Krakow’s Main Market Square – The Beating Heart of the Old Town
May 7, 2021
Explore Krakow’s Main Market Square – one of Europe’s largest medieval squares. Learn about its history, top attractions, and what to see on your visit!
May 7, 2021
Where Krakow’s History and Daily Life Meet
The Main Market Square in Krakow is not only the largest medieval square in Europe, but also one of the most iconic places in Poland. Located at the heart of the Old Town and surrounded by Planty Park, it’s where history meets daily life. With its impressive architecture, cultural significance, and vibrant atmosphere, the Main Square is a must-see for anyone visiting Krakow.
History of the Main Market Square
Established in 1257 during the reign of Prince Bolesław the Chaste, the square was part of a new urban layout granted under Magdeburg Law. Measuring 200 x 200 meters, it was one of the largest city squares in medieval Europe. From the very beginning, it served as a commercial center, with designated areas for trading meat, lead, chickens, and other goods. A smaller trading area nearby, known today as the Small Market Square, was once the meat market.
In later centuries, the square evolved into the city’s ceremonial and political center. It hosted royal processions, public tributes, and major historical events—including Albrecht Hohenzollern’s homage to King Sigismund the Old in 1525 and Tadeusz Kościuszko’s oath in 1794. Punishments were also carried out here, and remnants like iron “martens” near St. Mary’s Basilica still recall those darker times.
During the 19th century, major changes reshaped the area. After the great fire of 1850, many buildings were rebuilt, the town hall was demolished (only its tower remains), and the Cloth Hall was renovated. The introduction of the tram line, which once crossed the square, marked Krakow’s modernization.
The Nazi occupation in World War II saw the square renamed Adolf Hitler Platz. Thankfully, post-war restoration efforts preserved its historic charm. Today, the square is a symbol of Krakow’s resilience and cultural richness.
Explore Krakow on a guided city tour with a licensed local guide. Walk through the city’s most iconic districts, such as the Old Town or Kazimierz, and learn about their history through engaging stories and reliable historical insights. This tour is a perfect introduction to Krakow, offering both famous landmarks and lesser-known places explained by a professional guide who is happy to answer your questions.
Duration: 2h - 3hLive guideSkip-theLineTransportation included
Explore Krakow’s Old Town at your own pace with a professionally prepared audio guide. This self-guided walking tour takes you through the most important sites of the historic centre, including Krakow’s Main Square and its surrounding streets. Listen to engaging commentary filled with history, fascinating facts, legends and local trivia – an ideal introduction to Krakow for first-time visitors and independent travellers.
Explore Krakow in a fast, comfortable, and eco-friendly way with a Krakow City Tour by electric golf cart. This sightseeing tour is a great introduction to the city, especially for first-time visitors or travellers with limited time who want to see the highlights without long walks.
During the ride, you will explore key areas of Krakow, including the Old Town surroundings, Kazimierz – the historic Jewish district, and parts of Podgórze, where the famous Schindler’s Factory was located. A professionally prepared audio guide provides historical context and helps you understand the city’s past and character.
This electric car tour allows you to see more in less time while staying comfortable in all weather conditions, making it an easy and practical way to start exploring Krakow.
Duration: 1h - 2hAudio GuideTransportation included
Join a Krakow ghost tour that reveals the city’s darkest secrets after nightfall. This guided walk through the Old Town combines spooky legends, true crime stories and dark history, told in an engaging, thriller-style narrative by a licensed local guide. If you enjoy chills, mystery and a different side of Krakow, this evening experience is for you. Recommended for participants aged 15 and over.
Many of Krakow’s most famous landmarks are located directly on the square. Here are some highlights:
St. Mary’s Basilica – A 13th-century Gothic church with a stunning wooden altar and the famous hourly trumpet call from the tower.
Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) – Originally a trading hub, now home to souvenir stalls and the Gallery of 19th-Century Polish Art.
Town Hall Tower – The only remaining part of Krakow’s old town hall, now part of the Krakow Museum.
Adam Mickiewicz Monument – A popular meeting point and tribute to one of Poland’s greatest poets.
St. Adalbert’s Church – One of Krakow’s oldest churches, blending Romanesque and Baroque styles.
Wierzynek Restaurant – A legendary venue said to have hosted a grand feast for European royalty in the time of King Casimir the Great.
The Main Square from above, featuring historic landmarks
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The Main Square is part of Krakow’s Royal Route, once followed by Polish kings during coronations and ceremonies. From the Florian Gate through the Main Square to Wawel Castle, this path takes you through the most historic parts of the city.
Make sure to take your time here—grab a coffee, watch the street performers, and enjoy the atmosphere. This square isn’t just a place on the map—it’s the beating heart of Krakow.
Explore Krakow in a fast, comfortable, and eco-friendly way with a Krakow City Tour by electric golf cart. This sightseeing tour is a great introduction to the city, especially for first-time visitors or travellers with limited time who want to see the highlights without long walks.
During the ride, you will explore key areas of Krakow, including the Old Town surroundings, Kazimierz – the historic Jewish district, and parts of Podgórze, where the famous Schindler’s Factory was located. A professionally prepared audio guide provides historical context and helps you understand the city’s past and character.
This electric car tour allows you to see more in less time while staying comfortable in all weather conditions, making it an easy and practical way to start exploring Krakow.
Duration: 1h - 2hAudio GuideTransportation included
Join a Krakow ghost tour that reveals the city’s darkest secrets after nightfall. This guided walk through the Old Town combines spooky legends, true crime stories and dark history, told in an engaging, thriller-style narrative by a licensed local guide. If you enjoy chills, mystery and a different side of Krakow, this evening experience is for you. Recommended for participants aged 15 and over.
Explore Krakow on a guided city tour with a licensed local guide. Walk through the city’s most iconic districts, such as the Old Town or Kazimierz, and learn about their history through engaging stories and reliable historical insights. This tour is a perfect introduction to Krakow, offering both famous landmarks and lesser-known places explained by a professional guide who is happy to answer your questions.
Duration: 2h - 3hLive guideSkip-theLineTransportation included
Explore Krakow’s Old Town at your own pace with a professionally prepared audio guide. This self-guided walking tour takes you through the most important sites of the historic centre, including Krakow’s Main Square and its surrounding streets. Listen to engaging commentary filled with history, fascinating facts, legends and local trivia – an ideal introduction to Krakow for first-time visitors and independent travellers.
Duration: 2h - 3h
Live guide
Skip-theLine
Transportation included
