We’ve created a practical step-by-step Krakow itinerary that works whether you’re here for a day, a weekend, or a longer stay. You’ll find carefully selected walking routes, must-see sights, unique attractions for families, couples, and groups of friends – plus a handy map to help you get around.
Explore the best things to do in Krakow day by day – with zero stress and lots of fun.
Save this plan and start your adventure!
1-Day Krakow Itinerary – Map and Walking Route
If you’ve only got one day in Krakow, stick to the city center where the top landmarks are located. Here’s a concise walking route to help you make the most of your visit without rushing.
🟢 Suggested Walking Route with Map:
- Start: Wawel Royal Castle – visit the cathedral, inner courtyards, and the legendary Dragon’s Den.
- Grodzka Street – a scenic walk toward the Main Square. Along the way:
- 🏠 Upside Down House – Grodzka 2 – fun and quirky photo op!
- 🏠 Upside Down House – Grodzka 2 – fun and quirky photo op!
- Main Market Square (Rynek Główny):
- St. Mary’s Basilica
- Cloth Hall (Sukiennice)
- Town Hall Tower
- Floriańska Street:
- 🌀 Museum of Illusions – Floriańska 6 – hands-on, mind-bending fun for all ages
- 🌀 Museum of Illusions – Floriańska 6 – hands-on, mind-bending fun for all ages
- Finish at Floriańska Gate and the Barbican for a medieval twist.
📍 Below you’ll find a map with all the marked stops.
Optional: Take an evening walk to the Kazimierz district – full of bohemian vibes and cozy restaurants. A perfect end to the day.
2-Day Krakow Itinerary – Ideal for a Weekend
Two days gives you time to soak up the city’s atmosphere and enjoy both historic landmarks and creative attractions. Here’s a tried-and-tested Krakow weekend plan that blends old-world charm with modern fun.
Day 1 – Old Town & Illusions
- 🏰 Wawel Royal Castle – explore the courtyards, cathedral, and Dragon’s Den
- 🚶♂️ Grodzka Street:
- 🏙 Main Market Square – visit St. Mary’s Basilica, Cloth Hall, and Town Hall Tower
- 🍽 Lunch on the square
- 🌀 Museum of Illusions – Floriańska 6
- 🌇 Evening stroll in Kazimierz, dinner & overnight stay
Day 2 – Butterflies, Mazes & Relaxation
- 🌿 Morning walk through the Planty Park
- 🦋 Museum of Living Butterflies – Grodzka 48/2 – meet tropical butterflies up close
- 🪞 Mirror Maze – Grodzka 14 – quick, fun, and perfect for photos
- ☕️ Coffee break or terrace view at Sukiennice
- 🎁 Souvenir shopping and departure
3 Days in Krakow – Family-Friendly and Diverse
Got more time? Great! This 3-day Krakow itinerary balances iconic sights with interactive attractions for all ages.
Day 1 – Historic Center & Family Fun
- Morning at Main Market Square – climb the Town Hall Tower, visit St. Mary’s Basilica
- 🏠 Upside Down House – Grodzka 2
- 🏰 Wawel Castle – royal rooms, cathedral, and Dragon’s Den
- 🌅 Walk along the Vistula River Boulevards at sunset
Day 2 – Kazimierz & Butterflies
- Explore the Jewish Quarter – synagogues, Szeroka Street, Nowy Square (try the famous zapiekanki!)
- 🦋 Museum of Living Butterflies – Grodzka 48/2
- Relax in Jordan Park or stroll the Planty ring garden
Day 3 – Surprises & Illusions
- 🌀 Museum of Illusions – Floriańska 6
- 🪞 Mirror Maze – Grodzka 14
- Optional: New Kleparz market or the peaceful Botanical Garden
4-Day Krakow Itinerary – Go Beyond the Obvious
With four days, you can venture into Krakow’s surroundings or explore the city’s less-touristy gems.
Day 4 – Pick Your Theme
Option 1 – Wieliczka Salt Mine
- 30 mins by car/train, daily guided tours available
Option 2 – Podgórze + Science Park
- Cross the Bernatek Footbridge
- Visit the Schindler’s Factory Museum
- Explore the Experience Garden (Ogród Doświadczeń) – open-air science park (seasonal)
Option 3 – Shopping & Chill
- Stary Kleparz market – local snacks & souvenirs
- Galeria Krakowska mall – right next to the train station
- Coffee with a view or a walk in one of Krakow’s quiet parks
💡 Travel tip: Kids often ask to go back to the Upside Down House or Mirror Maze – they’re a hit with young visitors!
Krakow Itinerary at a Glance – Quick Highlights
✅ Day 1 (if you only have 1 day):
- Wawel Castle
- Grodzka Street walk
- Upside Down House
- Main Square + Cloth Hall
- Museum of Illusions
- Floriańska Gate
- Evening in Kazimierz
✅ Day 2:
- Kazimierz district
- Museum of Living Butterflies
- Walk through Planty
- Jordan Park or Vistula Boulevards
✅ Day 3:
- Mirror Maze
- Kleparz market or Floriańska Street
- Czartoryski Museum or Botanical Garden
✅ Day 4 (optional):
- Wieliczka Salt Mine or Ojców National Park
- Schindler’s Factory or Podgórze
- Shopping & cafés
Map of Krakow Attractions – Getting Around
Most things to see in Krakow are within walking distance in the city center. You can easily do this full itinerary on foot.
📍 Suggested route map:
- A: Wawel Castle
- B: Upside Down House
- C: Main Market Square
- D: Museum of Illusions
- E: Museum of Living Butterflies
- F: Mirror Maze
🚌 Heading further out (Wieliczka, Nowa Huta, Ojców)? Use Krakow’s excellent trams, buses, or join a local tour.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Can I see Krakow in one day?
Yes – if you focus on the center: Main Square, Wawel Castle, Grodzka & Floriańska streets. Don’t miss the Upside Down House and Museum of Illusions – they’re quick, fun, and central!
Where to take kids in Krakow?
- Museum of Living Butterflies
- Mirror Maze
- Science Park, Zoo, Jordan Park
What’s the best 3-day Krakow itinerary?
Day 1 – Old Town + Wawel
Day 2 – Kazimierz + Planty
Day 3 – Surprising spots like the Museum of Illusions or Podgórze walk
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
In peak season (May–September), yes – especially for popular spots like the Butterfly Museum or Upside Down House. Book online to skip the line!
