The castle was the seat of Polish monarchy until the 17th century. Today it has the overall appearance of a Renaissance palace, which is due to the 16th-century King Sigismund I, who rebuilt it with no expense spared. Many of the castle's most valuable artefacts date from this period - the tapestry collection of Sigismund II, Italian Renaissance furniture and Dutch paintings - which are found in the Royal Chambers exhibition.

The castle also houses an impressive collection of regalia, jewellery and precious weapons in its Crown Treasury and Armoury. Turkish and Persian tents, banners, weapons, carpets, and Chinese and Japanese ceramics are found in its Oriental Art permanent exhibition.

Not to be missed is the Sala Pod Glowami (the Hall under the Heads), built by Sigismund I. Originally there were 194 carved heads looking down from the ceiling into the chamber, which saw kings, ambassadors and courtiers pass through. Even now, 30 still survive.

Like all proper castles, Wawel was set upon by a dragon in the olden days and visitors can descend to the deep cave on the hill's western slope, to see where the Smok devoured fair maidens between taking his naps.

Standing adjacent to the castle is the Gothic Wawel Cathedral, where most of the Polish monarchy have been laid to rest. Some of Poland's revered heroes have been buried here as well, such as Tadesusz Kosciuszki, the poets Slowacki and Mickiewicz, as well as the Second World War General Sikorski. The cathedral has 18 chapels filled with art treasures, the most magnificent of which is the Sigismund Chapel.

When visiting, check if all constituent parts are open. For example, the Royal Private Appartments, Crown Treasury & Armoury and Oriental Art exhibition are closed on both Sundays and Mondays, while the State Rooms and Castle of Pieskowa Skala are only closed on Monday. The cathedral is open every day.