Krakow’s Old Town is the historic and cultural heart of the city, featuring renowned landmarks like the Main Market Square and the stunning St. Mary's Basilica. It was one of the first areas to be recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, thanks to its beautifully well-preserved medieval buildings and is known for its quaint cobblestone streets, exquisite architecture, and lively atmosphere. There’s no better way to get to know the Old Town than in the company of a knowledgeable local guide, and this tour is a great way for visitors short on time to get a feel for this fascinating corner of the city.
On this 2-hour walking tour, you will:
- Explore Krakow’s Old Town with a local expert guide;
- See a carefully curated selection of the most important sites;
- Get a crash course in Krakow’s history and its important role in Poland’s evolution from the 11th Century to the present day;
- Begin at St. Florian’s Gate, the Medieval entrance to the city;
- Pass by the Barbican, a mighty defensive stronghold with 3-metre-thick walls;
- Stroll down Florianska Street, a major thoroughfare since the 13th century;
- Go through Plac Szczepański, a beautiful square and cultural hub beloved by locals;
- Check out Jagiellonian University, one of Europe’s oldest, and hear about its illustrious alumni;
- Discover St. Mary's Basilica, one of the finest examples of Polish Gothic architecture;
- Spend time in the magnificent Market Square, admiring the Cloth Hall, the Town Hall Tower and other medieval monuments.
Step into the heart of Kraków’s Old Town and let your private guide take you on a journey through centuries of history, culture, and incredible architecture. Beginning at the iconic St. Florian’s Gate, once the grand entrance to the medieval city, this carefully chosen itinerary will provide a perfect introduction to Kraków’s most treasured landmarks.
Once you get acquainted with your guide, you’ll get an in-depth look at this 13th-century fortified tower and the nearby Barbican, a formidable defensive fortress with walls so thick they once withstood several enemy sieges. From here, you will make your way down the lively Floriańska Street, a historic route that has welcomed kings, merchants, and scholars since the 13th century. Along the way, you’ll soak in the grandeur of the Old Town’s townhouses, elegant facades, and hidden courtyards, while your guide points out hidden details and tells you about important moments in the development of Krakow as we know it today.
You’ll pass through Plac Szczepański, a lesser-known gem beloved by locals for its artistic ambience and striking architecture, before arriving at the Main Market Square, the largest medieval square in Europe, replete with noteworthy landmarks. You’ll see St. Mary’s Basilica, an extraordinary masterpiece of Polish Gothic architecture, and hear the legend of the famous trumpet call played from its tower every hour. Nearby, you’ll find the Jagiellonian University, one of the oldest in Europe, and hear how it stands as a testament to Kraków’s enduring intellectual legacy, having educated brilliant minds such as Nicolaus Copernicus. You will also see the Cloth Hall, a historic market hall where you can buy souvenirs and local crafts, and end your tour with the Town Hall Tower, another gorgeous Gothic structure and the last remaining segment of Krakow's former town hall.
With every step, your expert guide will weave together Kraków’s past and present, sharing stories of medieval kings, wartime resilience, and cultural evolution. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking for a compact yet enriching experience, this tour offers an ideal introduction to one of Europe’s most fascinating cities.
