The Home Army Museum at 12 Wita Stwosza Street combines multimedia storytelling with authentic keepsakes from the Polish underground during World War II. In 2025 the museum presented several notable temporary exhibitions and educational series, so it’s worth planning a visit to see displays available for a limited time. It makes an excellent complement to a walk around Wawel and the Old Town, especially if you’re interested in stories of clandestine activity and the lives of people involved in the Home Army.
The museum has rich holdings — over 12,000 objects — including one of the largest collections of small arms in Poland. The permanent exhibition is arranged in a modern, accessible way, which helps visitors understand complex and often difficult topics from recent history.
In 2025 the museum also hosted special events (for example, Night of Museums with the educational game “AK i tajemnice V2”) that attract families as well as people interested in military and resistance history.
The permanent exhibition is multimedia and covers a wide range of artifacts: documents, photographs, uniforms, medals, and everyday items used by soldiers and conspirators. The presentation focuses on Home Army activities in Kraków and the surrounding region but also provides nationwide context.
Throughout 2025 the museum staged several temporary exhibitions on different topics — among them projects dedicated to dioramas and memory scenes related to concentration camps, profiles of commanders, members of the Gray Ranks scouts, and local groups such as Kraków tram workers involved in the underground. Some temporary shows have explicit end dates, so it’s a good idea to check the current program before you come.
Example exhibitions available in 2025 included:
- “14 scenes of memory” — an exhibition prepared for the 80th anniversary of the liberation of KL Auschwitz (on display until the end of March 2025).
- “General ‘Nil’” and “Gray Ranks scouts in occupied Kraków” — temporary displays planned through the end of 2025.
- “Kraków tram workers fighting for Poland” — an exhibition on view until early February 2026.
- “Riazańczycy. Home Army in the gulags” — an exhibition scheduled through May 2026.
Museums frequently supplement their permanent displays with shorter projects and themed meetings, so check the museum’s current program before your visit.
In 2025 the Home Army Museum took part in the Night of Museums with a program that included the museum game “AK i tajemnice V2,” themed tours, and demonstrations of historical equipment. These events often feature short, engaging educational formats for different age groups, as well as presentations by partner organizations.
During past Night of Museums editions tickets were symbolic (for example, 5 PLN), and the program included special evening tours and demonstrations. If you plan to visit during a special event, space may be limited — arrive early or buy a ticket at the museum box office if needed.
Museum address: 12 Wita Stwosza Street. Regular opening hours are usually 10:00–17:00; the museum is closed on Mondays. Allow about 60–120 minutes for a comfortable visit, depending on how much detail you want to explore and how many temporary exhibitions you plan to see.
If you prefer a guided tour, the museum offers guide services and educational programs — reservations may be required for larger groups. On weekends and during special events, it’s best to arrive earlier to avoid queues.
Keep in mind that some exhibitions deal with heavy subjects — certain sections, especially those related to concentration camps, may be emotionally intense. Plan a short break afterward for a coffee or a walk to process what you’ve seen.
Getting there: the museum is located close to Kraków Główny (main railway station) and several public-transport stops. There is no museum-owned parking; paid private parking is available nearby and you can also use the parking at Galeria Krakowska. Public transport and walking routes make the museum easy to reach from the Old Town and Kazimierz.
Accessibility: the museum publishes information about accessibility for visitors. Some areas are adapted for people with reduced mobility; if you have specific needs, contact the museum in advance to arrange assistance or access to archival materials.
Many objects in the collection carry not only documentary value but also deep personal significance — they were donated by families of soldiers and resistance members, so some items carry a strong emotional charge.
Some temporary projects were prepared in cooperation with former prisoners and diorama makers, which helps ensure high levels of authenticity in reconstructions.
The museum also maintains a substantial library and archive for visitors who want to continue research after their visit; access to some materials may require prior contact with staff.
After the museum, plan a short walk to Wawel and the Planty — a natural extension of Kraków’s memory and history trail. Kazimierz and the Main Market Square are within easy reach, so you can combine the museum visit with lunch or coffee at a well-reviewed local spot.
If you want to follow historical trails, consider visiting other museums and memorial sites in the city — just check opening hours and possible reservation requirements.
Around the Old Town and Kazimierz you’ll find many highly rated restaurants and cafés. A few recommendations that work well after a day of sightseeing:
- ORZO — modern cuisine praised in culinary guides.
- Zazie Bistro — a reliable choice for French flavors in the atmospheric Kazimierz neighborhood.
- MAZI — an interesting option in Podgórze, appreciated for quality and atmosphere.
- Pod Baranem — classic Polish cuisine done well.
Good cafés for relaxing after the museum: Lajkonik Bakery & Café, Cakester Cafe, and specialty coffee shops offering high-quality brews and pastries. For accommodation, choose a central location (Old Town, Kazimierz, Podgórze) to reduce travel time and make the most of your day.
Overloading your itinerary — many visitors try to “tick off” too many sights in one day. It’s better to plan one in-depth museum visit and a relaxed walk than rush through multiple places without reflection.
Not checking current opening hours and exhibition dates — museum programs change frequently, especially in winter or during curatorial breaks. Check the museum’s website before you go.
Expecting an entertainment-focused experience — the museum contains serious educational content; come prepared emotionally and with respect for the stories presented.
Can I take photos? In most museum spaces photography without flash is allowed, but temporary exhibitions or particularly valuable objects may have restrictions.
How long does a visit take? Typically 60–120 minutes for the permanent exhibition and selected temporary shows; if you plan to join a guided tour or workshop, allow extra time.
Is the museum accessible for visitors with limited mobility? The museum publishes accessibility information; some areas are adapted, and it’s recommended to contact staff in advance if you need special assistance.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with friends or on social channels so other visitors know what’s worth seeing in Kraków in 2025.
If you prefer a visit with personal commentary and stories tailored to your interests, consider a private guided tour with Małgorzata Kasprowicz. A guided visit is a convenient way to better understand local context and hear the human stories behind the exhibits. Wishing you a great trip and inspiring discoveries in Kraków!
