Meet the Founder: Tomasz Klimek
Krakow Urban Tours is deeply rooted in the personality and life story of its founder, Tomasz Klimek.
Long before tourism became his profession, it was simply part of who he was. As a young student in Krakow, learning English during a very different time in Poland, Tomasz would naturally approach visitors in the streets, help them find their way, and start conversations. What began as curiosity and kindness slowly turned into a lifelong passion for welcoming people to his city.
He never imagined this would become a business. But he always knew one thing, if he ever did it professionally, it would have to be different. Tomasz is, above all, a true fan of Krakow. Even today, after years of guiding, he still returns from every trip abroad and instinctively walks around the Main Market Square just to
reconnect with the feeling of home. If he sees someone looking lost with a map, he will still stop and help. That same natural hospitality continues to shape the spirit of the company.
For Tomasz, guiding is not about reciting facts. It is about sharing the atmosphere, culture, and soul of the city he genuinely loves.
Our Journey & Philosophy
Krakow Urban Tours was created with a clear idea: to offer a more meaningful way to experience Krakow, away from mass tourism and standard routes.
From the beginning, we have focused on slower, more immersive travel that helps guests connect with the city’s culture, traditions, and everyday life. We want people to see not only the landmarks, but also the atmosphere and local character that make Krakow special.
We were the first company in Krakow to introduce food tours and cooking classes in private homes, long before they became widely popular. For us, food has always been one of the best ways to understand a place, through conversation, hospitality, and real local experiences.
We do include Krakow’s must-see sights, but we approach them differently: at quieter times, through local stories, and often alongside hidden courtyards, lesser-known corners, and authentic places that many visitors would never find on their own.
Our team has grown in the same spirit. Rather than hiring through traditional job ads, our guides joined through friendships, recommendations, and shared values. That has helped us build a close-knit team that believes travel should feel personal, thoughtful, and human.
Slow, Meaningful Travel
We believe Krakow is best discovered at a thoughtful pace, with time to notice the details and understand the culture.
Local Culture Through Food
Our food tours and home cooking experiences were created to connect guests with Krakow in a more personal, memorable way.
A Team Built on Shared Values
Our guides joined through trust, friendships, and recommendations, creating a team that feels warm, genuine, and human.
Sustainable & Community-Focused Travel
Sustainability and social responsibility have been part of our approach long before these terms became industry trends.
From the early days, Krakow Urban Tours has aimed to leave a positive trace on the city and its communities. A portion of our income supports local NGOs and initiatives helping people in crisis, including organisations addressing homelessness. We also actively reduce food waste by working with local partners and donating surplus food to community “social fridges,” where anyone in need can access it.
Our commitment extends beyond social impact. We collaborate with Krakow’s universities on long-term projects focused on heritage protection and responsible tourism. These initiatives promote respect for historical sites, quieter night hours, and encourage visitors to explore beyond overcrowded areas, creating a better balance for both residents and travellers.
We also consciously limit plastic use, reduce waste during tours, and prioritise local
suppliers and small businesses wherever possible.
For us, sustainability is not a marketing statement. It is a natural extension of how we travel, how we work, and how we give back.
Because we believe tourism should not only benefit visitors, it should support the city, its people, and its future.
Ready to Explore Krakow With Us?
Discover our private tours, small-group experiences, and day trips designed to show you a more personal side of the city.