The Dragon's Den beneath Wawel Hill is more than the famous tale of the Wawel Dragon every visitor hears in Kraków. It's a natural Jurassic limestone cave with corridors totaling roughly 270–280 m, of which an 80–85 m path is open to visitors. The cave interior formed over millions of years, and in its lowest parts there are small pools inhabited by rare underground creatures — a neat detail for anyone interested in geology and natural history.
Smocza Jama has three main chambers and an entrance from the riverbank side; just outside the exit you'll usually find the modern sculpture of the dragon by Bronisław Chromy, which, as many tourists remember, breathes fire at times and makes for a fun photo moment.
For a group of 7–30 people the Dragon's Den is a perfect short stop as part of a Wawel and Old Town walk. The descent down the spiral stairs and the walk through the accessible route usually take 20–30 minutes, so it fits nicely into a half-day plan that includes the cathedral and a stroll to the riverside boulevards.
If you plan to enter in larger groups, consider splitting into smaller subgroups at the entrance or arranging a specific time with the site. Guides who know the best visiting hours can help schedule smaller groups so everyone has a chance to look around and hear the dragon story.
Remember the Dragon's Den is not wheelchair or stroller accessible — access involves steep spiral stairs and narrow passages.
A simple plan that works well for mid-size groups: quick walk around Wawel Hill (30–40 min), visit the Dragon's Den (20–30 min), short storytelling stop by the dragon statue and a walk down to the Vistula boulevards (15 min), then follow the Royal Route toward the Main Market Square with a coffee stop near Kazimierz (40–60 min).
If you have less time, focus on Wawel and the Dragon's Den plus one spot in Kazimierz (for example a synagogue or a cozy café) — that gives a great first impression of the city.
Kraków offers several models of accommodation that suit mid-size groups: hostels with multi-bed rooms, aparthotels or apartments rented exclusively, and hotels that can block a number of rooms. The choice depends on budget and the desired level of privacy.
Hostels near the centre and Kazimierz are a good option when you want group integration and shared spaces — a kitchen and common room make evening gatherings easy. Look for properties with 4–8 bed rooms and group booking discounts.
Aparthotels and apartments are ideal if the group prefers more privacy: you can book several units in the same building or rent a larger property exclusively. If you need extra services (meeting rooms, parking for a bus, on-site restaurant), choose properties experienced in handling organized groups.
Before you book, ask about the property's group policy: do they require a contract, how large is the deposit, do they issue invoices and can they arrange group meals. Many places request a guest list and contact person details.
Check for bus parking or a drop-off area near the property. For school trips and larger groups this is an essential logistic detail.
Find out whether the property provides breakfasts for large groups and whether they can prepare dinner or catering — this saves time and simplifies logistics. Also confirm rooms for group leaders or supervisors and storage space for luggage.
For larger groups it's worth choosing a restaurant that can reserve separate tables or the whole dining room. Around Wawel and in Kazimierz you'll find traditional Polish restaurants and international bistros that welcome groups — classic options include hearty Polish fare as well as lighter bistro menus.
If you want a quick, tasty and informal meal after sightseeing, family-style restaurants and beer halls near Wawel are a strong choice. Examples of places that regularly handle groups include Pod Wawelem (traditional Polish portions and a large hall), and in Kazimierz cafés and restaurants such as Mleczarnia or Hamsa that offer relaxed group seating.
For special group dinners consider booking in advance and asking about set menus or group packages — that usually speeds up service and keeps costs predictable.
Don’t leave accommodation and transport bookings to the last minute, especially in high season — the best prices and options disappear months ahead.
Don’t plan everything at the last minute: for groups of 7–30 a day-by-day plan and a designated contact person greatly simplify communication with hotels and restaurants.
Don’t forget documentation for group bookings — many properties require a guest list, leader contact details and a deposit. When requesting offers ask up front about cancellation terms and the flexibility to change the number of people.
Is the Dragon's Den open every day? Opening hours depend on the season — in summer the site is usually open longer than in the low season. Check current opening hours before your visit.
Is the Dragon's Den safe for children? The route is short, but stairs and narrow passages require supervision. Children explore more easily in a group with a guardian. For families with small children consider a carrier instead of a stroller.
How to get to Wawel? Wawel is in the heart of Kraków and is easily reachable by tram and bus. If you arrive by minibus or coach, check in advance for drop-off points and parking nearby.
Give yourselves time for an unhurried walk around Wawel and Kazimierz — often the nicest part of a visit is wandering and discovering favorite cafés, cheese shops and gingerbread makers.
If you want the visit to run smoothly and be interesting, consider arranging a private guide. Małgorzata Kasprowicz can help plan and lead routes tailored to mid-size groups; contact details are available on the guide's website.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with friends or on social media — it will help others better plan their stay in Kraków. We also welcome contact if you want a tailor-made walking tour for your group.
