How far is Krakow city centre from the Old Town? What is centre

Krakow is one of Poland’s most popular tourist destinations. If you’re planning a visit, you might wonder: How far is Krakow city centre from the Old Town? Where is city centre in Krakow? Where is Old Town (Stare Miasto)? Below, we’ll explore the layout of Krakow, the key attractions within the Old Town, and nearby areas to give you a comprehensive understanding of distances, travel times, and the best ways to navigate Krakow.

What is Krakow’s city centre and Old Town?

The Old Town of Krakow or “Stare Miasto” is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most historically significant areas in Poland. Enclosed by the Planty Park, a green belt that replaced the city’s medieval walls, the Old Town is where Krakow’s medieval heritage comes alive.

Krakow’s city centre is precisely the area enclosed within the Old Town with the Main Market Square in the middle. Some large tourist cities effectively have several centres including, for example, the old town centre or the centre of the business district. Krakow is a very small city and actually has one centre. The Old Town in Krakow is a city centre.

Key landmarks in the Old Town (Stare Miasto) include:

• Rynek Główny (Main Market Square): The largest medieval market square in Europe.
• St. Mary’s Basilica: Famous for its towering Gothic architecture and the hourly trumpet call (Hejnał).
• Wawel Castle and Cathedral: A short walk south of the square, sitting atop Wawel Hill.
• Cloth Hall (Sukiennice): A Renaissance trading hall in the middle of Rynek Główny.

What is Considered Krakow City Centre?

When Krakow’s inhabitants speak of the centre, they mean the Main Square. With a bit of goodwill, the centre of Krakow can also include Kazimierz, the so-called jewish quarter, and Podgórze. In most contexts, Krakow’s city centre refers to the area encompassing the Old Town (Stare Miasto) and Main Market Square (Rynek Główny).

The Distance Between Krakow City Centre and Old Town

Since the Old Town is essentially the core of Krakow’s city centre, the distance is negligible. Here’s a breakdown of distances and walking times between key points:

• Main Market Square (Rynek Główny) to Wawel Castle:
  Distance: ~1.2 km (0.75 miles)
  Walking Time: ~10 minutes
  This short walk south along Grodzka Street is one of the most scenic routes in the city.
• Main Market Square to Kazimierz (Jewish Quarter):
  Distance: ~1.5 km (0.93 miles)
  Walking Time: ~20 minutes
  While Kazimierz is technically outside the Old Town, it is often considered part of Krakow’s city centre.
• Main Market Square to Krakow Glowny (Main Train Station):
  Distance: ~800 meters (0.43 miles)
  Walking Time: ~10 minutes
  Main train station and adjoining Galeria Krakowska shopping mall are located just north of the Old Town, making them highly accessible.

The Old Town and surrounding city centre are incredibly walkable. Most attractions are within a 15-20 minute walk of each other. Kraków is a very small town. Getting from the airport to Krakow’s city centre by Uber and Bolt is only 11 kilometres and a 20-minute trip at a cost of about PLN 45.

Public Transport

• Trams and Buses: Krakow’s public transport system is efficient as long as we are moving in the very centre of Krakow between the Old Town, Podgórze and Kazimierz. Getting to further regions where tourists do not go is inconvenient and complicated.For example:
  – From Kazimierz to the Main Market Square: ~10 minutes by tram.
  – From Krakow Glowny to Wawel Castle: ~10-15 minutes by tram.
• Tickets can be purchased at trams, on the stops or through mobile apps.

Is the Old Town the same as Krakow’s city centre?

Krakow’s Old Town is considered the city centre. It’s the historical and cultural heart of the city, surrounded by other central neighborhoods like Kazimierz and Podgórze.

How long does it take to explore Krakow’s Old Town?

You can explore the highlights of the Old Town in a single day, but to fully appreciate all Krakow attractions, plan for 2-3 days.

Can I drive through Krakow’s Old Town?

No, the Old Town is a pedestrian zone. Cars are restricted in this area to residents only and those who have a reservation in a hotel located in the Old Town.

Conclusion

Krakow’s Old Town and city centre are essentially the same, with most key attractions located within walking distance. Whether you’re wandering through Rynek Główny, exploring the historic streets of Kazimierz, or visiting Wawel Castle.

For visitors, the best way to experience Krakow’s city centre is on foot.