Krakow is a city best explored on foot. A stroll through the Main Market Square, a visit to Wawel Castle, discovering the atmospheric streets of Kazimierz or spending an evening at one of the city's many restaurants – many of Krakow's most important attractions are within easy walking distance of one another. Choosing the right location for your accommodation can therefore make a significant difference to your overall experience.
Where is the best place to stay in Krakow? Should you choose a hotel overlooking the Main Market Square or look for accommodation in another part of the city? Much depends on the nature of your trip, but for visitors who want to explore Krakow at their own pace without unnecessary travel, the historic city centre offers some particularly attractive advantages.
Krakow Old Town – The Best Base for Exploring the City
If you are visiting Krakow for the first time, the Old Town is one of the best places to stay. This is where you will find the city's most recognisable landmarks, including the Main Market Square, the Cloth Hall, St. Mary's Basilica, St. Florian's Gate and the Barbican.
Staying in this part of Krakow means you can begin sightseeing almost as soon as you step outside your hotel. There is no need to plan daily journeys or arrange your schedule around public transport. Most of the city's main attractions can be reached on foot.
The Main Market Square itself is a particularly appealing location. As the heart of historic Krakow, it is a lively place throughout the day. Morning coffee overlooking the Cloth Hall, a walk along Grodzka Street or dinner surrounded by centuries-old architecture become a natural part of your stay.
Why stay in Krakow Old Town?
- The city's most important landmarks are within a short walking distance.
- You can explore Krakow without relying on public transport.
- Numerous restaurants, cafés and cultural attractions are nearby.
- It is easy to return to your hotel for a break between sightseeing activities.
- The atmosphere of historic Krakow becomes part of your entire stay.
A central location is particularly convenient for short two- or three-day city breaks, when making the most of your time matters.
If you are planning a short visit, explore our ready-made itineraries: Krakow in One Day, Krakow in 2 Days and Krakow in 3 Days. They will help you discover the city's highlights without unnecessary journeys.
Main Market Square – Why Stay in the Very Heart of Krakow?
When choosing a hotel in Krakow, it is worth considering not only the neighbourhood but also the property's exact location. Even an additional fifteen-minute walk can make a difference, particularly if you are planning a busy sightseeing schedule.
Staying directly on the Main Market Square gives you exceptional flexibility. You can start your day with a walk across the square before the crowds arrive, return to your room after visiting Wawel Castle, and head out for dinner in the evening without having to arrange transport.
This location allows you to enjoy Krakow at your own pace. There is no need to spend the entire day away from your hotel or worry about getting back after a late dinner or concert.
Another advantage is the opportunity to experience the city at different times of day. The Main Market Square has a different atmosphere in the early morning, as Krakow gradually comes to life, and in the evening, when its illuminated historic buildings create a memorable setting.
This is where you will find The Bonerowski Palace, a five-star boutique hotel housed in a historic building directly on the Main Market Square. Its location combines comfortable accommodation with immediate access to the most important attractions of Krakow's historic centre.
The hotel offers rooms and suites, where the building's historic character is complemented by modern comforts.
Kazimierz – A Historic Neighbourhood Worth Exploring
Kazimierz is one of Krakow's most distinctive neighbourhoods. The city's historic Jewish quarter attracts visitors not only with its heritage and architecture but also with its lively dining scene and unique atmosphere.
Around Szeroka Street, Józefa Street and Plac Nowy, you will find numerous restaurants, cafés, galleries and independent venues that give this part of the city its distinctive character.
Kazimierz certainly deserves a place on your sightseeing itinerary. You can spend several hours exploring the history of Jewish Krakow, visiting synagogues and wandering through streets lined with historic buildings. In the evening, the neighbourhood also becomes one of the city's most popular destinations for dining and socialising.
One of its advantages is its proximity to the Old Town. Walking from the Main Market Square to the Plac Nowy area usually takes around 15–20 minutes.
This means that by staying in the historic centre, you can explore Kazimierz during the day, enjoy dinner there in the evening and return to your hotel on foot.
Wawel Castle and Its Surroundings – Royal History Within Easy Reach
Wawel Hill is one of Krakow's most important landmarks. Wawel Royal Castle and Wawel Cathedral attract visitors from around the world, while the surrounding streets are among the most picturesque in the city.
The walk from the Main Market Square to Wawel follows part of the historic Royal Route, including Grodzka Street. It is one of Krakow's most beautiful walking routes, lined with historic churches, townhouses and places connected to the city's past.
Wawel can be reached from the Main Market Square in approximately 15 minutes on foot, making it easy to combine a visit to the royal residence with other Old Town attractions.
It is worth allowing time not only to explore the castle and cathedral but also to enjoy a walk along the Vistula River. The riverside boulevards offer beautiful views of Wawel and are an excellent place to relax for a while.
Staying in the city centre means you do not have to choose between being close to the Main Market Square and having convenient access to Wawel – both can easily be enjoyed during the same walk.
Podgórze – Discover Krakow Beyond the Main Tourist Routes
If you are planning a longer stay in Krakow or returning to the city for another visit, it is worth setting aside some time to explore Podgórze.
Located on the opposite bank of the Vistula River, this historic neighbourhood offers a different perspective on Krakow. Among its most important attractions are Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory, MOCAK – the Museum of Contemporary Art in Krakow – and Ghetto Heroes Square.
Podgórze also attracts visitors with its quieter streets, independent cafés and riverside walking areas. Another place worth visiting is the Father Bernatek Footbridge, which connects Podgórze with Kazimierz.
You can plan a visit to this part of the city as a separate half-day excursion. From central Krakow, Podgórze is easily accessible by tram. If you enjoy longer walks, you can also reach it through Kazimierz and across the pedestrian bridge over the Vistula.
This makes Podgórze an interesting addition to your itinerary, even when your hotel is located in the Old Town.
What Should You Consider When Choosing a Hotel in Krakow?
A good location is one of the most important elements of an enjoyable stay, but it is not the only factor. Even two hotels situated close to each other can offer very different experiences.
Before making a reservation, it is worth considering several things.
Distance from attractions
If you are planning an active sightseeing holiday, choose a hotel within walking distance of the main landmarks. On a short city break, this can save valuable time and reduce the need for public transport.
Character of the hotel
A large international hotel, an intimate boutique hotel and a private apartment in a historic townhouse all offer different experiences. Your choice will depend on whether you value extensive facilities, a more personal atmosphere or greater independence.
Comfort and peace
In Krakow's historic centre, it is worth checking the location of your room, sound insulation and guest reviews relating to a good night's sleep.
Transport and accessibility
If you are travelling by car, check parking availability and access restrictions. Parts of Krakow Old Town have limited vehicle access.
If you are arriving by plane or train, consider the distance from Krakow Główny railway station and the available transfer options.
Dining and additional services
After a full day of sightseeing, having a restaurant within your hotel or nearby can be particularly convenient. It is also worth checking breakfast options and other services that could make your stay more enjoyable.
At The Bonerowski Palace, guests can enjoy dining at Amalia Steak & Fish Restaurant, making it possible to arrange dinner without leaving the hotel.
Where to Stay in Krakow for a Weekend or a Longer Visit?
For a short two- or three-day city break, the Old Town is an especially convenient choice. Its proximity to the city's main landmarks allows you to make the most of your time, with many attractions accessible without public transport.
Even for a longer visit, staying in the centre is worth considering. The Main Market Square provides an excellent base not only for exploring the Old Town but also for discovering Kazimierz, Wawel and other parts of Krakow.
This means you can explore a different neighbourhood each day and return in the evening to the same convenient central location.
A hotel overlooking the Main Market Square is particularly appealing to visitors who want to combine sightseeing with relaxation, enjoy the city's diverse dining scene and experience the atmosphere of historic Krakow beyond the busiest tourist hours.
Discover Krakow from The Bonerowski Palace
If you value an exceptional location and the freedom to explore Krakow on foot, staying directly on the Main Market Square is an excellent choice.
The Bonerowski Palace combines the atmosphere of a historic residence with the comfort of a five-star boutique hotel. From here, you can easily reach the most important landmarks of the Old Town, while Wawel and Kazimierz are both within a pleasant walking distance.
Explore the available rooms and suites at The Bonerowski Palace and plan your stay in the very heart of Krakow.
