7 Free Things to Do in Krakow

Krakow, is a city steeped in history and culture, making it an ideal destination for digital nomads looking to immerse themselves in a new environment while working remotely. The city offers a blend of medieval charm and modern conveniences, with plenty of free activities to enjoy. Whether you're interested in exploring the city's rich past or enjoying its vibrant present, Krakow has something for everyone. Here are nine free things to do in Krakow that mix popular attractions with some lesser-known gems.

Main Market Square (Rynek G?ówny)

As the largest medieval town square in Europe, the Main Market Square is a must-visit in Krakow. It's a bustling hub of activity, surrounded by historic townhouses, palaces, and churches. The square is also home to the iconic Cloth Hall and St. Mary's Basilica. Digital nomads can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, street performers, and the beauty of the historical buildings without spending a penny. It's a perfect place to people-watch and soak in the local culture.

Location: Rynek G?ówny, 30-062 Kraków, Poland. The square is in the heart of Krakow's Old Town.

Travel Tip: Visit the square during different times of the day to experience its changing ambiance, from the quiet mornings to the lively evenings.

Nearby: Stop by the famous "Pijalnia Wódki i Piwa" on Szewska Street for a taste of traditional Polish vodka and snacks at very affordable prices.

Wawel Royal Castle

The Wawel Royal Castle is a symbol of Polish national identity and a place of great historical significance. While some parts of the castle require a ticket, the castle grounds and courtyards are free to explore. Digital nomads can enjoy the stunning architecture and panoramic views of the Vistula River. The castle also hosts various cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year.

Location: Wawel 5, 31-001 Kraków, Poland. It's situated on Wawel Hill, overlooking the Vistula River.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to see the Wawel Dragon sculpture and its fire-breathing feature, located at the foot of the hill.

Nearby: Café Manggha, located across the river, offers a great view of the castle and serves delicious Japanese-inspired dishes and teas.

Planty Park

Encircling the Old Town, Planty Park is a green oasis perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. This park is a series of gardens designed in various styles, connected by walkways and dotted with statues and fountains. It's a great place to take a break from the city's hustle and bustle, read a book, or work on your laptop in a serene environment.

Location: Surrounds the Old Town, Kraków, Poland. It forms a green belt around the historical district.

Travel Tip: Look out for the various historical gates and fragments of the old city walls integrated into the park's design.

Nearby: Massolit Books & Café offers a cozy atmosphere with a wide selection of English-language books and delicious homemade cakes.

Krakow's Mounds

Krakow is home to several ancient mounds, including the Krakus Mound and the Ko?ciuszko Mound. These man-made hills offer panoramic views of the city and are a great spot for a hike or a moment of reflection. The mounds are also significant historical sites, with legends and stories adding to their allure.

Location: Krakus Mound is located in the Podgórze district, while Ko?ciuszko Mound is in the Zwierzyniec district.

Travel Tip: Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a less crowded experience and the best light for photography.

Nearby: After your visit to the Ko?ciuszko Mound, head to the nearby Forteca food market for a variety of local and organic products.

St. Mary's Trumpet Call

Every hour on the hour, a trumpet signal—called the Hejna? mariacki—is played from the highest tower of St. Mary's Basilica. This tradition dates back to the Middle Ages and is one of Krakow's most enduring customs. The melody abruptly ends in mid-stream, commemorating a 13th-century trumpeter who was shot in the throat while sounding the alarm before a Mongol attack.

Location: St. Mary's Basilica, Plac Mariacki 5, 31-042 Kraków, Poland. The basilica towers over the northeast corner of the Main Market Square.

Travel Tip: For a closer experience, you can watch the trumpeter from the windows of the Cloth Hall or any surrounding café with a view of the basilica.

Nearby: Charlotte, a charming French bakery and café, is just a short walk from the basilica and offers freshly baked bread and pastries.

Krakow's Street Art

Krakow's vibrant street art scene is an open-air gallery waiting to be discovered. The district of Kazimierz, in particular, boasts an array of murals and graffiti that reflect the city's artistic spirit. Take a self-guided tour to find these urban masterpieces, which range from large-scale paintings to subtle stencils, all telling a story about Krakow's past and present.

Location: Various locations, but many are concentrated in the Kazimierz district.

Travel Tip: Keep an eye out for the famous "Judah" mural by Pil Peled, one of Israel's most famous street artists, located on Józefa Street.

Nearby: Alchemia, an iconic bar and cultural venue in Kazimierz, is a great place to relax after exploring the area's street art.

The Royal Route

The Royal Route is the historic coronation path of Polish kings, stretching from St. Florian's Church to Wawel Castle. Walking this route is free and offers a journey through Krakow's most significant historical sites, including the Barbican, Florianska Street, and the Main Market Square. It's an excellent way for digital nomads to familiarize themselves with the city's layout and history.

Location: Begins at St. Florian's Church, Warszawska 1, 31-155 Kraków, Poland, and ends at Wawel Castle.

Travel Tip: Start your walk early in the morning to avoid the crowds and take your time exploring the landmarks along the way.

Nearby: Café Camelot on ?wi?tego Tomasza Street offers a quaint and artistic setting for a coffee break or a light meal.

B?onia Park

B?onia Park is a vast green meadow on the outskirts of Krakow's city center. It's a popular spot for jogging, cycling, and leisurely walks. The park is also a venue for various public events, including concerts and festivals. For digital nomads, it's a perfect place to exercise or unwind in nature without leaving the city.

Location: B?onia Park, al. 3 Maja, 30-062 Kraków, Poland. It's situated between the districts of Zwierzyniec and Krowodrza.

Travel Tip: Bring a blanket and some snacks for a picnic, or join the locals in their favorite pastime of flying kites when the weather is right.

Nearby: The nearby restaurant "Zak?adka Food & Wine" offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu that combines Polish and French cuisine.

Zakrzówek Lake

Zakrzówek Lake is a hidden gem located within a former limestone quarry. It's a serene spot known for its turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs. While swimming is officially not allowed, the area is still a popular place for walks and picnics. The lake's surroundings offer a peaceful retreat and a different perspective on Krakow's natural beauty.

Location: Zakrzówek, 30-001 Kraków, Poland. It's a short distance from the city center, in the D?bniki district.

Travel Tip: The area is also known for its excellent rock climbing opportunities, so bring your gear if you're an enthusiast.

Nearby: After a visit to the lake, enjoy a meal at "Bistro Zak?adka," where the menu features a variety of international dishes.