Portrait of Jadwiga Mrozowska painted by Achille Beltrame in 1915

Museum Of Kraków

Museum of Kraków: Comprehensive Visitor Guide to Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Museum of Kraków, formerly the Historical Museum of the City of Kraków, is not a single-site institution but a dynamic network of over a dozen branches scattered across Kraków. Each branch is embedded within a historic building or landmark, offering visitors a unique gateway into different facets of the city’s extraordinary heritage. From medieval archaeological remains beneath the Main Market Square to powerful exhibits on WWII and Jewish history, the Museum of Kraków invites guests to experience centuries of the city’s evolution through immersive, narrative-driven exhibitions and authentic sites.

With a mission captured in its motto “I am Kraków” (“Jestem Kraków”), the museum goes beyond artifact preservation, actively connecting visitors with Kraków’s living identity, culture, and community through multimedia displays, educational initiatives, and special events. This detailed guide provides everything you need to plan your visit—including up-to-date opening hours, ticketing information, accessibility options, and practical tips for exploring Kraków’s most significant historical sites. For the latest details and branch-specific updates, please consult the Museum of Kraków official website and cultural portals like Krakow Culture.

Monument to Vladimir Lenin in Nowa Huta, Kraków, Poland

Interior view of Holy Cross Chapel in Wawel Cathedral with ornate decorations and religious artwork

Portrait of Andrzej Grabowski as Antonina Hoffmann

Portrait of Józefa Szarska painted by Andrzej Grabowski in 1876

Portrait of Stanisław Szarski by Andrzej Grabowski, 1876

Black and white drawing of Błażej Czepiec and Franciszek Ptak by Włodzimierz Tetmajer

Self-portrait of Julian Falat in 1903 oil painting

Portrait of Józef Hakowski with his wife Maria around 1880

Portrait of Konstantego, Ludwiki and Wiktora Kopff children of painter

Portrait of Felix Grodzicki by Józef Brodowski

Portrait of Helena Górska by Józef Czajkowski, 1917

Józef Rapacki painting Szara Kamienica 1906-07

Irena Solska as Ophelia in 1909 theatrical performance

Portrait of Antonina Hoffmann, 19th century actress

Portrait of Helena Szarska by Kazimierz Pochwalski, 1914

Portrait of Henryk Szarski by Kazimierz Pochwalski in 1914

Traditional religious fair in Mogiła near Kraków with people gathered around a church and festive decorations

Churches of the Holy Cross and Saint Valentine in Kleparz, Krakow

Interior view of Kramy Bogate around 1800, rich colorful stalls inside historic marketplace

Market stalls, butcher stalls, stalls and booths at Sukiennice on the Main Market Square

Leon Kowalski painting of Smok Wawelski dragon from 1900

Portrait of Irena Solska by Leon Wyczółkowski, 1899

Portrait of Ludwik de Laveaux in 1892 in Bronowice

Procession of the king of marksmen Sebastian Glixelli in 1787

Portrait of Julia Kwiatkowska from the Leiter family

Portrait of Ludwika z Kornebergerów de Cronberg Nowaczyńska

Portrait of Wojciech Kucieński, Polish historical figure

Portrait of a woman in Biedermeier attire

Portrait of a young woman with a child, vintage style

Roses Avenue with Vladimir Lenin Monument in Nowa Huta district of Kraków Poland

Roses Avenue in Nowa Huta Kraków Poland in 1970 with trees lining the street and vintage cars

Portrait of Seweryn Bieszczad in 1887 wearing a black suit, seated with arms crossed

Market Square in Cracow in 1836 showing St. Mary's Church and the Cloth Hall with Syndykówka and Oszacki house with stalls

Old market hall and town hall tower in Krakow, historic drawing and lithograph from 1860-1865

Introduction
Origins and Institutional Role
Decentralized Structure and Key Branches
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Accessibility and Amenities
Planning Your Visit: Tips and Nearby Attractions
Special Events and Educational Programs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Call to Action
References

Origins and Institutional Role

Founded in the late 19th century, the Museum of Kraków was established by local historians and citizens determined to safeguard the city’s rich heritage. Initially a division of the Old Records Office, the museum began its journey by collecting artifacts, iconography, and historical documents connected to Kraków’s past.

The museum’s resilience through periods of upheaval—including WWII—allowed it to grow and expand its role as Kraków’s leading custodian of historical memory. Its decentralized approach means each branch operates as both a museum and a living part of Kraków’s urban fabric, engaging communities, schools, and tourists in the ongoing narrative of the city (Krakow Culture).

Decentralized Structure and Key Branches

Instead of a single headquarters, the Museum of Kraków operates a network of branches, each focusing on a specific aspect or era of the city’s history—making it possible to explore Kraków’s story in situ, at the very locations where history unfolded.

1. Rynek Underground Museum (Podziemia Rynku)

Located beneath the Main Market Square, the Rynek Underground Museum offers an immersive journey through Kraków’s medieval past. Opened in 2010, it features archaeological remains, reconstructed merchant stalls, multimedia presentations, and holograms that recreate the bustling life of the medieval market. Interactive displays and artifacts make this branch a highlight for families and history enthusiasts (Nomadic Matt – Underground Museum).

2. Krzysztofory Palace

Serving as the museum’s main administrative and exhibition center, this Baroque palace on the Main Market Square houses the permanent exhibition “Krakow from the beginning, to no end,” which traces the city’s development from its legendary origins to the present. The palace also hosts temporary exhibitions, educational workshops, and the annual UNESCO-listed Nativity Scene Competition (Muzeum Krakowa – Nativity Scenes).

3. Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory

Situated in the original factory operated by Oskar Schindler, this branch presents “Kraków under Nazi Occupation 1939–1945,” an acclaimed exhibition combining personal testimonies, historical documents, and authentic artifacts to tell the story of WWII Kraków and its Jewish residents (Muzeum Krakowa – Schindler’s Factory).

4. Other Notable Branches

The Eagle Pharmacy (Apteka pod Orłem): Chronicles the story of the Kraków Ghetto and its inhabitants.
Pomorska Street (Gestapo Headquarters): Features “Cells of Death” and exhibits about the resistance and repression during totalitarian regimes.
Old Synagogue (Stara Synagoga): The oldest surviving synagogue in Poland, focusing on Jewish life and the Holocaust (Free Walking Tour – Galicia Jewish Museum).
Barbican and City Defensive Walls: Medieval fortifications with exhibitions and panoramic views.
Celestat: Dedicated to Kraków’s civic militias and their traditions.
Nowa Huta Museum: Explores post-war industrialization and life in the socialist-realist district (Nomadic Matt – Nowa Huta).

Each branch offers distinct collections, including archaeological finds, historical documents, military memorabilia, art, and everyday objects reflecting Kraków’s diverse communities (Lonely Planet).

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

Opening Hours

General Hours: Most branches are open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Tuesday through Sunday. Mondays are typically closed or have reduced hours.
Branch Variations: Some branches, such as the Rynek Underground and Oskar Schindler’s Factory, have unique schedules. Always confirm via the official website before your visit.

Ticketing

Prices: Entry fees range from 10 to 32 PLN per branch, with discounts for students, seniors, children, and families.
Combination Passes: The KrakowCard provides entry to multiple museums and unlimited public transport for 1–3 days (Visit Krakow – KrakowCard).
Free Days: Some branches offer free admission on specific days—often Tuesdays (Muzeum Krakowa).
Purchasing: Tickets are available online or at the branch entrances. Advance booking is strongly recommended for popular branches and peak seasons.

Accessibility and Amenities

The Museum of Kraków is dedicated to inclusivity:

Wheelchair Access: Most branches, including Krzysztofory Palace and the Rynek Underground, are wheelchair accessible. Some historic sites, like the Barbican, may have limited access due to architectural constraints.
Audio Guides: Available in multiple languages.
Visitor Facilities: Modern amenities including information desks, cloakrooms, restrooms, a museum shop, and café (at Krzysztofory Palace).
Guided Tours: Offered in several languages and bookable in advance.

For detailed accessibility information per branch, see the official accessibility page.

Planning Your Visit: Tips and Nearby Attractions

Location: The main Krzysztofory Palace branch is centrally located at Rynek Główny 35, easily accessible by foot or public transport (Museum of Kraków homepage).
Transport: Public transport is recommended; parking is limited in Old Town (Poland Travel Tours).
Combine Visits: Explore nearby landmarks such as St. Mary’s Basilica, Town Hall Tower, and the Cloth Hall.
Guided Tours: Enhance your experience, especially at larger or more complex branches.
Dress Comfortably: Wear suitable footwear for walking and cobblestone streets.
Photography: Non-flash photography is permitted in most exhibitions; observe signage, especially in sensitive areas.
Respectful Behavior: Maintain a respectful tone, especially in sites focusing on WWII or the Holocaust.

For more travel tips, see Full Suitcase – Krakow Travel Tips.

Special Events and Educational Programs

Throughout the year, the museum offers:

Workshops, lectures, and family programs tailored to all ages.
Annual events such as the Kraków Nativity Scene Competition (Muzeum Krakowa – Nativity Scenes).
Temporary exhibitions highlighting local crafts, historical anniversaries, or contemporary issues.

Educational offerings support schools, families, and lifelong learners, fostering critical engagement with Kraków’s history (Krakow Culture).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Museum of Kraków’s opening hours?
A: Most branches are open Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM, with some closed on Mondays. Check the official website for each branch.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: Standard prices range from 10 to 32 PLN per branch. Discounts and combination passes are available.

Q: Is the museum accessible for wheelchairs?
A: Yes, most branches are accessible, but some historic venues have limitations. Verify details for each branch.

Q: Can I buy tickets online?
A: Yes, online ticketing is available (Museum of Kraków).

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, in multiple languages; advance booking is recommended.

Q: What are must-see branches?
A: Rynek Underground, Oskar Schindler’s Factory, Krzysztofory Palace, Old Synagogue, and the Barbican are highly recommended.

Summary and Call to Action

The Museum of Kraków is an indispensable destination for anyone eager to uncover the layers of history, culture, and identity that define this UNESCO-listed city. Its unique structure—spanning palaces, underground excavations, synagogues, and more—offers a personalized and engaging journey through Kraków’s past and present.

Plan your visit today: