Krakow: Sightseeing Cruise on the Vistula River

Krakow , Poland

Krakow: Sightseeing Cruise on the Vistula River

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(24 reviews)

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

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About this experience

Discover Krakow from the water on a relaxing Vistula River cruise. Admire the city’s most iconic landmarks from a new perspective while enjoying panoramic views and an easygoing atmosphere.
Start your day with a peaceful cruise along the Vistula River — a perfect way to see Krakow’s landmarks without the crowds. Glide past Wawel Castle, historic churches, and green riverbanks while listening to fascinating stories through the audio guide. Relax, take photos, and enjoy the gentle rhythm of the water.

Highlights

• Cruise the Vistula River and see Krakow from a unique perspective
• Relax on board a modern, comfortable boat with panoramic views
• Admire Wawel Castle, Skałka Church, and the Monastery of the Norbertan Sisters
• Learn about Krakow’s history and legends with an onboard audio guide
• Enjoy a calm, scenic experience — perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers

This short but unforgettable cruise shows a different side of Krakow — serene, scenic, and full of history.

Available options

Krakow: Sightseeing Cruise on the Vistula River

What's included

Cruise on the Vistula River on a catamaran with Audio guide

Detailed itinerary

Begin your adventure with a relaxing cruise along the Vistula 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.

Stop 2 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.

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

Stop 4 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.

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

Stop 6 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.

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

19 reviews

5★

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1★

Tripadvisor 3.2

5 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

We kindly ask you to arrive 10 minutes before the tour begins. Once the group has departed, latecomers will not be able to join and tickets cannot be refunded.

The catamaran has a closed deck, open observation deck, toilet, and bar.

Meeting point

At Inflancki Boulevard, next to the water tram stop called "Paulinska”. Look for the person with a "Cracow Boat" sign.

Important notes

We kindly ask you to arrive 10 minutes before the tour begins. Once the group has departed, latecomers will not be able to join and tickets cannot be refunded.

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.