Krakow: Wawel Sightseeing of the Royal Hill
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Dating back to the 14th century, the Wawel Royal Castle complex is by far the most important collection of buildings in Poland. Its historical and artistic value places it among the gems of the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The great halls, churches, state apartments, and courtyards that make up the vast complex each have their own stories to tell.
As you stroll through the royal chambers, our expert guide will bring the castle to life by explaining the turbulent history surrounding the various buildings, and their royal and presidential connections.
Available options
Guided Tour in English
123: Wawel Guided English Tour, not included entry ticket to the Wawel Cathedral
Guided Tour in Polish
123: Wawel Hill Polish Guided Tour, not included entry ticket to the Wawel Cathedral
What's included
Royal Wawel Hill Sightseeing
Professional English / Polish speaking guide
Dragon's monument
King's Castle from the outside
Wawel Cathedral from the outside
Detailed itinerary
1
We are going to start the tour on Kanonicza 11 street which is the oldest street in Krakow, where many renaissance and baroque tenement houses with decorative portals have been preserved.
2
Stop 2
Pass by the entrance to the Wawel Cathedral
3
Stop 3
The secrets of Polish kings and governors of the Wawel Castle (including e.g. Hans Frank during the Second World War) will be revealed in a place where they resided and governed – that is, in the arcaded courtyard with its numerous monuments originating from Renaissance. This is where you could experience the legendary Wawel chakra – you will be shown the exact spot, although at your own risk. We are then going to continue in the direction of the Crypt of the Silver Bells, which is the burial place for President Lech Kaczynski and his spouse
4
We are going then to pass by Sandomierska Tower and go downhill through the Bernardyńska Gate straight into the arms of the Wawel Dragon and his cave, which, throughout the ages functioned as a meeting spot. Wawel is a place with a lot of interesting stories, thus you are invited for a trip whose cost is just the same as the price for a cinema ticket!
5
Stop by the monument of Tadeusz Kościuszko (one of the most important Polish heroes)
What's not included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Entrance to the Royal Chambers and Cathedral
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
PL
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
About Krakow
Krakow, the former capital of Poland, is a city rich in history, culture, and stunning architecture. It's home to the Wawel Royal Castle, the historic Main Market Square, and the largest medieval old town in Europe. Krakow's vibrant arts scene, bustling nightlife, and proximity to Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine make it a must-visit destination.
Top Attractions
Wawel Royal Castle
This iconic castle was the residence of Polish kings and a symbol of Polish statehood. It offers a glimpse into Poland's rich history.
Historical/Architecture
2-3 hours
30-50 PLN (€7-12)
Main Market Square (Rynek Główny)
One of the largest medieval town squares in Europe, surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and shops.
Historical/Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to explore
Wieliczka Salt Mine
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring underground chambers, chapels, and sculptures carved out of salt.
Historical/Adventure
4-5 hours
89-139 PLN (€20-32)
Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum
A poignant and sobering visit to the largest Nazi concentration camp, now a memorial and museum.
Historical/Educational
Full day
70-100 PLN (€16-23)
Kazimierz District
The historic Jewish quarter with a rich cultural heritage, vibrant nightlife, and charming streets.
Cultural/Historical
2-3 hours
Free to explore
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pierogi
Dumplings filled with various ingredients like meat, cheese, potatoes, or fruits.
Dinner
Can be vegetarian or vegan
Obwarzanek
A type of bread ring, similar to a bagel, often sold by street vendors.
Snack
Vegetarian
Zapiekanka
A Polish street food consisting of a half-baguette topped with mushrooms, cheese, and various condiments.
Snack
Can be vegetarian
Schabowy
A breaded pork cutlet, similar to schnitzel, often served with potatoes and cabbage.
Dinner
Contains meat
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Tatra Mountains
Skiing in Zakopane
Spa and wellness treatments
Strolling through parks and gardens
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending concerts and performances
Boating on the Vistula River
Skiing and snowboarding in the nearby mountains
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the best time to visit Krakow for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The city is lively with festivals and tourists.
15°C to 28°C
59°F to 82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Polish
- Widely spoken: English, German, Russian
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Polish Złoty (PLN)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Krakow is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure in crowded areas.
- • Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps.
- • Be cautious when withdrawing money from ATMs.
Getting there
By air
- John Paul II International Airport Krakow-Balice • 11 km from city center
By train
Krakow Glowny, Krakow Plaza
By bus
Krakow Main Bus Station, Młocińscy Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Krakow's tram system is efficient and covers most of the city. Trams are comfortable and frequent.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town (Stare Miasto)
Kazimierz
Nowa Huta
Zakrzówek
Day trips
Wieliczka Salt Mine
14 km from Krakow • Full day
Explore the underground chambers, chapels, and sculptures carved out of salt in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum
70 km from Krakow • Full day
Visit the largest Nazi concentration camp, now a memorial and museum, to learn about the Holocaust.
Zakopane
100 km from Krakow • Full day
A picturesque mountain town known for its stunning scenery, hiking trails, and skiing opportunities.
Festivals
Krakow Jewish Festival • June or July (annual)
Krakow Film Festival • May (annual)
Krakow Christmas Market • December (annual)
Pro tips
- Use the Krakow Card for unlimited public transport and free entry to many attractions.
- Visit the Wawel Dragon statue and make a wish by placing a coin in its mouth.
- Try traditional Polish dishes like pierogi and żurek at local restaurants.
- Explore the Kazimierz district for its vibrant nightlife and cultural scene.
- Take a day trip to the Wieliczka Salt Mine or Auschwitz-Birkenau for a deeper understanding of Polish history.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
