Krakow: Guided Wawel Tour, Lunch, and Vistula River Cruise
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Krakow: Guided Wawel Tour, Lunch, and Vistula River Cruise

Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore the legacy of Poland’s royalty on a guided visit to Wawel Castle and Cathedral with skip-the-line entry. After discovering centuries of history, savor lunch at a local l bistro before unwinding on a peaceful Vistula River cruise past Krakow’s iconic landmarks.

Highlights:
• Step inside Poland’s royal residence with a licensed local guide
• Admire Wawel Castle’s Renaissance beauty and the Gothic Cathedral of coronations
• Touch the mighty Sigismund Bell for good luck in the cathedral tower
• Enjoy a tasty break at a local bistro during your tour
• Admire Krakow’s landmarks from a unique riverside perspective

Begin your journey at Wawel Castle and Cathedral, where centuries of royal history come to life through art, legend, and faith. After exploring these magnificent landmarks, enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local bistro — a moment to pause and savor traditional Polish flavors. Then, see Krakow from a new perspective as you cruise along the Vistula River.

Available options

Krakow: Guided Wawel Tour, Lunch, and Vistula River Cruise

What's included

Licensed local guide
Ticket to the Wawel Cathedral
(State Rooms or Royal Private Apartments, or Crown Treasury — subject to availability)
Ticket for a cruise on the Vistula River on a catamaran with Audio guide
Lunch
Skip-the-line entrance ticket to one permanent exhibition at Wawel Castle

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Meet your guide and begin your journey into the world of monarchy, faith, and art. Step inside the Royal Castle, transformed in 1930 into one of Poland’s most important museums. Wander through grand chambers filled with Renaissance and Baroque interiors, paintings, sculptures, porcelain, and military artifacts. Marvel at treasures such as Flemish tapestries commissioned by King Sigismund II Augustus and Italian Renaissance masterpieces from the Lanckoroński collection. You will also see Wawel’s unique collection of Eastern art, including the largest set of Ottoman tents in Europe.

2
Stop 2

The highlight of your visit is the Wawel Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that has witnessed the coronations, weddings, and funerals of Polish monarchs. Enter chapels and altars, then climb the tower to see the mighty Sigismund Bell—tradition says touching it brings good luck. Finally, descend to the crypts where kings, queens, poets, and national heroes rest, as your guide shares stories of power, devotion, and legacy.

3
Stop 3

Then, enjoy a relaxing lunch at a nearby bistro.

4

Sailing on a catamaran on the Vistula River on a small one way cruise, you will get to know Krakow's monuments, visible from the side of the river. Admire all the most important places in Krakow from the Vistula River. See Krakow from a new perspective as you follow the flow of the queen of Polish rivers. 

5
Stop 5 Pass by

The Kościuszko Mound in Krakow, one of the five mounds located in Krakow, was erected in honor of Tadeusz Kościuszko - a great patriot and leader of the national uprising.

6

Fortified like a castle, this mighty monastery, founded in the 12th century, was destroyed and rebuilt several times. The most important Krakow traditions are also associated with it: here, on Monday after Easter, the annual Emmaus festival is celebrated. Hence, the Lajkonik procession - the most important symbol of Krakow - sets off every June

7
Stop 7 Pass by

The limestone hill rising above the Vistula River is the former center of power, the legendary (associated with the mythical founder of Krakow and his descendants) and historical: princely, episcopal and royal. Wawel is a complex of castle and sacred buildings - a symbol of the city, but most of all a museum presenting the most valuable monuments of Polish material culture. Take a good look and you will also notice the silhouette of the famous Wawel dragon breathing fire towards onlookers.

8
Stop 8 Pass by

The original, modern form of the building housing the museum of art and technology is perfectly seen from the river level. The wavy line of its roof is to refer directly to the waves of the Vistula River

9
Stop 9 Pass by

The baroque church of Saint Michael the Archangel and Saint Stanislaus on Skałka rises above the boulevards, right on the Vistula River, on a small hill made of white Jurassic limestones. The basilica is also a national pantheon (many distinguished painters, musicians and poets are buried here) and a library with priceless documents, books and incunabula. 

What's not included

Hotel pick up/drop off
Drinks

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please arrive 10 minutes before the tour begins. Once the group has departed, latecomers cannot join and tickets are non-refundable.
All group tours are conducted in one language, selected at booking.
Each tour is limited to a maximum of 30 participants, in accordance with the limits set by the museum.
Please note that the meeting point is not located on the Wawel Hill, but at the location indicated on your voucher.
A dress code applies for places of worship and selected museums: shorts and sleeveless tops are not allowed; both men and women must cover knees and shoulders.
The part of the tour inside Wawel Castle is a walking tour with a live guide, the rest uses an audio guide.

Meeting point

Meet your guide on the St. Mary Magdalene Square, at the Piotr Skarga Monument. They will hold an excursions.city sign.

Important notes

Please arrive 10 minutes before the tour begins. Once the group has departed, latecomers cannot join and tickets are non-refundable.
A dress code applies for places of worship and selected museums: shorts and sleeveless tops are not allowed; both men and women must cover knees and shoulders.
Please note that the meeting point is not located on the Wawel Hill, but at the location indicated on your voucher.
Gratuities are optional but always appreciated as a gesture of thanks for your guide.

About Krakow

Krakow, the former capital of Poland, is a city rich in history, culture, and stunning architecture. It's home to the Wawel Royal Castle, the historic Main Market Square, and the largest medieval old town in Europe. Krakow's vibrant arts scene, bustling nightlife, and proximity to Auschwitz-Birkenau and the Wieliczka Salt Mine make it a must-visit destination.

Top Attractions

Wawel Royal Castle

This iconic castle was the residence of Polish kings and a symbol of Polish statehood. It offers a glimpse into Poland's rich history.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours 30-50 PLN (€7-12)

Main Market Square (Rynek Główny)

One of the largest medieval town squares in Europe, surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and shops.

Historical/Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore

Wieliczka Salt Mine

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring underground chambers, chapels, and sculptures carved out of salt.

Historical/Adventure 4-5 hours 89-139 PLN (€20-32)

Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum

A poignant and sobering visit to the largest Nazi concentration camp, now a memorial and museum.

Historical/Educational Full day 70-100 PLN (€16-23)

Kazimierz District

The historic Jewish quarter with a rich cultural heritage, vibrant nightlife, and charming streets.

Cultural/Historical 2-3 hours Free to explore

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pierogi

Dumplings filled with various ingredients like meat, cheese, potatoes, or fruits.

Dinner Can be vegetarian or vegan

Obwarzanek

A type of bread ring, similar to a bagel, often sold by street vendors.

Snack Vegetarian

Zapiekanka

A Polish street food consisting of a half-baguette topped with mushrooms, cheese, and various condiments.

Snack Can be vegetarian

Schabowy

A breaded pork cutlet, similar to schnitzel, often served with potatoes and cabbage.

Dinner Contains meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Tatra Mountains Skiing in Zakopane Spa and wellness treatments Strolling through parks and gardens Visiting museums and galleries Attending concerts and performances Boating on the Vistula River Skiing and snowboarding in the nearby mountains

Best Time to Visit

May to September

This is the best time to visit Krakow for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The city is lively with festivals and tourists.

15°C to 28°C 59°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Polish
  • Widely spoken: English, German, Russian
  • English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Polish Złoty (PLN)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Krakow is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure in crowded areas.
  • • Use official taxis or ride-hailing apps.
  • • Be cautious when withdrawing money from ATMs.

Getting there

By air
  • John Paul II International Airport Krakow-Balice • 11 km from city center
By train

Krakow Glowny, Krakow Plaza

By bus

Krakow Main Bus Station, Młocińscy Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Krakow's tram system is efficient and covers most of the city. Trams are comfortable and frequent.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town (Stare Miasto) Kazimierz Nowa Huta Zakrzówek

Day trips

Wieliczka Salt Mine
14 km from Krakow • Full day

Explore the underground chambers, chapels, and sculptures carved out of salt in this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum
70 km from Krakow • Full day

Visit the largest Nazi concentration camp, now a memorial and museum, to learn about the Holocaust.

Zakopane
100 km from Krakow • Full day

A picturesque mountain town known for its stunning scenery, hiking trails, and skiing opportunities.

Festivals

Krakow Jewish Festival • June or July (annual) Krakow Film Festival • May (annual) Krakow Christmas Market • December (annual)

Pro tips

  • Use the Krakow Card for unlimited public transport and free entry to many attractions.
  • Visit the Wawel Dragon statue and make a wish by placing a coin in its mouth.
  • Try traditional Polish dishes like pierogi and żurek at local restaurants.
  • Explore the Kazimierz district for its vibrant nightlife and cultural scene.
  • Take a day trip to the Wieliczka Salt Mine or Auschwitz-Birkenau for a deeper understanding of Polish history.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 18-99
1
Childs
Age 7-17
0
Infants
Age 0-6
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 12
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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