exhibition availability), smaller galleries and archaeological reserves — check programs before you go.
In recent seasons Wawel has been complementing its classic displays with new narratives. “Międzymurze. Podziemia Wawelu” opens spaces previously closed to the public and showcases archaeological finds along with immersive sound-and-light installations that captivate even visitors used to traditional museums. Another offer includes exhibits that highlight lesser-known aspects of the castle collections — in the season you may find contemporary painting exhibitions from Wawel’s holdings that create a dialogue between history and 20th–21st century art. Check dates and schedules: some shows run for a limited time and have special themed tours.
Plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds at the main halls. If you want to see a specific temporary exhibition, buy a timed ticket in advance — some shows limit the number of visitors and use scheduled entry times.
The Museum of Krakow has recently introduced new ticketing rules for Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory. When buying online visitors will be asked to provide first and last names (personalized tickets), and online sales are available with a set advance purchase window. Combined tickets have also been introduced, which for a limited time allow entry to other branches of the Museum of Krakow as well. What this means for visitors: plan ahead — time slots sell quickly, especially on weekends and during the summer season. If you buy a ticket at the box office, remember it may have a shorter validity (for example, a limited time after purchase), so don't postpone your visit. Practical tip: create an account in the Museum of Krakow ticketing system and enter your details when purchasing to avoid problems at entry. Do not buy second‑hand tickets or tickets from private resellers — you risk fraud or invalid entry.
- Buy online tickets for the most crowded exhibitions: Wawel (if timed entry is required), Schindler’s Factory, the Market Underground and some special shows. - Arrive early in the morning (when museums open) or in the late afternoon; the busiest hours are usually between 11:00 and 15:00. - Consider a combined ticket or museum pass if you plan to visit several sites; it is often cheaper and more convenient. - During the high season (May–September and holidays) reserve restaurant tables and buy tickets well in advance. - Use public transport or walk within the Old Town — parking is expensive and limited.
If you plan a busy itinerary, organize it by area: for example, Wawel in the morning, a walk through the Planty, lunch at the Market, the Market Underground in the afternoon, and the evening in Kazimierz. This saves travel time and helps you experience different parts of the city.
Krakow offers a huge variety of places — from traditional taverns to modern restaurants. Here are some well-known, highly rated options: - Restaurant Wierzynek (Market Square) — historic and elegant, great if you want a meal with tradition. - Cafe Camelot (Old Town) — an atmospheric café, perfect for a break while sightseeing. - Alchemia and Mleczarnia (Kazimierz) — popular, atmospheric spots for an evening meal or drink. - Hamsa (Kazimierz) — Mediterranean/Middle Eastern cuisine, well liked by guests. Best neighborhoods to stay: Old Town (close to main attractions), Kazimierz (nightlife and cafés), Podgórze (quieter, nearer Schindler’s Factory). Hotels often recommended by guests include Hotel Stary, Hotel Wentzl (by the Market), PURO Kraków Stare Miasto and Sheraton Grand Krakow — book early in the high season.
If you want local flavors try the obwarzanek sold around the Market, pierogi at a reputable restaurant and craft local beers in one of Kazimierz’s bars.
1. Not reserving tickets to the most popular sites — leads to long queues or missing your preferred slot. 2. Buying tickets from unofficial sellers — risk of fraud or invalid entry. 3. Planning too many attractions in one day — Krakow rewards slow discovery, not rushing. 4. Ignoring opening hours and museum closed days — check institutions’ pages before you go. 5. Parking in the center without checking paid parking zones — fines and towing are costly. How to avoid them: plan ahead, book online, leave time for rest and local food, and check official sites of venues before visiting.
Do I have to reserve tickets for Wawel? - Many parts of Wawel use timed tickets. To be safe, book online or check entry rules the day before your visit.
How long does a visit to Schindler’s Factory take? - A standard visit usually takes 60 to 90 minutes. If you join a curator-led tour, allow more time.
Can I combine visiting Wawel with other attractions in one day? - Yes, but spread visits into logical blocks: for example, Wawel in the morning, walk the Planty, lunch at the Market, the Market Underground in the afternoon, and Kazimierz in the evening.
Are there discounts for students and seniors? - Yes, many museums offer reduced tickets. When buying online check which documents will be required at entry.
- Wawel is more than the chambers and the cathedral — beneath the hill you can discover fragments of older buildings and artifacts that reveal a much longer history of settlement on the site. - Schindler’s Factory is not just a “film location” — the exhibition offers a thorough look at Krakow’s fate in 1939–1945, presented with attention to historical context. Final tip: treat sightseeing as a conversation with the city — stop, peek into side streets, talk with museum staff and try local flavors. That’s the best way to bring home genuine memories of Krakow.
If you found this guide useful, share it with friends or on social media — it will help others plan a better stay in Krakow. If you want a personalized route, thematic tours or quick ticket reservations, contact private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — her offers and contact details are available at zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. Professional guiding saves time and ensures you see the most interesting things according to your interests.
Have a great trip and wonderful discoveries in Krakow!
