Krakow Photo # 6: Basilica on hill overlooking Krakow !
1 / 10

Old Town Stare Miasto

4.6
·31 reviews·Oświęcim, Poland

A beautifully preserved historic heart, offering charming cobblestone streets, vibrant squares, and a rich tapestry of architecture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Krakow Photo # 6: Basilica on hill overlooking Krakow !

Old Town Stare Miasto

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A beautifully preserved historic heart, offering charming cobblestone streets, vibrant squares, and a rich tapestry of architecture.

4.6
(31 reviews)

"A very pretty, well-kept market square with its own unique atmosphere."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key

Cobblestone streets are charming but can be uneven. Prioritize comfort for exploring!

📸 Capture the Charm

The colorful buildings and historic architecture are incredibly photogenic. Don't forget your camera!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Market Square

Historic Market Square

Central Plaza

A vibrant heart with stunning architecture, bustling cafes, and a unique atmosphere. Perfect for people-watching.

Royal Castle Views

Royal Castle Views

Overlooking the Old Town

Majestic historical landmark offering panoramic vistas of the charming cityscape and surrounding areas.

Cobblestone Streets

Cobblestone Streets

Throughout the Old Town

Wander through picturesque lanes lined with colorful, vintage buildings and discover hidden gems.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

To truly soak in the charm of Old Town Stare Miasto, aim for the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) to avoid peak crowds and enjoy pleasant weather. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends, offering a more relaxed exploration of its historic streets and squares. Instagram

Embrace the Walkability

Old Town Stare Miasto is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes to navigate the cobblestone streets and discover hidden courtyards. Many attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to immerse yourself in the atmosphere. Instagram

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter exploration
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#greenscreenvideo #dc #dcgr #historia #auschwitz #birkenau #kebab #oswiecim #oświęcim #ciekawefakty #auschwitzmemorial #auschwitzconcentrationcamp #ocochodzi #fyp
@myrozczytani
41.7K likes • 977.5K views

👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key

Cobblestone streets are charming but can be uneven. Prioritize comfort for exploring! Instagram

📸 Capture the Charm

The colorful buildings and historic architecture are incredibly photogenic. Don't forget your camera! Instagram

#dc #foryou #odpowiedź #auschwits #birkenau #holokaust #historia #viral #miasto #oswiecim #oświęcim #historiazdjęcia #zdjęcie
@myrozczytani
4.4K likes • 72K views
Old Town Elblag ( Stare Miasto) Poland 🇵🇱 . . . #poland #polska #polònia #polônia #poloniatravel #polonia #elblagcity #elbląg #elblagmiasto #elblag #staremiasto #elbing #polandphotos #polandisbeautiful #poland_insta
polandpolonia
125 likes • 1.5K views

🍽️ Savor Local Flavors

Plenty of cafes and restaurants offer traditional Polish cuisine. Try pierogi! Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Wander Off the Beaten Path

Explore side streets to find unique shops and quieter spots away from the main squares. Reddit

It's wonderful to see you in Krakow Guys! 🥰 Krakowskie Stare Miasto powoli wchodzi w tryb gotowości na szczyt sezonu turystycznego 🤩 Jak co roku płyta Rynku Głównego wypełnia się radosnym gwarem języków z wielu zakątków świata, a w restauracyjnych ogródkach coraz ciężej znaleźć wolny stolik. Ogromnie miło jest nam widzieć Was wszystkich w Krakowie! Obserwuj po więcej / Follow us: @nomadic_krako...
nomadic_krakow
0 likes • 41.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key

Cobblestone streets are charming but can be uneven. Prioritize comfort for exploring! Instagram

📸 Capture the Charm

The colorful buildings and historic architecture are incredibly photogenic. Don't forget your camera! Instagram

🍽️ Savor Local Flavors

Plenty of cafes and restaurants offer traditional Polish cuisine. Try pierogi! Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Wander Off the Beaten Path

Explore side streets to find unique shops and quieter spots away from the main squares. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(31 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Old Town Stare Miasto for its beautiful, well-kept historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere, with many enjoying the abundance of restaurants and cafes. The charming streets and unique ambiance are frequently highlighted as major draws.

"Very nice town square with many old buildings and all around restaurants and caffe"

dan avidan

"A very pretty, well-kept market square. It has its own unique atmosphere."

Beata S

"A charming, quiet town with a beautiful promenade along the Soła River :)"

Patrycja Paszczyk

What People Like

Beautiful historic buildings
Vibrant atmosphere
Plenty of cafes and restaurants

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Parking can be difficult

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Old Town Stare Miasto is typically accessible by public transport, with many cities having tram or bus lines stopping nearby. If driving, be aware that parking can be limited and expensive in the historic center. Many visitors find it easiest to park on the outskirts and walk or take public transport in. Instagram

Absolutely! The charm of Old Town Stare Miasto lies in its pedestrian-friendly streets. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the cobblestone paths and discovering its nooks and crannies. Instagram

The best way to explore is on foot to truly appreciate the architecture and atmosphere. Consider a guided walking tour for historical insights, or simply wander and get lost in its beauty. Instagram

In Krakow's Old Town (Stare Miasto), trams are a convenient option to get close to the main square. Walking is highly recommended once you're in the vicinity to fully experience the historic ambiance. Instagram

While Old Town Stare Miasto is a destination in itself, tours to Auschwitz-Birkenau often depart from nearby cities like Krakow. It's crucial to book these tours directly or through reputable sources to avoid last-minute cancellations. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Old Town Stare Miasto itself is generally free. You can wander through its streets and squares without admission fees. Instagram

While the Old Town is free to explore, individual museums, churches, and the Royal Castle may have their own admission fees. Check the specific attraction's website for current pricing. Instagram

The Old Town is always accessible, but shops, restaurants, and attractions have their own operating hours, which can vary seasonally. It's best to check individual business hours if you have specific places in mind. Instagram

Yes, booking guided walking tours or specialized tours (like historical or culinary tours) in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot. Instagram

Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or families at specific attractions. It's always a good idea to inquire directly with the venue or check their official websites for any available offers. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The Market Square, with its colorful buildings and historic monuments, is a prime photo spot. Don't miss the charming cobblestone streets, hidden courtyards, and any viewpoints offering panoramic cityscapes. Instagram

Photography policies vary. Many churches and museums allow photography without flash, but some may restrict it entirely. Always look for signage or ask staff before taking pictures. Instagram

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise and before sunset) offers beautiful, soft light for photography. Early mornings are also great for capturing the Old Town with fewer people. Instagram

Krakow's Old Town offers iconic photo opportunities like the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) in the Main Market Square, St. Mary's Basilica, and the Wawel Castle. The narrow streets also provide charming backdrops. Instagram

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for capturing both wide cityscapes and details. A wide-angle lens is useful for the narrow streets and grand squares. A tripod can be helpful for low-light shots. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You'll find numerous restaurants and milk bars (bar mleczny) offering traditional Polish dishes like pierogi, żurek, and bigos. Look for places slightly off the main square for potentially better value. Instagram

Yes, while some restaurants can be pricey, seeking out 'milk bars' or smaller eateries away from the main tourist hubs can provide delicious and budget-friendly meals. Instagram

Don't miss pierogi (dumplings), kielbasa (sausage), bigos (hunter's stew), and gołąbki (cabbage rolls). For dessert, try paczki (Polish doughnuts). Instagram

Absolutely! The Old Town is dotted with charming cafes perfect for a coffee break and a taste of local pastries. Many offer outdoor seating, ideal for enjoying the atmosphere. Instagram

Prices can vary significantly. A main course in a mid-range restaurant might cost between 40-70 PLN, while a simpler meal at a milk bar could be as low as 20-30 PLN. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Old Town Stare Miasto can be a fantastic experience for families. The open market squares provide space for children to move around, and many attractions like the Royal Castle often have exhibits that can engage younger visitors. Look for interactive museums or horse-drawn carriage rides for a fun family activity. Instagram

When planning your visit, consider breaking up the exploration with frequent stops at cafes for snacks and breaks. Pack plenty of water and ensure everyone has comfortable walking shoes, as the cobblestone streets can be tiring for little feet. Many restaurants in the Old Town are family-friendly and offer children's menus. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

Exploring Old Town Stare Miasto can be very budget-friendly. The main draw – the historic streets and squares – is free to access. Focus on enjoying the atmosphere, taking photos, and perhaps visiting one or two key attractions with affordable entry fees. Instagram

For dining, prioritize 'milk bars' (bar mleczny) for incredibly cheap and authentic Polish meals. Look for restaurants slightly away from the absolute center of the main square, as prices tend to drop. Consider packing some snacks and water to save on impulse buys. Instagram

💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways

Old Town Stare Miasto offers a wonderfully romantic setting. Imagine strolling hand-in-hand through charming cobblestone streets, enjoying candlelit dinners at intimate restaurants, and taking in the beautiful architecture. Instagram

Consider a sunset walk around the market square, followed by a cozy dinner at a restaurant with outdoor seating. Some cities also offer unique experiences like beer spas or evening carriage rides, perfect for a memorable date. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charm of Stare Miasto

Old Town Stare Miasto, meaning 'Old Town' in Polish, is a UNESCO World Heritage site in many Polish cities, renowned for its meticulously reconstructed historical architecture. These areas are the heart of cultural and historical significance, often featuring stunning market squares, ancient churches, and charming cobblestone streets. They offer a glimpse into the past, with many buildings dating back centuries, though often rebuilt after wartime destruction. Instagram+1

The atmosphere in Stare Miasto is typically vibrant, especially during warmer months. You'll find a plethora of restaurants, cafes, and shops catering to tourists and locals alike. The squares often host events, markets, and street performers, adding to the lively ambiance. It's a place where history meets modern life, creating a unique and engaging experience for visitors. Instagram

When exploring Stare Miasto, be prepared for a lot of walking. The best way to discover its hidden courtyards, picturesque alleys, and architectural details is on foot. Many of these areas are car-free or have restricted vehicle access, encouraging a pedestrian-friendly environment. This allows for a more immersive experience, letting you truly appreciate the beauty and history surrounding you. Instagram

Culinary Delights in Old Town

The culinary scene in Old Town Stare Miasto is a significant draw, offering a taste of authentic Polish cuisine. From hearty traditional dishes to contemporary interpretations, there's something to satisfy every palate. Many restaurants pride themselves on using local ingredients and time-honored recipes. Instagram

Key dishes to try include pierogi (dumplings with various fillings), żurek (sour rye soup), bigos (hunter's stew), and kiełbasa (Polish sausage). For a truly local experience, seek out a 'bar mleczny' (milk bar), which are traditional, no-frills cafeterias offering affordable and authentic Polish meals. Instagram

Beyond traditional fare, Old Town Stare Miasto also boasts numerous cafes perfect for a coffee break or a sweet treat. Enjoying a coffee and a slice of sernik (cheesecake) or pączki (doughnuts) at an outdoor cafe while people-watching is a quintessential Old Town experience. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2