Wawel is more than a symbol of Poland — it’s a place alive with history on many levels, from representative chambers to hidden underground spaces and fragments of medieval fortifications. In 2025 the castle’s exhibitions were expanded with new permanent routes that show the spaces “between the walls” and parts of the hill’s former buildings — so a walk around Wawel Hill today gives more context and surprising discoveries than a few seasons ago.
If you plan to explore on foot, treat Wawel as a spot where you can spend half a day or a full day — depending on whether you want to visit the castle chambers, the Cathedral, the new underground routes, or simply sit on a viewing terrace and take in the city. Booking tickets in advance will save you a lot of stress, especially in high season.
Day 1: Old Town and Wawel. Start in the morning at the Main Market Square — the Cloth Hall, St. Mary’s Basilica — after breakfast walk the Planty park toward Wawel. Choose one of the new or classic Wawel routes: the Cathedral, the castle chambers, or the underground. In the afternoon relax by the Vistula boulevards or opt for dinner near Kazimierz.
Day 2: Kazimierz and riverside walks. Spend the day wandering the atmospheric streets of Kazimierz, visiting synagogues, galleries and small museums. Reserve the afternoon for a walk along the Vistula — you’ll see Wawel and the bridges from a different angle. In the evening pick a well-reviewed restaurant in this neighborhood.
Day 3: Museums and relaxation. Use this day for the National Museum, smaller niche exhibitions, the Renaissance Royal Gardens on Wawel, or a temporary exhibition. If you prefer, turn this day into a short walking trip outside the city — for example a section of the papal trail to Kalwaria or a route toward Wadowice (for active visitors).
Wawel consists of several independent zones: the Royal Castle (chambers, temporary exhibitions), the Cathedral (royal tombs, the Sigismund Bell) and the underground areas. Not everything is covered by a single ticket and not all routes are available at all times — so check current opening hours and entry rules. Some exhibitions offer audio guides, which in practice are sometimes free or included in the ticket; they’re a great option if you prefer to explore at your own pace.
In practice this means: plan a morning visit to Wawel, book tickets online when possible, and leave time to wander the courtyards — cloisters and small displays may take longer than you expect. Keep in mind that some underground routes have limited capacity and last entry times can be earlier than the hill’s closing time.
Kraków’s center is very walkable — the main sights are concentrated in a relatively small area, so you can plan efficient walking days. To avoid overdoing it: break the day into short sections (for example 45–75 minutes walking, then a break), drink plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes. From Wawel you can descend to the Vistula, walk the boulevards toward Kazimierz or return along the Royal Route to the Market — each option is attractive and offers different city views.
If you plan a longer trek outside Kraków (Kalwaria, Wadowice), treat it as a separate project: plan overnight stops if needed, download a GPX map and check public transport options for the return — many visitors staying in the city choose this to avoid a tiring return trip.
Around the Market and Wawel you’ll find both classic highly rated restaurants and good bistros using local products. If you want to try traditional Polish cuisine in an elegant setting, consider places with an established reputation and strong reviews. In Kazimierz look for restaurants recommended by locals and reserve tables for the evening — dinners here often last and become one of the most pleasant memories of your trip.
For accommodation choose locations within the Old Town or Kazimierz if you want to make the most of the city on foot — you’ll be close to most attractions and avoid daily commuting. Boutique hotels and well-rated guesthouses in historic buildings offer the most atmosphere, but remember that prices rise quickly in season — book ahead.
Wawel hides details that often pass unnoticed on a first quick visit: fragments of medieval walls, small towers with reconstructions of everyday life on the hill, and compact archaeological displays that can change your perspective on the site. In 2025 permanent exhibitions were opened that focus on these “between-the-walls” spaces, revealing parts of old buildings and offering multimedia stories.
For photographers: try viewing Wawel from the boulevards on the opposite bank and from the bridges — different light and framing make a huge difference in how the castle appears.
Trying to “see everything” in one day. Kraków packs many attractions into a small area, but it’s better to choose fewer places and experience them more deeply — you’ll enjoy the visit more than rushing through dozens of sites.
Not booking tickets for Wawel and temporary exhibitions. This is an easy thing to do before your trip and will save you from queues and disappointment.
Wearing uncomfortable shoes. Even shorter walks involve cobbles, stairs and uneven pavements. Choose footwear with good soles and cushioning.
Ignoring opening hours and last-entry times. Some exhibitions have earlier last entries than the overall closing of the hill — check this before you set out.
Do I need to book Wawel tickets in advance? – If you want to visit popular routes (chambers, underground, temporary exhibitions), online booking is strongly recommended, especially in the tourist season.
How much time is needed for Wawel and the Old Town? – For a basic, relaxed visit to Wawel (chambers, cathedral, a short exhibition) plan half a day. The Old Town with coffee breaks and the Cloth Hall is another 3–4 hours. If you want to dive into museums, add another day.
Are audio guides available? – Some exhibitions offer audio guides and they are often included in the ticket or free; check the exhibition description before buying.
How to prepare for walking days? – Comfortable shoes, a water bottle, offline navigation or GPX if you go outside the city, and a plan with short rests are essential. For longer hikes (e.g. to Kalwaria or Wadowice) consider making it a separate day or part of your trip.
Bring a power bank — photos, maps and electronic tickets drain phones quickly. Pay by card where possible, but carry some small cash for markets or small purchases.
If you want to photograph museum interiors — check the exhibition rules. Not all rooms allow flash or photography at all.
Respect sacred spaces — in the Cathedral and other churches observe silence and appropriate dress; these are not places for loud behavior.
If this guide helped you plan your visit — share it with friends or on social media so others can benefit from these practical tips. I also encourage you to consider the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — contact details and the current offer are available on the official zwiedzaniekrakowa website; professional help can make your stay even more enjoyable and personal.
