The Ethnographic Museum in Krakow connects the history of Kazimierz with rich collections of Polish folk culture. Founded on the initiative of Seweryn Udziela and active since the early 20th century, its main collection is housed in the historic town hall on Wolnica Square. The museum holds tens of thousands of objects — from costumes and everyday tools to archival materials and photographs — so you can quickly get a feel for village life in Poland from the late 19th to the mid 20th century.
The museum has two main exhibition sites: the Main Building at Wolnica Square (the permanent exhibition devoted to folk culture) and the Esterka House on Krakowska Street, where temporary exhibitions and special projects are held. Check current exhibitions — you’ll often find interesting shows that link tradition with contemporary approaches.
A visit to the museum is a good choice if you like combining a walk around Krakow with an intimate lesson in local history and folk design. The museum also regularly hosts educational events, curator-led tours and family workshops, making it a good option for singles, couples and visitors with younger companions.
The museum usually welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Sunday; Mondays are typically the day the venue is closed. It’s a good idea to check the official site for up-to-date opening hours, rules for temporary exhibitions and any discount days.
Tuesdays are sometimes special — reduced prices or free entry to the permanent exhibition may apply; meanwhile, Wednesdays can have so-called "quiet hours" (recommended for visitors who prefer a calmer visit). Remember to check the information about the last admission on a given day (museums sometimes stop admitting visitors before the gallery closes).
There is an information point and usually a small museum shop with books and souvenirs near Wolnica Square. The Main Building is easily reachable on foot from Kazimierz and many parts of the Old Town; if you use public transport, get off at Wolnica Square or nearby stops.
If you only have a short time, start with the permanent exhibition in the town hall (Pl. Wolnica) — it’s the best way to see the most valuable objects and understand the context of folk culture in a short visit. After the permanent exhibition, consider visiting the Esterka House for a temporary exhibition if the topic interests you.
Keep in mind that some displays include touch media or audio description — useful for visitors with children or with visual impairments. If you plan to take photos, check whether flash photography is prohibited in the given space.
After the visit, set aside 45–90 minutes for a meal nearby — in Kazimierz and on the route between Kazimierz and the Main Market Square you’ll find places perfect for an inexpensive lunch or a more relaxed dinner.
The Kazimierz area and the route toward the Main Market Square offer many options at different price points. Below are places recommended by locals and well suited to a student budget or a quick group outing:
Vegab (Starowiślna Street) - the famous vegan kebab, often recommended as a quick, relatively cheap and tasty option. Great for vegans and anyone looking for quality street food.
Phuong Dong Oriental Bar (several locations) - a chain of oriental bars popular with students because of generous portions and affordable prices. A solid choice for a post-visit meal.
Milkbar Tomasza (Św. Tomasza Street) - a modern take on the traditional Polish milk bar; a good pick for a cheap, filling meal in the city center. Especially recommended for breakfast and lunch.
Ranny Ptaszek (Augustiańska Street) - a small, friendly cafe/brunch spot with breakfast and light lunch options; a pleasant place for a late breakfast before the museum or for coffee.
Smaki Gruzji (Dietla Street) - if you’re looking for a larger meal to share with friends, Georgian cuisine offers tasty and economical options (khachapuri, khinkali).
Also try the famous zapiekanka from Plac Nowy in Kazimierz — a classic, cheap street food perfect for a quick bite and a characteristic Krakow treat.
Avoid restaurants right on the Main Market Square, which often have inflated prices and "tourist menus." It’s better to walk a few hundred meters into side streets or choose places recommended by residents.
Look for lunch menus (daily set menus) — many places offer cheaper lunch deals around midday. This is a classic way to eat well without spending much.
Use milk bars and small eateries near universities — these are student-tested spots with affordable prices and satisfying portions. Don’t be afraid to ask staff for recommendations or check quick online reviews before you go in.
Arriving on a Monday and being surprised the museum is closed — check opening hours before you set out.
Eating immediately at the Market without checking the menu — it’s worth looking at the price list and reviews first to avoid a high bill.
Assuming all popular places are within easy walking distance without checking locations — Kazimierz, the Old Town and Nowa Huta are different parts of Krakow; plan your route so you don’t waste time commuting.
Kazimierz and the Wolnica Square area are generally safe, but as in any busy tourist spot — watch out for crowds and pickpockets, especially in the evening and around major attractions.
If you plan to visit several places in one day, consider buying a day ticket for public transport or plan pleasant walking routes — many points of interest lie close to each other.
Always carry some small change — some small bars and stalls still prefer cash or have minimum amounts for card payments.
Do children get free entry? Many museums allow free admission for the youngest visitors; check specific age limits and concessions on the museum’s current rules.
Do I need to book in advance? Booking is usually not required for the permanent exhibition, but for special events, guided tours or school groups it’s better to confirm a time.
How much time should I allow for the museum? Typically 1–2 hours is enough for the permanent exhibition; if you add a temporary exhibition and short breaks, plan for half a day for a relaxed visit.
Wolnica Square, where the Main Building is located, was once the heart of civic life in Kazimierz — today it’s a lively square with cafes, but it also hides layers of history worth noticing during a stroll.
The museum’s collections include not only elements of Polish folk culture but also collections from other parts of Europe and beyond — showing that ethnography in Krakow has long had a broad perspective.
Many temporary exhibitions combine traditional objects with works by contemporary artists, which makes a visit interesting even for visitors who might normally avoid ethnographic museums.
The Ethnographic Museum is an excellent stop on Krakow’s cultural map — especially if you want to combine sightseeing with an authentic, student-style meal. After the exhibition, head to one of the recommended places in Kazimierz or on the way to the Main Market Square, and if you have time try a local zapiekanka at Plac Nowy.
If this guide was helpful, share it with friends or on social media. If you’d like a personalised visit around Krakow, consider booking a tour with Małgorzata Kasprowicz — her contact and offer are available on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. Have a great trip and enjoy your meal!
