One Day Itinerary: Krakow’s Legendary Mounds

Are you looking for a unique way to experience Krakow and see the city from every angle? Spending a day exploring its five iconic mounds is the perfect way to do it. These mysterious man-made hills rise above Krakow like watchtowers, each offering panoramic views and its own piece of history.

Climbing them all in one day is not only possible but incredibly rewarding. You'll move from ancient myths to wartime heroes, wander through peaceful forests, and finish your day watching the sunset over the city skyline. It's a full day of light hiking, local stories, and unforgettable views.

Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, pack plenty of water, and start early to make the most of your day, especially if you want to catch that final sunset. The mounds are spread across different parts of the city, so a mix of walking and public transport will help you fit them all in without feeling rushed.

For extra insight, take a few minutes at each stop to read about the history of the mound online. It adds another layer to the experience and makes each climb even more meaningful.

Stop 1: Krakus Mound (Kopiec Krakusa)

Where better to begin than the place where Krakow itself was said to be founded? Believed to date back to the 7th century and rumoured to be the burial site of King Krakus, Krakus Mound is the oldest and most mysterious of all five. To get there, take a tram from the city centre to Cmentarz Podgórski, then enjoy a short uphill walk to the top.

There's a Lidl nearby where you can grab a pastry and coffee before your climb - the perfect simple breakfast to enjoy as you reach the top just in time for sunrise. Watching the first light hit the Old Town from this peaceful spot is an unforgettable start to the day, and you'll likely have the whole place to yourself.

Thanks to your early start, you can also explore the nearby Płaszów Concentration Camp, a haunting but important historical site, and visit the abandoned quarry where scenes from Schindler's List were filmed.

Stop 2: Wanda Mound (Kopiec Wandy)

Next, make your way to Wanda Mound in Nowa Huta, about 10 kilometres east of the city centre. This area has an interesting reputation, as it was once seen as rough but has since transformed into one of Krakow's most fascinating and culturally significant districts. Nowa Huta has even been granted Cultural Park status, protecting its historical and architectural value. The result is a calm and well-kept area that feels far removed from the bustle of central Krakow.

To get there from Krakus Mound, take tram 3 or 24 to Plac Bohaterów Getta, then switch to tram 22, which goes directly to Kopiec Wandy. The walk between the two would take around two hours, so unless you are keen on a serious step count, public transport is your best option.

Wanda Mound carries a softer and more romantic legend. It is said to honour Princess Wanda, daughter of King Krakus, who threw herself into the Vistula River rather than marry a German prince to save her people from invaders. The area feels quiet and authentically local. Although smaller than Krakus Mound, Wanda Mound has a tranquil and slightly haunting atmosphere. There are no crowds or souvenir stands, just a grassy hill with a stone monument at the top.

Stop 3: Piłsudski Mound (Kopiec Józefa Piłsudskiego)

After visiting Wanda, make your way to Piłsudski Mound, the largest of them all. Built in honour of Marshal Józef Piłsudski, a national hero who helped restore Poland's independence, this mound is tucked inside Wolski Forest, Krakow's biggest green space. Surrounded by dense trees and winding trails, it feels like a complete escape from the city.

From Kopiec Wandy, take the tram back into the city centre and then catch the 300 bus towards the airport. Get off at Warzywniak przy rondzie w Chełmie and enjoy a 30-minute walk through a beautiful wooded area. The forest is alive with wildlife, including deer, wild boar, foxes, and owls, as well as plenty of smaller animals. It's also a great spot for birdwatching.

Standing more than 35 metres tall and perched on one of Krakow's highest hills, Piłsudski Mound offers incredible panoramic views. On a clear day, you can see far beyond the city, sometimes even the Tatra Mountains. 

At the bottom of the mound, there are picnic benches, some tucked inside small wooden shelters, and a play park for children. It's a peaceful spot to rest and enjoy lunch surrounded by nature.

Stop 4: Kościuszko Mound (Kopiec Kościuszki)

Now that you're more than halfway through, head to Kościuszko Mound, about a 40-minute walk from Piłsudski Mound along forest trails, or take bus 100 if you prefer. Dedicated to Tadeusz Kościuszko, one of Poland's greatest freedom fighters, this is arguably the most famous mound in Krakow.

What sets Kościuszko Mound apart is the fortress built around its base. In the 19th century, when this part of Poland was under Austrian control, the mound became part of the Fortress of Kraków, with a brick citadel built around it. While the Austrians used it as a lookout, they allowed public access to the summit, something that still continues today.

Inside the complex, you'll find exhibitions on Kościuszko's life and Poland's fight for independence, as well as terraces offering panoramic views across the city. The entry fee is 28 PLN and is well worth it. Before leaving, stop at the small café near the entrance for a quick coffee or snack.

Stop 5: John Paul II Mound

Next is John Paul II Mound, about a 30-minute walk from Kościuszko Mound. The route takes you through forest paths and across the river. It's also near Lake Zakrzówek, but I recommend saving a full day for that incredible spot.

Built in 1997 to honour Pope John Paul II, who was born nearby, the mound offers a peaceful, reflective atmosphere away from the busy city centre. The climb is gentle and rewarding, with views stretching across southern Krakow and, on a clear day, to the Tatra Mountains. Unlike the older mounds, this one feels calm and modern, surrounded by greenery and symbols of peace. Even if you are not religious, it is a lovely, quiet stop that blends history, spirituality, and natural beauty.

Stop 6: Wawel Hill (Kopiec Wawelski)

Finish your day where Krakow's story began, on Wawel Hill in the heart of the city. Although not a mound itself, its mythological roots, royal history, and elevated position above the Vistula River make it the perfect finale. From here, you can look across the skyline and even spot some of the mounds you have visited.

Wawel Hill is home to Wawel Castle and Wawel Cathedral, once the seat of Poland's kings and queens. You can explore the castle grounds for free or stroll along the riverside as the sun sets behind the city. The view at dusk, with the Vistula glowing gold, is one of the most magical sights in Krakow. Afterwards, you are just a short walk from the Main Square where you can reward yourself with dinner after a long day of exploring.