Krakow: Wawel Castle, Cathedral, Salt Mine, and Lunch

Krakow , Poland

Krakow: Wawel Castle, Cathedral, Salt Mine, and Lunch

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

See Krakow’s highlights in one seamless day — Wawel Castle, Cathedral, a Polish lunch, and the stunning Wieliczka Salt Mine — all explored comfortably and without rush.
Make the most of your time in Krakow with a perfectly balanced day of culture, flavor, and exploration. This tour is designed for travelers who want to see more while enjoying a relaxed, seamless experience. Begin at Wawel Castle and Cathedral, uncovering royal treasures and centuries of history with an expert local guide. Then, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant before continuing your journey to the remarkable Wieliczka Salt Mine.

Highlights:
• See two of Poland’s UNESCO sites in one well-organized day
• Visit Wawel Castle and Cathedral — icons of Krakow’s history
• Savor Polish cuisine during a relaxing lunch at a local restaurant
• Explore the breathtaking underground world of Wieliczka Salt Mine
• Maximize your day in Krakow with comfort, culture, and beauty

Available options

French Guided Tour

English Guided Tour

Italian Guided Tour

What's included

(State Rooms, Royal Apartments, or Crown Treasury — subject to availability)

Round-trip transport Krakow – Wieliczka – Krakow

Lunch at a local restaurant

Licensed expert guide at Wawel Castle and Cathedral

Entry ticket to the Wawel Cathedral

Entrance ticket to the Wieliczka Salt Mine with in-house guide

Skip-the-line ticket to one Wawel Castle exhibition

Detailed itinerary

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.

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.

Stop 3

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a charming local bistro. Taste authentic Polish cuisine, relax, and recharge before the afternoon adventure.

Stop 4

Sit back and enjoy a comfortable, air-conditioned transfer to Wieliczka. Everything is arranged for you — no stress, no rush.

Stop 5

Descend deep underground into the breathtaking Wieliczka Salt Mine, a world of shimmering tunnels, majestic salt-carved chapels, and crystal-clear lakes. Discover stunning sculptures, chandeliers made of salt, and the famous Chapel of St. Kinga — all carved by miners’ hands. This mesmerizing journey blends nature, art, and legend in an unforgettable experience beneath the earth.

What's not included

Drinks for lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT FR

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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.

Please note that the meeting point is not located on the Wawel Hill, but at the location indicated on your voucher.

Please remember that it is quite cool in the Salt mine (between 14° C and 16° C). Make sure to take warmer clothing even in summer and wear comfortable shoes, as well.

The visit to the Salt Mine is conducted by a licensed in-house guide, with only a driver escort during transfers.

Please note that the Salt Mine tour includes extensive walking and many stairs. Guests with mobility issues, heart conditions, or fear of confined spaces should reconsider participation.

To get a youth discount students must have valid student ID ( date of birth, expire date, picture ) card with during the tour and to show it when asked.

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.
To get a youth discount students must have valid student ID ( date of birth, expire date, picture ) card with during the tour and to show it when asked

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.