Wawel and the Royal Route are two cornerstones of visiting Krakow — in summer both attractions draw the most visitors, so for medium-sized groups (7–30 people) good organization and booking in advance are the most important things.
They are a natural pair: Wawel is about the monarchy, royal chambers, the cathedral and royal tombs, while the Royal Route passes the key points of the Old Town — St. Florian's Gate, Floriańska Street, the Main Market Square and finishes near Wawel. Together they create a coherent story of Krakow as the former capital.
Optimally, for a group of 7–30 people plan 3–4 hours in total if you want to see the main interiors at Wawel and walk the Royal Route with a short entrance to St. Mary's Basilica. If you plan to enter several exhibitions at Wawel (Royal Private Apartments, Treasury, Armory) or spend longer on the Market Square — consider half a day (4–6 hours).
In practice it's worth splitting the visit: Wawel in the morning (cooler, shorter lines), then a walk along the Royal Route with a coffee or lunch break on the Market Square.
09:30 - meeting at the entrance to Wawel, quick reminder of the rules and distribution of the day's plan.
09:40–11:10 - visit selected exhibitions and the cathedral (time depends on the number of interiors).
11:20 - short walk to the Bernatek Footbridge or through the Planty towards St. Florian's Gate.
11:40–13:00 - Royal Route: St. Florian's Gate, Floriańska Street, Main Market Square (Cloth Hall, exterior view), St. Mary's Basilica (entry for part of the group only if tickets available).
13:00 - lunch at a local restaurant or a coffee break; then closing summary and practical information for participants.
For organized groups, booking entries to Wawel is often necessary and places on some routes are limited - plan bookings in advance, especially in July and August.
When buying tickets, remember to match the number of exhibitions with available times; for a comfortable visit do not choose too many interiors in one day.
In the summer season (July–August) Wawel's opening hours are usually longer than off-season; check availability earlier and confirm the reservation by separate e-mail or phone.
Medium-sized groups are large enough to keep order, but too many entries into tight interiors slow down the visit. For convenience it's worth:
- appointing one group coordinator who will communicate with the guide;
- planning short breaks every 45–60 minutes;
- preparing water and hats for participants on hot days.
Yes - for groups of more than a dozen people a wireless headset system significantly improves listening comfort and allows the guide to keep a natural pace. Even if not formally required, it's worth considering when planning.
You can often rent a system on site or from the tour organizer - arrange this before departure.
Wawel Cathedral with its crypts and tombs of famous Poles is a must-see; allow time to enter. The Royal Private Apartments and the Crown Treasury offer the most interesting displays, but remember about time limits for larger groups.
The Sandomierska Tower and the royal gardens are a great option for summer - from the terraces you get a panorama of the city. If you plan to climb the tower, prepare the group for stairs - it's several dozen steps up.
St. Florian's Gate and the Barbican are a good starting point, then Floriańska Street leads directly to the Main Market Square. On the Market Square pay attention to the Cloth Hall, the Town Hall core and St. Mary's Basilica with its famous altarpiece. You can finish the walk along the Royal Route by heading back toward Wawel to create a coherent sightseeing loop.
Reserve entry to St. Mary's Basilica for part of the group only if space is limited.
For groups we recommend choosing well-reviewed places that can reserve tables for larger parties. On Wawel Hill Trattoria Wawel is a convenient option after visiting the castle. On the Market Square and nearby you will find classics: Wierzynek (a historic restaurant often recommended for guests wishing to feel the atmosphere of old Krakow), cafes such as Massolit or Cafe Camelot - good for a short coffee break.
When planning lunch check table availability in advance, especially on weekends and during the holiday season.
If you plan accommodation for the group, recommend places near the Old Town and Wawel - this will save travel time between sites. Consider boutique hotels and well-reviewed properties by the Market Square or on Kanonicza Street for quick access to the sightseeing route.
For groups that need more logistical options it is more convenient to base closer to the Old Town than in a distant suburban location.
At Wawel pay attention to subtle architectural details and inscriptions - the guide can point these out quickly, turning an ordinary walk into a mini-lecture.
In summer some courtyards have deckchairs and relaxation zones - a good option for a short rest after intensive sightseeing.
In the tower and some cellars the number of people allowed at once can be limited for safety reasons - take this into account when planning entries.
Not booking in advance - leads to disappointment and program changes. Book ahead.
Trying to see too many exhibitions in one day - it's better to choose wisely 2–3 displays than rush through five and remember little.
Not preparing for heat - in summer the sun and crowds can tire the group faster than expected. Provide water and shaded breaks.
Do you need to book tickets for a group? Yes - in season booking is highly recommended and in many cases mandatory.
What is the maximum group size at Wawel? In practice the recommended and often accepted organized group size is up to 30 people - above that groups are often split.
How much does a visit cost? Costs depend on chosen exhibitions and tickets - include entrance fees and possible guide service fees and headset rental.
Arrive 10–15 minutes before the planned start to calmly assemble the group and discuss rules of conduct inside the interiors.
If you have people with limited mobility in the group, ask in advance about route accessibility and the possibility of adapting the program.
Have a plan B in case of rain - shorter interiors, museums or a longer lunch in a covered venue.
If this guide was helpful - share it with friends or on social media. If you prefer, the guide who can lead such a tour for your group is Małgorzata Kasprowicz (Margaret Kasprowicz) - details can be found on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. We warmly invite you to Krakow and wish you many unforgettable moments at Wawel and along the Royal Route!
