An earth mound built 1820-23 in honour of Tadeusz Kosciuszko, with sweeping views over Krakow and, on clear days, the Tatra Mountains. A fort, chapel and small museum are on the site. A path spirals to the summit.
Kosciuszko Mound (Kopiec Kosciuszki) at al. Waszyngtona 1 stands on Sikornik Hill, about three kilometres west of Krakow's Old Town in Lesser Poland. The earth mound was built between 1820 and 1823 by Krakow residents to honour Tadeusz Kosciuszko, the leader of the 1794 uprising, and soil was reportedly brought from battlefields where he fought. It rises about 34 metres, and a path spirals to the summit with views over the city, the Vistula valley and, on clear days, the Tatra Mountains. The surrounding site includes an Austrian-built fort, a brick chapel and a small museum devoted to Kosciuszko. Tickets cost about 34 PLN for adults and 26 PLN reduced since 1 April 2026, and entry is free on 4 February, 24 March and 15 October. Hours are seasonal and should be checked on kopieckosciuszki.pl. A visit takes one and a half to two hours, including the walk up and time at the viewpoint. The most popular moment is sunset on a clear day, which also brings the largest crowds, while weekday mornings are quieter. Visitors can reach the mound by tram to Salwator followed by a roughly 20-minute uphill walk, or by taxi or bus. The final stretch of the path is steep, and sturdy shoes are recommended. Photography is best from the upper terraces looking east toward Wawel and the Old Town. The mound's ticket is paid at the entrance building at the foot, and a cafe on the site offers refreshments. The path can be muddy after rain, and the mound's outer slope is fenced for safety.
| Admission | 34 PLN (~$8.90 USD) normal, 26 PLN (~$6.80 USD) reduced (from 1 April 2026); free on 4 February, 24 March and 15 October |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily, seasonal hours; check kopieckosciuszki.pl |
| Typical visit | 1.5-2 hours |
| Best time | Sunset on a clear day |
| Getting there | Tram to Salwator then about 20-minute uphill walk; or taxi or bus (check jakdojade.pl) |
| Address | al. Waszyngtona 1, 30-204 Krakow |
Location
al. Waszyngtona 1, 30-204 Krakow
50.0553, 19.8928 View on map
Highlights
- Panoramic view over Krakow and the Vistula valley
- Tatra Mountains visible on clear days
- Austrian fort, chapel and small Kosciuszko museum on site
- Spiral path to the summit
Tips for visiting
- Pay the ticket at the entrance building at the foot of the mound.
- Wear walking shoes because the final stretch is steep.
- Go at sunset on a clear day for the best light, but expect crowds.
- Free entry applies on 4 February, 24 March and 15 October.
- Check seasonal hours at kopieckosciuszki.pl before going.
When to visit
A clear day at sunset gives the best views and light. Weekday mornings are quieter.
Accessibility
The ascent is by a steep earth path and is not suitable for wheelchairs. Visitors with limited mobility can still enjoy the lower grounds and views near the entrance.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit take?
About one and a half to two hours including the walk to the summit and time at the viewpoint. The uphill approach from the tram adds around 20 minutes.
Is it worth it for kids?
Many children enjoy the climb and the fort. The path is steep in places, so very young children need supervision.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, photographs are welcome from the viewing terraces. Rules inside the museum may differ.