Did you know that in Krakow you can visit both the intimate interior of one of Poland’s greatest painters and a powerful, moving exhibition about life in the occupied city? Jan Matejko's House and Oskar Schindler's Enamel Factory (Schindler's Factory) offer two very different experiences—one small-scale and artistic, the other historically intense—and they make a great pairing for one full day of sightseeing. In this guide I’ll show you how to plan it efficiently, what to watch out for when buying tickets, and the most common mistakes visitors make.
Krakow is compact, so it’s easy to combine both sites on foot or by public transport. However, both attractions can get crowded, especially in high season. Choosing the right time slot will save you time and nerves.
Jan Matejko's House is a branch of the National Museum in Krakow (MNK) where visitors step into the almost private world of the artist: the studio, original interiors and a selection of works connected to Matejko’s art. The exhibition is intimate, and the number of simultaneous visitors may be limited, which makes for a calm visit rich in detail.
Opening hours and prices can change, but keep a few general rules in mind: the museum is usually closed on Mondays; on some Tuesdays there may be free entry to permanent exhibitions; for group visits or guided tours it’s best to reserve in advance. Ticket types typically include regular, reduced and family options. The museum also offers audioguides for a small fee and the option of visiting with a guide (additional fee for a guide).
Practical tip: check current opening hours and any renovation work in advance. If you plan to visit at a specific time with a guide, contact the museum by email or phone to reserve.
Schindler’s Factory is a branch of the Museum of Krakow devoted to the city’s experience during World War II. The display mixes documentary materials, multimedia storytelling and everyday objects to create a powerful, often emotional experience. The exhibition requires concentration—plan about 1 to 2 hours for the visit depending on your pace.
This is one of the city’s most popular sites, so the ticketing system is often strict: many days have time-sloted entries. On some occasions Mondays are reserved as days with free admission to the permanent exhibition, but those tickets are usually issued only at the ticket office on the day of the visit and in limited numbers. Rules do change from time to time—limits per-person and changes to where tickets are sold are possible—so check details before you go.
If you want to be sure of entry, buy a ticket in advance if online sales are available and choose quieter morning or late-afternoon slots. If the site is very busy, consider visiting other nearby areas first (Kazimierz, the Market Square) and coming to Schindler’s Factory outside peak hours.
Transport: Schindler’s Factory is in the Podgórze district (ul. Lipowa); it’s easy to reach by tram or bus. Jan Matejko's House is closer to the Old Town and the Main Market Square. A sensible plan is to start your day at Jan Matejko's House, then walk or take a short tram ride and visit Schindler’s Factory in the afternoon.
Visiting time: allow about 60–90 minutes for Jan Matejko's House and 90–120 minutes for Schindler’s Factory if you want to read labels and use multimedia. If you plan coffee or lunch breaks, add 1–2 hours to your schedule.
Accessibility: both sites state they provide facilities for visitors with mobility impairments (elevators, ramps), but some parts of the exhibitions may have limitations. If you need special arrangements, contact the museum staff ahead of your visit.
Near the Old Town and in Kazimierz you’ll find many well-liked places. A few tried-and-true options: Massolit Books & Cafe (bookshop and cafe, great for morning coffee), Cafe Camelot (a cosy spot by the Market), Hamsa in Kazimierz (highly-rated Middle Eastern cuisine) and the traditional tavern Pod Wawelem for classic Polish dishes. When choosing a place, check recent reviews and book a table for evenings in high season.
For accommodation, the best choice for a visitor who likes to walk is a hotel near the Old Town or in Kazimierz. Boutique hotels around the Market offer comfort and a location within walking distance of most attractions. If you’re driving, check parking availability in advance as central parking can be limited.
If you’d like tailored recommendations (vegan, family-friendly, budget options), I’d be happy to help pick places based on your preferences.
- Jan Matejko's House is not just a gallery — it’s a reconstructed home and studio that gives a personal glimpse into the artist’s life.
- Schindler’s Factory tells the story of Krakow during the war in a narrative, multimedia way — it is not simply a biography of Schindler but a broader account of the city’s community under occupation.
- In many Krakow museums (including some MNK branches) photography of permanent displays is allowed without flash, which makes it easier to document your visit — always check the rules on site.
These small details are often missed by visitors trying to tick off attractions quickly, but they add real value to the experience.
Assuming tickets are always available on site — this is risky, especially in high season. Fix: buy tickets online in advance or come outside peak hours.
Not checking current opening hours and free-admission days — some days (e.g., certain Tuesdays or Mondays) have special rules. Fix: check the museum’s page or call the ticket office before you go.
Underestimating time for multimedia and labels — historical exhibitions often take longer than expected. Fix: plan at least 90–120 minutes for Schindler’s Factory.
Not reserving a table at popular restaurants near the Old Town and Kazimierz — especially in the evening. Fix: book ahead.
Can I take photos? - In most cases photographing without flash is allowed, but some exhibitions or specific objects may have other restrictions. Always check at the ticket desk.
Is this museum suitable for children? - Schindler’s Factory deals with heavy historical topics and it’s recommended that children be of an appropriate age and prepared; some sites suggest age limits. Jan Matejko's House is generally more accessible for younger visitors because of its artistic and domestic appeal.
Do I have to book a guide? - Not always, but if you want deeper historical or artistic context, a guided visit is very valuable. Group visits from schools often require reservations.
How much do tickets cost? - Prices vary by branch and ticket type (regular, reduced, family). Museums also offer occasional free-entry days, but rules can be specific—check the regulations before your visit.
- Check current opening hours and any renovation work on museum pages or by phone.
- If you care about a specific time, buy tickets in advance or plan to arrive outside peak hours.
- Bring a phone charger — museum multimedia can drain batteries.
- Reserve a table if you plan to eat near the Market or in Kazimierz in the evening.
- If you need a guide or accessibility arrangements, contact the museum in advance.
If you need help planning a specific day—matching entry times to tickets or reserving a table at a good restaurant—I’m happy to assist. This article was prepared for visitors to Krakow to help make decisions and avoid common pitfalls.
If you found this useful, share it with friends or on social media. If you prefer to explore Krakow with a private guide, you can use the services of Małgorzata Kasprowicz — contact details are available on the guide’s website. Enjoy your visit and have a great time discovering Krakow!
