The Veit Stoss Altar in St. Mary’s Basilica is not only one of Krakow’s icons but also a masterpiece of late Gothic art. It was worked on for 12 years, from 1477 to 1489, and is full of sculptural detail. You only fully appreciate its theatrical, sculptural storytelling when you see the altar in its "open" display — when the movable wings reveal a wealth of scenes and figures.
A well-planned visit helps you avoid the biggest crowds, catch the moment when most visitors are just arriving, and see details that are hard to spot in a dense throng. For many visitors the opening moment — the gathered figures, dramatic compositions and colorful polychromy — becomes one of their strongest memories of Krakow.
If you want to watch the opening live, it helps to know the Basilica’s routines and visitor rules. Below is a step-by-step plan and practical tips to help you get the most from your visit.
Part of the Basilica is open to tourists while other parts remain reserved for worship. The Veit Stoss Altar is opened at specific times: on working days there is usually an opening around 11:50, while on Sundays and holidays the altar may be available under a different arrangement (in some cases it is effectively open for most visiting hours on Sundays). Entrance to the sightseeing areas is sometimes ticketed; typical prices are around 10 PLN full and 5 PLN reduced, but rates and times can change — check current information before your visit.
Remember that on Sundays and religious holidays parts of the church may be used for liturgy — then visiting and viewing the altar can follow a different rhythm. Always respect the sacred space: during Mass and services sightseeing may be limited. If you want to study details in peace, choose a time outside services.
When buying tickets check whether tower access is included (tower entry is a separate attraction with separate tickets) and whether combined tickets or discounts are offered. Ticket offices and information points are usually by the entrance from the Market Square.
1. Arrive early: aim to be at the entrance 20–30 minutes before the planned opening (so about 11:20–11:30 for an 11:50 opening). This gives time to buy a ticket, quickly check the layout and secure a good, less-crowded spot. Don’t arrive too early — ticket offices may be closed very early in the morning.
2. Pick a good spot: near the main aisle to the presbytery, slightly to the right of the altar, you can comfortably observe sculptural groups without blocking the way. Be mindful of people who come to pray — avoid standing in passageways.
3. Listen for the hejnal: if you’re on the Market Square just before or after the altar opening, you’ll hear the hejnal from the Basilica tower. It adds atmosphere to the visit — the melody sounds on the hour and traditionally stops abruptly in memory of a historic event.
4. After the opening: walk slowly along the altar, study the figural groups and the narrative of each scene. A pair of binoculars or a camera with a good zoom helps to see small details and inscriptions.
If you’re near the Main Market Square, plan visits to nearby highlights: climb the tower (weather and fitness permitting), take a short walk through the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), enjoy coffee in a recommended café and have lunch at a good restaurant. Tower access gives a view of the hejnal trumpeter and the market panorama, but numbers are sometimes limited.
Recommended places for coffee and lunch nearby (well rated): Café Camelot — an atmospheric café close to the Market; Szara Gęś w Kuchni — a respected restaurant on the Main Market Square; Miód Malina — traditional Polish cuisine near Wawel. Always reserve a table at popular places, especially in summer and on weekends.
If you have more time, consider a walk to Wawel or a short visit to one of the municipal museums — Krakow is full of places that connect nicely with Gothic art and the city’s history.
- Dress and respect: the Basilica is a place of worship — avoid loud behavior and exposed shoulders during services, and act respectfully.
- Photography: in most cases photos without flash are allowed, but follow signs and instructions. During services don’t photograph people praying without permission.
- Safety and personal items: the Market is crowded, so watch your bags. Expect queues in high season — keep tickets and reservation confirmations safe.
- Families with children: crowds and narrow passages can be tiring for young children; plan shorter visits or come at less busy times.
Arriving "at the last minute" — results in long queues and losing a good viewing spot. Fix: come earlier and, if available, book tickets online.
Confusing the sightseeing area with the worship area — not all parts of the Basilica are open to tourists. Fix: follow signs and staff instructions and respect restricted areas.
Assuming the altar is "always" open — schedules change around holidays or special ceremonies. Fix: check current opening hours, services and any closures before you go.
Do I need a ticket to see the altar? - Part of the Basilica is ticketed; some zones remain open to worshipers. Buy a ticket if you want to enter the exhibition area and see the altar up close.
Can I climb the tower and watch the hejnal? - Yes, tower access is a separate attraction with its own ticket; groups can be limited, especially in high season.
Has the altar been restored? - Yes, the altar underwent major conservation work completed in recent years, including research, cleaning and stabilization treatments.
The altar is made from three types of wood: the main structure from oak, the backing from larch, and the sculptures from lime (linden). These choices affect texture and how the polychromy has aged.
The tallest figures reach about 2.8 meters — these are monumental sculptures, not mere ornaments; they form a powerful, realistic narrative.
During World War II the altar was dismantled and taken away; it was later found in Bavaria and returned to Poland. That episode is a dramatic chapter in the altar’s history.
After a detailed visit you might enjoy one of the popular nearby places: Café Camelot (a charming café near the Market), Szara Gęś w Kuchni (a well-regarded restaurant on the Main Market), and Miód Malina (traditional Polish dishes near Wawel). Book ahead in the high season and on weekend evenings.
If you need accommodation, the best locations are around the Main Market Square or Kazimierz — both give easy walking access to the Basilica and other sights. When choosing a hotel check reviews for proximity to the Market and transport options (trams, taxis).
Seeing the opening of the Veit Stoss Altar is an experience worth planning: arrive early, choose a less crowded time, respect the place of worship and take time to enjoy the details. If you liked this guide, please share it with friends or on social media — these tips help anyone planning a visit to Krakow.
If you’d like help organizing your visit: Małgorzata Kasprowicz (zwiedzaniekrakowa.com) can advise on trip planning, guide museum visits and interesting places in Krakow, and help arrange logistics, transport, accommodation, restaurant reservations and tickets.
I warmly invite you to discover Krakow with guided care — with good planning you’ll see more, rest more, and enjoy every detail of your visit.
