Did you know that in the heart of Kazimierz, at Wolnica Square, there is one of the richest ethnographic collections in Poland? The Ethnographic Museum holds more than eighty thousand objects and can surprise even visitors who have been to Kraków many times. The May holiday is a great moment to see the museum in a calmer, festive atmosphere and combine the visit with a walk around the neighborhood.
This article includes practical tips: what to see in the permanent and temporary exhibitions, how to plan a route around Kazimierz, where to eat after your visit and a few hints to avoid the most common tourist mistakes during the long weekend. At the end — a short FAQ and an invitation to share the article.
The May holiday is a time when many visitors look for places that combine culture with a pleasant stroll. The Ethnographic Museum fits this idea perfectly: it is housed in the historic Town Hall on Wolnica Square, so after your visit you can step straight onto the square and into the narrow streets of Kazimierz.
In the collection you will find, among other things, rich everyday objects, folk costumes, sculptures, photographs and ritual objects. Planning your visit on a May day makes it easier to combine the museum with other neighborhood attractions, and the museum often organizes special educational and family events at this time of year.
The Kraków room - a reconstruction of a rural interior that transports the visitor to another era and clearly shows how life in the region once looked. It’s a great starting point to get familiar with the museum’s theme.
The oldest Kraków nativity scene - the museum’s collection of nativity scenes includes exceptional historic pieces; these are not merely seasonal displays but an important element of local tradition.
Works by Nikifor - the collection includes works by Nikifor, striking examples of so-called naïve art. It’s a good opportunity to see the museum’s variety beyond strictly ethnographic objects.
Photography and archival collections - the museum holds valuable photographic collections dating back to the 19th century that illustrate life and customs in former Galicia. Some materials are also made available digitally, which makes it easy to preview curiosities before your visit.
Walk around Wolnica Square and the streets of Kazimierz - this is the best way to continue your visit. In the area you will find atmospheric cafés, galleries and small shops with design and handicrafts.
Stop at highly-rated cafés - if you want a break, consider places known for good espresso and Kazimierz atmosphere. During the May holiday it’s easier to find a table in the morning or late afternoon.
A short walk to the Vistula riverbank - if the weather is nice, heading down to the Vistula is a pleasant way to end the day. You can relax there, take photos and feel another rhythm of the city.
Location: Wolnica Square 1 - the museum is located in the historic Kazimierz Town Hall, so getting there and orienting yourself is straightforward.
Tickets: current ticket prices for the permanent exhibition in the Town Hall (example rates as of early November 2025) are: regular admission 20 PLN, reduced admission 15 PLN, family ticket (two adults + one child or one adult + two children) 30 PLN; additional person + reduced ticket. Tuesdays are traditionally free admission to the permanent exhibition - special ticket rules apply for temporary exhibitions on Tuesdays.
Discounts and city programs: the museum participates in selected municipal programs and promotions that may offer discounts during a city stay. Before your May visit, check current promotions or ask at the ticket desk.
Reservations and groups: for a busy May holiday it’s useful to reserve in advance, especially for guided groups or larger families. Booking and workshop reservations can be made by phone or email at the museum’s reservation contacts.
After touring the museum, head to one of Kazimierz’s well-regarded cafés or restaurants. The neighborhood is known for cozy cafés serving fresh coffee and cakes, as well as restaurants that offer regional and modern Polish cuisine. In the long weekend, popular places can get crowded, so consider visiting early or late to avoid waits.
If you want something special, try a highly rated Polish cuisine restaurant in Kazimierz and consider booking in advance for the May holiday.
For families with children, look for cafés with family-friendly space and children’s menus - they make the visit much more relaxed.
Not planning a route - many visitors enter the museum without a plan and lose time jumping between rooms. We recommend a short orientation at the entrance and choosing priorities (for example the Kraków room, the Nikifor collection and the nativity scenes).
Arriving at peak hours - during the May holiday the best times are right after opening in the morning or late afternoon. This helps you avoid queues and crowds.
Not checking current information - temporary exhibitions, free-entry days or educational events change seasonally. Check the latest ticket and event information before you go.
Is the museum good for families with children? - Yes, the museum has displays that stimulate the imagination and often runs educational activities for younger visitors.
How much time should I allow for the visit? - A standard visit takes about 1.5–2 hours. If you want to leisurely view the permanent exhibition and a short temporary show, plan more time.
Is it worth combining the visit with other Kazimierz attractions? - Definitely. Kazimierz is a district with a rich cultural and gastronomic offer, perfect for walking after the museum.
The museum’s collections trace back to founder Seweryn Udziela, and many exhibits document life in Galicia in the 19th and 20th centuries.
The holdings include not only everyday objects but also rich photographic archives and digitization projects, so part of the collection can be viewed online before your arrival.
Hidden gems include small craft items and toys that tell private stories of past owners and are often a favorite discovery for visitors.
The May holiday is an excellent time to visit the Ethnographic Museum: it combines comfortable museum time with the chance to discover Kazimierz and its surroundings. Plan your route, check opening hours and promotions before you leave, and give yourself a moment to reflect on the stories hidden in the objects.
If you found this article helpful — share it with friends or on social media. If you would like to explore Kraków with a private guide, you are invited to use the services of Małgorzata Kasprowicz — contact details for the guide are visible on the guide’s page. Have a pleasant May holiday and enjoy your discoveries in Kraków!
