Why staying near the Main Square is the best choice
Looking for the best hotel near the Main Square in Krakow? Excellent choice. The Main Square is the heart of the city and the largest medieval market square in Europe — from here, quite literally everything is within arm's reach. The Cloth Hall, St Mary's Basilica, the finest restaurants, bars, clubs and nightlife attractions, including Royal Island Gentlemen's Club, are all a short stroll away.
Staying in central Krakow means you will not need a taxi or public transport. In the evening you step out of your hotel straight into the buzzing Old Town, and after your late-night adventures you walk back to your room in a few minutes. It is an enormous convenience, especially if you are planning an action-packed weekend in Krakow.
We have compiled a ranking of the 10 best hotels close to the Main Square — from five-star residences to solid mid-range options. Every hotel was selected on the basis of location, standard, guest reviews and value for money.
Luxury hotels (5 stars)
1. Hotel Stary — ul. Szczepanska 5
Hotel Stary is arguably the most prestigious hotel address in Krakow. Situated directly beside the Main Square, it occupies a restored medieval aristocratic residence. The hotel belongs to the exclusive Small Luxury Hotels of the World collection, guaranteeing the highest service standards. On the roof there is a pool with a panoramic view of the Old Town — one of Krakow's most Instagrammable spots. Prices start from 800 PLN per night and can reach 1,800 PLN in peak season. The ideal choice for those who refuse to compromise.
2. Hotel Copernicus — ul. Kanonicza 16
Hotel Copernicus occupies a 15th-century Renaissance townhouse on ul. Kanonicza, widely considered the most beautiful street in Poland. Just about 300 metres from the Main Square, it neighbours the Royal Castle on Wawel Hill. The hotel features a rooftop pool with a view of Wawel and a Gothic cellar with original frescoes where breakfast is served. Prices range from 900 to 2,200 PLN per night. A choice for lovers of history, art and true luxury.
3. Hotel Unicus Palace — ul. Florianska 32
Hotel Unicus Palace occupies a historic palace on ul. Florianska — the legendary Royal Road, just about 150 metres from the Main Square. It is one of Krakow's most famous streets, lined with galleries, cafes and souvenir shops. The hotel stands out for its restaurant set in a vaulted medieval cellar, where both the ambience and the cuisine are outstanding. Prices range from 600 to 1,500 PLN per night. A superb compromise between luxury and location.
4. Sheraton Grand Krakow — ul. Powisle 7
Sheraton Grand Krakow is the only hotel in this list representing modern luxury — a grand, elegant building overlooking the Vistula and the Royal Castle on Wawel Hill. Around 800 metres from the Main Square (a leisurely 10-minute walk), it offers a full-size spa, pool, gym and several restaurants and bars. Prices range from 500 to 1,200 PLN per night. The choice for those who appreciate the modern amenities of a premium chain hotel.
Boutique and upper mid-range hotels (4 stars)
5. Hotel Wentzl — Rynek Glowny 19
Hotel Wentzl is an absolute one-off — one of very few hotels located directly on the Main Square. From the bedroom windows you have a view of the Cloth Hall and St Mary's Basilica. The hotel has only around 18 rooms, guaranteeing an intimate feel and personal service. It is the place for anyone who wants to wake up looking out over the most beautiful square in Poland. Prices range from 500 to 1,100 PLN per night. Book well in advance — it sells out fast.
6. Hotel Pollera — ul. Szpitalna 30
Hotel Pollera is one of the oldest hotels in Krakow, operating since the early 20th century. The Art Nouveau building has preserved its original character while offering modern amenities. Located about 200 metres from the Main Square, in the very heart of the Old Town. Prices range from 350 to 800 PLN per night — a superb option for those seeking historic atmosphere at a reasonable price.
7. Hotel Indigo Krakow – Old Town — ul. Filipa 18
Hotel Indigo is an IHG boutique hotel about 250 metres from the Main Square. It stands out for its design inspired by Krakow's art and culture — each room tells a different story of the city. Modern style, artistic details and an excellent location in a quieter part of the Old Town. Prices range from 400 to 900 PLN per night. Ideal for travellers who appreciate design and individual character.
8. Hotel Grodek — ul. Na Grodku 4
Hotel Grodek is a true Krakow gem — built literally around the ruins of a medieval Dominican monastery, visible through glass floors in the lobby. About 350 metres from the Main Square, in a quiet area with a private courtyard. A hotel that marries modern comfort with fascinating archaeology. Prices range from 450 to 1,000 PLN per night. For those seeking something genuinely extraordinary.
Mid-range hotels
9. Hotel Wawel Queen — ul. Grodzka
Hotel Wawel Queen (3*) is a solid option on the Royal Road linking the Main Square with Wawel — about 500 metres from the square. Ul. Grodzka is one of Krakow's most important streets, lined with restaurants and shops. The hotel offers a clean, modern standard at an accessible price. From 250 to 550 PLN per night — an excellent choice for those who want to be close to the centre without overpaying.
10. Hotel Amber Design — ul. Garbarska 8-10
Hotel Amber Design (4*) is a design-led hotel about 400 metres from the Main Square, on the edge of the Old Town. It offers modern rooms, a sauna, gym and designer interiors at an accessible price. From 300 to 700 PLN per night. A great option for those who appreciate modern design and wellness amenities without a five-star budget.
Practical booking tips
Book early for summer. The best hotels near the Main Square, particularly those with a limited number of rooms (such as Hotel Wentzl with just 18 rooms), sell out months before the season. June, July, August and September are peak — book 2-3 months in advance.
Look for off-season deals. From November to March (excluding the Christmas and New Year period), hotel prices near the Main Square can be 40-50% lower. Krakow is beautiful at any time of year, and the Old Town's winter atmosphere has a charm all of its own.
Royal Island is just around the corner. Whichever hotel you choose from our ranking, you can walk to Royal Island Gentlemen's Club in a few minutes. After a day of exploring Krakow and dinner at one of the restaurants near the Main Square, you can round off the evening at the city's finest entertainment venue — no need to hunt for a taxi. Royal Island is open from 20:00 to 3:00-5:00, depending on the day of the week.
