Did you know that on a single walk you can experience two very different faces of Kraków? Kazimierz charms with the atmosphere of the old Jewish quarter — narrow streets, synagogues and lively cafés and bars — while a few steps away the Main Market Square with St. Mary's shows the majesty of Gothic architecture and the famous altar by Veit Stoss. That contrast makes the two areas complement each other perfectly, so it’s worth planning a visit that lets you feel both worlds.
In practice many people start their sightseeing in Kazimierz — breakfast or coffee at Plac Nowy, a short stroll along Józefa and Szeroka Streets, then a walk to the Main Market Square. This way you can relax in Kazimierz’s informal atmosphere and afterwards discover the monumental interior of the basilica by the market.
This guide gives concrete information about visiting hours and what tickets and student discounts are usually available, plus practical tips on what to see in Kazimierz, where to eat and how to avoid common tourist mistakes.
St. Mary's Basilica is one of the top "must-see" places in Kraków. For visitors a part of the church is open — the chancel and the main altar — where you can admire the Veit Stoss altarpiece and the polychrome decorations. Visitor entry is from the south side and the visitor service point is located at Plac Mariacki 7.
Typical visiting hours are: Monday–Saturday 11:30–18:00, Sundays and holidays 14:00–18:00. The main altarpiece is opened for viewing at selected times (for example around 11:50 on weekdays), so plan your visit to increase the chance of seeing the full chancel.
Access to the tourist area is via the so-called "cegiełka" entry token. Currently there are usually two categories — a large and a small token. The small token is meant for children over 8, students (up to a certain age) and other eligible groups and normally costs less than the large token. Sales at the ticket point close about 15 minutes before the end of visiting hours, so don’t leave your purchase to the last minute.
Climbing the tower of St. Mary's is a separate attraction — it offers a panorama of the market and the city, and every hour the hejnał (bugle call) is sounded. Tower access uses a special entrance (including from Floriańska Street) and is often organized in small groups due to the narrow, winding stairs.
In high season tower access may be limited to specific times (for example every 30 minutes). The tower ticket is usually sold separately from the entry token for the interior. Keep in mind that the stairs require good mobility, and queues can form during busy periods. If the tower is important to you, schedule it into your day and arrive early.
If you are a student, you can usually get a reduced price when buying the "cegiełka" entry token. In practice discounts typically apply to university students and people up to a certain age (often up to 26), but you must always show a valid student ID: a university ID, ISIC card or another document proving student status.
Bring the original student ID — copies or screenshots may not be accepted. If you travel with an ISIC or Euro26 card it can speed things up. Remember that some institutions have their own discount rules, so when in doubt ask at the visitor service point.
Kazimierz is best discovered on foot; a few streets are enough to feel its atmosphere and find places worth stopping at. A good plan: start at Plac Wolnica, stroll along Szeroka and Józefa Streets, visit synagogues (for example the Tempel Synagogue and the Remuh Synagogue with the old Jewish cemetery), pause at Plac Nowy and try the famous zapiekanki, then relax in one of the neighbourhood cafés or restaurants.
Kazimierz is also a great place to eat — look for well-rated venues with a local character. Around Plac Nowy you’ll find popular spots serving local and international flavours; in high season reserve a table in advance for the best places. After dinner take a walk along the lit streets and stop at a cosy bar or café.
Good food is an important part of sightseeing: in Kazimierz and around the Market you’ll find highly rated restaurants and cafés. If you want dishes inspired by Jewish and Middle Eastern traditions, pick a place known for those specialties; near the Market you’ll also find restaurants with excellent reviews serving traditional Polish cuisine in an elegant style.
If you look for accommodation, consider basing yourself in Kazimierz to be close to the bars and a relaxed atmosphere, or near the Main Market Square if you want historical sights on your doorstep. In season check reviews and book early, especially for centrally located hotels and apartments.
Assuming entry to St. Mary's is always free — a common mistake. Part of the church is open to visitors only after purchasing a "cegiełka" entry token; access to the area for worshippers remains separate from the tourist zone.
Not checking opening hours and altarpiece opening times — the Veit Stoss altarpiece is shown to visitors at specific times, so arrive when it is available.
Not having a student ID — don’t expect a discount without a valid student document.
Visiting at peak hours — if you want to see the interior calmly avoid the busiest times (midday–afternoon).
Do I have to buy a ticket to enter St. Mary's? - To see the tourist part (the chancel and the altar) you usually need to buy a "cegiełka" entry token. The church still keeps areas open for worshippers.
How do I get a student discount? - Show a valid student ID, ISIC or another accepted card when buying the token; note that some discounts are age-limited.
Can I take photos inside? - Many visitors photograph the interior, but there may be restrictions on photographing the altar or during services; please follow staff instructions and respect other worshippers.
Where do I buy tower tickets? - Tower tickets are sold separately at the visitor service point; the tower entrance is from Floriańska Street and access is sometimes organized in small groups.
The visitor service point at Plac Mariacki closes sales about 15 minutes before the end of visiting hours — arrive earlier if you don’t want to miss out. If you plan to climb the tower, be prepared for stairs and possible short waits in season.
Respect the site as a place of worship: silence your phone, avoid loud conversations in the nave during services and dress appropriately.
If you have limited time, combine a short walk through Kazimierz with a visit to St. Mary's — the combination gives a fuller picture of Kraków’s history and contemporary life.
Did you know the hejnał played from St. Mary's tower ends abruptly to commemorate the legendary trumpeter who was supposedly shot while sounding the call? It’s one of those small but moving traditions best heard live.
Also note that parts of the interior or exhibitions may be temporarily closed for liturgies or renovations — if you care about specific displays, check information a day before your visit.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with friends or on social media — it will help others plan a better visit to Kraków.
If you prefer exploring with someone who knows the city and tells the stories that give your day shape and pace, consider booking a private guide — for example Małgorzata Kasprowicz offers guided visits that can make your time in Kazimierz and the city’s monuments calmer and richer. If you want help arranging a guided visit, ask for details and booking options through the guide’s official channels.
