krakow walking tour free

Best things to do and see in Krakow

Krakow is one of the most important cities in Poland . It is located in the south and is very close to its border with Slovakia and not far from the cities of Bratislava or Vienna. It is a city that enjoys a rich history and was deeply impacted by World War II. The Jewish neighborhood, (Kazimierz) and the old ghetto are the saddest and most affected areas or the city, where they are left as a reminder so that the atrocities of the past are never repeated. The Old Town (Stare Miasto) was one of the first places to be named a World Heritage site with its spectacular Market Square and St. Marie’s Basilica.   

There are many guided tours in Krakow that give you the chance to get to know the city in 2 to 3 hours while walking to visit some of the most emblematic monuments and places the city has to offer. In addition to this, there are themed tours that have a more specific route centered around a specific place or topic, to visit Wawel Cathedral and Castle located on the banks of Vistula River are, without a doubt, some of the most iconic parts of this Polish city. Another interesting place to visit is St. Florian’s Gate, the old entrance to the Medieval city, with 8 gated doors and a total of 35 spires spanning its length. If you cross over the wall, you will come across the Krakow Barbican, a fort that is surrounded by a moat which was used to protect the ancient city. Other points of interest you should check out are the Collegium Maius, the Planty Gardens, Oskar Schindler’s factory, Bohaterow Square with the chair monument, which is very close to the city where the concentration camp Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka salt mines were located. 

The best free walking tour in Krakow is the one where you get to see the sites with a local guide who will help you to understand the context of the city’s history and those little-known details about the place and its people. You can choose to book a guruwalk in the morning, afternoon, or evening. If you would like to learn more about other tours or walkers and their experiences, you can read their reviews to get a better idea of which tour would be best for you. Other cities that are also popular for travelers looking for a guruwalk in Poland are Warsaw, Poznan, Wroclaw or Prague.

Free walking tour near Kraków

Others cities to visit after kraków, find other guruwalks in kraków, where are you traveling to.

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Kraków Walking Tours

This post lists the best free walking tours you can take in Kraków, that cover the Old Town, the Jewish Quarter as well as other subjects and locations.

Krakow is one of the most historic cities in Poland, and there are a lot of notable sites to see and learn about while you’re in the area.

And, in the video below, local tour guide Bart takes you on a virtual walking tour of the Old Town.

One of the most popular subjects to cover is Krakow’s history with Communism and what happened here during WW2.

There are also tours of the Jewish Quarter and its history both before and after those events.

• Old Town Tours
• Jewish Quarter Tours
• WW2/Communism Tours
• Self-Guided Tour of Krakow

The best thing about all of these services is that they are all free to enjoy!

Free walking tours are run on a pay-what-you-like basis.

You don’t need to pay anything upfront and can pay what you feel the experience was worth with the local guide.

We suggest €5 to €15 per adult if you enjoy your walking tour.

Keep in mind that while free walking tours are incredibly convenient and budget-friendly, the groups can be quite large. 

If you want to have a more personal experience and be able to have more conversations with your guide, you might consider taking a small-group walking tour instead.

We offer  free tours around the world . Here are just a few.

OLD TOWN TOURS

There’s no better way to familiarize yourself with the history of the city than touring the Krakow Old Town area and learning about some of the oldest and most notable landmarks in the city.

These sightseeing tours will provide details about the medieval city and some of the most historically relevant locations in Krakow, including stops at some of the following highlights:

• Planty Park

The Barbican

• St. Florian’s Gate
• St. Mary’s Basilica
• Remains of the Walled City
• Medieval Town Hall
• Main Market Square
• And many more!

If you’re interested in discovering more about landmarks such as these, consider taking one of the tours listed below.

There are several companies offering these tours. Schedules are subject to change due to possible pandemic restrictions. View our calendar for updated timings.

Krakow Explorers

This company offers multiple pay-what-you-wish tours in Krakow, including this outing which covers both the old town and Wawel neighborhoods. 

While on this 2 ½ hour walk, your guide will provide information about over 1,000 years of history in the city.

This tour is usually offered twice a day in both English and Spanish at 10:15 am and 14:30 (2:30 pm). See the calendar above.

You can book the tour here.

JEWISH QUARTER TOURS (Kazimierz)

These free walking tours will take you to the historic Jewish Quarter of Krakow (Kazimierz), which has been home to Jewish families since the Middle Ages.

In addition to learning about centuries past, you’ll also find out more about the lives of Jewish citizens in Krakow during WW2 and beyond.

You can expect to visit some of the following sites and highlights on your journey:

• Old Jewish Synagogue
• Holocaust Memorial
• Jewish Cemetery
• The Bridge of Love
• Heroes of Ghetto Square
• Schindler’s List Filming Locations

The following pay-what-you-wish tours are a great way to visit these locations and learn about the history behind them.

This service covers a variety of subjects and sites from throughout the history of the Jewish Quarter in Krakow, including topics such as WW2, life during the Middle Ages, and even films made about the Holocaust.

You can take this 2 ½ hours Jewish Quarter tour daily in English or Spanish at either 10:30 am or 15:00 (3 pm).

You can book this tour here.

WORLD WAR II AND COMMUNISM TOURS

With the Nazi occupation of Poland, Krakow became the site of many terrible events in the history of its nation.

Even after the war, communism would affect the lives of citizens for years to come.

If you’re interested in learning more about this subject and seeing some of the most important sites tied to these moments in history, there are at least a couple of free tours you may want to consider.

Here are just some of the locations you can expect to visit:

• Szczepański Square
• Jagiellonian University
• St. Franciscan Basilica
• Cracovia Football Stadion
• Former St. Michael’s Prison
• The Palace Under The Rams

To learn more about these and other historic areas tied to WW2 and Communism in Krakow, take one of these free walking tours.

Walkative Tours!

In addition to their other pay-what-you-wish tours in Krakow, this company also provides an outing that describes the events which led to the nazi occupation and later the Soviet occupation after WW2.

Although these aren’t easy topics to tackle, they are certainly some of the most important moments in the history of this city and well worth learning about, especially since the tour is free to take.

This 2.5 hour tour runs once a week on select days.

FREE SELF-GUIDED TOUR OF KRAKOW

This self-guided tour will cover some of the most notable and historic sites in the old town of Krakow, providing details about multiple locations in the oldest neighborhood of the city.

Click the map to enlarge or to download it to a smartphone.

This structure was built with the purpose of protecting the city of Krakow from danger. Its walls are 3 metres thick and it has 7 turrets to help defend against invaders.

The Barbican is a Gothic-style fortification, but it was built in more of an Arabic style than European.

The building was once connected to the inner city wall, another defensive piece of architecture in Krakow.

Today, this location is used as a museum that houses several historic exhibits.

There are also concerts and other performances hosted here from time to time.

Juliusz Slowacki Theatre

This theatre was the first building in all of Krakow to be constructed with electric lighting. After opening its doors in 1893, the theatre quickly became a success.

The theatre was given its name in 1909, and it was named in honor of the Polish poet and playwright Juliusz Slowacki.

Some of his most famous works included Balladyna and Kordian.

Sadly, this theatre couldn’t draw as large of a crowd as intended for many years as a result of an economic downturn, and it was eventually surrendered during a Nazi invasion.

Thankfully, after WW2, Polish artists would reclaim the Juliusz Slowacki Theatre and resurrect it to its former glory. This venue still hosts a variety of shows to this day.

Small Market Square

Also known as Maly Rynek, there’s a surprising amount of history behind this small public square.

Originally, this location was used as a butcher’s market where you could find the best meat and fish in Krakow.

Eventually, it would become a fruit and vegetable market in the 18th century.

Due to its location in the center of Catholic and Protestant communities, there was also a lot of bloody violence related to religious conflicts.

For a short time in the 1900s, this public square would accommodate a tram track and become used largely as a parking lot. 

Thankfully, on the 750th anniversary of the city, they decided to reinvent the Small Market Square and fill it with fountains, benches, and lanterns.

Today, it’s considered one of the best meeting places in Krakow.

Adam Mickiewicz Monument

Located in the Main Market Square, this monument depicts the famous 19th-century figure Adam Mickiewicz, who was known for his romantic poetry and often referred to as a national hero in Poland.

Mickiewicz was one of the Three Bards, a group of Polish poets who lived and worked in exile during the partitions of Poland.

His poem ‘Pan Tadeusz’ is considered an important national epic.

Adam Mickiewicz passed away in Istanbul, but after 35 years he was finally brought back to Krakow, and his final resting place now lies in the crypts of the Wawel Cathedral.

This statue was erected on June 6th, 1898, which was the 100th anniversary of his birth.

Rynek Glowny Square

Also known as the Main Market Square, this area is surrounded by notable and important historic sites including St. Mary’s Basilica, the Town Hall Tower, the Cloth Hall, and more.

The Rynek Glowny was originally founded in 1257, and even now it is considered the largest medieval market in all of Europe, clocking in at 40,000 meters in size.

Aside from the monument to Adam Mickiewicz, there is also a sculpture called Eros Bendato which depicts the severed head of this Greek God, his eyes and mouth covered to symbolize his desires being imprisoned.

There is also a unique fountain sitting in front of the cloth hall which uses blue water and is well-lit after dark, so if you’re visiting at night, this is one site you won’t want to miss.

In addition to all the historic landmarks here, there are also several great restaurants, bars, and shops you might want to check out while you’re here.

Pavilion “Wyspianski 2000”

This building is named after the artist who created the amazing stained glass that can be found inside, Stanislaw Wyspianski.

The stained glass featured here was actually intended and designed for the Wawel Cathedral, but it never made it into the final construction.

The architectural design uses thousands of bricks as if they were curtains, mounted vertically on a metal rod that you can manipulate to let light into various sections of the building.

Depending on what time of day it is, this pavilion can really shine in the right light, and it’s sure to be one of the more difficult sites to miss on our tour.

The Wyspianski Pavilion was intended as a celebration of Krakow’s 750th anniversary, and it is used today as an information center that promotes some of the most historical and important sites in this city.

Bishop Erazm Ciolek Palace

This is one of the oldest examples of Renaissance architecture in Krakow, and it was originally constructed in the early 16th century.

In addition to the Renaissance style, you can also see a few examples of Gothic architecture.

As the name implies, this palace was originally built thanks to the efforts of the Bishop of Płock Erazm Ciołek, a skilled diplomat and a patron of the arts.

Today, the palace houses a museum with several notable paintings, portraits, and sculptures crafted from the 12th - 18th century.

Follow the artistic history of Poland from its Gothic phase, through the Renaissance era, and onto Neoclassicism and Romanticism.

Tickets start at 15 PLN for general admission, 10 PLN for reduced tickets, and only 1 PLN for kids and young adults from the age of 7-26.

Wawel Cathedral

Although this cathedral was originally constructed in the 11th century, it would also be demolished shortly after.

The replacement lasted until 1305 when a fire destroyed the building.

The structure sitting before you now was built in the 14th century, and it’s an excellent example of Gothic architecture.

The crypt at Wawel Cathedral has been the main burial site for Polish monarchs since the 14th century, and in addition to housing the tombs of kings and leaders, it is also the final resting place of national heroes.

Today, there is a museum on site that was opened in 1978 by Pope John Paul II.

The museum contains works of medieval church art including paintings, sculptures, crosses, and more. 

One of the more notable items here is King Sigismund II Augustus’ sword which was used in the 16th century.

Tickets are 14 PLN for general admission and 8 PLN for reduced prices.

Wawel Royal Castle

The hill upon which this castle rests dates back to prehistoric times and archaeologists have found evidence indicating that settlers have lived here since the Palaeolithic era.

Wawel Castle itself has only been here since the 14th century, but it is notable for having been the royal residence where kings and queens lived in Poland for many centuries.

Since it has needed repairs and expansions over the years, you can see examples of Gothic, Renaissance, Romanesque, and even early Baroque architecture on display.

The Wawel Royal Castle welcomes over 2 million visitors every year and it has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

While you can walk around the grounds for free, you will need tickets to enter the museum which houses some of the best and most important paintings, sculptures, textiles, prints, and more.

Both the Crown Treasury and Armory and The Lost Wawel exhibit are free to visit on Monday, but from Tuesday - Sunday ticket prices for these and other areas range from 5 PLN - 25 PLN per person.

King Sigismund Chapel

One of the most incredible sites to take in at Wawel Royal Castle is the gold-plated dome of King Sigismund Chapel.

Many consider this one of the finest examples of the Tuscany Renaissance style of architecture.

This chapel was originally designed in the 16th century by Italian architect Bartolomeo Berrecci, and it houses the tombs of Sigismund II Augustus, Anna Jagiellonka, and King Sigismund I.

Both the exterior of the chapel and its interiors are quite beautiful, with red marble sculptures of the saints and an altarpiece designed by Hans Durer being just a few notable examples of the incredible detail put into this site.

Even if you don’t choose to go inside, we recommend checking out the gilded dome at least once from the exterior before you leave the castle grounds.

Giant Bell (Royal Sigismund Bell)

This is the largest of five bells that hang in the tower of the Wawel Cathedral, and it was cast in 1520 after being commissioned by King Sigismund I.

The bell weighs in at around 9,650 kgs and it’s around 9 feet in diameter. The clapper alone is approximately 365 kg, and it’s kept attached to the bell with 12 layers of leather belts.

If you visit during a Christian holiday, you can expect to hear this centuries-old bell ringing in a ceremony, and every time that happens, it’s thanks to a manual effort.

It takes roughly 12 men, 6 on either side, to ring the Giant Bell. Those who have rung the bell more than 50 times over the years are given a badge to symbolize their efforts.

Dragon's Lair

Found on the foot of Wawel Hill near the banks of the river Vistula, this site is known as the Dragon’s Lair.

Legend has it that there was once a dragon living here during the reign of King Krak.

According to the legend, the people of this city got tired of making offerings to the dragon and the king sent for help to vanquish his foe.

In this story, a young shoemaker by the name of Dratewka convinced the dragon to take an offering of a Ram filled with sulfur.

After eating it, the dragon drank so much water that it exploded!

Some say this is just a myth, a fairy tale told to young and gullible visitors, but it certainly sparks the imagination simply to think of the scenario that could have taken place here.

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Old Town Krakow & Wawel Castle Tour by Walkative!

FREETOUR.com says

Our Secret Traveller rates this tour highly as "the perfect introduction to Krakow's Old Town". "Lasting approximately 2.5 hours, this tour is a must do when in the magnificent Old Town of Krakow. The local guides are very knowledgeable, friendly and genuinely enthusiastic, delivering potentially heavy content in a really accessible, digestible way at a relaxed pace - making for an interesting and enjoyable journey through the Middle ages to present day in this charming, historically important part of Krakow. All the key sights are covered and the local tips from the guides were excellent!"

Overview of the tour in Krakow

Welcome to the heart of Krakow, where history, culture, and beauty intertwine. The Old Town that survived the Second World War pulsates with the ambiance of the days when it was the capital of Europe’s largest country. Join us for a tour of a city that hasn’t changed much since the Middle Ages to discover why it was included on the first-ever UNESCO Heritage List! Explore the Royal Route: Following the Royal Route, you'll pass by breathtaking landmarks, including the magnificent Wawel Castle, the awe-inspiring St. Mary's Basilica, and the bustling Main Market Square. Each site holds a piece of the city's story, and our expert guides will bring those stories to life, adding the precious context of the history and culture of Poland. Cultural Hub: We will show you where to find traces of the city's heyday in the 15th and 16th centuries when Copernicus walked these streets. A UNESCO World Heritage Gem: The Old Town & the Wawel Castle are UNESCO World Heritage Sites for a good reason. Its charming streets, stunning architecture, and rich history make it one of Europe's most well-preserved and cherished destinations.

This activity includes:

• Wawel Royal Castle
• St. Mary's Basilica
• St. Florian's Gate
• Main Market Square 21a Lux
• English-speaking guide

Meeting point

between Barbican and St. Florian's Gate

Between the Barbican and St. Florian's Gate - the medieval city walls area.

Things to note

Please arrive at the meeting point on time. ATTENTION - booking rules Please note that our free tours are designed for individual travellers and small private groups only. Hence, we do not accept parties of 8 or more people on regular free tours and guides have the right to deny participation to such groups. If you travel to a party of 8 or more, please book a private tour in advance. If you show up at the meeting point with the bigger group, our guide will ask you for the payment (10 euro/person) before the tour or cancel your reservation on the spot. To confirm your reservation, please arrive 10 minutes before starting. We can not guarantee participation when you will be late. Please note that multiply bookings (under different names) for 7 people who belong to one group will still be treated as one organized group and the guide has the right to deny participation to such parties. This policy is implied in the best interest of our individual visitors. Please respect our rules.

Free Cancellation

You are free to cancel a booking anytime. We kindly remind you to cancel bookings you cannot arrive for. Being reported as absent decreases your customer level points and the benefits you can enjoy.

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Free walking tour Krakow

Welcome to Cracow Free Tours! We are pleased to present free, tip-based tours of Krakow.

Krakow walking tour is the perfect way to discover and explore the most interesting and crucial places of the city with our licensed guide. Everybody can take part and there is no price – if you like the tour, you simply give a tip at the end according to your own budget.

There is no pressure, you decide how much the tour is worth. You don’t have to book the tour, just come to the meeting place and join it. The tours take place every day all year round, no matter if it’s sunshine or rain. We are licensed guides, born in Cracow and have lived all our life here so we hope to share this knowledge and our life experience with you.

During our Krakow city tour, you will learn about the history, architecture and people of Cracow. You will listen to a lot of entertaining stories about the customs of people from the past which are not included in your guidebooks. Only those who walk the streets of Cracow can say that they really know the city and it’s no use to walk with a guidebook - it’s better to join our free tours! If you would like to have a private tour, please contact us.

Please, notice that our unique tours are run only by the guides with our RED UMBRELLA . Look for it in front of St. Mary’s church at the Main Market Square.

• Tour Schedule
• Krakow Old Town Free Walking Tour
• World War Two in Krakow – Jewish Quarter Free Tour
• A Walk with the Dead: Krakow Ghost Tour
• Food & Drink Tour
• Krakow Audio tour
• Street Art & Street Food
• Zakopane Day trips
• Krakow Boat Party
• Krakow Pub Crawl
• Kraków private/group tours
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• City tours Krakow
• Krakow free walking tour

Krakow Free Walking Tour

Why book a krakow free walking tour.

Krakow is an enchanting city and was one of the first in the world to be listed as a UNESCO world heritage site. That means there is plenty to discover. Time and again we hear tourists say they didn’t have time to cover all they had hoped.

City Walks Krakow can help you with that.

A City Walks Krakow tour is the perfect way to discover the magic of Krakow. Anyone can simply wander the streets, but a free tour with our expert guides allows you to delve deeper into what makes Krakow so special, so you can really get to know this amazing city.

On each Krakow Free walking tour, in only a couple of hours with our guides you will cover a whole area of the city, see all there is to see and learn all there is to know. Not just about the history and architecture, but which restaurants to eat in, the best museums to visit and the best places to go for a drink.

How far will I have to walk?

Much of Krakow centre is pedestrianised so if you don’t walk, you probably won’t see much. Each Krakow Free walking tour lasts between 2- 2.5 hours, but you won’t be walking the whole time. Much of the time is spent telling you the great stories of Krakow’s past.

There are plenty of streets and 1000 years worth of history to cover in Krakow. We find it is a lot less walking and much quicker to see the city with the help of our expert guides, than to try to tackle it on your own and end up going in circles! In one day with us, you can cover most of the city.

Will it be a boring history lesson?

No of course not! Our guides only make their money from tips. Which means they work extra hard to be fountains of knowledge and to make the tours as entertaining, funny and informative as possible.

How do I join Krakow free walking tour?

Easy! Reservation for our tours is free. Just follow the link below, book your spot on the tour and we will see you at the meeting point.

Look for the Blue City Walks Krakow umbrellas .

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Free Walking Tour of Krakow

• 9.60 / 10 602 reviews | 4,896 travellers Guide (Chris) very helpful and truly friendly 8 Romeu

Take in the exquisite Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance-style buildings on a walking tour of the historic center of Krakow and see for yourself why it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1978.

Description

Begin your free walking tour between St. Florian’s Gate and the Barbican , where you can immediately discover the traces of the important medieval city Krakow once was, by the old entrance to the walled city.

Then, over two hours, you'll learn about the city’s rich history and anecdotes accompanied by your knowledgeable English-speaking guide . Head back to the city's 15th and 16th-century heyday , when Copernicus himself walked streets packed with exotic goods and foreign merchants, seeking their fortune.

Marvel at the numerous landmarks, including the Main Market Square with St Mary's church, Cloth Hall, the Cathedral, and Castle courtyard . Then onwards to the tragedy of the Second World War in Poland, the communist regime, and even the story of Karol Wojtyła, a man better known as Pope John Paul II.

Important information

The free tours are designed for individual travelers or small groups of friends and family. In the best interest of our customers, we try to limit our groups to relatively small numbers. We cannot accept groups of over 7 people on our regular tours, and the guide may refuse to accept them. If you're a large group, check out our private tours of Krakow.

More Information

2 hours 30 minutes.

The activity takes place with a guide that speaks in English.

Expert local guide

Not included

When to book.

You can book up to the start time, as long as there are places remaining. Book now to guarantee your spot.

Type of voucher

Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible. An accompanying person is required. This must be indicated in the reservation.

Sustainability

All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code .

Our providers commit to:

• Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
• Reduce, reuse, recycle.
• Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
• Uphold fair employment standards.
• Foster the growth of local communities.
• Preserve the integrity of local culture.
• Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
• Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
• Operate with honesty and transparency.
• Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.

This particular activity contributes as follows:

• No printing of documentation required.

Walkative Tour Show more

Corporate name: Legendary Tours

Frequently asked questions

Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?

A - At Civitatis we guarantee the best quality and prices, click here if you want to know how we select our activities.

Q - How to book?

A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.

If you have any other questions please contact us.

Free cancellation

Meeting point.

Between St. Florian’s Gate and the Barbican

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Krakow Explorers - Free walking tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Krakow FREE Walking Tour: Best Tours, Tips & Reviews (2023)

Krakow is a city full of history, art and culture and one of the best ways to explore it is by participating in a Krakow Free Walking Tour . More and more cities in Europe are offering the chance to discover the city with an expert guide for a few bucks. This meets the needs of budget travelers , young travelers and backpackers . It is no mystery that the first to offer free walking tours were the hostels. But nowadays, adults and seniors also participate in these tours, because it is often a light and fun way to visit the city , less demanding than a real cultural visit with a professional guide.

In this guide to the best Krakow Free Walking Tours , I will try to answer all common questions about it.

Best Krakow Free Walking Tours

Free walking tour of krakow.

The Free Walking Tour of Krakow is the most popular free tour in town , and allows you to discover the main attractions of the old town, such as the ancient royal streets and the remains of the mighty medieval fortifications, such as St. Florian’s Gate and the Barbican , and then explore the wonders of the Main Market Square , with St Mary’s Church and the iconic Cloth Hall . You will explore the Wawel Hill where the fabulous Castle and its Cathedral are located.

You will visit hidden courtyards , quaint alleys, and your guide will tell you several stories about the history of the city, especially the tragic events of WWII and life during the communist regime . You will discover many interesting things about the monuments and buildings you see, their history and their curious facts.

The Free Walking Tour of Krakow is held in English , Spanish and Italian and lasts 2.5 hours . Tours run daily, and are held in small groups, so places are limited. If you visit Krakow in the summer or during the Christmas period, it is recommended to book well in advance.

Free Walking Tour of the Krakow Jewish Quarter

The Free Walking Tour of the Krakow Jewish Quarter is another very popular free tour in Krakow and is the perfect complement to the previous one. In fact, this allows you to visit the other most important district of Krakow: the Kazimierz , the former Jewish quarter .

This is the most significant place in the recent history of the city, as this was once one of the most important and prestigious neighborhoods in the city. You will discover its history, its fabulous synagogues that are over 500 years old , and then head to the former Krakow Ghetto , in the current Podgorze district.

This free tour will allow you to discover the most picturesque and significant corners of the district, which today is the heart of the artistic and cultural life of Krakow (as well as nightlife! ), The places where the Oscar winning film Schindler’s List was shot and many of the places where the tragic history of the Ghetto took place.

The Free Walking Tour of the Krakow Jewish Quarter is held in English , Spanish and Italian and lasts 2 hours . Here too, only small groups are allowed and the tour is usually in high demand, so book early! Usually people take both the Free Walking Tour of Krakow (Old Town) and this one, because they take place at different times , so you can see the Old Town in the morning and Kazimierz in the afternoon, for example.

Free Walking Tour of the Old Town & Jewish Quarter

The Free Walking Tour of the Old Town & Jewish Quarter is the condensed version of the previous two tours. This tour lasts 3 hours , so it could be a decent solution for those short on time and want to visit all the highlights of the city in just a few hours.

It is held in English and Spanish , but only a few days a week (usually Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday). If you have enough time, I recommend that you take the two separate tours in order to enjoy a more complete and relaxed visit.

Nazi & Communist History Free Tour

This is one of the most interesting free tours in Krakow , but unfortunately it is not held every day (usually only once a week ). This tour is held in small groups and the guides will take you to discover the recent past of the city: the Nazi occupation and the Communist regime .

You will visit the key places of these events that marked Krakow’s past, discover many interesting curiosities and historical facts , see several emblematic buildings and discover their dark past. Finally, you will be able to get an overview of local life during communism , discovering some places that have survived the time, such as the milk bars and the headquarters of the Solidarność union, which was one of the main proponents of the collapse of the regime.

The tour is held in English and Spanish and lasts 2.5 hours .

Nowa Huta Free Tour

One of the must-dos in Krakow is to visit the Nowa Huta district. Although a little off the beaten track, this is one of the best places to discover the recent past of the city: a suburb born around a huge steel mill built at the behest of Stalin. Nowa Huta is the symbol of the communist utopia , a neighborhood built for the workers according to the highest standards of socialist architecture .

Visiting Nowa Huta is like stepping into a time machine: there are old restaurants , bars and shops that have remained untouched since communism, underground bunkers and a museum dedicated to its compelling history. The best way to explore the neighborhood and its attractions is with a guided tour of Nowa Huta by local guides who live right in the neighborhood, which includes round-trip transportation from Krakow city center in a vintage Communist-era car .

Otherwise, if you just want to have a quick look around the neighborhood, you can get there on your own and join the interesting Nowa Huta Free Tour . A local guide will led you through the highlights of Nowa Huta , showing you the socialist boulevards, the huge steel mill that it was once named after Lenin, and some of the most characteristic places.

The tour is held in English and lasts 2.5 hours .

Vistula River Free Bike Tour

One of the most fun Krakow free tours is the Vistula River Free Bike Tour , which will allow you to discover the wonderful surroundings of Krakow. This tour will allow you to cycle along the beautiful cycle paths that flank the Vistula , from Wawel Hill along some of the most remarkable buildings in the city.

From here continue to one of the most important shrines in Krakow, the Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel , and along the way you will see some iconic buildings in the style of Soviet realism. You will continue on to the fabulous Camaldolese Hermit Monastery and finally cross the countryside around Krakow until you reach the Tyniec fortress-monastery , one of the most hidden gems of the city.

The tour is held in English , lasts 3.5 hours and runs only a few days a week. Bike and helmet rental is not included, so you will need to rent it at your hostel or hotel, or you can rent it for a few bucks here .

What is a Krakow Free Walking Tour?

A Krakow Free Walking Tour is essentially a guided tour of some districts of the city, for example there is a Free Walking Tour of Krakow’s Old Town, one of the Krakow Jewish Quarter, but there are also thematic tours, such as the Nazi & Communist History Free Tour.

It is a walking tour, therefore an easy stroll through the streets of the city , led by passionate and expert guides. The guides are mostly students, boys and girls who do it for passion and to earn some extra money. The great thing about free walking tours is that there are no boring and monotonous guides , because they love what they do!

During a walking tour you visit the highlights of the city , for example the most famous monuments, and you get many interesting explanations and information about their history and local culture . Plus, the guides are usually super friendly, and willingly answer questions about what to see, where to eat etc.

In Krakow there is a wide offer of free walking tours: it will not be uncommon to see small groups following guides with colored umbrellas. How to choose the best one? Many tours also make money by promoting shops, restaurants etc, which is something I personally really hate. When I choose a free tour, I want to enjoy the visit, get curious facts, learn something more.

This is why you should avoid tourist traps and join tours offered by reputable agencies , with honest and knowledgeable guides. For example I love the tours offered by Civitatis , which are led by experienced and super-friendly local guides . This is a brand active throughout Europe, which collaborates ethically and directly with local guides , promoting their services. It is a guarantee of honesty and good service.

Are Krakow Free Walking Tours really FREE?

Yes, the best Krakow Free Walking Tours – which means those offered by reputable and honest agencies and guides – are really and totally free. Guides earn from tips , but no one is required to tip the guide. However, if you enjoyed the tour, it is ethical and fair to give your guide a small tip.

How Much to Tip on a Krakow Free Walking Tour?

It’s up to you! Sincerely! No one will force you to tip your guide, although it is fair to tip if you enjoyed the tour. For these people this is a job, as well as a passion. And these are real tours, not just a promotion of a more comprehensive paid tour.

People usually give a small tip based on their budget. You have a small budget, give a small tip. Some just give a few coins for a coffee or a beer, others give 5 or 10 €. Did you really enjoy the tour? Then give a € 10 or € 20 tip. You’re rich? Then give a big tip! Really, it’s up to you.

There are people who simply don’t tip, because they travel on an extremely tight budget. Or, if you didn’t like the tour , you can just say bye and walk away. No problem! Anyway, what will continue to make these great free walking tours available in the future is the fact that someone tips the guides.

What is the difference between a Krakow Free Walking Tour and a Paid Tour?

The main difference, besides the fact that paid tours have a fixed price to pay in advance, is in the type of experience. Krakow free walking tours are basic tours , which allow you to explore the city with a local guide , see the most important things and get a brief overview of the local culture.

A paid tour is led by a professional guide , who has an in-depth background in medieval and contemporary history, art history and local culture. This guide is a local, who has lived in the city for years. He speaks several languages ​​perfectly, and has passed strict certification exams, for example the licensed guides for Wawel Castle tours require a special license . This is why the tour is more comprehensive, more in-depth. You will have tons of notions , historical facts, details about the art, architecture and history of what you see. To make the most of a paid tour, you should know how to appreciate all that in-depth information, otherwise you risk getting bored.

Should I choose a Krakow Free Walking Tour or a Paid Tour?

If you just want to get an overview of the city , its main monuments, essential historical facts, as well as some info on the local culture, then a Krakow Free Walking Tour is the right choice for you.

If you’re traveling on a budget and don’t want to spend money on an expensive paid tour, then a Krakow Free Walking Tour is the right choice for you.

If you want a less demanding and more informal experience than the classic professional guided tour, with friendly guides, and small groups (10-20 people) with an average age under 35, then the Krakow Free Walking Tours is the right choice for you.

If you want to visit the interiors of monuments , churches, synagogues, palaces and museums, get in-depth information on what you see and accurate historical, artistic, architectural details, then it is better to join a specific paid tour , with a professional guide. However, do not rely on improvised guides, but only on tours offered by official agencies and guides.

Planning your trip to Krakow?

Discover the BEST THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN KRAKOW and all the best tips for visiting AUSCHWITZ and WIELICZKA SALT MINES .

Here you will find plenty of in-depth guides to better plan your trip to Krakow:

☞ TRAVEL GUIDE TO KRAKOW AND AROUND ☞ PLAN YOUR TRIP TO KRAKOW: EVERYTHING YOU SHOULD KNOW ☞ THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO THE BEST HOSTELS IN KRAKOW

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Free Walking Tour Krakow

Explore the most historical Polish city with Krakow Explorers!

Free  krakow walking tour.

We, the Krakow Explorers team, invite you to join our tours that were created specially for those tourists who want to experience the top quality excursions.

Our team consists of professional guides and historians who know inside and out of the former Polish capital.

We have 5 years experience of guiding more than 10 000 tourists all over the world. Thanks to our satisfied clients we’ve got #1 position on Tripadvisor among 400 tourist companies in Krakow.

Our motto is don’t be a tourist, be an Explorer.

We do tours around:

Old Town and Wawel Castle. The most popular tour in Krakow about the dramatic history of Krakow and its top attractions;

Jewish Quarter and former Jewish ghetto. It is here where you can find Jewish synagogues, cozy and tiny streets on which the hustle and bustle of Jewish life was prevailing before the catastrophe of WW2;

Under the Regimes. The tour is about the cruelty of German Nazis and Soviet occupants, the resistance of the brave and their suffering when hope was taken away;

Sin City. During this walk we’ll focus on serial killers, man-eaters, and untold secrets which for many remain a taboo even till these days.

Apart of it we organize paid tours such as:

Food tour: Krakow Eats

The Schindler’s factory museum

The Underground museum

The Salt Mines

The Auschwitz concentration camp museum

The Plaszow concentration camp museum in Krakow

Pictures from our walks

What visitors think about Free  Krakow Walking Tour?

Frequently asked questions about the tour

How does free walking tour work in cracow, how much would be a recommended donation in cracow (roughly), where do your free cracow tours start, when do your free tours of cracow start, how can we change the reservation, get inspired by the free tour community blog.

What is the greatest treasure in Kraków?

Mona Lisa in Paris is undeniably a masterpiece, but did you know that in Krakow you may find a painting by Leonardo da Vinci, too?!

Expect an exciting adventure with Kraków Explorers

At Kraków Explorers we believe that exploring can be a fun activity and we want to share our passion to Kraków with the rest of the world.

10 most often asked questions about Warsaw

In this short article we answered ten most frequently asked questions about the capital of Poland.

Want to know more about our tours?

Walking Tours

Privacy overview.

Our Free Walking Tours

What is a free walking tour? It is a concept invented in Berlin, which has become one of the most popular tourist’s activities worldwide. One man decided to change tourism forever. He said “join my tour, and you can PAY-AS-MUCH-AS-YOU-WISH”. Usually, you must pay for the guided tour in advance. On the Free Tour, the guide lets you decide how much you would like to spend on the tour. There is no price set up. Krakow has beautiful architecture and amazing places to visit, but with the local guides everything gets funnier, better, easier to find, and comprehend. Anyone can join, and be sure that the guide will do the best he can. If you would like to know what to do in Krakow, you should start with our Free Tours!

Old Town and the Wawel Castle tour

Free Walking Tour

Jewish Quarter and the Former Ghetto Tour

“don't be a tourist, be an explorer”.

REGULAR GUIDED TOURS

In here you will find an offer of other activities MUST DO in Krakow. It is very simple to book it, choose one, or few tours below. Click on one of the tours. On the right side, next to short descriptions, you will find a calendar with availability and price. Keep in mind that according to the Auschwitz Memorial Camp Museum authorities, the tour has to be booked 3 days in advance!

Foodie Explorers - Our Food Tours!

As food enthusiasts, taste explorers and history lovers, we create tours that are focused on food, local drinks and culture. We tell you stories about the history and traditions of Kraków through its flavors and aromas. Whether you want to join our  Vodka Tour  and sample the best vodkas and liquors that Poland has to offer, our  Beer Tour  and taste the local craft beers, or our  Food Tour  and try the famous Polish pierogi, we have a tour for you. Join us and experience Kraków like a local, with a local. We are FoodieXplorers, and we can’t wait to meet you!

Kraków Food and Historical Adventure: Intorduction to polish cuisine. Do you love food and want to discover the best of Polish cuisine? Join our Food Tour and taste the most delicious dishes and snacks that Kraków has to offer. Kiełbasa zapiekanka, oscypek and more. You will enjoy a variety of flavors and learn about the history and culture behind them.🍽️

🗓️ Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 💶 20 Euro

Kraków Craft Beer Adventure: Discoverig the local Flavour Explore the world of Polish beer on our Beer Tour. Find out how beer is made, what are the main ingredients and styles, and how to pair it with food. Taste different kinds of beers, from lagers to ales, from light to dark, from classic to craft. 🍻

🗓️Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday 💶 35 Euro

Vodka Culture Tour: Through Time and Taste Discover the secrets of Polish vodka on our Wódka Tour. Learn about the history, culture and traditions of this iconic drink. Sample different types of vodkas and liquors, from clear to flavored, from mild to strong. 🥃 And enjoy some classical vodka food to prepare your stomachs and enhance your experience.

🗓️ Tuesday, Friday, Saturday 💶 35 Euro

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Krakow Explorers is a proud member of the Free Tour Community, a global network of independent local initiatives operating in the pay-what-you-wish model. We are committed to delivering top-quality cultural experiences and promoting the free tour concept throughout the world.

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A free walking tour of kraków’s royal road.

Explore the path of kings on this free walking tour of Kraków’s Royal Road

“Has anyone here been to Warsaw?” asked Pavel, our tour guide. No hands went up.

“Good,” he continued. “I hope that you never have to go there.”

It was  Christmas Day in Kraków , and our  walking tour  group had assembled between St. Florian’s Gate, the 700-year-old gate into the old town, and the impressive Barbican. Built at the end of the 15 th  Century to protect Kraków against the Turks, this is considered to be the best-preserved barbican in Europe.

According to Pavel, it was streets ahead of Warsaw’s Barbican.

His passion for Kraków, its history and its burgeoning craft beer scene – and his cheerful disdain for Poland’s capital – was evident during our 2.5-hour walking tour along  Kraków’s Royal Road . This route, beginning at St. Florian’s Gate and ending at the Wawel Castle, was used by monarchs to move around the city.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

IN THIS ARTICLE

A walking tour is the best way to explore Kraków’s historic heart. Many of the city’s landmarks are close together and much of the old town is pedestrianised.

I did a tour with  Walkative!  which was excellent. This Kraków old town tour runs three times a day, even on Christmas Day when I did it! As the name suggests, it is free but tips are appreciated.

St Mary’s Church – Kraków’s Temple to God

From  St. Florian’s Gate , the sole survivor of the eight fortified gates built into the city’s walls, it is a short stroll along  Floriańska Street  to the  Market Square .

St. Mary’s Church  dominates this main square and is Kraków’s geographic and spiritual beating heart.

Whereas Wawel Cathedral was the seat of the city’s bishopry, St. Mary’s was Kraków’s parish church. This Gothic basilica was built to inspire awe and display the city’s wealth, its calling card if you like.

At the top of each hour, a bugle call ( hejnal )  sounds from the taller of the two towers which pierce the ash-grey sky like giant exclamation marks.

But it is the interior of St. Mary’s Church that is truly extraordinary.

Stuffed full of outstanding works of art, its star turn is the late 15 th  Century wooden high altar, depicting scenes from the life of Christ in a dramatically expressive fashion. Get there just before midday to witness the middle shutters of the altar opening in all of their glory.

Cloth Hall: Kraków’s temple to commercialism

Across the Market Square from St. Mary’s Church is the  Cloth Hall .

Open for business since 257, this covered market is the oldest shopping mall in Poland. This temple to commercialism now houses souvenir stalls and coats of arms from Polish cities embellish its walls.

Even here, Warsaw and Kraków are having a face-off.

Exiting the other side of the Cloth Hall, across the square is a Gothic tower built with red brick and local limestone. This is all that remains of the  old town hall , which was destroyed in the 19 th  Century.

The adjacent sculpture of a giant head –  Eros Bound , known as “The Head” –  was created by the celebrated Polish artist Igor Mitoraj and is the subject of controversy. Many people dislike this sculpture and it was destined to be positioned in the square outside the Galleria Krakówska.

However, indignant that his work of art should be displayed outside a shopping mall, Mitoraj insisted that it be relocated. Despite howls of protests from historians and locals alike, this 12-year-old sculpture found its way to its current location.

Its hollow interior is perfect for kids to crawl through, poking their heads out of its unseeing eye for proud parents to capture an image.

It also serves as a bed for the night for the homeless of Kraków in the winter.  “The cheapest hostel in the old town,” as Pavel, our tour guide put it.

Collegium Maius

Turning our backs on “The Head”, we continue along Jagiellońska to the  Collegium Maius , the oldest college of Poland’s oldest, and some would say best, university. Rebuilt in the late 15 th  Century around a Gothic arcaded courtyard, it counts Copernicus and Pope John Paul II amongst its alumni.

Make sure that you arrive there shortly before 11 am or 3 pm (plus 9 am and 5 pm in the summer months) for the show put on by the  courtyard clock . Watch the wooden figures of kings and professors solemnly parade to music.

Art Nouveau in Kraków: Stansilaw Wyspicński

At the end of the 19 th  Century, Polish artists were caught up in the  Art Nouveau  wave sweeping through Europe like a new broom. This injection of style and modernity into Poland’s cultural landscape resulted in the  Mloda Polska   (Young Poland) movement (1895 – 1914).

Kraków was at the heart of this movement and at the fore of this group of visionary artists was  Stansilaw Wyspicński,  who was responsible for the interior decoration of the  Franciscan Church , the next stop on our Kraków walking tour.

The first church on this site (pl. Wszystkich Świętych) was built in 1255, 18 years after the arrival of the Franciscans in Kraków. Following damage wrought by the Great Fire of Kraków in 1850, the church was rebuilt in a Neo-Gothic / Neo-Renaissance style.

But the murals and stained glass of Stansilaw Wyspicński are its most striking features. Take, for example, the stained glass image –  Let It Be – of God emerging from the sinuous, elemental cosmos.

My visit was perfectly timed with a performance by the Sicilian Choir in front of this masterpiece.

If you are visiting Kraków at Christmas, take a look at the live Christmas Nativity that takes place outside the Franciscan Church, featuring live animals and singing children. What could possibly go wrong?

Kanonicza: The best address in town

Leaving the Franciscan Church behind us, we now make our way along  Grodzka  on our final approach to Wawel Castle, the last section of Krakòw’s Royal Road. At the magnificent baroque church of St Peter and Paul, we cross Mary Magdalen Square and turn down  Kanonicza , one of the oldest streets in Kraków.

This street gets its name from Kraków’s canons who lived there from the 14 th  Century onwards. As each canon took up office in the chapter of Kraków, he was given the use of one of the houses on Kanonicza for life.

That’s better than most pensions nowadays.

In a medieval version of  Grand Designs , each successive inhabitant would modernise his abode. This has resulted in a vast array of architectural styles along this narrow street.

At the end of Kanoniczka, we reach  Wawel Hill , home to Wawel Cathedral and the Royal Castle.

Kraków was the capital of Poland from 1038 until 1596 and Wawel Castle served as the royal residence and seat of power. When the capital of Poland moved to Warsaw at the end of the 16 th  Century, the castle began to fall into ruin.

But mercifully, Wawel Castle, in common with most of Kraków was saved from destruction during WWII and has been restored to its former glory.

Enter the Wawel Dragon

Our walking tour ended with the Dragon of Wawel Hill. Local legend has it that Kraków was founded on his defeat and that his lair was in a cave at the foot of Wawel Hill.

Today, a fire-breathing dragon sculpture stands guard at the foot of Wawel Hill in honour of him.

I wonder if Warsaw has any fire-breathing dragons?

How to get to Kraków

Getting from Kraków airport  to the centre of the city is easy, thanks to a great rail connection.

Frequent trains run from the train station at the airport to ’s central station (Główny). The 16km journey takes just over 15 minutes and you can buy your ticket from the machines on the platform or from one of the conductors on board.

Kraków also has rail  connections to other major European cities.

How to get around Kraków

Due to its compact size, the  old city is walkable .

If you need to go further afield or your accommodation is not centrally located, take a tram. Kraków’s tram network  is modern and efficient. Ticket machines are at tram stops.

Where to stay in Kraków

Mid-range – Mercure Stare Misto

I stayed at this comfortable 4-star chain hotel, conveniently located opposite the train station and a 10-minute walk from the Market Square.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK A ROOM

Splurge – Balthazar Design Hotel

In the heart of the old town, close to Wawel Castle, this boutique hotel has garnered rave reviews.

Budget – EWM Kopernika 8.3 – Market Square & Old Town

This centrally-located apartment looks like a fantastic budget choice. It has the bonus of a garden area for outdoor dining.

>>> CLICK HERE TO BOOK AN APARTMENT

>>> None of these places take your fancy? Click here for other great accommodation choices in Kraków.

Enjoy your Kraków walking tour

It’s the best way to get to know this beautiful city.

If you need more help with planning your time here, take a look at my comprehensive 4-day Kraków itinerary . This includes how to visit the salt mines near Kraków and the lowdown on taking a day trip to Auschwitz . I also have a summary of the most highly-rated Auschwitz excursions .

Happy travels!

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

Krakow Explorers Free Walking Tours x Emily's Guide

Krakow Explorers Walking Tours

See the City: Krakow’s Best “Free” Walking Tours

Book a spot on a tour here. 

Maybe I’m a little biased (sometimes I give tours for this company and invite you to join me!) but Krakow Explorers is by far the best free walking tour company in Krakow. You don’t have to take my word for it– you can check out their reviews on Trip Advisor , Google , or Guru Walks (the leading booking platform for such tours).

There are two main offerings; the Old Town   or the  Jewish Quarter .

Usually we suggest starting with the Old Town Tour and then doing the Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz as a follow-up; but if you don’t have enough time for two tours- then pick which one you are more interested in.

For many, it may be easier to read about the Old Town and explore it on your own a bit; while having a guide for the Jewish Quarter is almost mandatory in my opinion. I live there, and you wouldn’t believe how many lost tourists I have helped over the years! Things aren’t as obvious there, and so I highly recommend going with someone who can show you around, so you can spend more time there really getting the value out of what I consider to be the best part of the city.

Each of these tours lasts approximately 2.5 hours- and is a pay what you want donation based tour. The concept of “free” walking tours was started in Berlin, Germany as a way to remove barriers for travelers both from set pricing, but also planning. You can leave a free walking tour at any time, and you can also just show up and join one at any time too, so there isn’t a lot of planning needed.

Even better- if you get a guide you don’t vibe with, you can pay them accordingly, or just kindly exit the group- it happens! We’re all different types of travelers, and this is a great option so you know you’re getting the best quality at the best price (since you decide what that is!)

Why you should tip you free walking tour guide?

Well, all guides have costs, pretty big ones actually. And it often happens that a big group will book and then leave without tipping, or leave a tip as though they are a single person instead of a group of eight. Because of the modern day booking systems, guides are required to pay per person that books, on many platforms, like Guru Walks . So it sometimes happens that a guide is losing money- and that’s a bummer.

So my advice, no matter what company you choose for your walking tour- try to book directly on their website and not through a third-party middleman; especially if you are a large group! But if you like booking through a platform like Guru, where the guide assumes your reservation cost- keep that in mind when tipping.

How much should I tip on a free walking tour in Krakow?

The point of a free tour is to remove barriers in price but also to offer more flexibility when it comes to how long you stay, giving you the ability to leave at any point of the tour etc…

However, in terms of what to leave your guide, I’ll start with this. Most golf-cart tours charge just under 100zł per person if you’re a group of 4- more per person if you’re less than that. There are benefits to the carts- most importantly- you don’t have to walk! But many times the golf carts are only an audio guide playing while someone drives you about. Leaving little room for questions or for a tour to be more personalized to the group’s wants and wishes. But use that pricing as a gauge.

If you are on a backpackers budget- leave what you can. But if you have the funds, the minimum I would give is 50zł per person in your group (remember the guide is paying per person to the booking platforms). If you really like yours guide and want to say thank you in a big way- leave more ☺️ it’s as simple as that!

But Why is Krakow Explorers the best Walking tour company in Krakow- and why did i choose them?

First of all, they are locally owned and operated. The people in charge are physically here on the ground in Krakow. Constantly researching and learning about the city (many of them have pHd’s in history, archeology, etc.)- and were either born here, or have spent the better part of their adult lives here!  They are also constantly making sure that all their guides have not only knowledge about Krakow, but are comfortable navigating groups. Many of the other walking tour companies are huge and span many cities- so they aren’t usually checking the quality of their guides on a daily basis. Krakow Explorers being a small company, is able to monitor their guides very well. And honestly- we are all good friends.

When your tour guide is happy, and feels a part of a really good guiding group, like the team at Krakow Explorers- it is directly reflected in the job they perform. In order to prepare for my own tours- I went on each of my teammates tours- and I can honestly say they are all phenomenal at what they do. And they are truly passionate about the knowledge they are sharing with you.

What to expect on a Free Walking Tour in Krakow

If you are going on the Old Town Tour you will cover what I usually refer to as the typical tourist checklist– each guide has his or her own preferred route, but for the most part they cover these places:

The Old Town and Castle

St. Mary’s Basilica

The Cloth Hall

Main Market Square

Florianska Street

Town Hall Tower

Jagellonian University

Kanonicza Street

Wawel Cathedral

Wawel Palace Courtyard

Wawel Castle

and more….

If you are headed to the Jewish Quarter tour you will get a great introduction to not only what happened here during WW2, but also the hundreds of years of history that existed before the war, and the modern day Jewish presence here in Kazimierz as well.

The Jewish Quarter of Kazimierz and Former Jewish Ghetto

History of the Jewish People of Krakow

Szeroka Street

Ritual Bathhouse historic building

Remu Synagogue

Wolf-Popper Synagogue

The Old Synagogue

Jewish Community Center

Tempel Synagogue

Schindler’s List Courtyard

Plac Wolnicac

Former Jewish Ghetto

Ghetto Hero’s Square

Krakow Explorer’s themselves describe the tours as follows:

On the OLD TOWN FREE WALKING TOUR, you will see  the most beautiful and important places in Krakow you shouldn’t miss.  We will introduce you to Krakow’s and Polish history and will show you our recommendations where to go and what to do, to help you to organise your stay in Krakow. We will share with you our knowledge and passion about the old royal capital of Poland. One of the most popular tourist destinations in this part of Europe!

On the tour you will get knowledge about the largest mediaeval market square and  why the trumpeter plays the melody from St. Mary’s Basilica  every hour on the hour. You will see one of the oldest European “shopping malls” – Sukiennice, where you can buy the best souvenirs in Krakow. Our storytelling guides will show you remains of the Old Town walls and some anecdotes about saving them till today. You will walk to one of the oldest universities in Europe, where famous Nicolaus Copernicus and Pope John Paul II used to study. We will help you to understand the terrible history of World War II, and the reasons why Krakow survived. The icing on the cake will be the Wawel Castle. One of the most spectacular renaissance royal residences all over the World. After that you will know why the capital of Poland has been moved to Warsaw. Our OLD TOWN FREE TOUR will end the story of the terrifying Dragon, which is one of the symbols of Krakow.

After a 2.5h walking tour you will be able to understand the mentality of Poles, their history and see the best of the best in Krakow.

On the JEWISH QUARTER FREE WALKING TOUR you will get big knowledge about Jewish culture, religion and history. You probably were wondering why the biggest Jewish population in Europe lived in Poland?  On this tour we will present the most important, and beautiful places in Krakow`s Jewish Quarter.

Nearby the royal castle in Kraków awaits a completely different world – Kazimierz district. It used to be a separated city established in the 14th century by the king Kazimierz (Casimir) the Great.  This area is famous for its Jewish quarter , which was one of the most important centres of the Jewish culture. Before World War II 30% of the Krakow population were the Jews. They contributed to creating a very unique spirit of the city in which they lived for centuries!  You can’t leave Krakow without seeing the oldest preserved synagogue in Poland.  It is also where Steven Spielberg filmed his famous  Schindler’s list.  Tour is covering the sites that you might know from this iconic film.

When the sun goes down Kazimierz is changing  into the centre of Krakow’s nightlife . This district has a rich offer of unique pubs, bars and restaurants. Tell our local guides how you would like to spend your night and for sure they will tell you places you will never forget.

Last part of the tour will have place in Podgórze, which was the area chosen by Nazis for  a Jewish Ghetto.  World War II and Nazi crimes committed in Poland has changed Kraków. It is however important to see the buildings and walls that witnessed the tragedy of the Jewish nation. Your guide will show you  the Ghetto heroes square – memorial in the form of many chairs.  Don’t hesitate and join us for a 2.5 hours tour to the historical Jewish quarter and the ghetto!

Having been established as a city on the island in close vicinity of Krakow, Kazimierz was supposed to become a competition to its neighbour – Krakow. The Jews who in the Middle Ages were prosecuted in the Western Europe started settling in Kazimierz and soon this city became a place of Jewish prosperity.

It is here where you can find Jewish synagogues, cozy and tiny streets on which the hustle and bustle of Jewish life was prevailing before the catastrophe of WW2. See the oldest synagogue in Poland, trace the filming spots of the ‘Schindler’s List’ ,learn who are Ashkenazim and Sephardim, get to know Helena Rubinstein, Roman Polanski, Ludwick Zamenhof, and Maximilian Faktorowicz.

Join us for 2.5-hour tour where we will discover the Jewish heritage in Krakow, get to know their traditions and exciting people who were creating the Jewish history in Poland.

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There are many free Krakow walking tours available, which are led by local guides who are experts in Krakow. They know the area very well, which means you will be able to get all the information you need about the city. Some tours include visits to Wawel Castle and the old town, as well as the Jewish quarter. If you feel comfortable paying after the tour, do so. There is absolutely no demand for a tour guide. You decide the guide’s worth. The free walking tour Krakow can be booked online, and you just have to show up at the given location to join us Most Krakow free walking tours are held every day, no matter what the weather is like Below is the list of free Krakow walking tours you can attend.

Popular Free Walking Tours in Krakow

Loaded with abundant heritage, both glorious and notorious, Krakow is a city that has earned affection among tourists. It has become the coolest and hottest vacation spot in central Europe. Astonishingly, the architectural structures of Krakow remained unaffected during the Second World War, and in spite of being centuries old, Krakow’s old landmarks are well-preserved and beyond a shadow of doubt they are worth visiting. In Krakow, you are able to chill out and enjoy the roaring nightlife, explore historical attractions, galleries, museums, and even pursue an outdoor adventure. With picturesque streets, a walk around Krakow is an excursion. When touring Krakow, prepare for some opportunities to see jewel-year architectural structures even though Krakow is a big city. Don’t forget to consider joining one of our free walking tours Krakow to explore the city with local guides.

Krakow History

Krakow has been recognized for decades for its cultural heritage. As one of the first cities to make it onto the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, it has a rich historical background and beautiful architecture. It is generally believed that Kraków commenced as a town on Wawel Hill in 965, and back then it was a chaotic trading centre of Slavonic Europe. At present, Kraków has approximately 760,000 inhabitants, and about 8 million people live within a 100-km radius of its famous main Market Square, making it Poland’s most populated area. Aside from that, it has also become a European center for gastronomic heritage , offering you the opportunity to experience rich culinary traditions while enjoying money-saving options. Furthermore, Krakow is one of the world’s most influential vacation spots, and free tours Krakow can be an excellent way to experience astounding human history and cultural heritage while keeping your budget intact. Unfortunately, roughly 1.1 million people died during World War II in close proximity to Auschwitz , which is a few hours away from Krakow. Consider exploring this historical city with one of our informative free tours Krakow to gain deeper insights into its heritage and save money during your visit.

Faqs about Krakow

Is Krakow safe for tourists?

Kraków is generally a peaceful destination for vacationers. It offers the tourist an opportunity to pay a visit to nearly every part of Kraków without having to be terrified of kidnapping or every other kind of dangerous crime. However, the negative thing is, unfortunately, Kraków has its justifiable share of thieves; be cautious in congested public areas.

How many days should you spend in Krakow?

If you are a first-time traveler to Krakow, it is highly recommended that you spend no less than 2 days in Krakow. If at all possible, 3 days would be perfect to get a general flavor of the city. This would enable you to visit most of the main attractions, and get to know the main neighborhoods.

Is Krakow expensive to visit?

In most cases, Krakow has long been a more cost-efficient travel destination than many cities in Europe, but even so, prices have been rising over the past few years. Krakow. Apart from this, Krakow is among Poland’s biggest cities, so travelling costs in Krakow are generally higher than in other parts of Poland.

Do the locals in Krakow speak English?

Despite the fact that, generally, Polish people don’t learn English, the locals in Krakow speak English perfectly. Added to that, all of the listed free tours in Krakow are provided in English.

When is the most suitable time to visit Krakow?

Even though the weather conditions in Krakow are always pleasant throughout every season, the most ideal times to pay a visit to Kraków are from March to May and between September and November. The weather usually gets hotter in June, July, and August.

Can you drink tap water in Krakow?

Typically, restaurants across Krakow provide drinking water bottles by default. In general, drinking Poland’s public tap water is considered healthy and safe because the Polish government ensures that water quality is maintained throughout the country.

Is Krakow cheap for shopping?

Absolutely, yes. The fact is that, throughout central Europe, Krakow is viewed as one of the most attractive and inexpensive places to shop. It’s a city where you can find plenty of high-quality products at inexpensive prices, and, moreover, it’s straightforward to get a bargain.

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Communist Kraków – Nowa Huta

Those were the days when Kraków’s veins were running with coal and steel and the glorious, royal past of the city didn’t matter anymore. The world was on the eve of the Cold War and Nowa Huta, the communist district of Kraków, was built to fight and resist it. 

Visit with us Nowa Huta, one of the two still existing ideal communist cities in the world and get a chance to see the representative part of Nowa Huta – monumental Central Square and the Avenue of Roses, enter the ‘Ark of Lord’ church, a symbol of spiritual resistance of Catholic workers against the communist party will.

An ideal communist city, monumental and grand was built in a country that had just started to raise itself from the rubble of World War II. But, for the Communist Party, the costs of its construction were meaningless. Tangible proof of communist power was the only thing that mattered.

This ideal city, where religion was replaced with communist propaganda was supposed to be inhabited by ideal communist citizens: Homo Sovieticus. A new and better type of people, obedient, brainwashed and entirely devoted to the system. They were to replace the old chaotic, stubborn, free-willed and creative Homo Sapiens. But, nothing lasts forever. Eventually, the creatures turned against their masters. The people of Nowa Huta revolted and fought for freedom.

Join us and we will tell you the story of a heroic struggle of Polish workers, initiators of great strikes and protests that eventually started the fall of a Communist Block, and the beginnings of the biggest social movement of all times – Solidarity. All this in the surroundings of one of the best examples of an ideal communist city, which today, surprisingly, has so much to offer. 

During this tour, you will see:

• monumental Centralny (Central) Square – the heart of Nowa Huta
• the representative Avenue of Roses
• the site of the assassination attempt on the… statue of Lenin
• the most famous Kraków cross for which the proletariat fought
• ‘Ark of Lord’ church, a symbol of spiritual resistance of Catholic workers against the communist party, and modernist masterpiece
• and much more…!

A greatly enriching experience !

Damian was a fantastic guide and allowed us to learn a lot about the story of Nowa Huta, but also way more. He covered many topics, explaining us elements related to history, politics, architecture, religion, culture, very passionately and with a great sense of humor.

He was very attentive to the needs of the group a nd it was a very pleasing experience, time. I really recommend this visit to anyone interested to learn more about the communist past of Krakow !

Tour por Nova Huta un descubrimiento

No había oido de Nova Huta y fue un verdadero acierto. Una perspectiva distinta de una ciudad como Cracovia dada por un guía excelente, muy buen conocedor de la historia, como MAx. Un verdadero acierto

Imprescindible!

De la mà de la Victòria hem recorregut aquest barri/altre món de Cracòvia per descobrir un comunisme divers. Molt recomanable i amb unes explicacions interessants i amenes.

A brilliant experience

We’d never heard of Nowa Huta, so it was a wonderful surprise to hear all about it from the very friendly, amusing and very knowledgeable guide, Damien. Would highly recommend.

So interesting

We’d never heard of Nowa Huta so Damien’s tour was so interesting. Couldn’t recommend too highly.

Damien was incredibly knowledgeable and amusing. A great experience.

This tour is also available as a Private Tour.

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