Kraków is best savored on foot, but the tram can save the day — especially when you want to combine the Old Town, Wawel and Kazimierz with more distant spots without tiring extra walks. Trams run frequently, are fast and let you save energy for longer strolls through Kazimierz’s alleys.
An extra seasonal attraction is the Kraków Water Tram — a short Vistula cruise changes your perspective of the city and gives your legs a break. It’s an easy way to vary a full-day loop: walking in the morning, a short river cruise in the afternoon, and a tram back in the evening.
This article gives a concrete all-day plan, a list of useful tram lines and practical tips: tickets, best times of day, recommended restaurants in Kazimierz and common mistakes to avoid.
Kazimierz is well connected to the rest of the center. Several tram lines stop around its edges — most commonly those that call near stops around Miodowa Street, Stradom or Św. Wawrzyńca. You can also walk from the Main Market Square to Kazimierz in 15–20 minutes, but a tram is handy if you need a quicker connection from the Main Railway Station, Salwator or other districts.
MPK tickets are usually time-based (for example short 20–60 minute tickets or full-day options) — remember to validate them when boarding and keep them for inspection. If you plan several short rides during the day, consider a 24-hour ticket or check current options in ticket machines and apps. Note: the water tram runs seasonally — typically from spring through the end of summer, so check dates if you plan a cruise.
A small practical note: trams can be crowded during peak hours, and in busy carriages you should watch your luggage and wallet.
09:00–10:30 – Start at Wawel and a short walk around the courtyards: mornings are quieter and the stone details photograph best in the soft light.
10:30–12:00 – Short tram ride or walk to Kazimierz. Enter via ul. Grodzka or the Grunwaldzki Bridge depending on where you start. Begin in Kazimierz at Szeroka Street and Plac Nowy — a great place for a snack and to watch neighborhood life.
12:00–14:00 – Discover the synagogues, the Remuh Old Cemetery and the side streets of Izaaka and Jakuba. Stop for lunch at one of the recommended restaurants (see the food section).
14:00–16:00 – Walk toward the Bernatka footbridge and the Vistula boulevards; optionally take the Kraków Water Tram (seasonal) on the Galeria Kazimierz – Salwator stretch or a shorter sightseeing trip. The cruise gives a restful break and a photographic perspective on Wawel and the Vistula bends.
16:00–18:00 – Return by tram to the Old Town or stroll through the Planty; time for coffee and dessert before evening. Finish the day at the riverfront or in a quiet café, enjoying the golden hour and the calmer atmosphere after sunset.
The Water Tram runs seasonally and links spots like Galeria Kazimierz, Wawel and Salwator; there are shorter sightseeing trips and longer connections toward Tyniec. A cruise isn’t just a photo opportunity — it’s a comfortable alternative to a long walk if you need to conserve energy.
If you plan to take the water tram: check current timetables and fares a few days before your visit — services are sometimes reduced at the very start and end of the season and can be affected by weather. Tickets are usually bought from the operator at the pier.
Pro tip: a seat by the side (on the deck or bench) offers the best view of Wawel and the Bernatka footbridge; many departures allow bicycles, which makes it easier to explore the riverbanks afterward.
Kazimierz is full of venues of different characters — from bistros and modern Mediterranean restaurants to classic spots serving Middle Eastern and Levantine dishes. If you want local flavors and well-reviewed venues, visit places known for quality and atmosphere.
Examples worth booking or visiting: Hamsa – Hummus & Happiness (Israeli and Middle Eastern mezze) is a popular and well-rated choice; Zazie Bistro – a French bistro on ul. Józefa known for relaxed atmosphere and classic Gallic dishes; around Plac Nowy try local street snacks and the famous zapiekanki if you enjoy quick, iconic Polish street food.
If you prefer a quieter, sit-down meal, look for restaurants praised for ingredient quality and service — weekend reservations are recommended.
Not allowing extra time for museums and entrances — popular sites can have queues. If you want to enter a specific museum or St. Mary’s Basilica, book tickets in advance.
Assuming the tram solves all logistical problems — the tram is great, but for short distances walking can be faster and more pleasant; plan rides sensibly so you don’t waste time waiting at stops.
Ignoring the seasonal nature of the Water Tram — not all cruises run year-round; check schedules so you don’t end up disappointed.
Is a short ticket or a daily ticket better? - If you plan several rides and a river cruise, a 24-hour ticket gives peace of mind. For just one or two short trips a 20–60 minute ticket is enough.
How to avoid the biggest crowds? - The best light and the fewest tourists are early morning and just before sunset. Midday the Market Square and Plac Nowy are busiest — use that time for a relaxed lunch or a river cruise.
Does the water tram carry bikes? - In season many departures allow bikes; confirm this when buying your ticket or at the pier.
Some of the most interesting details in Kazimierz hide in side courtyards and unassuming lanes: architectural details, old signs and curious gates create an atmosphere you won’t always see from the main streets.
The Vistula boulevards are more than a walking spot — local cafés and small stalls offer seasonal treats; in the evening the boulevards give some of the best views of illuminated Wawel.
For a photo without the crowd, try early morning on Izaaka and Jakuba streets or the end of the day by the Bernatka footbridge.
If you liked this plan — share it with friends or on social media. Good routes and practical tips are worth spreading!
If you want to explore Kraków in comfort and at your own pace, I invite you to use the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — details are available at zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. If you need help personalizing the route, write a short message — I’ll gladly advise and tailor the plan to your expectations.
