Explore the Legend of Wawel Dragon
Discover the enchanting Wawel Dragon, a legendary monument in Kraków embodying Polish folklore and history, perfect for all tourists seeking adventure.
The Wawel Dragon statue, located at the foot of Wawel Hill in Kraków, is a striking representation of Polish folklore that attracts tourists from all over the world. According to legend, this dragon once terrorized the city until it was defeated by a clever shoemaker named Krak. The statue, which breathes fire every few minutes, brings this fascinating story to life and serves as a symbol of Kraków's rich history. Visitors can enjoy the dramatic views of Wawel Castle and the Vistula River, creating a picturesque backdrop for memorable photographs. The surrounding area is perfect for leisurely walks, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the historic district. The Wawel Dragon is not just a monument; it is a gateway to the cultural heritage of Poland. The nearby Wawel Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, complements the dragon's allure, offering an opportunity to explore royal history and stunning architecture. As you wander through the cobbled streets of Stare Miasto, you will find charming cafes and shops that showcase local craftsmanship and cuisine, making it easy to spend an entire day in this enchanting locale. For those looking to dive deeper into the legend, guided tours are available, providing insights into the dragon's myth and its significance in Polish culture. Whether you're an avid history buff or simply looking for a unique photo opportunity, the Wawel Dragon is an unmissable highlight of any trip to Kraków.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
- Don't miss the nearby Wawel Castle for a complete experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the dragon's fire-breathing show.
- Explore the surrounding area for local art and crafts.
- Try traditional Polish food at nearby restaurants to make your visit memorable.
A brief summary to Wawel Dragon
- Stare Miasto, Kraków, Stare Miasto, PL
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from the Main Market Square (Rynek Główny), head south towards the Wawel Hill. As you walk, you will pass by the beautiful St. Mary's Basilica on your left. Continue walking straight down Grodzka Street which leads directly to Wawel Castle. Once you reach the castle, follow the signs that direct you towards the Dragon's Den (Smocza Jama). The Wawel Dragon statue is located just outside the entrance to the cave, near the Vistula River.
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Public Transport
Although Wawel Dragon is within walking distance from the Old Town, if you prefer to use public transport, you can take tram number 10 or 18 from the nearest tram stop 'Teatr Bagatela' (located close to the Main Market Square). Board the tram and get off at the 'Wawel' stop. From there, it’s a short 5-minute walk to the Wawel Castle where the dragon statue is located. Note that a single ticket costs approximately 4 PLN and is valid for 20 minutes.
Attractions Nearby to Wawel Dragon
- Smocza Jama
- Wawel Thief Tower
- Avenue of Stars
- Wejście do Smoczej Jamy
- Baszta Sandomierska
- Historical courtyard | Wawel Royal Castle
- Wawel
- AQUA FUN - REJSY STATKIEM
- Cathedral Museum
- Wawel Royal Castle-State Art Collection
- Monument of John Paul II
- Wawel Castle
- Dżok The Dog monument
- Wawel Cathedral
- Reprezentacyjne Komnaty Królewskie
Landmarks nearby to Wawel Dragon
- Napoleon's great army Square
- Pomnik Polski Walczącej w Krakowie
- Visit Poland
- Średniowieczne mury obronne miasta Kazimierz
- Well of St. Stanislaus
- Krypta Zasłużonych na Skałce
- Museum of the Living Butterfly
- Bazylika Franciszkanów św. Franciszka z Asyżu
- Church of Sts. Francis of Assisi in Krakow
- Plac Wszystkich Świętych
- Kraków Eye
- Lustrzany Labirynt
- Kazimierz town hall
- muWi Stained Glass Workshop and Museum
- Corpus Christi Basilica