Be inspired by the best views in Krakow

Krakow is one of Europe’s great medieval cities, with a layered history, stunning architecture, and a culture spanning centuries. Like many of Europe’s great cities, Krakow is best seen from above. Discovering the best views in Krakow is a must during your visit, especially on the skyline. From the towering heights of St. Mary’s Basilica to the trendy rooftop bar at Szklanki in Kazimierz, and the ancient history lessons at Krakus Mound, the best things to do in Krakow begin with finding the best viewpoints.

Where to get the best views in Krakow

Best observation deck in Krakow: St. Mary’s Basilica

Best unexpected place to see the skyline in Krakow: Szklanki rooftop bar

Best free views in Krakow: Krakus Mound

Best rooftop and observation deck views in Krakow

1. St. Mary’s Basilica

St. Mary's Basilica offers one of the most scenic spots in Krakow from its two towering spires. The viewing platform is part of the taller tower known as the Bugle Tower. While the entire tower is 82 meters (269 feet) tall, the viewing platform is 56 meters (184 feet) above ground level. From this viewpoint, you'll have a sweeping scene of Main Market Square, Cloth Hall, and Town Hall Tower. As you take in the view, listen for the traditional “bugle call” or “Hejnał Mariacki” played hourly from the basilica.

Insider tip

Take some time to admire the church’s interior, particularly the 15th-century wooden altarpiece designed by the artist Viet Stross. At 12 meters (39 feet) long, it is the largest in Europe.

Address and opening hours

plac Mariacki 5, 31-042 Kraków, Poland. Open Monday-Friday, 11:30 AM-6:00 PM; Saturday-Sunday, 2:00 PM-6:00 PM.

2. Groble Sky Bar at Hotel Pod Wawelem

The Groble rooftop restaurant terrace at Hotel Pod Wawelem offers some of the best views in Krakow. Located at the foot of Wawel Hill, the terrace lets guests enjoy up-close views of Wawel Castle, with its impressive architecture and the Vistula River below it. You’ll also see church spires and Krakow’s rooftops nearby.

Insider tip

Sunset is a magical time to visit the rooftop, as the castle is illuminated with glowing lights. You’ll have some of the best views of Krakow’s skyline.

Address and opening hours

plac Na Groblach 22, 31-101 Kraków, Poland. Open daily, 8:00 AM-11:00 PM.

3. U Ziyada

The terraces at U Ziyada restaurant, located in the Zinar Castle on the outskirts of Krakow, offer some of the most breathtaking views of the city. Perched high above the Vistula River and a carpet of green forest, these terraces have a panoramic view of Krakow’s skyline, with Wawel Castle and the spires of St. Mary’s Basilica in the distance.

Insider tip

The forest surrounding the castle is webbed with hiking trails, which make for a fun afternoon before visiting the terraces for a relaxing bite to eat or a cold drink.

Address and opening hours

Jodłowa 13, 30-251 Kraków, Poland. Open daily, 7:00 AM-10:00 PM.

4. Zielone Tarasy

Zielone Tarasy, a restaurant in the Kazimierz district, has some of the best views in Krakow from its chic rooftop terrace. This buzzy spot offers sweeping views of Old Town, Wawel Castle, and the rooftops of the surrounding neighborhood. Lush greenery and twinkle lights create a laid-back place to enjoy a leisurely brunch or evening drinks while enjoying the views.

Insider tip

The menu at Zielone Tarasy is wonderfully diverse, featuring everything from vegan to gluten-free items. Try the whole-grain pizzas and the grilled tofu.

Address and opening hours

Aleja Juliusza Słowackiego 64, 31-000 Kraków, Poland. Open Monday-Friday 10:00 AM-9:00 PM; Saturday 12:00 PM-9:00 PM; Sunday 12:00 PM-8:00 PM.

5. Town Hall Tower

The Town Hall Tower in Main Market Square offers some of Krakow’s most spectacular views. Climbing the narrow staircase to the top rewards you with a bird’s-eye perspective of the square below, where the colorful facades of historic buildings, the Cloth Hall, and St. Mary’s Basilica are in full view. You can also see the red rooftops of Old Town, with Wawel Castle in the distance.

Insider tip

The towers' balconies are closed off, but you can take pictures from the open windows.

Address and opening hours

Rynek Główny 1, 30-001 Kraków, Poland. Open daily, 10:00 AM-6:00 PM.

6. Sky Bar at Hotel Stary

The Sky Bar at Hotel Stary offers one of Krakow’s best views. High above this historic hotel, the bar is a sophisticated place to enjoy a cocktail while gazing across the rooftops of Old Town, with the towering spires of St. Mary’s Basilica and the medieval Town Hall Tower. The best time to visit is at sunset, as the city looks so romantic awash in gold, and the lights of Main Market Square begin to come alive.

Insider tip

The sixth floor Sky Bar is where you’ll be headed, but there is actually a second terrace on the top floor in the back of the building. Called Rybki Nove Grill, you can enjoy a full meal here, though the views aren’t as lovely as at Sky Bar.

Address and opening hours

Szczepańska 5, 31-011 Kraków, Poland. Open daily, 12:00 PM-11:00 PM.

7. Tower at the Sanctuary of Divine Mercy

The tower at the Sanctuary of Divine Mercy has some of the most expansive views of the city, making it one of the top Krakow photography spots. Rising above the Łagiewniki district, the tower offers a 360-degree view that includes the basilica, the Vistula River, and the distant spires of Krakow’s Old Town. On clear days, the view extends to the nearby Tatra Mountains.

Insider tip

The church is located in a suburb of Krakow. It includes the 19th-century convent of nun and mystic Faustyna Kowalska, who saw a vision of Christ that has come to be known as the “Diving Mercy.” The property’s House of St. Faustyna has a small museum with a collection of objects from her life.

Address and opening hours

Siostry Faustyny 3, 30-608 Kraków, Poland. Open daily, 6:00 AM-9:00 PM.

Best unexpected places to get great views of Krakow

8. Szklanki rooftop bar

One of Krakow’s trendiest rooftops, Szklanki, is also one of the best spots in the city for superior views. Located in the Kazimierz district, this spot provides a perfect view of the neighborhood’s blend of old and new architecture. From Szklanki’s terrace, you can see the Vistula River, Wawel Castle, and the streets of Kazimierz below.

Insider tip

Szklanki is tucked behind the Izaak Synagogue and overlooks the Remah Jewish Cemetery, a historic place to visit in Krakow.

Address and opening hours

Jakuba 19, 31-057 Kraków, Poland. Open Monday-Wednesday, 3:00 PM-12:00 AM; Thursday, 3:00 PM-1:00 AM; Friday, 3:00 PM-2:00 AM; Saturday, 1:00 PM-2 AM; and Sunday 1:00 PM-12:00 AM.

9. Balon Widokowy

One of Krakow’s coolest attractions is the Balon Widokowy, or Observation Balloon. Located near the Vistula River, this tethered hot air balloon rises to 150 meters (492 feet), so you can imagine the views are top-notch. From this lofty perch, you can see the entire expanse of Krakow, including Wawel Castle, the historic Old Town, and the winding Vistula River. On a clear day, you’ll be able to see the Tatra Mountains, too.

Insider tip

The balloon is near other unique attractions in Krakow, such as the Krakow Eye Ferris wheel and the Manngha Museum of Japanese Art and Technology.

Address and opening hours

Marii Konopnickiej, Bulwar Wołyński 28, 30-302 Kraków, Poland. Open daily,10:00 AM-8:00 PM.

Free places to get great views of Krakow

10. Krakus Mound

All across Krakow you may be intrigued by mysterious mounds that rise from the earth. These mounds are iconic landmarks in the city, said to be mythical burial grounds and monuments to national heroes. Krakus Mound, the oldest and highest mound in the city, has one of the best views in Krakow. This ancient hill is located in the Podgórze district and boasts 360-degree views of Old Town, Wawel Castle, and the Tatra Mountains.

Insider tip

Take the time to explore the Podgórze district near the Mound. During World War II, Podgórze became known as the Krakow Ghetto, traces of which are still visible today. Visit the Under the Eagle Museum and Ghetto Heroes Square.

Address and opening hours

30-543 Kraków, Poland. Open 24 hours.

11. Roof Top Terrace at Sheraton Grand

You don’t have to be a guest of the luxurious Sheraton Grand Krakow to enjoy its number one perk: a rooftop terrace that shows off Krakow’s best views. Overlooking the Vistula River, this elegant spot offers views of Krakow’s iconic landmarks, from Wawel Castle to the towers of Old Town. You can have a cocktail and a bite to eat or simply sit back and enjoy the sunset. If you’re traveling with a partner, this is one of the most romantic things to do in Krakow.

Insider tip

The menu includes signature and classic cocktails. The Pomtini is particularly refreshing, made with Belvedere vodka, Moet Chandon Brut, passionfruit, vanilla, and lime.

Address and opening hours

Powiśle 7, 31-101 Kraków, Poland. Open daily, 4:00 PM-12:00 AM.

FAQs

Where are the best views in Krakow?

The best views in Krakow are from iconic monuments such as St. Mary’s Basilica, Krakus Mound, Wawel Castle, and the Tatra Mountains.

Where is the best view of Wawel Castle?

The best view of Wawel Castle is from Krakus Mound or the Sheraton Grand rooftop.

Where are the best free views of Krakow?

You can climb up Wawel Hill for a free panoramic view of the Vistula River and the city. Planty Park, which encircles Old Town, has a serene walking path that has views of the medieval city walls, as well.

What’s the best place to get a view of the sunset in Krakow?

Groble Sky Bar at Hotel Pod Wawelem is one of the best places in Krakow to see the sunset.

What’s the best place to get a view of Krakow after dark?

Seeing the city's skyline after dark is one of the best things to do at night in Krakow. You can get the best nighttime views of Krakow from the Szklanki rooftop bar.