Thesaurus Cracoviensis is not a classic exhibition so much as the Museum of the History of Kraków’s “artifact interpretation centre” — a huge study storage, conservation workshops and special displays of objects that are usually not available to the public. It draws the curious, art history students and people interested in conservation, so with limited opening days and a capped number of entries you can expect queues.
In practice the branch is mainly open to visitors on Saturdays, and visits are run in scheduled guided sessions. That concentrates crowds around tour start times and group entries — especially in the tourist season and on weekends with special events.
Book your ticket in advance online. The museum usually sells tickets through its service — this is the most reliable way to secure a spot for a specific tour time and avoid standing in the ticket window line.
Choose an earlier session. If sessions are available at 10:00 and 11:15 — pick the earlier one. First entries usually have fewer people and less crowding along the route.
Remember that Fridays are often reserved for educational groups — so don’t expect open individual visits that day. Check the branch schedule before you go.
If you’re coming with a large group, send an email to reserve a group visit in advance — the branch handles group reservations and early coordination reduces the risk of waiting to enter.
Thesaurus offers full-price and reduced-price tickets; students usually qualify for a reduced ticket after showing a valid student ID. If you have an international student card (e.g. ISIC), bring it — it makes confirming discount eligibility easier.
Buying a ticket online guarantees entry at a specific time and means you won’t queue at the ticket desk. If your visit is spontaneous — arrive before the first session starts and check availability at the desk; sometimes there are single tickets left to buy on the spot.
Student groups and educational visits are sometimes handled separately — for larger groups it’s better to agree a date by email with the museum.
Arrive 10–15 minutes before your scheduled tour time — this gives you a calm window to pick up tickets and line up without rushing.
Bring an ID and your student card, especially if you’re using a discount. Checks can be made at the entrance.
Dress comfortably — the route includes storage areas and conservation workshops where it can be cooler. Leave large backpacks in a safe place if possible — that makes moving around easier and shortens entry time.
Watch for museum announcements about special events. On days with workshops or open days the number of visitors can increase.
At Thesaurus Cracoviensis you can see parts of the collection normally kept out of view: numismatics, weapons, textiles, prints and a rich collection of nativity scenes (szopki). Part of the space houses conservation workshops — watching the conservation process can be fascinating.
There’s also a multimedia room with digitised collection resources — a good option if you want to see more without lingering at display cases. Tours are guided and the guide usually explains the context of storage and conservation, which adds value even to a short visit.
After your visit it’s worth grabbing a quick coffee or lunch — around the area you’ll find both intimate cafés and student-budget-friendly places. On Józefa Street and around Kazimierz there are popular cafés such as Eszeweria and Cheder, great for a short break and to chat about what you’ve just seen.
If you prefer something heartier, look for well-rated milk bars (bar mleczny) and small restaurants offering Polish and international dishes — these are usually the fastest and most budget-friendly choice for student groups.
Assuming the museum is open every day — Thesaurus has a limited schedule and many services are available only on specific days. Always check the current opening hours before you set out.
Arriving just before the last session without a reservation — entries are limited and the last session often has fewer available spots. It’s better to book beforehand.
Forgetting your student ID when you want a discount — have your card with you, otherwise you’ll need to buy a full-price ticket.
Can I visit without a guide? Visits are usually conducted with a guide in designated sessions — the guide is included in the ticket price, so plan your visit around tour times.
Where do I buy a ticket? Most reliably online through the Museum of the History of Kraków’s ticketing service or at the branch ticket desk if places remain available.
Are there discounts for Erasmus students? Discount rules are set by the museum — typically reduced tickets are available to students after showing appropriate ID; it’s a good idea to have an ISIC or other valid student card.
Can I visit as a group? Yes — groups should reserve a date by email to secure places and avoid waiting.
If you’re interested in conservation work, ask the guide about spending extra time at a conservator’s workshop — sometimes you can observe particular stages of restoration in more detail, a rare opportunity compared with classic museums.
On days with special events (workshops, seasonal programmes, etc.) the museum may introduce extra sessions or special rules — check the branch calendar in advance.
The museum offers digital resources — if you’re short on time, ask the guide about access to multimedia materials that let you view selected objects faster and without crowding around cases.
If you found this guide useful, share it with your Erasmus friends and flatmates — it will save them time and nerves when planning a visit. Social shares are appreciated!
If you’re looking for a more personalised tour of Kraków, consider the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — she can help plan visits to avoid queues and to see the most interesting parts of the city tailored to your interests.
