Krakow is a place that is soaked in history and culture. It offers tons of attractions for tourists who come here to enjoy the buzzing city life. However, the city mostly waits for those who want to learn about the past and are eager to delve into its rich history.
While Krakow is well known for its medieval architecture and vibrant atmosphere, it’s also home to several museums that give insight into Poland’s history and heritage. The best part of it? Many of these cultural treasures are absolutely free to visit. Here is a list of all free museums in Krakow
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Free Museums in Krakow
Basically, you can visit most of the museums, not only in Krakow but in most Polish cities, for free. Nearly every museum offers free entry on one specific day. These days are well-marked on each museum’s website, and you can easily figure out a visiting plan, that includes free museums.
Amber Museum – Free Entry Every Day
The Amber Museum is located in the heart of Krakow, the city that after Gdańsk, is the World Amber Capital, most strongly associated with this characteristic Polish gemstone. Although there are many “amber” places on the map of Krakow, the Amber Museum is certainly the most important one.
Why? Here, you will find hundreds of exhibits showing the beauty of Baltic amber. You can learn here the history of the processing of this stone, and admire the beautiful jewelry made of it.
The exhibition makes it clear why so many people around the world consider amber, among all stones, to be the most beautiful. The museum is free to all if you want to visit it on your own. The guided tour is chargeable.
Free Museums in Krakow – Monday
Town Hall Tower (Wieża Ratuszowa)
Free entry is offered every Monday from 9 AM to 3 PM. No prior booking is available for this program. You need to show up and wait in the queue to enter.
When visiting the Town Hall Tower, you can expect to see a historic landmark, that remembers the greatest times of the Polish Monarchy. It is located in the Main Market Square.
As you explore the tower, you will encounter various architectural features and artifacts that tell the story of Krakow’s history. There are often exhibitions set in there that present the city’s development. 110 steps lead to the top of the tower, they are narrow, and not even, so some caution is needed while climbing. But it is worth it, you get to see the Saint Mary Church (Kościół Mariacki) from a new perspective.
The Old Synagogue
The Old Synagogue is one of the few standing testaments of the rich Jewish heritage in this area. Visiting this place offers a journey into the rich history and cultural significance of this sacred place.
You can enter the Synagogue freely unless there is a mass going on. All men must wear some kind of hat, women should dress modestly for the church too.
Schindler Factory Museum
Oskar Schindler’s actual factory, tells the story of how he saved over a thousand lives during the Holocaust. Inside, you’ll find exhibits with artifacts and stories that paint a vivid picture of Krakow during Nazi occupation.
A visit to this place is a powerful journey through history, shedding light on the challenges faced by the Jewish community and the remarkable actions taken to protect lives. Remember to give respect to the place you are visiting.
Wawel Royal Castle
The castle is surrounded by strong walls and towers, and they all tell a story of Polish Monarchies. Wawel is the first of the two main residents of Polish kings, and you will learn so much about the country’s history from there.
Wawel isn’t just about impressive architecture; it’s a dive into Polish heritage. The Royal Tombs in the cathedral hold the remains of kings, queens, and other important figures.
These finely crafted tombs tell the story of Poland’s royal past. Take a moment also to stroll through the Castle Courtyard for breathtaking views of Krakow and the Vistula River.
Free Museums in Krakow -Tuesday
Underground Market
Delve into Krakow’s history with a visit to the Rynek Underground, an intriguing museum situated beneath the Main Market Square. This hidden gem provides a one-of-a-kind journey through the city’s medieval secrets.
Descending into the underground chambers is like stepping back in time to the lively marketplaces of medieval Krakow. The museum is filled with multimedia exhibits and recreated scenes that depict the daily life of the city across the centuries.
Wander through reconstructed market stalls, workshops, and even a medieval town square, offering valuable insights into the vibrant atmosphere of days gone by.
Aviation Museum
The Aviation Museum in Krakow is a perfect destination for aviation enthusiasts. This museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history of aviation in Poland.
You can explore here a diverse collection of aircraft, engines, and aviation artifacts, from different times of aviation history.
The museum features both military and civilian aircraft, offering a comprehensive overview of Poland’s aviation achievements. From early flying machines to modern fighter jets, the collection provides a fascinating journey through the evolution of aviation.
National Museum in Krakow
The National Museum in Krakow is a cultural treasure that offers a diverse experience. Located in the heart of the city, the museum offers a vast collection of art and artifacts that come from different times.
As you explore the museum, you’ll see arrays of paintings, sculptures, and historical artifacts. Some exhibitions will not be available with free entry, but you can always buy an additional pass.
Jan Matejko Museum
Jan Matejko’s House is a historical residence associated with the famous Polish painter Jan Matejko. The house provides a unique glimpse into the life and work of this influential artist, it is not only a museum but also a tribute to Matejko’s legacy. You can explore the rooms where the artist lived and worked, you can look into his creative process and the historical context that inspired many of his masterpieces.
Throughout the museum, you’ll find a collection of Matejko’s paintings, sketches, and personal belongings, offering a comprehensive view of his artistic contributions. The exhibits provide a deeper understanding of Matejko’s impact on Polish art and his role in important historical events.
Stanisław Wyspianski Museum
The Stanisław Wyspiański Museum in Krakow was home to the life and work of Stanisław Wyspiański, a multifaceted Polish artist known for his contributions to painting, poetry, and theater.
You can explore the artist’s diverse work, which includes paintings, drawings, and designs. Wyspiański’s influence on Polish Art is undeniable, it is a real gem for all art lovers.
Reservation is also required on a free entry day.
Czartoryski Princes Museum
The Czartoryski Princes Museum is a cultural institution that stands as a custodian of Poland’s historical and artistic heritage. The museum is renowned for its extensive collection of artworks and artifacts that the Czartoryski family collected over the centuries.
One of the most celebrated works you can find here is Leonardo da Vinci’s “Lady with an Ermine”. The museum also played a crucial role in preserving cultural treasures during World War II.
The Cloth Hall Museum (Sukiennice)
The Krakow Cloth Hall, also known as Sukiennice, stands proudly in the heart of the Main Market Square and is one of Krakow’s most iconic landmarks.
This gallery located on the first floor is home to the National Museum’s collection, showcasing a rich display of works by renowned Polish artists like Jan Matejko. It’s a space where you can admire the legacy of Poland and immerse in the creations of painters. In this place, you will find the best Polish artists and the most famous paintings.
Krzysztofory Museum
Situated on the market square, Krzysztofory Palace, a 17th-century Baroque gem, is the main venue for the Krakow Museum. It was recently renovated, and it hosts some best exhibitions in Krakow today.
The exhibits you find here, include the iconic Lajkonik costume, and paintings by renowned artists. There is an interactive part where you can answer questions about Cracovian legends. You can also experience the weight of a medieval knight’s gear.
This museum is a place where Crakovian nativity cribs are exhibited after the contest.
Ethnographic Museum
For over a hundred years, the Ethnographic Museum in Krakow has been sharing the passion for exploring diverse ways of life.
The ethnographic collection gathered here is the largest and oldest in Poland. You can find here an interesting blend of everyday objects, work tools, costumes, toys, works of art, objects of worship and magic, photographs, manuscripts, and drawings.
Free Museums in Krakow -Wednesday
The Museum of the Jagiellonian University Collegium Maius
It is the heritage of one of Europe’s oldest universities. This University was established in the year 1364, over 600 years ago.
The oldest building of the Jagiellonian University, Collegium Maius, is a great example of Gothic architecture. You can explore the preserved interiors that once served professors and students, like the libraria (library), stuba communis (former dining hall), treasury, professorial rooms, the residence of the university-associated St. John Kanty, and the auditorium showcasing a valuable collection of paintings.
In the Copernicus Room where the famous astronomer studied w from 1491 to 1495, there is a unique collection of astronomical-astrological instruments from the second half of the 15th century, along with an Arabic astrolabe dating back to 1054.
Kamienica Hipolitów – Hipolit House
The exhibition house shows the interiors of rich Cracovians’ housing over time. Furniture, paintings, fabrics, porcelain, and everyday items create the climate and take you back to the past. The exhibition of interiors was arranged on two levels in the Hipolit House. A museim well worth visiitng.
Nowa Huta Museum
Nowa Huta is a part of Krakow that was built during the communist times. This part of the city is completely different from what Krakow is mainly known for. The museum exhibits artifacts, furniture, art, and pictures documenting the 40 years of communism in Poland.
Free Museums in Krakow -Thursday
Museum of Contemporary Art
In this museum, you can explore exhibitions presenting nowadays arts, and trends. Apart from artifacts, paintings, and photography, you can enjoy performances there as well.
Free Museums in Krakow -Friday
NBP National Bank
The National Bank opens its doors with exhibitions, to all who want to learn about the history polish of money. The entrance is actually free every day, and no prior booking is required.
As an alternative to a free entry museum on Friday you can choose the Amber Museum, which is also free of charge on all days entry.
Free Museums in Krakow – Saturday
Next to the National Bank exhibitions, and Amber Museum, on Saturday you can arrange a small trip to Wieliczka, a town outside of Krakow. If you plan to visit the salt mine anyway, this is a perfect combination.
Krakow Saltworks Museum
The first very well prospering Polish company in the middle ages, in the formation of a castel complex salt mine head factory and headquarters. Plan to visit it together with the Salt Mine in Wieliczka itself, and get a whole picture of how the system used to work.
Free Museums in Krakow – Sunday
AK Army Museum
The activities of the AK Army Museum have a cultural and educational character. It is dedicated to various age groups. The reason the AK Museum was brought to life was to secure collections related to the theme of the Home Army and resistance in Poland.
Discounts on entry tickets
The free entry days are perfect for those who visit Krakow on a budget. However, if you are not so keen to plan your stay around the free entry days, but yet wish to visit some of the museums don’t spend a fortune on tickets. Look for discounts for students, for children elders, family bundles, and so on.
Visit Poland Travel Planning Support Group if you need help with planning your trip to Poland!
