Kraków's Old Town - what to visit in 2025?

Krakow, one of Poland's oldest and most significant cities, is a place of extraordinary history and rich culture, making it unique in Europe. This city, which is the former capital of Poland, is like a living museum where every street, every building has its own unique history. Over the centuries, the city has witnessed many important events that have shaped not only its identity, but also the history of the entire country. In this article, we take a closer look at some of the most distinctive and influential aspects of Krakow that make it treasured by locals and tourists alike from all over the world.

• As one of the most significant historical centres in Poland, Krakow has its roots dating back to prehistoric times, but the official founding of the city dates back to the 13th century. It was then that Duke Bolesław Wstydliwy granted the city a location privilege, marking the beginning of a new era in its development. It was decided to surround the town with defensive walls to protect the inhabitants from invasions. Although these mighty structures have not survived to our times in their entirety, their fragments can still be admired, which is quite an attraction for tourists.
• The layout of the Old Town is based on a characteristic chequered layout, which is an excellent example of medieval urban planning. The central point is the square, from which the streets diverge symmetrically, forming evenly spaced plots. This precise geometry not only facilitated urban organisation, but also testifies to the urban sophistication of the time.
• The boundaries of the former city are now marked by the Planty, which preserves the memory of the former defensive walls, while at the same time being one of the favourite walking places for both residents and visitors to the city.

The Old Town in Krakow was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1978. 

The Old Town Centre, being one of the city's 18 districts, is divided into 9 sub-units, which are essentially smaller areas within the district. Each of these units has its own unique characteristics and historical significance.

Market Square and surroundings

The heart of the Old Town, around which tourist and cultural life is concentrated. The Market Square is famous for the Cloth Hall and St Mary's Church, as well as numerous cafés and restaurants.  

Okrąglak or New Square

A distinctive part of the Old Town due to its circular form of streets and squares. This area is popular with tourists looking for unusual walking routes and charming corners.

Kazimierz

The historic Jewish quarter, now part of Kazimierz, is known for its preserved synagogues, Jewish cemetery and a developed café and arts culture.

Stradom

An area between Kazimierz and Wawel Castle, with a rich history and many monuments, including St Catherine's Church.

Wawel

Containing the royal castle and Wawel Cathedral, it is a key point in Polish history and culture. Wawel is a national symbol and the resting place of many Polish rulers.

Kleparz

Formerly a separate locality, it is now an integral part of the Old Town. Kleparz is known for its historic market square
and numerous small streets full of local shops.

Sand

Part of the Old Town located around Karmelicka Street, now part of District I of the Old Town.

Inventory of the best historical monuments

Main Market Square

This is the largest medieval market square in Europe, the heart of the Old Town. The central point of the Market Square is the Cloth Hall, right next to it stands the famous St. Mary's Church with its unique altar by Veit Stoss and the bugle call played every day from the church tower. The square is rectangular in shape, measuring approximately 200 by 200 metres, and covers an area of around 40,000 square metres.

It is surrounded by colourful townhouses of various architectural styles, many of which date back to the Middle Ages. The dominant buildings are the Cloth Hall, a former textile trading place, today serving as a marketplace with souvenirs, handicrafts and the National Museum located on the first floor of the building. The market has numerous cafés, restaurants and, in summer, plenty of stalls selling souvenirs and regional delicacies.

Wawel

Wawel Royal Castle and Wawel Cathedral are places of particular historical value, witnessing important national events and royal coronations.

The Wawel Castle is home to an architectural complex including the Royal Castle, Wawel Cathedral and numerous towers. The Royal Castle is an impressive building in Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque styles, which served as the royal residence and administrative centre of the state. It contains royal halls, a castle chapel, flats, and exhibitions showcasing the wealth and history of Poland.

Wawel Cathedral is a monumental church where coronations and funerals of Polish monarchs took place. It contains the tombs of many important figures from Polish history, including kings and national heroes.

Floriańska Street

One of the main shopping streets, leading from Floriańska Gate to the Main Square, full of historic townhouses and shops. Florianska Street is full of life at any time of the day or night. It is a major tourist thoroughfare, so it is always bustling with life and bustle. There are numerous shops, restaurants, cafes, boutiques, as well as hotels and hostels on both sides of the street. It's the perfect place to shop, taste the local cuisine or just stroll around and watch the passers-by. Along the street you can see many historic townhouses with beautiful facades, some of which date back to the Middle Ages. 

Juliusz Słowacki Theatre

The majestic theatre building with its neo-Baroque interior is one of the city's cultural highlights. The theatre was opened in 1893 and since then has played an important role in the cultural life of Krakow and the whole country. Named after the eminent poet and playwright Juliusz Słowacki, the theatre is a place where both classic theatrical works and modern productions are staged. The theatre building is characterised by its eclectic architecture, combining various styles such as Neo-Renaissance, Neo-Baroque and Art Nouveau. The façade is decorated with numerous details, while inside one can admire the richly decorated staircases, halls and foyer.

Planty

The park, which surrounds the Old Town, has replaced the former defensive walls and now forms the green framework of the historic centre. Planty Park is divided into several sectors that surround the Old Town. There are walking paths, lawns, benches and numerous trees and flowers, creating a pleasant environment for rest and relaxation. Many of the trees are more than a century old specimens that give the park its unique charm. The Planty is also a place where many Krakow residents and tourists can be found walking, jogging or picnicking on the grass. In the summer, the park becomes a venue for various cultural events, such as open-air concerts, festivals or theatre performances.

St Mary's Church

St Mary's Church, full name St. Mary's Basilica (Archcathedral Basilica of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary) is one of the most famous and characteristic churches in Poland, located on the Main Square in Krakow. It is not only an important place of religious worship, but also one of the city's main tourist attractions, famous for its remarkable architecture and works of art. Construction of the church began in the Gothic style in the 13th century, and work continued for many centuries thereafter, resulting in an unusual mix of architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque. The most distinctive feature of the church is the asymmetrical bugle tower, which reaches a height of around 81 metres. The Marian bugle call, which is one of the symbols of Krakow, is sounded from the tower every hour.

The façade of the church is richly decorated, especially with portals and Gothic ornaments. The interior of the church impresses with a wealth of detail and sacred art, including paintings, sculptures and altars. One of the most impressive features is the altarpiece by Veit Stoss, known as the St Mary's Altarpiece, which depicts scenes from the lives of the Virgin Mary and Christ.

Florian Gate

The Florianska Gate is the only one of the four original gates in Krakow that has survived to the present day in an almost unchanged form. It was built in the 14th century and served as the main entry point to the city from the north. The gate was built in the 14th century in the Gothic style as part of Krakow's defensive fortification system. Its main function was to control traffic entering the city via the Main Cracow Road, which led north towards the Florian Gate, which was the entrance to the city from the north. The characteristic elements of the Florian Gate are its two circular towers and decorative Gothic arches. At the top of the gate is a Baroque turret with a helmet, which was added in the 17th century. From this tower, military movements were once observed and warnings were issued to residents.

Today, the Florianska Gate is one of the most important landmarks in Krakow. It is a popular meeting place and a stop for tourists. Crowds of people pass through the gate on their way to the Main Market Square and other parts of the Old Town.

Barbican

It consists of solid walls and several layers of defence, including a deep moat that once surrounded it completely. The structure is equipped with seven sharp-arched battlements and more than a hundred rifle holes, which were used to defend against incoming troops. The Barbican's design is impressive - it is circular in shape, with massive defensive walls and six towers. It is one of the largest of its kind in Europe. Interior of the Barbican It originally served as a place to store weapons, ammunition and as a shelter for the army in case of attack. With the advancement of military technology in the 16th century, the Barbican lost its defensive significance, but still remained an important architectural and historical element of Krakow. In the 18th century, when the city's fortifications lost their importance, the Barbican was transformed into a prison and later also into the headquarters of various craftsmen.

Grodzka Street

This street is one of the oldest and most famous streets in Krakow, forming an integral part of the historic Royal Route that leads from Wawel Castle to the Florian Gate through the Main Square. It is also one of the main thoroughfares of the Old Town, full of historic houses and places with a rich history. Today, Grodzka Street retains its historical significance as one of the main tourist routes in Kraków. Various cultural events, festivals and parades regularly take place here, attracting both the city's residents and numerous visitors from all over the world. Grodzka Street is not only a witness to history, but also a living centre of culture and art in Krakow.

Town Hall Tower

The Town Hall Tower in Krakow is the only surviving fragment of the former town hall that stood in the Main Square. It is one of the most characteristic buildings in the heart of the Old Town, known for its impressive architecture and rich history. The Town Hall Tower is not only an architectural monument, but also an important landmark and one of the symbols of Krakow. It regularly serves as a backdrop for various cultural events such as festivals, concerts and city celebrations that take place in the Main Square. It is a place that combines history with modernity, witnessing many important events in the life of the city.

Jagiellonian University

Jagiellonian University in Krakow counts as the most prestigious university in Europe. It was founded in 1364 by King Casimir the Great, making it the second oldest university in Central Europe, after Charles University in Prague. For centuries, Jagiellonian University has been and still is the scientific, cultural and intellectual centre of Poland. The main campus of the Jagiellonian University, located in the historic centre of Krakow, includes many historic buildings, including. Collegium Maius - the oldest university building, which is now the university museum. It houses many valuable artefacts and manuscripts that document the university's rich history.

Peter and Paul Church

The Church of St. Peter and St. Paul in Krakow is one of the most characteristic and significant places of worship on the map of the city, located on Grodzka Street, on the historic road leading from Wawel to the Main Square. This church, built in the Baroque style, is the first such large establishment in Poland realised in this aesthetic. In addition to its religious role, the Church of St Peter and St Paul also has a cultural and scientific function. Numerous concerts of sacred and classical music are held here, making it an important point on the cultural map of Krakow. The church regularly hosts events related to the Jesuit tradition and the history of Krakow, which attracts both locals and tourists.

Palace of the Bishops of Cracow

It is located on Franciszkańska Street, opposite the famous Planty, not far from the Wawel Castle, which emphasises its importance and central location in the historical layout of the city. The building, which dates back to the 14th century, has undergone many architectural and stylistic changes, reflecting different eras and tastes. Today, the palace presents itself mainly in the Neo-Renaissance style with elements of Baroque, which is the result of a 19th-century reconstruction under the direction of the architect Tomasz Prylinski. The interiors of the Palace hide rich decorations and works of art, including valuable frescoes, sculptures and antique furniture, which testify to the former splendour and the role the building played in the culture and religious life of Krakow. Prominent among the many rooms is the Pompeian Room, known for its exceptional paintings and elegant decoration.

Clothworkers

The Cloth Hall in Krakow is one of Poland's most recognisable and iconic landmarks, located in the heart of the Market Square. For centuries, this historic building served as a commercial centre where merchants from different parts of Europe exchanged goods such as textiles, spices or metals. As a place of trade, the Cloth Hall has been the centre of Krakow's economic life for centuries, and today it is one of the city's main tourist attractions. The ground floor still serves a commercial function, offering a wide range of souvenirs, jewellery, handicrafts and folk art, making it an attractive place for tourists and local residents alike.

Small Market

Krakow's Small Market is a picturesque square located just off the main Market Square, separated from it by Sienna Street and St. John Street. Although smaller and less well-known than its famous neighbour, the Small Market has its own charm and rich history, being an important part of the urban landscape of the Old Town. Surrounding the Small Market are numerous restaurants, cafés and bars that attract both Cracovians and visitors from abroad. It is a place that combines historical character with modern forms of entertainment and gastronomy, making it an attractive destination both by day and by night. The Little Market Square in Krakow, although it may be less well known than the main square, is undoubtedly an important part of the cultural and social life of the city, witnessing history and still playing an important role in the daily life of Krakow.

Underground market

The Underground Market in Krakow, also known as the Rynek Underground, is a fascinating tourist attraction that allows visitors to discover the city's rich history in the form of an interactive museum. It is located under the slab of the main Market Square and was officially opened to the public in 2010. The Market Square Underground offers a state-of-the-art multimedia exhibition that integrates authentic archaeological artefacts with modern technologies such as projections, interactive maps and historical reconstructions. Visitors can see what daily life was like for the people of Krakow at different times, understand the architectural and urban changes of the Market Square and experience first-hand how historical events shaped the city.

Cultural and social heritage

The Old Town in Krakow is not only a tourist centre, but also an important place for the cultural and social life of the citizens of Krakow. The city offers a rich calendar of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, attracting residents and tourists alike.

A few of the events most beloved by Cracovians will be listed below:

• Jewish Culture Festival "Krakow - Kazimierz" - usually held in June or July, this festival is dedicated to the culture, history and heritage of Krakow's Jews.
• Film festival devoted to short and documentary films and animated films. Taking place at the end of May and the beginning of June in Krakow, it is one of the most important events of its kind in Europe - this is how the International Street Theatre Festival presents itself.
• This festival transforms the streets and squares of Krakow into theatre stages, presenting street theatre from around the world.
• "Summer Jazz Festival". celebrated on 24 June, is a celebration of the city that includes a variety of cultural events, concerts, fireworks displays, etc. From year to year, the Festival has expanded its formula, presenting, besides daily concerts in ICE Krakow and the Cellar under the Rams, concerts in the Philharmonic Hall, the Krakow Opera, the Auditorium Maximum, the Radio Krakow, the Manggha Centre, all jazz clubs in Krakow, as well as great open-air concerts and events - such as the New Orleans Sunday and the Jazz Night. Today the festival is the largest Polish jazz festival and one of the largest in Europe. 

Architecture and urban planning

The architecture of the Old Town reflects the influences of different eras, from Romanesque and Gothic, through Renaissance, Baroque, to neo-classical and modernist elements. The urban layout based on a medieval chequered module allows easy orientation and admiring the sights without rushing.

The Old Town is a space that dynamically combines the past and the present, offering residents and tourists alike a glimpse of the city's rich history and cultural heritage.

We will list here some of the characteristic architectural and urban features of the Old Town and Krakow in general:

1. Gothic and Renaissance: Many of Kraków's historic buildings were built in the Gothic and Renaissance styles, giving the city its unique character. Examples include St Mary's Church, the Cloth Hall, the Barbican and the Town Hall Tower.
2. Market Square: the centrepiece of the city is the Market Square, one of the largest and most beautiful medieval markets in Europe. It is surrounded by colourful townhouses of various architectural styles, creating a picturesque landscape.
3. Kazimierz district: This is a historic district of Krakow, which was the centre of the social and cultural life of the Jewish community. Many historic synagogues, tenement houses and charming streets have been preserved there.
4. Podgórze district: Located on the east bank of the Vistula River, this district was once a separate city. It contains many historic buildings, including synagogues, churches and townhouses, as well as industrial areas that bear witness to Podgórze's former role as an industrial centre.
5. New housing estates and contemporary architecture: In addition to historical monuments, Krakow is also developing towards modern architecture. In recent years, modern housing estates, office buildings and shopping centres have been built, bringing a new dynamic to the urban landscape.

Transport: how to get to the Old Town

Do you know how to get to the Old Town in Krakow? Our blog will help you find the best way to get to the Old Town without any effort.

List of the nearest stops to your destination

• All Saints' Square; 
• Main Post Office; 
• St Gertrude's; 
• Uj / Ast; 
• Słowacki Theatre; 
• Starowislna.

Transport routes that pass close to the Old Town

• Buses: 129, 130, 152, 184, 601, 502;
• Trams: 1, 10, 24, 3; 
• Trains: SKA2, SKA3;
• Taxis: Bolt, Uber.

Nearest stops Stare Miasto 

• All Saints' Square - 77 metres, 2 minutes' walk;
• Main Post Office - 148 metres, 2 minutes' walk;
• St Gertrude's - 259 metres, 4 minutes' walk;
• Uj / Ast - 657 metres, 9 minutes' walk;
• Słowacki Theatre - 742 metres, 10 minutes' walk;
• Starowislna Street - 762 m, 10 minutes' walk.

Active leisure

The Old Town of Krakow is a popular destination for cyclists. There are many cycling routes, as well as bicycle rental points and repair stations. Particularly attractive is the 9-kilometre-long route forming a loop through the Main Market Square, Kazimierz and the Vistula River boulevards.

In the central part of the district, the main cycle paths run along streets and areas such as:

• Krupnicza - Czysta - Reymonta - Armii Krajowej;
• Matejki - Warszawska - Nowy Kleparz;
• Bernardyńska - Wawel - Bulwar Czerwieński - Most Grunwaldzki.

There are many places ideal for walking as well. The Old Town also offers numerous small squares and parks, which are great for those who appreciate active recreation and time spent outdoors. There are also many gyms and fitness clubs in this historic district of Krakow.

Green areas

One of the residents' favourite places on the map of the Old Town is the Planty, divided into 8 diverse gardens. Krakow's oldest city park is home to over 40 species of trees and shrubs, including impressive natural monuments. The park offers romantic alleys, elements of small architecture, flower beds and ponds. In addition to the Planty, other green corners in the Old Town include the Flower Garden Pocket Park, Grażyna Park and the Flower Garden Pocket Park in Łobzowska Street.

In addition, not far from the centre of Krakow is Strzelecki Park, which offers extensive lawns, walking paths and a children's playground. The park is situated on a flat area, with a small bluff along the northern edge. It is situated in close proximity to the main railway station and the bus station. The park is surrounded on almost all sides by compact buildings - the exception being a short section along Zygmunta Augusta Street, where the Mankowski Palace with its garden is located.

At any time of the year, a particular park is very popular with older and younger people - this is Jordan Park. Located in the neighbourhood of Błonia, you will find places to relax and have fun here. The park has a very interesting history - it was founded by Henryk Jordan, a doctor and social activist, a pioneer of physical education in Poland known precisely for establishing the first play gardens for children. Also in the park you can find all kinds of fountains, bicycle paths, playgrounds, and in the winter season an ice rink opens, occupying the largest ground area in the whole of Krakow.

A picturesque place for walks and relaxation in the city centre at the foot of the Wawel Castle - this is the Vistula Boulevards. Together with the adjacent parts of the Vistula embankments, as well as the Ore Mountains, they are a popular recreational and leisure destination for both Krakow residents and incoming tourists. There are numerous walking alleys and cycle paths running along it.

Catering and culture

Krakow's Old Town is famous for its varied culinary and restaurant offer. In the vicinity of the Main Square you will find numerous restaurants serving dishes from all over the world, some of them even appreciated by the Michelin guides. It is also a place where you can enjoy Polish, French, Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. In addition, residents have wide access to a variety of cultural attractions such as cinemas, theatres, museums, art galleries, libraries and university reading rooms.

If you want to see Krakow from above, you must visit the famous Vidok restaurant located on the roof of the Jubilat department store. In addition to delicious dishes, here you can enjoy an extraordinary view of the Vistula River, the boulevards and Wawel Castle.

You will also have a fantastic view from the Fresh Coffee Place restaurant, located on the top floor of the Cricoteka Centre for the Documentation of the Art of Tadeusz Kantor. There is no terrace there, but a table by the window will give you picturesque views of the Vistula River, historic Kazimierz and the charming Bernatek Footbridge.

Instead, the view of the Main Square is offered by Cafe Szał, which you'll find on the roof of Krakow's Cloth Hall. It's a popular spot, but waiting for a free table is rewarded with a fabulous panoramic view of the city, which is well worth it!

All in all, the Old Town in Krakow is not only the heart of the city, but also a key point on the cultural map of Poland. With its majestic Main Market Square, the royal Wawel Castle and numerous historic streets and townhouses, the Old Town offers a wealth of history and art at every turn. Here, historical values combine with a dynamic cultural life, showcasing both the rich heritage and modern creativity of Krakow. From cafes to art galleries, museums to churches, there is something for everyone wanting to explore the mysteries and beauty of this unique place. A stroll through the Old Town is not only a history lesson, but also a great opportunity to experience Polish hospitality and local atmosphere.

All visitors to our city are invited with their entire families to the unique House of Attractions attractions in the centre of the Old Town. And most of all, we recommend a visit to our mirror maze.