Leonardo da Vinci’s Lady with an Ermine is one of the most valuable works in Poland and the reason many visitors reserve a visit to the Czartoryski Princes Museum. If you want to see the painting in person, plan ahead — the museum sells tickets for a specific date and time, and places for a given entry can be limited.
The most convenient option is to buy a timed ticket online. That way you avoid disappointment at the ticket desk and reduce time spent in line. Also remember the museum’s regular opening hours: typically Tuesday–Sunday 10:00–18:00, with the last admission often around 17:00, but it’s a good idea to check current information before your visit.
If you need a route without stairs — don’t worry. The museum offers accessible options for visitors with limited mobility; some parts of the exhibition are connected by lifts and adapted entrances. In practice it’s best to contact the museum’s help line in advance to get precise guidance and, if needed, request staff assistance at the entrance.
You can buy tickets through the museum’s online ticketing system. When you book, choose a specific date and time of entry — the ticket is valid for that chosen slot, so being late may mean you cannot join that tour.
If you plan to visit several branches of the National Museum in Kraków, check combined-ticket options. Some tickets allow entry to other branches within a set period, but there can be exclusions (for example, certain historic sites), so read the ticket description carefully.
Tuesdays are sometimes free admission days for permanent exhibitions — a good opportunity for visitors on a budget, but expect larger crowds. If you prefer a quieter visit, choose a weekday other than Tuesday and an early morning entry.
The museum provides facilities for visitors with mobility and visual impairments — in some parts (for example the Arsenal) there is a lift and an accessible toilet. The entrance to the palace for visitors with limited mobility is on the right wing, from the park side — upon arrival you should press the bell and a museum staff member will let you in and help you reach the ground floor.
Some rooms and connections are barrier-free, but in other places there may be stairs or the need to use portable solutions (tracks, stair climbers). If you require a completely step-free route, write or call the museum before your visit — staff will advise which entrance and route are most suitable and can provide information about possible assistance.
For visitors with visual impairments the museum offers audio description, tactile models and supportive materials — some tour paths are available online with narration, sign language and audio description. These resources are useful if you want to familiarise yourself with the exhibition before arrival or prepare a companion.
A single ticket for the National Museum branch at the Czartoryski Museum usually grants access to the Palace, the Monastery building and the Gallery of Ancient Art. Other branches of the National Museum may have different rules, so check the ticket details when purchasing.
The museum does not offer storage for large suitcases in the cloakroom — only small backpacks are usually allowed. If you arrive with large luggage, it’s better to leave it at a station locker or at your hotel beforehand. This will help you avoid problems at admission. Also remember that some exhibits must be viewed from a set distance for conservation reasons. If you plan a longer visit, schedule breaks — there are friendly cafés nearby.
In most museums photographing for private use is allowed, but there are restrictions: do not use flash, tripods or additional lighting, and ensure your photography does not disturb other visitors. If you plan to publish images for commercial use, you need the museum’s permission.
When taking photos of exhibits keep an appropriate distance and follow instructions from security staff. If in doubt, ask at the ticket desk before you start the visit — it’s the fastest way to avoid misunderstandings.
Beyond the Lady with an Ermine, it’s worth seeing other important pieces in the Czartoryski collection — holdings include, among others, works by Rembrandt and many artefacts tied to Polish history. A walk through the palace rooms gives a good sense of the collection’s history and its cultural role.
After the museum, head toward Wawel Castle and take a short walk through the Old Town. If you prefer a quieter break, Kazimierz is within walking distance and offers many atmospheric cafés and bookshops with cafés.
If you want to rest after your visit, try these well-regarded places: Cafe Camelot — a cosy café not far from the Market Square; Wierzynek — a historic restaurant on the Main Square; Charlotte — a popular bakery and spot for a quick bite; Massolit Books & Cafe in Kazimierz — perfect for book and coffee lovers; and Szara on the Market Square for a more elegant meal. These places are praised by visitors for quality and atmosphere.
Remember that in the tourist season the best places can be busy — if you’re planning for a larger group or an evening meal, reserve a table in advance.
Not buying a ticket in advance — many visitors arrive without a reservation and discover that there are no available slots for their chosen time. Buy your ticket online and pick a specific entry time.
Arriving on Monday — the museum is usually closed that day; check the current opening hours before you plan your visit. Crowds on Tuesdays — free admission on Tuesdays attracts many people, so choose another day if you want a peaceful experience.
Bringing large luggage — the museum doesn’t store big suitcases; leave luggage at your hotel or in a locker. Being unprepared for photography restrictions — remember the ban on flash and tripods.
The Lady with an Ermine is the only painting by Leonardo da Vinci in Poland — a rarity on the world stage and a source of pride for the collection. The Czartoryski holdings also include other masterpieces and the collection’s history is closely tied to Poland’s past and the story of noble private collections.
The museum offers virtual tour paths — versions with narration, sign language and audio description are available. Virtual tours are a great way to prepare for a visit or to view the exhibition remotely.
Can I enter without a ticket? Generally, entry requires a valid ticket or reservation. Without a reservation, entry may be impossible.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible? Some branches and rooms are accessible — the Arsenal and parts of the palace have lifts, and an accessible entrance is available. It’s recommended to notify museum staff about any needs in advance.
Are photos allowed? Photography for private use is usually allowed without flash or tripods. For commercial publication you must obtain the museum’s permission.
If this article helped you, share it with friends or on social media — you’ll make their planning easier and save them time. If you prefer to tour with a guide, consider the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — details and offerings are available on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com.
Wishing you a wonderful visit to the Czartoryski Museum — may your encounter with the Lady with an Ermine be one of the most memorable moments of your stay in Kraków.
