The Main Market Square (Rynek Główny) is the heart of Krakow, but right next to the big attractions there are smaller places that can surprise you. The Church of St. Adalbert, standing almost between the Cloth Hall and St. Mary's Basilica, looks modest yet is one of the oldest preserved churches in the city.
It’s worth starting your day here: the atmosphere is calmer than in the crowds in front of St. Mary’s, and within a few steps you have access to the Rynek Underground, historic townhouses and viewpoints. It’s an excellent place to calmly plan the rest of your day.
This place has a long history: a first wooden chapel on this site likely existed as early as the 10th–11th century. The present stone building preserves Romanesque elements, including a portal in the southern wall.
A fact that surprises many visitors: because the Market Square level has been raised over the centuries, part of the church’s foundations and floor lie below the current street — you can notice a difference in level of about 2–2.6 m. In the cellars there is an archaeological reserve and an exhibition devoted to the history of the Square — a great complement to surface sightseeing.
The interior is intimate; remember to show respect — it is still an active parish. If you encounter a service, part of the church may be closed to tourists.
Horse-drawn carriages around the Square are a picturesque, instantly recognizable element of Krakow’s tourist landscape. Short rides around the Planty and the Square are perfect for relaxing between sightseeing and lunch.
A few practical tips: agree the route and the price before boarding; remember that short rides during the day are common — longer tours should be negotiated calmly in advance. The nicest light for photos is in the morning and late afternoon, so consider a carriage right after a morning stroll or before sunset.
If you want a short traditional experience — 10–20 minutes around the Square works perfectly. A carriage can also be a charming addition to an evening walk when the illuminated townhouses create a special atmosphere.
Morning: start with a peaceful walk around the Market Square, visit the Church of St. Adalbert and the Rynek Underground. This is a good moment for a brief introduction to the city’s history and some early photos before the crowds arrive.
Late morning: move on to St. Mary’s Basilica, see the Veit Stoss altarpiece (if it’s open) and listen to the bugle call (hejnal) from the tower. If you plan to climb the tower, allow extra time and check availability.
Noon: lunch near the Square or a short tram ride to Kazimierz — here you’ll find street flavors and well-rated restaurants.
Afternoon: walk the Royal Route to Wawel, visit the Cathedral and the courtyards. If you enjoy in-depth visits, reserve 3–5 hours to see the royal chambers and museums on the hill.
Evening: take a carriage ride around the Planty or stroll the lit Market Square, have dinner at one of the recommended restaurants and relax with coffee or dessert.
In the centre it’s worth choosing places with a strong reputation: the historic Wierzynek restaurant and Restaurant Szara are reliable picks for a more formal meal close to the Square. For coffee and sweets — Café Camelot offers a cosy atmosphere near the Market Square.
If you’re after local quick bites — zapiekanki at Plac Nowy in Kazimierz are a classic, while numerous bistros and small pubs in Kazimierz’s side streets provide an interesting alternative to touristic spots.
For a less touristy experience, look for small cafés and bars away from the Square — they often offer better value and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Buying tickets: avoid resellers and intermediaries offering overpriced tickets. The safest option is to use official points of sale or ticket offices — especially for popular museums and exhibitions.
Time management: many visitors try to fit “everything” into one day. A realistic pace and short breaks will make the day enjoyable — not a race. Allocate extra time for places you really want to see (Wawel, the Rynek Underground, Oskar Schindler’s Factory).
Respect in places of worship: churches are active parishes — check mass times and keep modest dress, silence and restraint when photographing.
Carriages and negotiations: agree the fare before starting the ride to avoid misunderstandings. If you want a longer route, ask about cost and the proposed itinerary in advance.
Not everyone knows that the historic level of the Church of St. Adalbert lies below the current paving of the Market Square — this is the result of centuries of layered city surfaces. The cellars preserve a stratigraphic profile that tells several hundred years of the site’s development.
At St. Mary’s the Veit Stoss altarpiece is usually revealed at specific times — if seeing the altarpiece is a priority, check opening hours for the exhibition area and arrive with some margin.
If you want photos without the crowds, consider early morning openings of the Square or late evening — most tour groups concentrate in the city centre around midday.
Is entry to the Church of St. Adalbert paid? Many parts of the church are freely accessible, but because it functions as a parish some special exhibitions in the cellars may be ticketed — check locally.
When is the best time to take a carriage? Morning or evening, when traffic is lighter and the light is better. Short rides around the Planty are the most relaxing.
How much time do I need for the full plan above? To see the Market Square, St. Mary’s, Wawel and enjoy a relaxed lunch — plan a full day (5–8 hours). If you add museums such as the Rynek Underground or Oskar Schindler’s Factory — add roughly 1.5–2 hours for each.
Krakow can be discovered in many ways: on foot, by public transport, and if you want a touch of the city’s old atmosphere — a carriage adds romantic local color. Begin your day at the Church of St. Adalbert, spend time on the Market Square and at St. Mary’s, plan a stop at Wawel and an evening dinner — that’s a recipe for a pleasant, relaxed day in the city.
If this article was helpful, share it with friends or on social media. If you want to explore Krakow with a local, private guide, consider the services of Małgorzata Kasprowicz — contact and offers are available on the guide’s site. Wishing you a wonderful stay and many beautiful discoveries in Krakow!
