Where in Kraków can you take photos that look like postcards—but without crowds in the frame? This guide gathers tried-and-true locations, simple photography tricks and practical information to help you plan a session (or a short reel) so you bring home the best shots and enjoy your time in the city.
We don't focus only on the classics—although the monuments are great—we also add a few less obvious spots and one important practical note: if you plan a break between shots, it's useful to know when to visit the Małopolska Science Center Cogiteon and how much time to reserve for a visit.
The article was created from the experience of a Kraków guide and compiles places and tips in a friendly format—ideal for people who want to quickly and smartly plan a photographic tour of the city.
1. St. Florian's Gate and the Barbican — an Old Town icon: brick textures and a great perspective on the entrance to Floriańska Street.
2. Floriańska Street and the Planty — long perspective, cobbles and greenery; works great for vertical frames and reels.
3. Kanonicza Street and the Alley of the Unfaithful Thomas (Zaułek Niewiernego Tomasza) — narrow lanes, atmospheric shopfronts and perfect portrait-frame corners.
4. The Small Market (Mały Rynek) and the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) — pastel townhouses and architectural details, ideal for close-up shots.
5. Kazimierz (Józefa Street, Wolnica Square) — murals, cozy cafés and alternative backdrops.
6. Father Bernatek Footbridge — panorama of the Vistula and the city, especially dramatic at sunset.
7. Zakrzówek — rocky shores and turquoise water for outdoor, more unusual frames.
8. Viewing mounds (Kopiec Krakusa, Kopiec Kościuszki) — city panoramas from above, great at sunrise and dusk.
9. The Barbican/Planty at night — illuminations and empty space create dramatic, atmospheric shots.
10. Hidden gardens and courtyards around the Old Town — lesser-known spots, often without crowds, very Instagrammable.
All of the places above share something in common: strong lines, textures or an interesting background. Floriańska Street gives a leading line; St. Florian's Gate and the Barbican offer architectural rhythm and brick texture; Zakrzówek provides color contrast (turquoise vs. green).
For reels look for motion and changing plans: entry into the frame, a detail, a reaction. For a still shot use symmetry (gates, arcades) or contrast (a person against a wide panorama). Vertical frames work better in mobile apps—keep this in mind when planning a session.
If you want to avoid flat images, add one foreground element: a branch, a bench, a mirror or a puddle reflection. That immediately raises the photo's impact.
The best times are early morning (before 9:00) and the golden hour before sunset—light is soft then and most tourists are still waking up or already relaxing.
Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, and in high season we recommend very early visits to the Old Town. If you cannot come in the morning, consider evening shots: illuminated monuments create great atmosphere, and longer exposures can add a dynamic effect.
Planning your route based on the direction of light will help you get better frames: some places (for example Floriańska Street) look best in soft morning or evening light.
The Old Town is a Paid Parking Zone—check current rules before you arrive and have an app or small change ready for the meter.
It's most convenient to leave the car in large underground car parks (for example at Galeria Krakowska) or in parking areas near Worcella and Basztowa streets, then walk to the center. This saves time and stress looking for a spot.
If you're planning a short session, public transport or a taxi is often the best solution—faster and often cheaper than circling the center looking for free parking.
Cogiteon is a modern science center in Kraków, great for family visits and a creative break between photo routes.
Typical opening hours (check before you go): the center is usually open Tuesday to Friday from 9:00 to 16:00, and on Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00; Mondays are most often technical days when the venue is closed.
Recommended time to visit the permanent exhibition is about 2 hours—plan this during a family day or when the city's weather is uncertain. Workshops and themed events are often held on site, so it's worth checking the current program before your visit.
Cafe Camelot (Kanonicza Street) — an atmospheric café at the end of a charming lane; a nice place for a break after a shoot on Kanonicza.
Pizzeria Cyklop — a simple, tasty option for pizza after a walk around the center.
Metrum Restobistro and other popular cafés in Kazimierz — perfect places to recharge after a longer photo route and to charge your gear before the next shots.
When choosing a place to eat, consider reviews and popularity—the venues above generally score well in reviews and are often recommended by visitors.
St. Florian's Gate is about 34.5 meters high and was once connected to the Barbican by a special corridor, which adds historical charm to these sites.
The Planty were created on the site of the old defensive walls—the walk along the green ring around the Old Town is at the same time a walk through Kraków's history.
Zakrzówek is often a discovery for those who know only the center—the water color and rocky shores give a completely different dimension to urban frames.
Thinking that the best photo is only about expensive gear—composition, light and an idea are often more important than the camera.
Positioning yourself in the middle of a passage or blocking entrances with a large tripod during peak hours—respect others and choose places where you don't obstruct pedestrians.
Not checking regulations about drones and filming in the center—there are restrictions in the strict city center, so verify rules before you fly a drone.
Where to park closest to St. Florian's Gate? It's best to use underground car parks at Galeria Krakowska or parking near Basztowa and Worcella streets.
Can I use a tripod in the Old Town? Usually yes, but during busy hours it's better to take quick handheld shots so you don't block walkways.
Can I take photos at night? Yes—illuminated monuments look great. Remember safety, a stable tripod and not to block sidewalks.
How much time to allocate for Cogiteon? A minimum plan is about 2 hours for the permanent exhibition and any workshops.
If this guide was helpful, share it with friends or on social media—you'll help others plan a better stay in Kraków.
If you'd like to explore Kraków with a private guide and discover photographic routes off the beaten path, consider booking a tour with Małgorzata Kasprowicz—contact and offers are available at zwiedzaniekrakowa.com.
Good luck photographing Kraków—don't forget your phone charger, a pair of good shoes and an open mind for surprises in every alley!
