Planty is the park surrounding the Old Town — an almost 4-kilometre ring created after the medieval city walls were taken down (early 19th century). It’s the perfect place for a first walk in Krakow: greenery, paths, fountains and monuments form an intimate micro-world right next to the city’s main tourist spots.
It’s worth distinguishing Planty from Błonia straight away — these names are often used interchangeably, which is a mistake. Planty encircle the Old Town (they occupy the strip where the old walls once stood), while Błonia is a large open meadow to the west of the centre, different in character and scale.
Planty were established in the 19th century and along their paths you’ll find many monuments, benches dedicated to local creators and fragments of historic architecture — a walk that combines nature and history with no tickets or queues.
- The Barbican and St. Florian’s Gate: the surviving gateway of the old defensive system, a natural place to start your walk.
- The Copernicus monument, the Collegium Novum building and the Słowacki Theatre: architecture and memorial plaques that often escape the attention of quick tourist guides.
- Tiny fountains, sculptures and benches with dedications: these details create the Planty’s atmosphere; stop and look around — every spot has a story.
- Small squares with rare trees and ponds: Planty are especially beautiful in spring and autumn, so plan a walk at those times if you like photography.
Suggested route (about 1–2 hours of walking, depending on stops): start at St. Florian’s Gate, follow the northern section of the Planty toward the Barbican, then continue along the western side passing the Słowacki Theatre and Collegium Novum, finish at Wawel Castle or at the Main Market Square.
Best times: early morning (quiet and soft light for photos) or late afternoon/evening (fewer people and more pleasant temperature in summer). Avoid the busiest tourist hours between 11:00 and 15:00 if you dislike crowds.
What to bring: comfortable shoes, a water bottle, and a light jacket for the evening. In summer consider a hat and sunscreen — some alleys are very sunny.
The Market Square Underground is one of the most intriguing attractions in Krakow’s centre: archaeological work has revealed fragments of medieval streets, market stalls and many artefacts, while the exhibition combines finds with modern multimedia. It’s an excellent complement to a walk around the Planty — it lets you “see the city from below.”
In the exhibition you’ll see remains of old trade routes, everyday objects and curiosities such as a heavy block of lead found during excavations. The display is arranged with glass walkways and projections that help imagine the medieval Market.
Although it’s a museum, visiting the Underground often feels more like a time travel experience than a classic display of cases.
Ticket prices change from year to year — there have been price adjustments in recent years, so it’s sensible to check the current fare before you travel. In practice it pays to buy in advance online, especially in peak season (many time slots have limited capacity).
Family and concession options: the museum offers reduced and family tickets and discounts for holders of certain cards (for example a large-family card). Very small children are sometimes free — check the age limits on the official site before you visit.
Duration: touring the exhibition usually takes around 45–60 minutes, depending on pace and interest in the multimedia stops. Allow extra time for possible queues at the ticket desk or for collecting pre-purchased tickets.
Getting there: the entrance to the Market Square Underground is right by the Cloth Hall on the Main Market Square — the central location makes it easy to combine with Planty and other walks.
Accessibility: part of the route includes stairs and glass walkways; people with limited mobility should check access conditions and possible alternatives in advance.
Booking: buy a timed ticket online if you need a smooth daily schedule — weekends and the summer season fill up quickly.
Cafes and breakfast: - Cafe Camelot (ul. Św. Tomasza) — a cosy spot with desserts and coffee, ideal after a morning walk in the Planty. - Charlotte (several locations in the centre) — a French-style bakery, great for breakfast and fresh bread.
Lunch in the centre: - Szara (Main Market Square) — a restaurant serving modern Polish cuisine in an elegant interior. - Miodowa Restaurant & Wine — classic flavours near the Market Square.
Snacks and quick bites: - Plac Nowy in Kazimierz — famous for zapiekanki (retro-style open baguette pizzas), perfect for trying local street food. - Cafes and patisseries around the Market Square — options for every budget.
- Under the Planty and around the Old Town there are layers of history — when you walk the alleys you are literally stepping on the old line of fortifications and remains of the medieval urban system.
- In the Market Square Underground archaeologists found weights and metal blocks that testify to intense trade — these are not only souvenirs but real traces of the medieval city’s economy.
- It’s easy to miss tiny plaques and dedications on the Planty — pay attention to benches and small monuments; many honour local creators and scholars.
- Confusing the Planty with the Błonia — if you have time, plan to visit both places because they offer different experiences.
- Not buying a timed ticket for the Underground in advance — you risk long waits or no available spots at your preferred time.
- Ignoring the weather: Planty are beautiful but rain can spoil the walk — have a plan B (a café or a short break in a nearby restaurant).
- Allowing too little time: Planty and the Underground deserve a relaxed pace — plan coffee breaks and time for photos.
Are the Planty free to enter? - Yes, access to the Planty is free.
How long does the Market Square Underground visit take? - About 45–60 minutes, depending on your pace and interest in the exhibits.
Do I have to buy a ticket in advance? - Not always, but it’s recommended for weekends and peak season — online booking saves time.
Is the Underground suitable for children? - Yes, it’s an engaging exhibition for both younger and older visitors, although some parts may be less appealing to very small children — consider a shorter visit or choosing the highlights in advance.
- Start with the Planty and then descend to the Underground — this order highlights the contrast between “above” and “below” the city.
- Bring a power bank — walking and taking photos drain phone batteries faster than you expect.
- Wear comfortable shoes — both the Planty and the Market Square area involve a lot of walking on cobbles and stairs.
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If you’d like a personalised tour of Krakow with a private guide, Małgorzata Kasprowicz is happy to help plan a route tailored to your interests (contact and details available on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com). We warmly invite you to discover Krakow with us!
