St. Marys Basilica and More – a Short Walk With a Guide

Krakow’s St. Mary’s Basilica is a true architectural marvel, boasting a stunning Gothic façade and an intricately carved altar crafted by the renowned sculptor Veit Stoss. This 1.5-hour guided tour promises to transport visitors through the city’s rich cultural heritage, from the bustling Market Square to the historic Renaissance Cloth Hall. As you uncover the captivating stories that lie behind Krakow’s iconic landmarks, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s fascinating past. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a memorable cultural experience, this guided walk offers a chance to…

Key Points

• Explore the intricate altar by Veit Stoss inside St. Mary’s Basilica, a breathtaking Gothic art masterpiece.
• Learn about the iconic Krakow bugle call and its historical significance, including Polish kings’ coronations and WWII events.
• Traverse the bustling Market Square and Renaissance Cloth Hall, the center of Poland’s textile trade.
• Discover hidden treasures in Krakow’s narrow streets and the historic Jagiellonian University.
• Enjoy a 1.5-hour guided tour suitable for all ages, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The short guided tour of Krakow’s Old Town focuses on the iconic St. Marys Basilica, lasting approximately 1.5 hours and priced from Kč614 per person.

Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To join the tour, visitors should meet the guide with the excursions.city sign at the priests monument in the Main Square.

This overview provides an immersive experience, allowing participants to admire the intricate altar by Veit Stoss, learn about the origins of the bugle call, and explore the bustling Market Square and Renaissance Cloth Hall.

The tour is available in English, Polish, German, French, and Italian, catering to a wide range of guests.

Activity Highlights

Visitors can expect to explore the renowned St. Marys Basilica, admiring the intricate altar crafted by the renowned artist Veit Stoss. They’ll also learn about the captivating origins of Krakow’s iconic bugle call and uncover historical gems as they traverse the bustling Market Square and Renaissance Cloth Hall.

The guided tour offers a chance to discover hidden treasures in the city’s narrow streets and the historic Jagiellonian University.

Whether you’re an adult, child, or student, this 1.5-hour experience promises to immerse you in Krakow’s rich cultural heritage, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for the city’s iconic landmarks and captivating history.

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, providing visitors with a full refund should their plans change.

This flexible policy allows guests to book the tour with confidence, knowing they can receive a complete reimbursement if needed.

The tour operator understands that schedules can be unpredictable, and they want to ensure customers have the freedom to adjust their plans without penalty.

Whether it’s an unexpected conflict or a simple change of heart, the cancellation policy offers peace of mind and makes it easy for travelers to secure their spot on the tour.

This customer-centric approach is just one of the many reasons the St. Marys Basilica tour comes highly recommended.

Meeting Point

Guides with the excursions.city sign await participants at the priests monument in the Main Square, the designated meeting point for the St. Marys Basilica tour. This central location is easy to find and provides a convenient starting point for the 1.5-hour journey through Krakow’s Old Town. Once the group has assembled, the knowledgeable guide will lead the way, sharing captivating historical insights and pointing out must-see sights along the route.

Meeting Point
Location	Main Square
Landmark	Priests Monument
Sign	excursions.city
Duration	1.5 hours
Group Size	Varies

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Intricate Altar by Veit Stoss

One of the tour’s highlights is the intricate, breathtaking altar crafted by renowned artist Veit Stoss, which dominates the interior of St. Marys Basilica.

This awe-inspiring sculpture, a masterpiece of Gothic art, depicts intricate religious scenes and figures that captivate visitors with their level of detail and craftsmanship.

Completed in 1489, the altar’s carved wooden panels feature an array of exquisitely rendered images, from the central Assumption of the Virgin Mary to the surrounding saints and apostles.

Visitors are often struck by the altar’s sheer size, the vivid colors, and the expert execution of the delicate details.

It’s a true architectural and artistic marvel that leaves a lasting impression on all who witness it.

Bugle Call and Historical Facts

The iconic bugle call, performed daily from the tower of St. Mary’s Basilica, has become an integral part of Krakow’s cultural heritage, with its soulful melody echoing across the bustling Main Square.

Plus, the tour provides insights into the church’s storied past, regaling visitors with tales of its construction, architectural evolution, and the significant events that have unfolded within its hallowed walls.

From the coronation of Polish kings to the Nazi occupation during World War II, the guide weaves a captivating narrative that brings the history of this magnificent cathedral to life.

Guests leave with a deeper appreciation for the enduring traditions and pivotal moments that have shaped the fabric of Krakow’s past.

Bustling Market Square and Cloth Hall

From the soaring towers of St. Mary’s Basilica, the tour leads visitors into the bustling heart of Krakow’s Old Town – the lively Market Square, where the iconic Renaissance-era Cloth Hall stands as a testament to the city’s mercantile legacy. This grand structure, with its ornate facades and rows of stalls, was once the center of Poland’s textile trade. As the guide shares the history of this vibrant marketplace, visitors can admire the architecture and imagine the lively commerce that once filled its halls.

Feature	Description
Architecture	Ornate Renaissance-style facade
Merchandise	Variety of stalls selling textiles, crafts, and local goods
History	Former center of Poland’s textile trade

Participant Information

This tour caters to a diverse range of participants, including adults aged 18-99, children aged 7-17, and even infants 6 and younger who can join for free.

Students aged 18-26 with valid identification can also take advantage of the tour at a discounted rate.

The tour’s flexible age groups ensure that visitors of all ages can enjoy the rich history and captivating sights of Krakow’s Old Town.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, or a group of friends, this guided tour offers an engaging and inclusive experience that caters to the needs of all participants, making it an excellent choice for a memorable exploration of Krakow’s iconic landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Opening Hours of St. Marys Basilica?

The opening hours of St. Mary’s Basilica in Krakow are typically from 11:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily, with special hours on Sundays and holidays. Visitors should check the basilica’s website or inquire locally for the most up-to-date schedule.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Group Bookings?

There are discounted group rates available for this tour. Groups of 4 or more can receive a 10% discount per person. Travelers should inquire about group pricing when booking to take advantage of the savings.

Can We Visit the Church Tower During the Tour?

Yes, the tour typically includes a visit to the church tower of St. Mary’s Basilica, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Krakow’s historic Old Town. However, access to the tower may be subject to additional fees or time constraints.

Are Photography and Video Recordings Allowed Inside the Basilica?

Photography and video recordings are generally allowed inside St. Mary’s Basilica, but visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting the peaceful atmosphere. It’s best to check with the tour guide or staff for any specific restrictions.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to Explore More of Krakow?

Yes, there’s an option to extend the Krakow Old Town tour beyond St. Mary’s Basilica. Travelers can choose a longer tour that explores more of the city’s historic landmarks and hidden gems in Krakow’s charming streets and squares.

Recap

This captivating 1.5-hour tour offers a memorable glimpse into Krakow’s iconic landmarks.

Explore the stunning Gothic masterpiece of St. Mary’s Basilica, featuring the breathtaking Veit Stoss altar, and uncover the city’s rich cultural heritage by visiting the vibrant Market Square and historic Renaissance Cloth Hall.

With expert insights, this engaging experience is suitable for all ages and provides an immersive introduction to Krakow’s fascinating history.

You can check if your dates are available here: