Kraków during Easter and Museums Night changes — the city blends quiet spiritual moments, folk traditions and an intense cultural calendar. If you are a student or here on Erasmus, it’s worth planning these days so you can feel the city’s atmosphere without wasting time in long lines.
This guide will show where to go for markets, which local customs are worth seeing in person, how Museums Night works and how to make the most of what Kraków offers — from the perspective of someone on a tight budget and a busy schedule.
Carry your student ID — it’s an easy way to get discounts on museum tickets and cheaper public transport. Many cultural institutions offer reduced prices for Museums Night.
Plan to walk — the Old Town, Kazimierz and nearby sights are close together, and walking is the best way to soak up the atmosphere. If you need to travel farther, use trams and buses and city apps that make getting around easier.
Book popular events and restaurants in advance — during holidays and cultural events places fill up faster.
Prepare for changeable weather — spring can surprise you, so bring a light jacket and comfortable shoes.
In Kraków, tradition mixes with folklore — Easter markets spring up on the Main Market Square and nearby streets with local handicrafts, traditional foods and stalls that attract locals and visitors. At these markets you’ll find decorated eggs (pisanki), ornaments and regional specialties.
The Emaus Fair on Salwator is a classic — a long-standing market tradition with the characteristic Emaus trees (drzewka emausowe). The contest for the most beautiful Emaus tree recalls pre-Christian roots of the custom and is an interesting part of local culture.
Rękawka in Podgórze is another event featuring folk elements and old rites, drawing people interested in the history of local customs.
If you want to try Kraków’s Easter cuisine, look out for local versions of żurek (sour rye soup), Kraków-style cheesecake and old Galician dishes. Seasonal products at markets are often the best place to sample regional sweets and cured meats.
Pucheroki — an old custom tied to Palm Sunday when young people walk through villages collecting small gifts. The name traces back to the Latin word "puer" and shows old links between Kraków and university traditions.
The Emaus tree has roots in ancient beliefs about rebirth and used to be full of symbols connected to nature. Today, Emaus contests and markets combine folklore with contemporary craft.
Easter in Kraków is not only church services — it’s also musical events and festivals during Holy Week, with programs that often include early music and special concerts.
Museums Night is a perfect chance to visit several places in one evening — many institutions open in the late afternoon and offer special programs, lectures and exhibitions. Use your student discounts and plan your route in advance.
Start at the most popular museums right after they open, or do the opposite — visit smaller, less-crowded places first and save the highlights for later. Check event programs ahead of time and pick places that have prepared extra attractions for the night.
Check entry rules: some museums require registration or charge for special events even during Museums Night. Carry your ID and student card.
If you’re looking for reliable spots around the Old Town and Kazimierz, consider long-standing local options: traditional restaurants serving regional dishes and cozy cafés perfect for a break between sightseeing. Popular choices include historic places like Wierzynek and classic cafés such as Café Camelot, plus many well-rated bistros and milk bars for budget-friendly meals.
Good places for a quick bite or a traditional lunch include family-run restaurants and well-known local eateries — when going out in a group, reserve a table, especially on weekends and during holidays.
For coffee and cake, choose cafés with established reputations — they’re great for resting, checking the map and planning the next stop.
Not checking opening hours during holidays — museums and restaurants often change their hours on Good Friday, Holy Saturday and Easter Monday. Always check the institution’s schedule before you go.
Trying to see everything in one day — it’s better to pick 2–3 priorities and treat the rest as pleasant extras for a future visit.
Not booking in popular places and special events — reserve in advance, particularly if you’re coming in a group.
When is Museums Night? - Usually in spring; it’s one of the designated cultural nights — check the city events calendar for the exact date.
Will a student get a discount? - Yes, most museums and cultural institutions offer reduced tickets on presentation of a student ID.
Are Easter markets free? - Entry to the markets is usually free; you pay for what you buy at the stalls.
How to avoid crowds on the Market Square during the holidays? - Get up early: mornings are the best time for calm photos; alternatively choose late evening after some events finish.
Some Kraków customs still show traces of ancient, pre-Christian rituals — examples include symbolic trees and elements connected to the rebirth of nature.
Easter in Kraków is not only religion and folklore — the city also comes alive musically, and Holy Week often features early-music festivals and special concerts.
Some traditions have survived locally in suburbs and villages around Kraków — check whether smaller local ceremonies are happening nearby to see a more authentic side of customs.
Split your plans: one day for culinary and holiday attractions, another for museums and Museums Night. This helps avoid fatigue and leaves time for spontaneous discoveries.
Take care of documents: a student ID is the key to many discounts, and an identity document is useful where registration is required.
If you want to see the city through a local’s eyes and learn its history in depth, contact local guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — details are available on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com.
If this guide was helpful — share it with your Erasmus friends or on social media. It’s an easy way to help others plan their visit well.
If you’d like a personalized walk, student-friendly tips and to discover lesser-known corners of Kraków — you can find contact details for Małgorzata Kasprowicz on the guide’s website. Enjoy discovering the city!
