The Market Square Underground is one of those places that lets you see Kraków from the inside - literally. Beneath the layers of cobbles and townhouses lie remains of medieval buildings, fragments of former streets, house foundations and archaeological finds that tell stories about trade and everyday life from centuries ago.
Visiting the underground gives a different perspective than a walk across the Square: instead of a panorama you meet concrete, tangible traces of the past. The route is organised and supported by multimedia presentations, but remember that underground spaces can be cooler and more humid - bring a light extra layer.
In practice: during the season tickets are often sold for specific timed entries, so if your day is tight buy tickets online in advance. That way you avoid queues and can plan the time for lunch or further sightseeing more confidently.
In 2025 many Kraków museums use timed tickets for major exhibitions - that means you buy entry for a specific hour. It's a great way to shorten queues but it requires planning: if you want to visit several places in one day, schedule times so you don't rush across the city.
Look for combined tickets and family offers that often reduce costs. Many institutions also have days or hours when permanent exhibitions are free or cheaper - check each museum's calendar before your trip, because conditions and dates may change.
If you want to avoid crowds, visit popular museums early in the morning right after opening or later in the afternoon. Larger institutions often run short talks and themed guided tours that add context and make the visit more engaging.
After a few hours with a map in hand it's good to rest and eat something tasty. Around the Market you'll find places of many characters - from elegant old-Polish cuisine to cosy cafés and bars serving local specialities. For a classic spot with atmosphere consider Hawełka - a place with a long tradition and a menu that reflects Kraków's older flavors.
For fans of contemporary takes on Polish cuisine check Pod Baranem - a venue valued for ingredient quality and an elegant approach to tradition. If you're heading to Kazimierz after sightseeing, consider Szara or other places offering modern, seasonal menus.
If you prefer something quicker but authentic, try local snacks: a fresh obwarzanek straight from the cart, a zapiekanka on Plac Nowy or a solid bowl of żurek at a well-reviewed restaurant. For a cozy evening with old-Polish accents, Starka is a good choice - especially if you want to taste flavored vodkas and dishes with local character.
When booking: evenings and weekends can be very busy - if you have specific preferences reserve a table in advance. If time is limited, choose places close to your planned attraction to avoid losing time on travel between stops.
Not everything valuable has to cost money. A walk around the Market, the Planty and Kazimierz offers plenty without spending a złoty. Many churches can be visited for free (sometimes towers or special exhibitions have fees), and city cultural events often feature free concerts and workshops.
Check local event calendars - Museum Night, seasonal fairs or open-air concerts are good opportunities to discover the city for free or for a symbolic fee. Visiting a market, for example Stary Kleparz, lets you taste local products and feel the city's rhythm.
Assuming “everything is open all the time” - that's common. Many institutions change hours during church and national holidays; restaurants may have service breaks. Always check current opening times before you head out.
Not buying timed tickets for popular exhibitions leads to standing in lines or sold-out slots. Buy online for special shows, and if you're planning several attractions build a schedule with breaks and time buffers.
Eating “only by the Market” - many popular spots right on the Square charge high prices but deliver average quality. If you're after genuine flavors choose places recommended by locals and well-rated venues, even if it means walking a few streets away.
Can you enter with a stroller or use a wheelchair? Many main museum branches have facilities like lifts and accessible toilets, but in historic townhouses infrastructure can be limited - call ahead or check the museum description online.
Are there discounts? Yes - typically for pupils, students, seniors and families. Some institutions accept discount cards and offer family tickets. Check the rules of each museum before purchasing.
How to avoid crowds quickly? The best times are early mornings or late afternoons, and weekdays outside holidays. Timed entry reservations help you plan your day better.
Obwarzanek is not just a street snack - it has a long history and is a recognizable symbol of Kraków. Try a fresh obwarzanek from a traditional cart, and if you have time some places offer short baking workshops.
The Market Square Underground reveals layers of the city that sometimes include less pleasant discoveries, for example remnants of old burials or pieces of craftsmen's work. For many visitors those concrete details are what make the visit memorable.
Pay attention to small courtyards and arcades around the Old Town - they often hide intimate cafés and galleries, lesser-known but full of charm.
If you found this article helpful, share it with friends - it's a great way to save someone time and help them avoid common mistakes. Posting the plan on social media or sending it in a message is a friendly gesture for travelers in pairs or groups.
If you prefer to explore with someone who knows the city inside out, consider hiring private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz - contact details are available on the guide's website. A private guide lets you tailor pace, topics and the ideal lunch break to your needs.
Carry a small umbrella or a light rain layer - Kraków weather can change quickly, especially in shoulder seasons.
Cash and cards - most places accept cards, but small stalls like obwarzanek vendors or market sellers sometimes prefer cash. Keep some złoty on you for convenience.
Public transport and tickets - if you plan to use trams or buses, buy tickets in advance from machines or apps and always validate when required. Walking is often the fastest way between Old Town sights.
