Parking in Krakow can be a topic of concern for travellers and locals alike as the city centre is a bustling area with limited parking spaces. Despite being not as expensive compared to many Western European cities, availability and understanding parking zones are key factors to consider when visiting the city by car. This article aims to provide valuable insights into parking in Krakow, essential for both tourists and residents.
Planning your visit to Krakow goes beyond just organizing your sightseeing itinerary, it also requires an understanding of practical elements like parking systems in the city. The centre of Krakow is divided into paid parking zones with varying fares and operational hours.
Typically, these zones function from Monday to Saturday, between 10am and 8pm. Understanding the subzones in the city is crucial as the fares differ between the areas, making it helpful for visitors to strategically plan their parking options.
Additionally, there are guarded and monitored parking facilities within the city ensuring safety and comfort for car owners.
These options are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, offering travellers peace of mind during their stay.
In the following sections, we will dive deeper into the parking options, cost structure and helpful tips for a seamless parking experience in Krakow.
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Parking Zones in Krakow
Krakow offers various parking zones to accommodate the needs of drivers visiting the city.
Each parking zone has its own distinct characteristics and pricing structures, ensuring that getting around and finding a suitable place to park is as stress-free as possible.
The following sections explore the three main parking zones in Krakow: Zone A, Zone B, and Zone C.
Zone A
Zone A is the most central and therefore busiest parking zone in Krakow.
Parking in this area costs 6 PLN (approximately £1.25) per hour, and the minimum fee is 2 PLN.
Paid parking in Zone A operates from Monday to Saturday between 10:00 and 20:00.
- Presence: Centre of Krakow
- Hours: 10:00-20:00, Mon-Sat
- Price: 6 PLN per hour, 2 PLN minimum fee
Zone B
Zone B is the residential zone, where pedestrians have the right of way.
The maximum speed limit in this area is 20 km/h, and parking is only permitted in designated areas.
Hourly parking rates in Zone B are slightly cheaper than Zone A, at 5 PLN per hour, and the minimum fee is also 2 PLN. Paid parking in this zone operates from Monday to Saturday, between 10:00 and 20:00.
- Presence: Residential areas
- Hours: 10:00-20:00, Mon-Sat
- Price: 5 PLN per hour, 2 PLN minimum fee
Zone C
Zone C is classified as a limited parking zone, meaning the maximum parking time is two hours at a stretch. Parking is available from Monday to Saturday, 10:00-18:00, and requires a parking card.
In Zone C, parking costs 4 PLN per hour. New automated parking coupon machines have been installed in Zone C for convenience.
- Presence: Limited parking areas
- Hours: 10:00-18:00, Mon-Sat
- Price: 4 PLN per hour
Types of Parking in Krakow
Public Parking
In Krakow, the city centre is covered with paid parking zones, denoted by a ‘P’ sign. These zones operate on working days (Monday to Saturday) from 10 am to 8 pm.
The zones are divided into subzones – A and B. In subzone A, parking costs PLN 6 for the first and each following hour. In subzone B, it is slightly cheaper at PLN 5 per hour.
Public parking is available on the edges of roads and on some sidewalks where marked. However, be mindful of the signs which indicate where parking begins and ends to avoid any fines.
Private Parking
For those who prefer private parking spaces, there are several options available throughout the city. Some hotels in Krakow offer private car parks exclusively for their guests.
These parking spaces tend to be in a convenient location, usually close to the hotel, ensuring easy accessibility.
Prices for private parking may vary depending on the hotel and location.
Underground Parking
Underground parking in Krakow can be found in some areas of Krakow, offering a more secure option compared to on-street parking.
One such location with underground parking is near Wawel Castle, perfect for those wishing to visit the historical site.
Other notable places with underground parking facilities include the Main Square and Cloth Hall.
Prices for these parking options may vary depending on their location within the city.
Guarded Car Park
For those who prioritise safety and security, there are guarded car parks available in Krakow.
These car parks offer round-the-clock (24 hours a day, seven days a week) surveillance, CCTV monitoring, and staff on-site to ensure the safety of your vehicle.
One such guarded car park is located in the city centre and offers 130 parking spaces with attractive and flexible pricing options.
This makes it ideal for those visiting the Main Square or other nearby attractions.
Payment Methods
There are multiple payment methods available for parking in Krakow, including cash, card, and mobile applications. We will discuss these options in the following sub-sections.
Cash
Most of the parking ticket machines in Krakow accept Polish zloty coins as a payment method.
Parking fees vary depending on the zone:
- Zone A: PLN 6 for the first and each of the following hours
- Zone B: PLN 5 for the first and each of the following hours
- Zone C: PLN 4 for the first and each of the following hours
Parking is free on Sundays and public holidays, and outside of designated paid parking zones.
Card
Some parking ticket machines in Krakow offer contactless card payment options, such as Pay Pass technology.
This allows drivers to pay for parking without the need for physical cash. The same fees apply as paying with cash, based on the parking zones A, B, and C.
Mobile Applications
While there is no specific information about mobile applications for parking payment in Krakow, it’s advisable to check with local parking providers to see if they offer a mobile app for payment.
This can be a convenient and efficient method of payment, especially for frequent visitors to the city or those who prefer not to carry cash on hand.
Remember that parking must be paid between Monday and Saturday, from 8 am to 8 pm. It’s essential to display the parking ticket or pass on the driver’s side dashboard to avoid potential fines.
By understanding and utilising the various payment methods, drivers can ensure a smooth and hassle-free parking experience in Krakow.
Tips for Parking in Krakow
Finding Free Parking
Finding free parking in Krakow can be a bit challenging, especially in the city centre. However, outside the centre, there are more options for free parking.
Keep in mind that on the streets, parking generally costs between 1 to 2 euros per hour from 8am to 8pm.
Some areas in the city do allow free parking, but make sure to check for signs to avoid any penalties.
Safe and Secure Locations
For a safe and secure parking experience, consider using multi-level supervised parking garages such as the one at ul. Zamoyskiego 17.
This garage offers 185 spaces and is open 24 hours, with prices ranging from 3zł/hr, 25zł/24hrs, 125zł/7 days, to 250zł/30 days.
Parking garages are an excellent solution if you seek convenience and peace of mind, knowing that your vehicle will be protected.
Avoiding Fines
Avoiding parking fines in Krakow requires a thorough understanding of the city’s parking zones and regulations.
The centre of Kraków has paid parking zones (P), which operate on working days (Mon to Sat) from 10am to 8pm.
The prices and subzones are as follows:
- Subzone A: PLN 6 for the first and each of the following hours
- Subzone B: PLN 5 for the first and each of the following hours
- Subzone C: PLN 4 for the first and each of the following hours
In more residential areas (Zone B), parking is only permitted in marked spaces, and the maximum speed limit is 20 km/h. If you park in a limited parking zone (Zone C), there is a maximum parking time of 2 hours between 10 AM – 6 PM from Monday through Saturday, and a parking card is required.
Remember that on the streets within the Planty, which encircles the city centre, parking fees apply from 8am to 8pm.
Always double-check signs before leaving your vehicle, as they will indicate the rules specific to the location.
By following these guidelines, you will minimise the likelihood of receiving fines or penalties during your stay in Krakow.
Visiting Krakow by Car
Central Attractions
When visiting Kraków by car, it is important to be aware of the paid parking zones in the city centre.
These zones are divided into subzones A, B, and C, with varying prices:
- In subzones A – PLN 6 for the first and each of the following hours.
- In subzones B – PLN 5 for the first and each of the following hours.
- In subzones C – PLN 4 for the first and each of the following hours.
These parking zones operate on working days (Monday to Saturday) from 10 am to 8 pm.
It is highly recommended that visitors park their cars in guarded car parks and utilise alternative modes of transport, such as Uber, Bolt, taxis, or public transport, when exploring central attractions, arts, and shopping districts. Read also Shopping Malls in Krakow.
Overnight Parking
For those requiring overnight parking in Kraków, consider using the guarded car park at ul. Straszewskiego 14, located in the heart of the city.
This car park is situated near the Royal Castle of Wawel and a short distance from the Main Market Square. Additionally, the Maltański Hotel is just a 1-minute walk away, offering convenient accommodation.
Airport Parking
When travelling to Kraków via the airport, there are various parking options available, depending on your needs.
As visitor’s stays may vary, choosing a flexible parking option is beneficial for those seeking both short-term and 24-hour parking spaces near the airport.
To help visitors find the best parking options, the airport provides an online tool to check the availability and fare of different car parks.
Some car parks require the car’s plate number for a booking. It is worth noting that the National Museum has an underground garage with 150 spaces located on Aleja, making it a convenient parking option for those who want to visit the museum during their stay.
Read also other usefull articles about Krakow:
Alternative Transportation in Krakow
Public Transport Options
Krakow’s public transportation system is well-developed and efficient, offering a variety of options including buses and trams.
The main tram lines connect various parts of the city, making it easy for travellers to reach popular tourist destinations such as Karmelicka Street.
Bus services offer further connections within the city and to the surrounding areas.
Taxi Services
Taxis are another reliable option for getting around Krakow.
Hotels and tourist sites often have designated taxi stands, but you could also hail a cab on the street or book one through a phone call.
Remember to use licensed taxis displaying the company logo and phone number to ensure a safe and reliable service. Taxi rates can vary depending on the time of day and the distance travelled.
Ride-Sharing Services
Krakow is home to popular ride-sharing services such as Uber and Bolt. These can be a cost-effective and convenient alternative to traditional taxi services as you can book and pay for your ride through a smartphone app.
Simply search for drivers within your area and book a ride to your desired destination, while following the app’s guidelines for a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Parking cost in city centre?
Parking in the centre of Kraków is divided into paid parking zones (subzones A, B, C) operating on working days (Mon-Sat) from 10am to 8pm. In subzone A, it costs PLN 6 for the first hour and each following hour. In subzone B, it’s PLN 5 per hour and in subzone C, PLN 4 per hour.
Free parking in Old Town?
Free parking within the Old Town area is limited. It is important to pay attention to street signs and parking zones, as free parking spaces are mostly available on Sundays and outside the paid parking zones.
How to pay for street parking?
Payment for street parking in Kraków can be made at the parking meters found throughout the city. Machines usually accept cash and card payments.
Overnight parking locations?
Kraków offers various overnight parking options, such as guarded parking lots and underground car parks. One option is the Wawel underground car park at the heart of the city. It is open 24/7 and offers constant supervision by building security.
Cheapest parking options?
Some of the cheapest parking options in Kraków are found in subzone C paid parking areas, which cost PLN 4 per hour.
Additionally, some private car parks or residential areas may have more affordable rates.
Parking on Saturdays free?
Parking on Saturdays in Kraków is not free, as paid parking zones operate from Monday to Saturday between 10am and 8pm. However, free parking is available on Sundays and outside the operating hours of paid parking zones.
