Krakows Old Town, St. Marys Church & Rynek Underground

Krakow’s Old Town is a captivating centerpiece that draws visitors into its historic embrace. At its heart, the towering St. Mary’s Basilica commands attention with its striking Gothic architecture and awe-inspiring wooden altar. But just beneath the cobblestones, the Rynek Underground Museum unveils a hidden layer of the city’s past, beckoning explorers to uncover the secrets that lie within. From grand cathedrals to underground discoveries, this enchanting destination promises an immersive journey through Krakow’s rich heritage.

Key Points

• St. Mary’s Basilica is a dominant landmark in Krakow’s Old Town, known for its distinctive Gothic architecture and a magnificent wooden altar carved by Veit Stoss.
• Krakow’s Main Square, a central hub for over 800 years, offers a charming glimpse into the city’s history through its cobblestone streets and iconic Cloth Hall.
• The Rynek Underground Museum provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the well-preserved remnants of 12th-13th century roads beneath the Main Square.
• Guided tours of Krakow’s Old Town offer an engaging and informative journey through the city’s rich history, from its commercial hub to royal seat.
• Krakow has a storied past, transitioning from the capital of Poland to a city of prosperity, conflict, and resilience, including its occupation by Nazi Germany during World War II.

You can check availability for your dates here:

St. Mary’s Basilica

The towering St. Mary’s Basilica dominates Krakow’s Old Town with its distinctive twin spires and intricate Gothic facade.

Inside, visitors are awestruck by the basilica’s exquisite decorations, including the magnificent wooden altar carved by Veit Stoss. This 15th-century masterpiece features 200 delicately carved figures depicting biblical scenes.

The basilica’s magnificent wooden altar, carved by Veit Stoss, features 200 delicately carved figures depicting biblical scenes.

Sunlight streams through the basilica’s stained glass windows, casting a warm, ethereal glow over the space.

Stepping inside is like being transported to a bygone era, where the faithful once gathered to worship.

The basilica’s rich history and stunning architecture make it a must-see attraction for any visitor to Krakow.

Main Square Highlights

Surrounded by centuries-old buildings and steeped in history, Krakow’s Main Square, or Rynek Główny, has served as the central hub of the city for over 800 years.

Visitors can’t help but be captivated by its charming cobblestone streets, vibrant market stalls, and the iconic Cloth Hall, a 16th-century Renaissance-style trading post.

Towering above it all is the Gothic St. Mary’s Basilica, known for its stunning wooden altarpiece carved by the renowned artist Veit Stoss.

From grand royal processions to lively markets, this square has witnessed Krakow’s rich history and continues to captivate all who step foot within its timeless boundaries.

Rynek Underground Museum

Beneath the cobbled streets of Krakow’s Main Square lies a hidden world, a testament to the city’s storied past.

Beneath the cobbled streets of Krakow’s Main Square lies a hidden world, a testament to the city’s storied past.

The Rynek Underground Museum beckons visitors to explore this subterranean sanctuary, where the echoes of history reverberate.

Descending 4 meters below the surface, guests discover well-preserved remnants of 12th-13th century roads, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of Krakow’s medieval inhabitants.

Interactive exhibits and multimedia displays bring these ancient streets to life, transporting visitors through time.

Wander the underground pathways, uncover the stories etched in the stone, and gain a deeper appreciation for Krakow’s rich heritage.

Guided Tour of Old Town

A guided tour through Krakow’s Old Town whisks visitors on a captivating journey through the city’s rich history.

Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour brings to life the enchanting Main Square, where medieval trade and royal parades once flourished. Guests marvel at the exquisite Saint Mary’s Basilica, its altar carved by the master craftsman Veit Stoss.

As the tour winds through the charming cobblestone streets, the guide weaves tales of Krakow’s past, from its days as a commercial hub to its role as the seat of Polish royalty.

The experience immerses travelers in Krakow’s storied past.

More Great Tours Nearby

Krakow’s Rich History

Although Krakow’s Old Town has long been a major draw for visitors, the city’s rich history extends far beyond its picturesque streets and landmark churches. Krakow was once the capital of Poland, and its history is marked by periods of prosperity, conflict, and resilience. From the legendary Polish kings who ruled from Wawel Castle to the brave citizens who resisted Nazi occupation, Krakow’s past is filled with captivating stories.

| Year | Event |

|——|——-|

| 1038 | Krakow becomes the capital of the Kingdom of Poland |

| 1241 | Krakow is destroyed by the Mongol invasion |

| 1364 | Jagiellonian University, one of the oldest universities in the world, is founded |

| 1939 | Krakow is occupied by Nazi Germany during World War II |

| 1978 | Pope John Paul II, a native of Krakow, is elected |

Multilingual Guide Experience

With a wealth of multilingual expertise, the knowledgeable guide leads visitors on an immersive journey through Krakow’s captivating history.

The guide speaks:

1. German, to enlighten visitors about the city’s complex past.

2. French, to paint a vivid picture of the bustling medieval trade routes.

3. Polish, to share insider perspectives on the city’s royal parades and order supervision.

4. English, Italian, and Spanish, to ensure all guests can fully engage with the tour’s fascinating narratives.

This linguistic versatility allows the guide to tailor the experience, ensuring every traveler leaves with a deeper appreciation for Krakow’s rich heritage.

Meeting Point and Customer Feedback

The meeting point for this tour is at St. Mary Magdalene Square, near the priest Piotr Skarga Monument.

Look for the guide holding the excursions.city sign. This ensures a smooth start to the experience.

Previous guests have raved about this tour.

One German reviewer, Jochen, gave it a perfect 5/5 rating, calling it "entertaining" and praising the guide, Kamilla, for her professionalism and ability to address all questions.

With a multilingual guide providing insights into Krakow’s rich history, this tour offers an engaging and informative exploration of the city’s Old Town and iconic St. Mary’s Church.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Food and Drinks Included in the Tour Price?

No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price. The tour focuses on providing a guided experience to explore Krakow’s historical landmarks and underground museum, without any meals or refreshments provided.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

There are no student or senior discounts mentioned for this tour. However, the operator may offer discounts from time to time, so it’s best to check their website or contact them directly for the latest information.

What Is the Recommended Attire for the Tour?

Comfortable, casual clothing is recommended for the tour. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as there’s a good bit of walking involved. The guide suggests dressing in layers, as the Rynek Underground can be cool.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Individual Interests?

The tour can be customized to suit individual interests. Guests can discuss their preferences with the knowledgeable guide, who’ll tailor the experience to focus on the areas that most intrigue them.

Is the Tour Suitable for Visitors With Mobility Challenges?

The tour may not be the best fit for visitors with mobility challenges. The underground museum and walking through the Old Town cobblestone streets could prove difficult. However, the provider may offer alternate arrangements – it’s worth checking with them directly.

The Sum Up

Krakow’s Old Town captivates with its fusion of history and culture. Towering over the vibrant cobblestones, St. Mary’s Basilica stuns with its intricate Gothic design and breathtaking wooden altar. Beneath the streets, the Rynek Underground Museum offers an immersive glimpse into the city’s medieval past through well-preserved remnants and engaging exhibits. A guided tour of this enchanting destination provides an unforgettable multilingual experience, inviting travelers to uncover Krakow’s rich heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: