Jan Matejko's House is not a typical gallery with large paintings on white walls, but an authentic, living record of the life of one of Poland’s most important 19th-century painters. It’s worth coming here to see not only the artist’s personal belongings and studio, but also his collection of props — armor, textiles and other objects Matejko collected and used as inspiration for his works. This place gives a better sense of the creative process than a conventional painting exhibition. If you’re interested in art history or want to feel the atmosphere of the artist’s former home, a visit is a must.
The house often hosts educational sessions and workshops, so it’s also a great option for children and young people — the exhibition has a biographical and educational character and can easily connect with school curricula.
A small surprise: the Matejko collection contains items that may seem unexpected today — militaria, costume elements from different eras and even tools once used as props. This reminds visitors that the artist’s collecting had practical, stage-like uses for his compositions.
Jan Matejko’s House is located at Floriańska 41, in the very heart of the Old Town — a perfect spot to combine your visit with a walk to the Main Market Square or a short coffee break.
The museum is usually open Tuesday 10:00–18:00 and Wednesday–Sunday 10:00–16:00; it is closed on Mondays. Keep in mind that the last visitors are admitted roughly 20 minutes before closing time.
Before your planned visit check the museum’s latest news — branches sometimes close for conservation work or renovations, so it’s wise to confirm the day before your trip.
The basic price list at Jan Matejko’s House typically includes a normal ticket of 18 PLN and a reduced ticket of 14 PLN; a family ticket is also available (one combined lower price for a specified number of people).
There is a special concession for youth — school-age and student visitors (according to museum rules) may pay a very low fee or a symbolic ticket (in some age categories the fee can be 1 PLN).
Ask at the ticket desk about exact concession rules — entitlements vary (for example pupils, students, pensioners) and family ticket conditions may include age limits for children or a maximum number of people.
Tickets can be purchased at the ticket desk on site or in advance online — if you plan to visit as a group or at a specific time, booking can save time. The museum provides a phone number and email address for reservations and visitor information.
If you’re hoping for free entry, remember: Tuesday is sometimes a free-admission day for permanent exhibitions in many museum institutions — check this with the museum before you come, because rules about free days can change.
Arrive on time — last admission is limited, and for larger groups the time allowed for visiting may be shortened by organizational regulations.
Jan Matejko’s House lies close to the Main Market Square, so after your visit you can easily walk to the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), St. Mary’s Basilica or the Planty park. It’s a great spot for a short art-and-history loop.
If you’re looking for reliable nearby places to eat, consider Kraków classics in the Old Town — Restaurant Wierzynek (historic, elegant) or popular bakery-cafés like Charlotte (great for breakfast and pastries). These options are well-liked by visitors and are within an easy walk from Floriańska.
After touring the house I recommend a short coffee break at a local café to watch street life — Floriańska offers many atmospheric spots, from small coffee shops to restaurants serving regional dishes.
Arriving on a Monday — the house is usually closed then. Always check opening hours on the museum’s official page before planning your route.
Not checking concession eligibility — bring documents that prove your entitlement to a discount (student card, pupil ID, pension ID), otherwise you may be charged the full price.
Expecting a large painting gallery — Jan Matejko’s House is primarily a biographical exhibition and historic interiors, not a venue for viewing huge monumental canvases. If you were hoping for a classical gallery experience, plan an additional museum stop.
Matejko was not only a painter but also an avid collector. In his home you’ll find objects that today look like stage props but originally had practical or decorative uses.
In certain years the National Museum runs workshops and educational series at the Matejko House aimed at families and schools — it’s a good place for short, active activities for children.
Remember that final admission happens before closing time, so even if the museum is open for another hour, the last chance to enter may come much earlier.
Are there discounts for youth and families? Yes — the museum offers several concession categories (including family tickets and age-related discounts). When buying a ticket, have a document confirming your right to a reduced price.
Can you book a group visit? Yes — group reservations and further information are handled by the museum’s reservation center; school groups sometimes have earlier time slots.
How do I contact the museum? The museum provides a phone number and email for reservations and branch information — check the museum’s current contact details before your visit.
If you’re planning a walk around the Old Town, Jan Matejko’s House is a small but detail-rich stop that brings you closer to the life and workshop of one of Poland’s greatest creators. Share this guide with friends or on social media if you think it will help them.
If you prefer a guided visit and want to learn more anecdotes about Matejko and the context of his work, consider a tour with Małgorzata Kasprowicz — guided tours and contact details are available on her guide page.
