The Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul stands on Grodzka Street, between the Main Market Square and Wawel Hill - an ideal starting point for a winter walk through the Old Town. The façade alone draws attention: stone statues of the apostles placed in niches create a distinctive Baroque sight that contrasts nicely with winter weather and the short, soft daylight. Inside, the basilica offers calm and warmth that after a few minutes outdoors can recharge you for more sightseeing. The church’s long construction history dates back to the early 17th century and it is one of the first examples of Baroque architecture in Krakow - a good fact to remember before you go in.
In the basilica’s crypts and within the parish you can also find elements tied to the city’s history and to several figures important for culture and science - a pleasant complement to your walk for anyone curious about history, without having to venture into long museum visits on a cold day.
On the façade look for the sculptures of the twelve apostles and the secular details on the cornices - these are features that set the Baroque aesthetic here apart from the Gothic and Renaissance churches in the city. The interior is laid out as a single nave with side chapels and a dome in the crossing; it’s a great place to sit for a moment, rest and plan the rest of your day.
Keep in mind that the basilica functions as a parish church and holds masses and classical music concerts - check the times of services or events before your visit so you don’t arrive during a time when sightseeing is limited.
From St. Mary’s Square or the Main Market Square walk toward Wawel along Grodzka Street - the stroll takes about 5–10 minutes and passes right by the basilica. Once inside, allow 15–25 minutes to see the interior and then stop for a coffee in a nearby café. On cold days it’s good to plan the route so you can be inside a warm place about every hour - this makes sightseeing more pleasant and relaxed.
If you also plan to visit Wawel, reserve a separate time slot for it - walking between attractions is short, but exhibitions and queues can take more time than expected. You can also reach Kazimierz by tram or on foot, where in the evening many atmospheric cafés serve hot desserts.
Krakow has a rich café scene - from historic locations to small roasteries offering specialty coffee. Near Grodzka and the Market Square you’ll find cafés praised for the quality of their beans and the baristas’ skills - places where a cup is prepared with attention to flavor.
A few well-regarded spots near the Old Town include: Gossip Cafe (known for very good coffee and homemade cakes), Mo-ja Cafe (fresh baked goods and a pleasant interior), Cakester Cafe (for healthy and gluten-free options), Café Noworolski (historic café in the Cloth Hall if you want an old Krakow atmosphere), and Urban Coffee (small roastery-style places and solid espresso). These places are popular with visitors and often listed in local round-ups for coffee and desserts.
If you prefer true specialty coffee, look for cafés that state the origin of their beans and offer alternative brew methods (drip, AeroPress, Chemex). Such places often rotate seasonal menus and may offer handcrafted hot chocolate or signature coffee additions - perfect for freezing days.
In winter reach for desserts that combine warmth and seasonal flavors: classic apple pie (szarlotka) served with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream, hot chocolate fondants, warm cheesecakes, pancakes with hot fruit compote, or baked apples with nuts. In cafés look for menu items labeled “seasonal” or “winter” - these often mean fresh ingredients and refined recipes.
Places that usually score well for desserts include Cakester (known for its baked goods and gluten-free options), Café Noworolski (a historic setting where dessert feels like part of the city’s story), and local cafés such as Gossip or Mo-ja where you’ll also find solid homemade cakes. On very cold days choose venues with heated interiors and a good selection of warming drinks: artisan hot chocolate, mulled wine where available, or seasonal coffee cocktails.
If you want something local, check whether a café offers regional versions of cheesecake or apple-based desserts - small differences in preparation can be a delightful surprise.
Avoid packing every attraction into a single day - winter sightseeing naturally slows down and queues for popular sites can be longer. Check opening hours for the church and the cafés you plan to visit - some venues have shorter winter hours.
Don’t park in central zones without checking fees - public transport or parking outside the center with a short walk is often a better option. Dress in layers, wear comfortable shoes with good grip and carry a small umbrella or a warm winter coat.
To avoid crowds inside historic interiors, visit in the morning on a weekday. If you plan a dessert break at a popular café consider making a reservation or arriving outside peak times (roughly 11:00–13:00 and 16:00–19:00 are usually busiest).
Is entry to the basilica free? Many visitors enter without a fee, but sometimes during special exhibitions, concerts or at certain times the parish may ask for a small donation or symbolic fee. It’s best to check locally or on the parish website before you go.
Are there public restrooms nearby? There are public toilets in the Old Town and restrooms in cafés and restaurants; in winter some automated facilities may be closed, so have a backup plan.
Do specialty cafés accept reservations? Small cafés often do not take reservations or have limited reserved seating - for larger groups it’s wise to call ahead or visit outside peak hours.
Is the basilica accessible for people with limited mobility? Many historic spaces in Krakow present challenges, but access to the basilica’s interior is usually possible. If you have specific needs contact the parish before your visit to confirm available facilities.
The Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul is a must-see not only for its architecture but also for its convenient location between the Market Square and Wawel - perfect for a winter walk with stops at some of Krakow’s best cafés. Combining short visits to monuments with breaks for specialty coffee and hot desserts gives you a fuller and more enjoyable sense of the city without feeling rushed.
If you liked this plan, share it with friends or on social media - we help visitors discover Krakow in a tasty and comfortable way. If you would like to explore Krakow with a private guide and learn less obvious stories about the city, I invite you to book a tour with Małgorzata Kasprowicz - details are available on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. I will gladly help plan a route tailored to your interests and the season.
