Krakow Guided Tour: Wawel Castle, Cathedral, the Old Town & St. Mary's Basilica

Of castles and cathedrals of Krakow

• On this guided tour of Krakow city, you are in for an archaeological, architectural, and artistic treat. You will start your tour at the Wawel Castle which was typically the residence of Polish kings and considered a symbol of statehood. This castle is now a museum with a collection of famous paintings, sculptures, fabrics, porcelain, military symbols, etc. Works of Roger van der Wayden, best known for his detailed yet emotional take on art, are something to admire. Then we have works by Quentin Massys, Ambrosius Benson, and Bartholomaeus Spranger; best known for their Gothic and Renaissance art, which can be found here.

• Once you are done staring at the sheer magnificence of the castle, you will then proceed to the nearly 1000-year-old Wawel cathedral. This cathedral is famous for holding the tombs of Polish kings in the crypts beneath, which makes it a pious site for the people of Poland.

The good ol’ charm of the ‘Old town’

• The Old Town of Krakow has cobblestone streets, where art, history, and entertainment meet, and it’s one spot you do not want to miss. The tour takes you to St. Mary’s Basilica, that’s at the corner of Market Square where the Veit Stoss altarpiece stands in all its glory.

Since all this exploring might make your bellies rumble, the Market Square is your go-to for all things drinks and food.

• Tip: Once you’re done with the tour, you can visit the underground museum of Rynek and have fun pub-hopping your way through the bars at Market Square to quench your thirst.