Top Museums in Krakow – Best Historical & Art Museums 2025

In a city brimming with cultural gems, Krakow's museum scene is a tapestry too vast to explore in a single visit. The abundance of historical treasures and artistic wonders can be overwhelming, leaving you wondering where to start.

Fear not, as I've curated the ultimate guide to help you navigate the museum maze. Join me on a journey through Krakow must-visit museums, ensuring you make the most of your time and leave with memories that linger long after you've left these cultural havens.

Krakow is home to some of Poland’s most famous museums, covering history, art, and Jewish heritage. Whether you’re interested in WWII history, medieval artifacts, or modern art, Krakow has a museum for everyone.

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Schindler's Factory

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1. Rynek Underground Museum

I recommend visiting the Main Market Square Underground Museum, a fascinating archaeological site that reveals layers of Krakow's past. Cutting-edge exhibits bring centuries of history to life, offering a captivating journey through the city's evolution.

As you wander through the dimly lit corridors, you'll encounter meticulously recreated scenes of medieval market life, complete with the sights and sounds of a bygone era. The immersive exhibits transport you back in time, allowing you to glimpse the daily lives of Krakow's medieval inhabitants. Archaeological finds take centre stage, revealing layers of history preserved in the earth.

From medieval artifacts to remnants of Renaissance architecture, each discovery tells a story of the city's rich and diverse heritage. The exhibition skillfully blends technology and tradition, using interactive displays and multimedia installations to enhance your experience.

Address: Rynek Główny 1, 31-042 Krakow

Official Website: https://muzeumkrakowa.pl/en/branches/rynek-underground

Available with the Krakow Tourist Card.

You can also book a guided tour to the Krakow Underground Museum.

2. The Czartoryski Museum

I suggest visiting the Princes Czartoryski Museum (also known as the Czartoryski Museum), one of Poland's oldest and most historic institutions. Its origins date back to 1796 when Princess Izabela Czartoryska began assembling the initial collection in Puławy.

The museum officially opened in 1878, marking a significant moment in Poland's cultural heritage. It is home to masterpieces such as Leonardo da Vinci's "Lady with an Ermine," believed to have been painted between 1489 and 1491. The museum houses an exquisite collection spanning centuries, offering a rich showcase of European art.

Address: Pijarska 15, 31-015 Krakow, Poland

Official Website: https://mnk.pl/branch/mnk-czartoryski-museum

Available with the Krakow Tourist Card.

You can also book a guided tour at to Czartoryski Museum at GetYourGuide.

Popular attraction - requires prior reservation.

Closed on Monday.

Tuesday is the day of free entry to permanent exhibition.

Oscar Schindler's Factory Museum in Krakow

3. Oskar Schindler's Factory in Krakow

Another museum that I highly recommend visiting is Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory in Krakow, a poignant testament to human resilience during the darkest days of World War II. The museum, located in the former enamelware factory owned by German industrialist Oskar Schindler, vividly recounts the story of the Holocaust.

As you will explore the meticulously recreated exhibits, you will gain insight into the harsh reality faced by Jews in Krakow during the Nazi occupation. Oskar Schindler saved over a thousand Jewish lives by employing them in his factory, and the museum delves into his life and the moral complexities surrounding his actions, offering a nuanced perspective on his legacy. Artifacts, testimonies, and multimedia displays contribute to a powerful and moving experience, ensuring that the lessons from this somber chapter of history are not forgotten.

Address: Lipowa 4, 30-702 Krakow, Poland

Official Website: https://muzeumkrakowa.pl/en/branches/oskar-schindlers-enamel-factory

Available with the Krakow Tourist Card.

You can also book a guided tour to Oscar Schindler Factory at GetYourGuide.

Popular attraction - requires prior reservation.

4. Polish Aviation Museum in Krakow

As your Krakow city guide, I highly recommend visiting the Polish Aviation Museum, located on the site of a former airport. The museum first opened its doors in 1964 and is home to an extensive collection of aircraft and engines, offering a fascinating journey through the evolution of aviation.

The exhibits highlight key moments in aviation history, with real gems such as gliders, anti-aircraft weaponry, and aircraft from significant periods like World War I, World War II, and the Cold War. Today, it stands as one of the largest aircraft museums in the world, showcasing an impressive and diverse collection. If you're an aviation enthusiast, this museum is definitely a must-see!

Address: al. Jana Pawła II 39, 31-864 Krakow, Poland

Official Website: https://muzeumlotnictwa.pl/muzeum/pl/

Available with the Krakow Tourist Card.

You can also book a guided tour to the Polish Aviation Museum in Krakow at GetYourGuide.

Closed on Monday.

Free entrance: Tuesday.

5. Have fun in the Arcade Museum in Krakow

If you're looking for something fun and nostalgic in Krakow, I suggest checking out the Arcade Museum: a private collection which features more than 150 arcade games and pinball machines.

This interactive museum showcases the evolution of entertainment history, with its oldest table game dating back to 1936. While it offers a glimpse into various eras, the main spotlight shines on beloved classics from the 80s and 90s. Visitors can't overlook iconic titles like Pac Man, Galaga, Mortal Kombat, and an array of driving and shooting games.

This experience caters to both kids and adults, making it an ideal choice for a rainy day. Step into this nostalgic time machine and relive the joyous memories of your childhood.

Address: Centralna 41a, 31-586 Krakow, Poland

Official Website: http://www.krakowarcademuseum.com/

You may get your ticket at GetYourGuide.

Explore Krakow’s Museums with a Guided Tour

Visiting Krakow’s top museums is even more enriching with a professional guide who brings history, art, and culture to life. Whether you're exploring Schindler’s Factory Museum, the Rynek Underground, or the National Museum, a guided tour provides in-depth stories, expert insights, and behind-the-scenes details you might miss on your own.

Looking for the best museum tours in Krakow? Check out our recommended guided tours for an unforgettable experience:

My Personal Choice: Czartoryski Museum

If I had to pick one favorite museum in Krakow, it would be the Czartoryski Museum. I visited it with a friend, and we were both impressed by the beautifully renovated building and the museum’s rich collection of priceless artworks and historical artifacts.

Home to Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece “Lady with an Ermine”, the Czartoryski Museum offers a unique glimpse into European and Polish history. From medieval weaponry and royal treasures to rare manuscripts and paintings, every exhibit tells a fascinating story. Book your tickets in advance, as the Leonardo da Vinci gallery is one of the most visited in Krakow.

Krakow is a true cultural capital, boasting more than 100 museums that showcase its rich heritage and artistic achievements (source). Among them, the Jagiellonian University Museum – Collegium Maius offers an incredible collection of historical artifacts and scientific instruments, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

For those interested in modern and contemporary art, the MOCAK Museum of Contemporary Art presents thought-provoking exhibitions by international and Polish artists. Additionally, the Cloth Hall Underground Museum takes visitors beneath the Main Market Square to explore Krakow’s medieval past through interactive displays and archaeological treasures.

With so many tourist attractions and world-class museums, Krakow is a paradise for art lovers, history buffs, and curious travelers alike!

Map of the Best Museums in Krakow

Planning your museum visits in Krakow? Use our interactive map to easily find the top museums, including Schindler’s Factory, Rynek Underground, MOCAK, and the National Museum. Whether you're interested in history, art, or Jewish heritage, this map helps you navigate Krakow’s must-see cultural sites and plan your itinerary efficiently.

📍 Explore the map below and discover the best museums in Krakow!

FAQ – Everything You Need to Know About Krakow Museums

1. What are the best museums in Krakow for history lovers?

Schindler’s Factory Museum, Rynek Underground, and the National Museum.

2. Are there any free museums in Krakow?

Yes! The free admission day for permanent exhibitions at the National Museum in Krakow (MNK) is Tuesday.

3. How much does it cost to visit Krakow museums?

Tickets range from €4 to €10, but the Krakow City Pass is a great way to save money!

Is it worth getting the Krakow Card?

Yes, it's definitely worth getting the Krakow Card! I recommend considering the purchase of a Krakow Tourist Card before your arrival in Krakow. With a 1-, 2-, or 3-day card, you can easily access 40 museums and explore the city at your own pace. You have the option to choose between a City Card with or without public transportation.

It's important to note that the Krakow City Pass - Museums and Transport (1, 2, or 3 days) allows you unlimited use of public transport, (including buses and trams), throughout the day and night. This ensures that with the Krakow Card, you can take a bus to Wieliczka or travel to the airport.

Discover More of Krakow with Our Top Lists

Looking for the best things to see and do in Krakow? Beyond its incredible museums, the city is filled with must-visit attractions, vibrant nightlife, and unforgettable experiences. Explore our curated Top Lists to find the best restaurants, bars, guided tours, and hidden gems.

Top Attractions in Krakow – Must-see landmarks and historical sites.
Top Viewpoints in Krakow – Best panoramic spots for stunning city views.
Top Free Tours in Krakow – Join expert-led walking tours at no cost.
Top Day Trips from Krakow – Explore nearby destinations like Zakopane, Wieliczka, and Auschwitz.