Krakow Museums

Krakow Museums

Krakow is well and truly winning in the museum game. This should come as no surprise considering the long and rich history the city enjoys. Alongside walking tours of the city, visiting some museums in Krakow is a great way to learn about the city’s glory days and turbulent times.

Here are some of the best:

The National Museum

Originally opened in 1879, it holds some 780,000 art objects. It covers everything from classical archeology to modern art. There are both permanent and temporary collections from some of Poland’s most celebrated artists. MAP

Krakow museums: Oskar Schindler’s Factory

Krakow museums: Oskar Schindler’s Factory 

Depending on your tastes in movies, the is a good chance that you’ve heard of Oskar Schindler. He was a factory owner who helped to save the lives of many of the city’s Jews during the Holocaust. So a trip to his factory will give you some more insight into the man and his life. Also it’ll give you a real in-depth history lesson on Krakow during this time. MAP

Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum

This is of the most infamous concentration camps in Europe. It’s a reason in itself for many people’s visits to Krakow. A trip here will be a solemn one. But a must for anyone that wants to gain a deeper understanding of the atrocities that took place during WWII. So joining a guided tour might be mandatory depending on when you visit during the day. It is well advised if you want to learn about the camp’s history and how it was run on a day to day basis. MAP

Jagiellonian University – Collegium Maius

While it’s free to stroll around inside the beautiful courtyard, if you want a deep dive into the building’s fascinating history – both Copernicus and Pope John Paul II studied there – then you should join for the 1 hour free tour run by the museum. You’ll hear lots of stories and get the chance to check out some interesting exhibits. MAP

Stained Glass Museum

Krakow museums: Stained Glass Museum 

The Stained Glass Museum is definitely not one you’ll find in every city. Take a tour through the old workshop and learn all about the process of making stained glass windows from a local expert. In fact it’s a perfect tour for a rainy day in Krakow. MAP

Krakow Historical Museum – Old Market Underground

Did you know that while standing in the Old Market Square there is a little museum right below your feet? It’s teaming with intriguing historical insight and interesting archaeological finds. Furthermore if you’re interested in seeing how the city grew and developed over time and you don’t just want to read about it, then this museum has several games and interactive displays. What’s more, it only takes about an hour to see it all. MAP