A complex of eight gardens, Planty Park is a restful place to rest your feet and people-watch. Be on the lookout for the more than 20 statues honoring some of Poland’s best and brightest historical figures, including Nicolaus Copernicus, the mathematician and astronomer who first proposed that the sun is the center of the universe. Travelers usually visit Planty Park on foot or by bike, either independently or as part of a guided tour that visits other nearby highlights such as the Main Market Square, St. Mary’s Basilica, and the Cloth Hall.
The park’s wide paved pathways make it accessible to wheelchair users and strollers. However, some parts of the park have uneven terrain, so it's advisable to plan your route ahead of your trip.
Wear comfortable shoes if you’re wanting to circle the entire park—it can take one to two hours to walk.
If you’re walking around the park, watch out for bikes—the bike paths make it a popular choice for cyclists.
It’s free to enter the park.
As the park encircles Krakow and has an area of 52 acres (21 hectares), there are convenient entry points all around the city. A recommended route is to start near Wawel Royal Castle, located just south of the park, and then work your way around clockwise. To save time, consider renting a bike to travel around the park.
The park is beautiful throughout the year, with blooming flowers in spring and fall foliage being particular highlights. It’s open throughout the day and night, but to avoid crowds and have peaceful moments in the park, it’s best to visit mid-morning during the week.
As well as Planty Park, there are lots more green spaces to enjoy in and around Krakow, including the Botanical Garden of the Jagiellonian University, Jordan Park, and Kościuszko Mound, which offers panoramic views of the city. On the outskirts of Krakow is the protected woodland of Wolski Forest, where you’ll discover over 21 miles (35 kilometers) of hiking trails.
