If you’re planning a trip to Kraków, you’re probably wondering: where can I see the 'Lady with an Ermine'? This is one of the most important works of the Renaissance and unquestionably the biggest draw for art lovers visiting the city. The painting has a rich and sometimes turbulent history — from its purchase for the Czartoryski collection, through international exhibitions, to repeated discussions about conservation and security. Seeing the 'Lady' is not only about admiring Leonardo da Vinci’s exceptional portrait, but also about learning the story of a famous collection and understanding how museums shape a city’s identity.
It’s a good idea to plan your visit in advance. The work is displayed as part of the National Museum collection / Czartoryski Museum and is often shown in a dedicated room with a limited number of visitors at once — so timed tickets may be required. When planning, check opening hours, possible free-entry days and whether you can combine the ticket with other museum exhibitions in the city. Attendance can be high in summer and during long holiday weekends like the May holiday.
A small curiosity — the painting is done on a wooden panel, not canvas, which makes it more sensitive to changes in humidity and temperature. That’s another reason museums handle it with special care and limit loans outside its home display.
Before you go, check the museum’s official information — many museums sell tickets for a specific date and time, and in the summer season there may be visitor limits in rooms with the most valuable works. Booking in advance saves time and stress.
Remember museum rules: large suitcases are usually not allowed, cloakroom rules may require you to leave bigger items, and photography can be restricted or forbidden in some rooms. Dress comfortably — light summer clothing and comfortable shoes are recommended, and bring a light extra layer for cooler days because air conditioning in exhibition rooms can be strong.
If you’re interested in historical context or conservation details, consider buying a ticket with an audio guide or joining a guided visit; that’s a great way to get more out of a short visit and to ask questions. For a truly personal experience you can book a private guided tour with Małgorzata Kasprowicz, who offers tailored tours of Kraków and its museums.
The best time to visit depends on your travel style. If you want to avoid crowds, go early in the morning or late afternoon, outside peak hours. During the May holiday and summer it’s wise to have a timed ticket — spontaneous entry might not be possible.
If you’re planning a long weekend, consider combining the museum visit with a second activity: a walk along the Vistula riverside, a picnic by the river or an evening dinner in Kazimierz. This spreads your time and makes the visit more relaxing.
If you’re traveling with children — prepare a short story about the painting and its heroine, and plan outdoor activities after the museum. For young visitors, keep the museum stop shorter but full of interesting facts to bring the experience to life.
The Vistula riverside is one of the city’s most relaxing spots, especially in summer. Deckchairs, lawns and seasonal cafés create a holiday atmosphere — perfect for an afternoon break after the museum. Near the bridges you’ll find food trucks, seasonal bars and frequent open-air city events: concerts, markets and workshops.
Many locals and visitors enjoy walking along the river, picnicking on the grass, renting bikes or taking a kayak trip. It’s an ideal place for a sunset photo session and an evening unwind under streetlights reflected on the water.
To soak up the city vibe by the Vistula, seek out places with river views that also serve good food — a great combination of tasty dishes and a memorable panorama. Check the event calendar when you stay longer — in summer the riverside often buzzes late into the evening.
Kraków at night wears many faces: atmospheric cellars, jazz clubs, live music venues and modern riverside spaces. Kazimierz is a classic choice — its charming streets and bars attract a diverse crowd, and Plac Nowy is almost legendary for zapiekanki and late-night energy.
If you’re after a clubbing vibe, look for venues known for good sound and a strong music program — from classic electronic clubs to newer event spaces hosting parties until dawn. For a quieter night, choose a bar with live music or a jazz club, where the atmosphere invites conversation and cocktail tasting.
A few practical tips: check closing times and entry policies (some clubs use guest lists or selective entry), keep an eye on your belongings, and plan your return at night — taxi, ride-hailing or public transport are all options. In summer, reserve a table at popular spots, especially on weekends.
Kraków’s food scene mixes traditional Polish cuisine with international flavors. After visiting the museum, choose restaurants and cafés with strong reviews — Kraków has no shortage of excellent spots. In Kazimierz and the Old Town you’ll find intimate cafés and restaurants offering modern takes on Polish dishes.
For a quick local bite try the famous zapiekanki at Plac Nowy, or stop by a well-rated bistro nearby. For coffee, popular cafés like Café Camelot or Charlotte (and many others) often have outdoor seating in summer — perfect for a rest after sightseeing.
If you want specific recommendations, choose places with many positive reviews from both visitors and locals. Reserve a table for the evening during weekends and long holiday weekends like the May holiday when demand is higher.
Idea 1: Museum morning — start at the MNK / Czartoryski Museum to see the 'Lady with an Ermine', then take a short walk around Wawel and its surroundings. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the Vistula riverside, and end the evening with dinner and a glass of wine in Kazimierz.
Idea 2: Lazy summer day — begin with coffee in a cozy Old Town café, visit a gallery or another museum branch. In the afternoon rent a bike or a kayak and enjoy time on the Vistula. Finish with a bar offering live music or a small, intimate restaurant.
Idea 3: May-holiday picnic — plan a day outdoors: morning market for local produce, picnic on the riverside, an afternoon stroll through the Planty and an alfresco dinner. For a long weekend, leave a buffer day for weather changes.
Time planning: many people try to see 'everything' and cram too much into a single day. It’s better to choose 2–3 priorities and allow time to enjoy them properly than to rush from place to place.
Tickets and queues: don’t skip buying tickets online — especially in high season. A common mistake is arriving at a museum without checking if same-day entry is available.
Weather: the May holiday weather can be changeable — it’s a great time for outdoor events but evenings can be cool. Bring a light jacket and comfortable shoes.
Is the 'Lady with an Ermine' always on public display? - The painting is part of the museum collection, but temporary exhibitions, conservation work or loans can affect availability. Always check the museum’s announcements before your visit.
Is a combined ticket worth it? - If you plan to visit several branches of the National Museum, a combined ticket can be convenient and cost-effective. Pay attention to the ticket’s validity and conditions.
Where to eat after the museum? - The easiest options are restaurants in Kazimierz or the Old Town; these neighborhoods offer a broad choice from traditional to modern cuisine. Book ahead on weekends.
The sitter on the painting — the 'Lady' portrays Cecilia Gallerani, a young woman from the court of Ludovico Sforza in Milan; knowing her story adds courtly context to the portrait.
More than one masterpiece — the Czartoryski collection is not only this one painting; it’s a set of objects and artworks that together tell the story of collecting and art in Poland.
Display conditions — paintings like the 'Lady' are often shown under special climate conditions and in limited visiting groups to protect them for future generations. That’s why the visit may be shorter but also highly focused and intense.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with friends or on your social media — recommending a tried-and-true plan is the best way to help others prepare their trip.
If you’d like a more personal and live-told experience, consider booking a private guided tour with Małgorzata Kasprowicz. Her offerings include tailored museum routes, riverside walks and evening tours of Kraków’s best bars — reservations and details are available through zwiedzaniekrakowa.com.
Good luck planning your visit and remember — Kraków in summer offers art, the river, lively evenings and places best enjoyed at a relaxed pace. See you in the city!
