Kraków has well-known icons, but the best shots are often off the beaten path — in neighborhoods, parks and on the mounds. The narrow streets of Kazimierz, the industrial spaces of Nowa Huta, green reservoirs and views from the mounds all give contrasting backdrops for photos and short videos. Plan a route that mixes classics with less obvious spots — it makes your feed cohesive and varied.
The places recommended below work both for single framed shots (Instagram) and dynamic vertical clips (TikTok). I also pay attention to practical aspects: opening hours, crowds and safety — more on that below.
The footbridge connecting Kazimierz and Podgórze is a symbolic spot with thousands of padlocks and striking lighting at night. Wide-perspective shots that include the Vistula and an illuminated Wawel look fantastic here. Early morning or late evening are best if you want to avoid crowds.
If you plan to film with a gimbal, watch for pedestrians — the bridge can get busy. Shots taken from the river level (for example from the boulevards) add depth and context.
Zakrzówek Reservoir is a former quarry with intensely turquoise water and rocky cliffs — a place that often looks like an overseas resort in photos. It’s a great backdrop for styled outdoor sessions and short nature films.
Be careful: not all areas are open to visitors and the terrain can be steep, so choose designated paths and viewpoints when planning shots. Access to the banks is sometimes limited in certain seasons, so check local notices.
Podgórze moves at a different pace than the Old Town — the triangular market square, neo-Gothic accents and intimate side streets create a mood ideal for portraits and urban storytelling. The Museum of Podgórze, as a branch of a larger institution, offers exhibitions and events that bring the history of this part of the city to life — combine a visit with your photo walk.
From time to time there are special rides with historic trams or themed events that give extra chances for original shots — keep an eye on local event listings.
Kanonicza is one of Kraków’s most photogenic streets, where medieval facades and cobbles create a spectacular background without much need for filters. Come early in the morning when the light is soft and the street is still quiet.
Combining shots from Wawel and the nearby gardens lets you build a series with varied architecture and atmosphere. Respect the historic sites and follow visiting rules.
Kraków’s mounds give panoramas that no ‘hero shot’ from a tenement can replace. Sunrise or sunset from a mound is almost guaranteed to produce a moody, successful shot. Each mound offers a slightly different framing and character.
From the mounds it’s easy to capture wide views, use drones (if you plan to fly a drone, check regulations and no-fly zones over the city) and long perspectives with red rooftops. Consider small foreground elements when composing: benches, trees and local walkers.
Kazimierz is a treasure trove of inspiration: colorful murals, narrow gates, cozy cafés and cobbled alleys. Józefa Street and the area around Plac Nowy are full of framing potential — good for lifestyle portraits as well as street photography.
Visit recommended cafés and restaurants that also offer nice interiors for photos — for example Café Camelot for classic charm and Olio for color and great pizza. Reserving a table can make an interior shoot easier.
The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCAK) and the surrounding Zabłocie area offer raw, industrial vibes ideal for experimenting with composition and contrasts. Facades, modernist details and open spaces work well for fashion shoots and artistic clips.
If you want to combine museum interiors with outdoor scenes, check opening hours and photography rules inside exhibitions. You'll also find pleasant cafés nearby for a short break.
The boulevards along the Vistula are a classic spot for photos with the Castle in the background; walks there offer many dynamic shot opportunities: reflections in the water, boats, passing crowds and changing light. Bridges — including Dębnicki Bridge and the Bernatek footbridge — add structure to compositions.
Late afternoon is a good time — low sun, golden city tones and the first bridge lights coming on. Be mindful of cyclists and other users when setting up tripods or longer shoots.
If you want to escape the city's rhythm and find natural, postcard-ready frames, head to Bagry Reservoir, Wolski Forest or Piłsudski Mound. These spots are great for nature sessions or outdoor sports shots.
When planning trips outside the center, factor in travel time — public transport can be convenient, but remember the last services if you’re returning late.
Good food and pretty interiors are a double benefit for content. Recommended visits include Café Camelot (for a classic interior), Olio (well-known for pizza and colorful surroundings) and Forum Przestrzenie for a more modern, open plan with a terrace by the river. Oriental Spoon is an option for fans of Asian flavors in a less obvious spot.
If you want top-rated places, check current reviews before you go and reserve a table in advance at popular venues, especially in the evenings and on weekends.
Kraków has a convenient tram and bus network that moves you quickly between the Old Town, Kazimierz and Podgórze. Trams reach many of the points recommended in this guide. Occasionally there are special runs with historic trams tied to museum events.
Buy tickets at ticket machines at stops, via apps or at some kiosks. Remember to validate your ticket — inspections are common. For an intense photography day, consider time tickets (24/48h) or walking routes that let you discover hidden details on foot.
The best light is the golden hour — just after sunrise and before sunset. Early mornings give quiet, empty streets, ideal for classic shots in Kazimierz or Kanonicza. Evenings work well with neons and city lights.
Keep color consistency across photos and short clips — pick a palette (e.g. pastels, high contrast, natural) and stick with it during your walk. Experiment with perspective: a low angle for drama, a wide lens for panoramas, and a longer focal length for portraits to soften the background.
Trying to do everything in one day — it’s better to choose 2–3 areas and explore them calmly rather than rushing between points and wasting time on travel.
Not checking opening hours of museums and restaurants — verify official pages or call ahead before visiting.
Lack of respect for local space — do not enter private property, don’t damage greenery, and don’t block pedestrian traffic during shoots.
Do I need permission to take photos inside historic interiors? Small amateur photos are usually allowed, but some museums or private venues may have restrictions — ask staff when in doubt.
Can I fly a drone over Kraków? Flights over the strict city center and near airports are restricted. If you plan to use a drone, check current regulations and designated zones.
When are the best times to take photos with few people around? Early morning between 6:00 and 9:00, when most tourists are still sleeping or having coffee.
For easy access to most places on the list, Kazimierz or the Old Town are the best choices — they are walkable, full of cozy cafés and restaurants, and well connected. For modern hotels, check options in Zabłocie or near the boulevards.
If you prefer highly rated places, choose hotels with good reviews and a pedestrian-friendly location — it saves time and gives comfort for early-morning or evening shoots.
Many of Kraków’s mounds have legends and historical roles — these make great little curiosities for your post captions.
Some popular locations look completely different off-season — fewer crowds, different light and a changed atmosphere.
Podgórze increasingly hosts small cultural initiatives and local exhibitions — check events at museum branches before your visit.
Respect public and private spaces — don’t set up tripods where they block passage, and don’t use flash in churches or museums if it’s prohibited.
At Zakrzówek and other natural sites pay attention to fences and safety barriers — ignoring them can be dangerous.
If you’re doing a commercial shoot, consider formal permits — many places require permission for commercial photography.
Kraków offers huge creative potential — from historic cobbles to modern boulevards and mysterious mounds. A well-planned route that combines several types of places will help you create cohesive and attractive material for Instagram and TikTok.
If this guide was helpful, share it with friends or on social media. For stress-free visits with local narration, Małgorzata Kasprowicz offers private guided tours — you can find contact details on the guide's website. Great shots and happy walks!
