Wawel Castle: The Jewel of Kraków's History
Discover the majestic Wawel Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site that encapsulates Poland's royal history and architectural beauty.
Wawel Castle stands majestically over the Vistula River, a symbol of Poland's rich history and culture. This stunning castle complex is a must-visit for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in the regal past of Kraków. From its impressive architecture to the breathtaking views from its hilltop location, Wawel Castle offers a captivating experience that combines history, art, and breathtaking scenery. Explore the grand halls and beautiful gardens, and discover the legends that surround this iconic landmark.
A brief summary to Wawel Castle
- Wawel 4, Kraków, Stare Miasto, 31-003, PL
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid large crowds.
- Consider purchasing a combined ticket for access to multiple attractions within the castle complex.
- Don't miss the stunning views from the castle's hilltop, perfect for photography.
- Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and significance of each room and artwork.
- Check the castle's schedule for special events or exhibitions that may be taking place during your visit.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car from Spisz to Wawel Castle in Kraków, start by heading west on the S7 expressway. Follow the signs for Kraków, which is approximately 100 km away. The drive should take around 1.5 hours. Once you approach Kraków, take the exit for the A4 motorway towards Wrocław. Exit at Kraków Centrum and follow the signs to the Old Town (Stare Miasto). As you get closer, look for signs directing you to Wawel Castle. There is limited parking available near the castle, and you may incur parking fees ranging from 2 to 5 PLN per hour. Make sure to check parking regulations in the area.
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Public Transportation
To reach Wawel Castle via public transportation, take a bus or train from Spisz to Kraków. Buses can be boarded from various locations in Spisz, such as Nowy Targ or Zakopane, and will take you directly to the main bus station in Kraków (MDA). The journey typically takes about 2 to 3 hours depending on your starting point and the bus route. From the MDA bus station, you can take tram line 52 or bus line 100 towards the Wawel Castle stop (Wawel). This leg of the journey will take approximately 15-20 minutes. Be aware that ticket prices for the bus or train vary but generally range from 15 to 30 PLN. Tickets can be purchased at the station or onboard the bus.
Discover more about Wawel Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Reprezentacyjne Komnaty Królewskie
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Cathedral Museum
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Monument of John Paul II
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Explore the Monument of John Paul II in Kraków - a powerful symbol of faith, hope, and resilience amidst stunning artistry and historical significance.
Historical courtyard | Wawel Royal Castle
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Tadeusz Kościuszko Monument
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Kanonicza 25
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Ulica Kanonicza
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St. Bernardine Church Bernardine in Krakow
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Ławka Banacha i Nikodyma
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Napoleon's great army Square
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Visit Poland
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Kanonicza
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Dżok The Dog monument
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Church of the Conversion of Saint Paul, Krakow
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Military Parish Church. St. Agnieszka
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Unmissable attractions to see
Wawel Royal Castle-State Art Collection
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Wawel Cathedral
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Baszta Sandomierska
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Wawel Dragon
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Avenue of Stars
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Tablica pamiątkowa ofiar NKWD
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Muzeum Archidiecezjalne w Krakowie
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National Museum - Palace of Bishop Erasmus Ciolek
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St. Andrew's Church, Kraków
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Fountain on the Maria Magdalena Square
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Kraków Pinball Museum
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Saints Peter and Paul Church
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Geological Museum
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The Archaeological Museum in Krakow
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Muzeum Iluzji Kraków / Museum of Illusions Kraków
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Essential places to dine
Pod Nosem
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Fiorentina
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Art Restaurant
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Pod Wawelem Kompania Kuflowa
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Pod Baranem
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La Campana
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Biała Róża
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Miód Malina
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Balaton Restaurant
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Pod Aniołami Restaurant
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Restauracja Corleone
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Tandoori Flame | IndianTaste Of Tradition
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Czarna Kaczka/ Black Duck
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Amarylis Restaurant
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Kuchnia u Doroty
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Suwenir
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Flyin’ Vintage
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Pavilon Vintage Classics
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Rzeczy Minione Tomasz Woźniak
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Polish Tradition
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Art & Craft Store
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Kraków Story
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Clickfashion
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Gift & Souvenir Shop
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JUBILAT
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Krakow Souvenirs Grodzka 13
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Galeria LueLue
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Anna Gregory
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Inspiro Vintage Shop
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Unikke Design & Friends - sklep z biżuterią polskich projektantów
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Fog House Pub & Grill
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eliksir botanicals & spirits bar
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Radocha
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T.E.A. Time Brewpub
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Gin Mill
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Opus Lounge Bar
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Propaganda Pub
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SKWER BAR
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Trzcina cocktail bar
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Nowy Kraftowy
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Kochanka
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Lastriko
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Szototo
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Alchemia
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Absynt Cafe & Bar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Papuga
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Prozak 2.0
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New day blues pub
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Klub 30
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Surprise
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Dolce Vita
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Shine Club Kraków
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Discover the vibrant nightlife at Shine Club Kraków, where cocktails, dancing, and live music create unforgettable memories.
Club Jaszczury
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Nova Klubova
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Piękny Pies
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Space Club
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Black Cherry
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Frantic Club
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LIPS
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Experience Kraków's nightlife at LIPS, a vibrant night club offering delicious cocktails and an electrifying dance atmosphere until dawn.
Mojitos Casa Latina
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