Krakow has a compact center, many flat sections along the Vistula and an improving network of bike paths, so one day on two wheels lets you see more than on foot. Add a break in an unusual spot — the interactive Krakow Arcade Museum — and you get a fun mix of city history, riverside space and entertainment with an 80s–90s retro vibe. The museum is a treat for adults and kids alike: dozens of playable arcade machines you can touch and actually play are a pleasant break after intense sightseeing.
A bike route gives flexibility: you can set the pace, stop for photos, coffee breaks and a longer visit at the arcade museum. In this article you’ll find a suggested full-day route, practical tips for renting a bike, where to eat well and a few ideas to avoid common mistakes tourists make when getting around Krakow.
If you plan a busy day, check Krakow Arcade Museum opening hours in advance (options include 1–2 hour tickets or an open ticket) and consider the city bike system if you prefer not to worry about looking after a rented bike all day.
Start: Main Market Square in the morning — a short stroll around the Market and the Planty, quick espresso or breakfast at one of the nearby cafés. The Planty form a green ring around the Old Town and it’s a natural starting point since it sits in the center of the route.
9:00–10:00 — Wawel and surroundings. Ride along Wawel, leave your bike at a rack and take a short exterior visit to the castle and Cathedral (if you want to go inside, reserve extra time).
10:30–12:00 — Kazimierz. A short ride to the former Jewish quarter: synagogues, atmospheric streets, galleries and street art. Stop for coffee and a snack.
12:30–14:00 — Vistula boulevards and crossing to the opposite riverbank. A relaxing stretch by the river with plenty of photo spots and places to rest. Note: temporary diversions may appear due to infrastructure works.
14:30–16:30 — Krakow Arcade Museum. Visit the interactive video game museum — a perfect diversion and fun time playing arcade machines from the 80s and 90s; you can spend from one hour to several hours depending on your appetite for retro entertainment.
17:00–18:30 — Podgórze and view mounds (Kopiec Krakusa or Kopiec Kościuszki). A short climb if you fancy a panorama of the city; Kopiec Krakusa is closer to Podgórze center, while Kopiec Kościuszki offers a wide view over Krakow and the surrounding parks.
Evening — return to the Kazimierz or Market area for dinner at a recommended spot or enjoy a calm evening walk through the illuminated Old Town.
The place is interactive — most machines are functional and available for play, so the visit is an experience rather than just looking at exhibits. The collection includes many classics from the 80s and 90s, often the biggest draw for older game fans and an intriguing novelty for younger visitors.
Address and getting there: the museum is located at Centralna Street 41a; from the city center it’s a short tram or bike ride, and there is parking available at the venue for visitors arriving by car. It’s worth checking current opening hours and reservation rules before you go — the museum offers timed tickets and open tickets for longer stays.
Prices and promotions: admission can be hourly or open-ticket depending on the chosen option; the museum sometimes runs daily promotions and discounts, so check availability beforehand. It’s a great place for family visits, birthday parties or a rainy afternoon break.
Useful tips: bring comfortable shoes and consider keeping valuables in a closed backpack. If you arrive by bike, check for nearby bike racks — there should be options to safely secure your bike close to the museum.
For breakfast or coffee: the areas around the Market and Kazimierz offer many pleasant cafés; if you prefer a classic spot, pick a place with good reviews and a short queue — a simple way to recharge before a day on the bike.
For lunch in Kazimierz or Podgórze consider highly rated local options: Zazie Bistro in Kazimierz is a great choice for a light, French-style meal, and in Podgórze you’ll find restaurants offering modern cuisine that receive good reviews. If you want a special fine-dining experience, Krakow also has restaurants recognized by the Michelin Guide — an option for those seeking a gourmet evening.
For the evening: Kazimierz buzzes with life and has many places serving regional and international dishes; check reviews and book a table for the evening, especially on weekends.
Krakow runs a city bike system that makes short trips across the center easy — a convenient option for short legs and when you don’t want to watch over a privately rented bike. The system offers plans with a set number of free minutes per day — match the plan to your sightseeing pace.
If you plan to ride all day and take longer breaks (for example a longer stop at the arcade museum), consider hourly rentals from a private shop or bring your own bike. City bikes are great for point-to-point rides, but with multiple long stops they can be less economical than a single long rental.
Securing your bike: a good lock (for example a U-lock) is essential, even for short stops. Racks in popular spots can get crowded, so have a plan B — lock your bike in a visible, well-lit place.
Surface notes: in the historic center expect cobblestones and narrow passages. Slow down on cobbles, watch for pedestrians and trams — remember that in many places pedestrians have priority. Where shared foot-and-bike paths are marked, be cautious and adjust your speed.
The Vistula boulevards are one of the nicest parts of the route: flat, scenic and ideal for a rest. Still, pay attention to temporary traffic changes and construction works — some sections may have detours.
Weather and clothing: Krakow’s weather can be changeable — bring a rain layer and a light wind jacket. In summer use sunscreen and carry water; in winter plan shorter stretches and check the forecast before you go.
Safety: use lights after dark, wear reflectors and check brakes before a longer ride. If you don’t feel confident riding in heavy traffic, choose quieter stretches along the river or park areas.
Trying to cycle quickly through the entire Old Town — this leads to conflicts with pedestrians and can sometimes result in a fine. Go slower and be considerate, and where it’s crowded it’s better to walk your bike.
Not planning breaks — the Arcade Museum, cafés and view mounds are tempting, so build some extra time into your itinerary. An overly tight schedule takes the fun out of the trip.
Relying only on apps — maps are great, but local closures or roadworks aren’t always updated immediately. Also check on-site notices and ask staff at places you visit.
Can you ride a bike everywhere in the center? No — many representative spaces are heavy with pedestrians and include sections closed to bike traffic. In practice it’s best to ride around the Old Town using the Planty and to use designated shared paths where available.
How much time should I reserve for Krakow Arcade Museum? For nostalgia and some gameplay 1–2 hours is enough; if you plan to test many machines and take photos, allow more time or buy an open ticket.
Are the view mounds worth visiting? Yes, Kopiec Krakusa and Kopiec Kościuszki give different perspectives of the city than the historic center — I recommend them to diversify the route, especially in good weather.
What about luggage and backpacks? If you have large luggage, leave it in a luggage storage or at your hotel. For short city trips a comfortable backpack or panniers are perfectly sufficient.
Instead of a traditional loop, try a “culture and contrasts” route: Old Town — Wawel — Kazimierz — Podgórze — Vistula boulevards — Arcade Museum — evening Market Square. This combines history, the modern café scene and pop-culture gaming.
If you visit on a Tuesday or another promotion day at the museum, check the offers — there are often discounted days that make the visit even better value.
At the end of the day consider sharing photos from your route on social media and recommending it to friends — it’s an easy way to encourage others to explore Krakow actively.
If you liked this route suggestion, share it with friends or on social media — seeing the city by bike gives a different energy and rhythm. If you’d like to explore with extra support and personal tips, feel free to use the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — contact details and more information are available on the guide’s website. Have a great day on two wheels in Krakow and good luck racking up retro points on the arcade machines!
