Kraków in 2 days — how to see the city and what to know about Pomorska Street (tickets, discounts, museum-free alternatives)

Kraków in 2 days — how to see the city and what to know about Pomorska Street (tickets, discounts, museum-free alternatives)
Private Tour Guide in Krakow - Margaret Kasprowicz

Margaret Kasprowicz

Is it realistic to see Kraków in 2 days and visit Pomorska Street?

Yes — two days in Kraków are enough to catch the city’s atmosphere and see the main highlights. If you want to visit a memorial site connected with World War II, plan a visit to the branch of the Museum of Kraków called "Pomorska Street" (ul. Pomorska 2). It’s one of those places that leaves a strong impression: the building preserves the cells of the former prison, and the permanent exhibition tells the stories of Kraków residents during the terror years 1939–1956. I’ve also prepared "no-museum" alternatives for those who prefer strolling, discovering cafés and bars, or exploring Nowa Huta and the Vistula boulevards.

Practical facts about Pomorska Street — address, hours, tickets and discounts

Where: ul. Pomorska 2, 30-039 Kraków. It’s a branch of the Museum of Kraków and a key stop on the Memory Route (together with the Pharmacy Under the Eagle and Oskar Schindler’s Factory).

Hours: the branch is usually open Wednesday–Sunday, roughly 10:00–17:00; last admission is typically 30 minutes before closing. Always check current opening times before your visit.

Prices (approximate — check updates before you go): regular ticket around 20 PLN, reduced around 15 PLN, family ticket around 40 PLN; there are also group rates and discounts associated with specific cards (for example Large Family Card, Kraków Card). Certain special categories (holders of specific IDs) may receive further reductions; the full list of eligible reduced-ticket categories is available from the museum.

Contact/organization: museums of this type often encourage advance reservation or online ticket purchase — especially if you plan a guided visit or want to avoid queues. Branch email (as listed locally): pomorska@mhk.pl.

2-day plan — museum version (for those who want to see Pomorska Street in person)

Day 1 – Old Town and Kazimierz: start at the Main Market Square (a short visit to St. Mary’s Church or a morning panorama from the tower), stroll the Planty and the narrow streets toward Wawel. In the afternoon head to Kazimierz: synagogues, atmospheric cafés and sites connected with Jewish history. In the evening enjoy dinner at one of the city’s well-rated restaurants.

Day 2 – Pomorska Street and memory sites: in the morning visit the Museum of Kraków branch "Pomorska Street" (ul. Pomorska 2) — allow about 60–90 minutes for the exhibition and the preserved cells. Later in the day you can visit the Pharmacy Under the Eagle and Schindler’s Factory if you want the full wartime narrative, or walk around Podgórze and along the Vistula. If you prefer a short trip outside the centre — Kościuszko Mound or the Vistula Boulevards are great for an afternoon of relaxation.

2-day plan — no-museum version (for visitors who prefer a walking pace and local flavors)

Day 1 – Old Town and the Planty: a long walk through the Main Market Square, the Cloth Hall, with a coffee stop at a cozy café (for example Massolit Books & Café or Cafe Camelot). Then a short break by the hanging gardens on the Vistula and dinner at a well-rated restaurant.

Day 2 – Kazimierz and Podgórze without entries: start at the market hall (if open), wander the streets of Kazimierz, have lunch at a popular local spot, then take an afternoon stroll to Kościuszko Mound or the Vistula Boulevards, finishing with sunset at the Bernatka Footbridge. This option is slow-paced, full of local tastes and photo opportunities.

Where to eat and where to stay — tried-and-true, highly rated places

Cafés and breakfasts: Massolit Books & Café (Kazimierz) is a great pick for book and coffee lovers; Cafe Camelot in the Old Town offers a cosy interior and classic cakes.

Recommended restaurants: Zazie Bistro (Kazimierz) — good quality and pleasant atmosphere; Pod Wawelem (near Wawel) — traditional Polish cuisine and hearty portions that tourists often praise. If you’re looking for plant-based or modern cuisine, pick restaurants with up-to-date reviews (it’s smart to check ratings before booking).

Accommodation: choose a central location (Old Town, Kazimierz or near the Main Railway Station) — you’ll save time on commuting. Hotels and well-rated apartments in these neighbourhoods are convenient for a 48-hour stay.

Practical tips, common mistakes and how to avoid them

Buy tickets for popular attractions in advance — especially on weekends. Schindler’s Factory and some permanent exhibitions can fill up.

Check opening hours before you go — the Pomorska Street branch has seasonal hours; last entry is usually 30 minutes before closing.

Mistake to avoid: trying to "see everything" in 2 days. It’s better to choose 4–6 highlights and enjoy them slowly than to rush from A to Z.

Transport: trams and walking are the best ways to get around the centre; taxis and rideshares work too, but traffic can be heavy during peak hours.

FAQ — quick answers to common questions

How long does it take to visit Pomorska Street? Usually 60–90 minutes is enough for the permanent exhibition and the cells; if you want extra talks or to attend an event, allow more time.

Who qualifies for reduced tickets? Museums offer reduced fares for pupils, students, seniors and other eligible groups; some discounts are available via cards (for example Large Family Card, Kraków Card). Exact criteria are published by the museum.

Is Pomorska Street accessible for visitors with limited mobility? It is a memorial site with historical interiors — some areas may have steps or narrow passages; if accessibility is critical, contact the branch before your visit.

Can the Memory Route be seen on foot? Yes — Pomorska Street, the Pharmacy Under the Eagle and Schindler’s Factory form a coherent narrative and can be linked on foot, though you should consider each site’s opening hours when planning.

A few surprising facts and final tips

For many Kraków residents the name "Pomorska" became a local symbol of memory — for years it was synonymous with wartime terror; today the site serves an educational role and stands as a monument to the victims.

If you want to see the city from a different perspective, choose the morning — Kraków is quieter then, and cafés and markets are in full swing.

Finally — if this article helped you, share it with friends or on social media. If you prefer to explore with a guide, I recommend the private guiding services of Małgorzata Kasprowicz — contact details and more information are available on the guide’s website. Have a great trip and enjoy discovering Kraków!

Extra practical notes (short checklist before you go)

Carry a small umbrella or light rain jacket — the weather can change quickly.

Comfortable shoes are a must — many streets in the Old Town and Kazimierz are cobbled.

Cash and card — most places accept cards, but smaller kiosks and market stalls may prefer cash.

If visiting memorial sites, be respectful of the atmosphere; photography rules may apply in some areas.

Local favorites mentioned in the article - quick reference

Pomorska Street branch of the Museum of Kraków - ul. Pomorska 2

Massolit Books & Café - Felicjanek 4 (Kazimierz)

Cafe Camelot - Św. Tomasza (Old Town)

Zazie Bistro - Józefa 34 (Kazimierz)

Pod Wawelem - near Wawel