Krzysztofory Palace is a branch of the Museum of Krakow located at Main Market Square 35 — keep in mind that opening hours can vary depending on the exhibition and the season. As a rule of thumb, plan to visit during daytime (most often between 10:00 and 19:00), and always check current hours and entry rules before you go. The Visitor Service Centre at the Market lists opening times and sells tickets — that’s where you’ll find the most up-to-date information. “Last admission” is often 45–60 minutes before the exhibition closes, so arrive earlier if you want a relaxed visit.
The Museum of Krakow Visitor Service Centre (Main Market Square 35) handles ticket sales and information. Typical box office and information point hours are often given as Monday–Sunday 10:00–19:00, but individual exhibitions may have their own schedules and opening days. Before you visit, check the current exhibition timetable and ticket availability — schedules change during high season and around special events.
If you plan to come with a group, book a workshop or request school visits or guided tours, contact the Visitor Service Centre in advance. High season and holidays can mean limited entry slots and the need to reserve a time.
Not all exhibitions operate on the same schedule. Temporary shows, educational projects or special exhibitions sometimes have separate opening hours and their own free-entry days. Occasionally a given exhibition will have a designated “free day” — this is a great way to visit without a ticket, but you should check the rules in advance and be prepared for possible queueing or reservation requirements.
During holidays or city events opening hours may change — before Easter, Christmas or long holiday weekends the museum often publishes special notices about opening hours. Check the museum’s news before your planned visit.
To avoid crowds, choose early morning just after opening or late afternoon on weekdays. Weekends and afternoons in the tourist season are usually the busiest.
Allow at least 45–60 minutes to comfortably see the permanent exhibition; plan more time for themed exhibitions or if you use an audio guide. Remember the “last admission” rule — if an exhibition closes at 18:00, admissions may be accepted only until 17:15–17:30.
On very hot or rainy days the museum can be a pleasant alternative to outdoor walking — plan short breaks for coffee and rest during a longer visit.
Krzysztofory Palace offers accessibility features: some floors have an elevator, there is a ramp at the entrance, and the building includes a parent-and-child room with a changing table. The site is family-friendly and has been recognized for its family-oriented offer.
If you plan to visit with a stroller, check the suggested visitor route in advance — some parts of the exhibition may require a short set of steps or following designated paths. The museum also runs educational activities and children’s programmes that often require seat reservations.
The Main Market Square and nearby streets offer many places to rest and eat after your visit: well-known cafés and restaurants close to the palace include Café Camelot (a cozy café with character), Cafe Noworolski (historic café with the atmosphere of the Cloth Hall), and Wierzynek (a restaurant with a long tradition), plus several local bars and bistros with good reputations. Popular places fill up quickly, especially in season, so consider making a reservation or arriving earlier.
If you want a quick bite or local flavours, explore the small cafés and eateries around the Market — they are convenient before you continue sightseeing in Krakow.
Not checking current hours before leaving — exhibition schedules and holiday hours can change. Always check the Museum of Krakow’s updates before your visit.
Confusing box office hours with exhibition hours — the ticket office and exhibition opening times can differ; remember the last-admission rule.
Failing to reserve for larger groups or workshops — if you come with a school group or plan an organised workshop, reserve your time well in advance.
Can I buy tickets online? Yes — the museum offers ticket sales and reservation information through its official sales channels.
How long does a visit take? You can see the permanent exhibition at a relaxed pace in 45–60 minutes; allow more than an hour if you want to explore temporary exhibitions in detail.
Is the museum family-friendly? Yes — the venue offers facilities for parents with young children, including a changing room, elevator and an entrance ramp.
Are there days with free entry? Some exhibitions may have free-entry days; these apply to selected shows and are announced by the museum — check current notices.
Want to visit with a guide? If you’d like a private guided visit in Krakow and professional support during your time at Krzysztofory Palace, consider booking with the local guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz - you can find contact details on her guide page.
Before you go to Krzysztofory Palace: check the current opening hours, reserve your ticket if needed, and choose the best time to visit. Krzysztofory Palace is a perfect stop at the Market — either for a short visit or for a longer, calm exploration of Krakow’s history.
If this guide helped you plan your visit, share it with friends or on social media. And if you’d like to explore with a local guide, consider Małgorzata Kasprowicz’s tours. Enjoy your stay in Krakow!
