10 Best Ways to Explore Krakow for Free (Updated 2024)
Best places in Krakow, without paying
Kraków is a city with a fascinating past and impressive historic sites. This town includes well-maintained old buildings and designs. It functions as the nation's academic, societal, and industrial hub. Moreover, this lovely destination attracts many tourists per year.
Despite its overall appeal and living standards, the city is relatively cheap. There are many free activities to keep you engaged with. If you're on a tight budget, we recommend the most important tour from kraków which is Auschwitz. On the other hand Krakow Card is the best option if you want to save money while making the most of the cirty.
Here are 10 best activities in Krakow on a budget:
Explore The Wawel Royal Castle
The Wawel Castle was formerly the residence of kings and royals. It was included in a broader complex on Wawel Hill and functioned as a symbol of Polish history. It is now the city's most prominent historical site and tourist attraction. Because the castle is one of Krakow's most well-known attractions, it is natural to believe that entering it requires purchasing tickets. However, guests can enter the castle's gardens and grounds for free. Some displays, such as the Lost Wawel collection in the cellars, are also free to visit.
Watch Out The Rynek Głowny
The Rynek Głowny is often called Main Market and Old Town Square. This ancient historic square is located in the centre of the city. This famous monument occupies forty thousand square meters and is well-known for its turbulent past. St. Mary's Basilica, the brick church in the Gothic era, is one of the most visited sights. Likewise, the Cloth Hall has various kiosks and traders. While shopping will cost you money, simply walking about the hall and watching the vendors is entirely free.
The most popular choices
View The St Mary's Church Tower
When you visit this city, you'll likely hear the ancient Hejnal bugle bell played from the St. Mary's Church tower. If you need more time to listen to the customary call, you can set aside time to listen to the customary call. Further, the call's origins and the practice of playing a bugle sound date back to the 14th century. For the finest seats in the house, get to the tower by midday and listen to the trumpeter play the call, which is aired nationally on the radio every noon.
Honor The Jewish Community Center
Knowing about Kraków's Jewish heritage can be tricky, but the tourist can locate the experience of the Jewish presence. The JCC promotes and expands the local Jewish people. It hosts virtually daily programs with free and paid rates. Further, it ranges from lectures and seminars to Q&As with the survivors, many in English. An invitation to dinners, when you can talk with the community while eating a Kosher meal, is incredibly wonderful.
Stretch Out At Bagry Lake
You can escape to Bagry Lake and sunbathe on one of the beaches or relax in the recently placed hammocks. The lake is vast, and there is a sailing school. You can view kayak rentals and lifeguards on duty throughout the summer. It's hectic on warm weekends but only a 30-minute tram ride from the city centre. Hence, you can easily mix with Krakovians rather than tourists.
Free Days At The Museums
Krakow has several elite museums, most of which require tourists to pay a ticket or entrance charge. Pay using your Auschwitz and Krakow cards, as the costs are fair. However, with limited funds, you may still visit some top museums for free. Most museums provide free admission, so you must only schedule your visit correctly. These include the Rynek Underground Museum, the Schindler Factory Museum, and the Krakow National Museum.
Unwind At Planty Park
Krakow is famed for its old castles and design, but it also boasts several lovely parks for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. You can wander through the lovely Planty Park. During the summer, this park is popular with locals and tourists. The vast green space is dotted with chairs where visitors can picnic and rest. Thus, if you continue the trail around the park, you will come across some beautiful gardens.
Join The Walking Tours
The best way to see the city lights is to take a free walking tour. Countless tour firms provide guided tours led by expert tour guides familiar with the city. Joining a guided walk for free allows you to learn from an expert guide and make new friends. Note that while these walks are free, it is usual to tip your guide. You may also conduct some study and look into the walking excursion routes.
Kazimierz District
Kazimierz, the historic Jewish district of Krakow, is a vibrant neighborhood known for its rich cultural heritage and lively atmosphere. Once a separate city, it became the center of Jewish life in Krakow for centuries. Today, it offers a mix of historical landmarks, quaint streets, and trendy cafes and bars. Visitors can stroll through its atmospheric streets, explore its rich history, and enjoy the unique blend of old-world charm and modern energy. Kazimierz is also a hub for art, street festivals, and cultural events, making it a dynamic and must-visit part of the city
Mount the Krakus Mound
The renowned Krakus Mound is located in the Podgórze area. This hilltop is the earliest artificial building, dating back to prehistoric times. The lush hill is thought to be the burial site of King Krakus. Further, it is the most popular of the city's four mounds. It is because the top of the Krakus Mound is one of the city's most pleasant sites. You may obtain a panoramic picture of the town and its surroundings. However, climb onto the mound's summit right before the sun goes down to see the sunset.
The Bottom Line
Krakow was the country's recognized royal seat until 1596, when its court was transferred. This region boasts an array of cultures and a preserved historic core. It is also highly linked to recent events such as World War II. Apart from all this, you can visit this excellent site at the start of the year. Hence, it's a memory you can make with your loved ones and remember for the rest of your life.
