Yes — and without rushing, with breaks for coffee, lunch and short rests. Krakow’s center is compact: the main spots lie close to each other, so you can plan shorter daily walks (usually 3–6 km depending on the option) and use public transport for extra attractions. If you’re visiting during the May holiday, I recommend starting mornings earlier — the early hours are the best time for relaxed sightseeing and great photos.
In this guide you’ll find a ready-made 4-day plan with light alternatives, practical tips for older visitors, food suggestions and a list of common mistakes to avoid — all in a friendly, practical tone.
The plan is arranged so each day covers the key highlights without tiring stages: shorter morning walks, a longer lunch break at a well-rated restaurant, and a short afternoon stroll or an optional trip by car/tram. There’s also the option to go outside the city for a day (for example, Wieliczka).
Key rules: start in the morning, don’t try to “do it all” in one day, book tickets to popular attractions in advance and plan lots of breaks. For visitors with limited mobility choose shorter stretches and optional tram or taxi legs.
Begin near the Planty or St. Florian’s Gate around 9:00 to ease into the Main Market Square, walk around the Cloth Hall and admire St. Mary’s Basilica from the outside. A short stop for a bagel-like obwarzanek or a coffee will give you energy for the next part of the route.
Continue along the Royal Route (Grodzka, Kanonicza streets) up to Wawel. Spend 20–40 minutes on the hill for courtyard photos and the cathedral view; save interior visits for another day if grandma prefers shorter walks (some interiors require advance reservations).
In the afternoon, I suggest a short rest on the Vistula Boulevards — benches and river views are excellent for recharging before dinner. If you need to shorten the route, skip part of the walk and return to the hotel by tram.
Take Kazimierz slowly: Szeroka Street, Wolnica Square and side streets like Izaaka or Wąska. This district is full of atmospheric cafés, galleries and places ideal for a longer break. Choose one or two charming spots instead of hopping from place to place.
In the afternoon cross the Bernatek Footbridge and take a short trip to the Podgórski Market Square to escape the crowds and capture pretty views of the river. If you have energy, you can add a brief visit to the Oskar Schindler Factory Museum — remember to account for time limits and possible queues.
Wieliczka is a classic choice for a full day: the Salt Mine tour is moderate-paced but includes many steps and longer staircases inside — check availability and difficulty if grandma has trouble with stairs. The alternative is a calmer day in Krakow: more time in museums or an extended break in a park.
If you choose Wieliczka, organize the trip in advance and reserve tickets and transport. After returning to Krakow it’s worth ordering dinner at a well-rated restaurant near your hotel — it saves energy and adds comfort.
Spend the last day on what brings the most joy: revisit a favorite alley, buy souvenirs at Stary Kleparz market or relax in a café with a view. A slow pace and no time pressure make for the best finish to the May holiday.
If you have an afternoon flight or connection, plan the nearest attractions for the morning and leave time to return to your accommodation. Check opening hours of museums and restaurants for the holiday period — May holidays can affect schedules.
Choose places with good reviews and comfortable seating, especially for meals after a day of walking. On the Old Town and in Kazimierz you’ll find both elegant restaurants and friendly, reliable spots serving homemade and regional dishes. Examples worth checking before your visit: Szara (Market Square), Pod Wawelem (near Wawel), Starka (Kazimierz).
For accommodation pick places near the center or with good tram connections to minimize transfers. For seniors, hotels with elevators, a reception desk and the ability to call a taxi on request are most comfortable. When booking, check elevator availability and the distance to the nearest tram stop.
Comfortable shoes and planning breaks every 60–90 minutes are essential. Krakow’s center has a lot of cobblestones and uneven pavement — this can be challenging for people with balance issues. If someone has mobility problems, plan shorter stretches or use the tram/taxi between the most distant points.
Buy tickets for major attractions in advance — this saves waiting in lines and reduces fatigue. Always carry a bottle of water, the phone number of a local pharmacy and a small supply of pain relief if needed (as advised by a doctor).
If you plan to visit places with many stairs (for example some parts of Wieliczka or entrances to certain museums), check for shorter routes or the availability of lifts/ramps.
Trying to see “everything” in one day — this leads to exhaustion and sore feet. It’s better to see fewer things at a calmer pace and enjoy them.
Not checking opening hours during holidays — during the May holiday many places may have altered hours; always check ahead. Not planning breaks or meals at well-reviewed places — in high season it’s worth reserving tables. Walking overly long routes without a transport backup — have a plan B (tram, taxi).
The Planty park encircling the Old Town was created on the site of the city’s former medieval walls and offers shaded walking routes — a great place for a break with grandma. The Bernatek Footbridge is a fantastic spot for photos with the Vistula and Wawel in the background, especially at sunset.
During May many cafés and the boulevards host local outdoor events — fairs, small craft markets or street concerts. These are a nice addition to regular sightseeing, but I suggest checking the event program before arrival.
Is the route suitable for older people? Yes, if you adjust the pace, schedule breaks and use the tram for longer stretches when needed.
How much walking per day? On a typical day I suggest 3–6 km with breaks; if grandma prefers less, shorten the route and spread attractions over more days.
Do I need to book tickets for Wawel and Wieliczka in advance? Yes — especially during the May holiday and high season it’s wise to book online to avoid queues.
Are there public restrooms? Yes, there are restrooms near major attractions and on some boulevards; it’s also worth asking cafés if you can use their facilities when you buy something.
If you think this plan will help friends, share the article on social media or send it to your family — it’s nice to know the guide helped someone plan a May getaway.
If you’d like to explore Krakow with a private guide, I invite you to consider tours with Małgorzata Kasprowicz. Private guiding lets you tailor the pace to grandma’s needs, plan comfortable routes and reserve entrances so your time in the city is pleasant and stress-free.
