Modern Centrally Located Apartments – by Upstairs

Hotel Description

Look, I’ve stayed in plenty of apartments in Krakow’s Old Town, and most of them are either charming but falling apart or modern but soulless. This place on Świętej Gertrudy actually gets the balance right – you know what I mean? It’s one of those narrow medieval streets that tourists don’t usually stumble down unless they’re lost, which honestly works in your favor because you get that authentic Old Town vibe without the constant stream of tour groups marching past your window.

The apartments themselves feel properly contemporary without trying too hard. When I walked in, the first thing I noticed was how much natural light floods the space – these old buildings can be pretty dark, but whoever designed these units clearly thought about that. The kitchens are actually functional too, not just some tiny corner with a hot plate that looks good in photos. I mean, you’re probably not going to cook elaborate meals when you’re surrounded by some of Europe’s best restaurants, but having a real fridge and decent coffee setup makes a difference when you’re staying more than a couple nights. The beds are comfortable (I’m picky about this), and there’s enough storage that you don’t have to live out of your suitcase the whole time.

What really won me over though is the location – Świętej Gertrudy puts you right in the thick of things but on a quieter side street. You’re maybe a three-minute walk from the main square, but you can actually sleep at night because you’re not directly on Floriańska where the late-night revelry tends to spill over. Plus, you’re super close to that little courtyard behind St. Mary’s Basilica where locals cut through – it’s one of those shortcuts that makes you feel like you know the city. The building sits right between the main tourist zone and some genuinely local spots too. There’s this great little café called Café Camelot literally around the corner that most visitors miss completely, and you’re walking distance from Kazimierz without having to deal with trams or taxis.

I will say the stairs can be a bit much if you’re on one of the higher floors – these old buildings weren’t exactly designed with modern accessibility in mind. But honestly, that’s pretty standard for authentic Old Town accommodations, and the trade-off is worth it. The Upstairs team seems to really know what they’re doing in terms of maintenance and guest communication, which isn’t always a given with apartment rentals. Check-in was smooth, everything worked as advertised, and when I had a question about parking (street parking only, by the way, but that’s true for most of this area), they responded quickly with actual helpful information rather than generic responses.

The 8.9 rating makes sense to me – it’s not trying to be a luxury hotel, but it delivers exactly what you want from a well-run apartment in one of Europe’s most beautiful city centers. If you’re the type who values being able to walk everywhere while still having a proper home base to retreat to, this hits the sweet spot.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $153. Apartment with Terrace with 2 × 1 queen bed and 1 sofa bed for Max. people: 5
• Estimated price from: $226. Two-Bedroom Apartment with 1 queen bed, 2 × 1 sofa bed and 2 queen beds for Max. people: 8

Reviews

• Exceptional – Δημητρης from Greece – May 6, 2025 (10/10)

  Everything was pefect,the room was big enough ,(five people), great location 1min from old town ,pleasant addition the balcony. I definitely recommend this. Good job guys!!!!!

• Perfect location – Gemma from United Kingdom – April 6, 2025 (8/10)

  Excellent customer service, could not of asked for more from the agents. They were 5 star. The accommodation was central, a few minutes walk from the town center. A small shop a few doors down, and perfectly located to travel around. Apartment was clean and spacious.
  The only reason I have knocked a few stars off, is that my children struggled to sleep throughout the night due to the shaking of the building and the noise from the trams outside. This couldn't be helped, I know. The apartment itself was fantastic, but my children struggled to sleep, meaning the days were long and tiring.
  But I would recommend to others. Perfect for families, couples or a small group of friends.
  
  We had a bit of a mix up with the timing of getting into the apartment. They went above and beyond to accommodate us, great customer service and great hosts. The accommodation had everything that we needed, beds were comfy and clean. Nice spacious bathroom with a shower.

• Great location and we looked forward to returning to the comfortable apartment each evening. – David from United States – October 29, 2024 (10/10)

  Everything was great. Apartment was clean with a well equiped kitchen, comfortable bed and quiet. Host met us with the keys and showed us how to get in (a gate, a building door, a floor door and our apt door) and other apt amenities, then they messaged later to make sure everything was all right. Location was perfect too.

• Clean and Comfy – Christina from Cyprus – August 19, 2024 (9/10)

  Clean and the location
  
  What could be improved: Balcony was run down and one A/C unit that wasnt ours was on all the time and air is blowing right in your face when you sit on the balcony. Not much soundproof from the upstairs loft.

• Perfect stay – Anna from Israel – June 12, 2024 (10/10)

  Perfect stay! We had everything you need in the apartment. The place is perfectly clean and white. A lot facilities. The location is great with market next to the apartment. 5 min walk to the old city, 10 min walk to the wawel castel and very close to good restaurants and bars. The staff is very nice and takes care of everything
  
  What could be improved: No hanging hooks for towels at the bathroom exept on for face towel

• Family, friendly and close to everything – Esteban from Italy – June 4, 2024 (9/10)

  Location and amenities
  
  What could be improved: I cannot think of anything particular

• We would definitely come back if staying in Krakow again! – Corra from United Kingdom – February 25, 2024 (10/10)

  -Central location 5min walk from main square
  -Tram stop right outside
  -15 min walk to train station
  -Quiet area but felt very safe at all times
  -Supermarket next door
  -lovely and airy
  -massive windows
  -comfy beds
  -Access to Netflix
  -Full kitchen facilities
  
  What could be improved: -Keys were a bit tricky to open the door but nothing major
  -Hot water was sold as unlimited but did run out after being used by 4 people

• Great location, clean and cosy apartment, just what we needed! – Matt from United Kingdom – November 13, 2023 (10/10)

  Great location just opposite the wall for the Old Town of Krakow, a 5 minute stroll and your in the main square which is beautiful. Clean and tidy, spacious and the hosts sorted out an early bag drop for us which was really useful.
  
  What could be improved: The entrance stairway needs some work, but I am assuming this is someone else's property so don't be put off by that.

• perfect – Salejna from Austria – November 2, 2023 (10/10)

  everything was perfect
  
  What could be improved: nothing

• Exceptional – Yvonne from United Kingdom – September 29, 2023 (10/10)

  Apartment was spotless and very well equipped including washing machine and dish washer.It has a modern tv in living room and bedroom.The staff are on hand if you need them.

SURROUNDINGS