Leonardo da Vinci’s Lady with an Ermine is one of those works that draws visitors from around the world — even if you’re not an art buff, the portrait has a magnetic quality. The museum where it is sometimes shown is close to the Old Town, so it’s easy to pair a visit with a longer walk through Kazimierz — the historic, atmospheric district full of cafés, galleries and charming side streets.
You can plan a morning at the museum and spend the afternoon exploring Kazimierz: ul. Szeroka, Plac Nowy, the synagogues and the city murals create a route full of contrasts between history and contemporary urban life. It’s a great combination for families, couples and solo travelers.
The museum is housed in a historic palace in central Kraków. Besides the famous painting you’ll find a selection of European painting, historical memorabilia and small masterpieces of applied arts. Keep in mind that one ticket often grants access to several related museum exhibitions — a good option if you plan to stay in the city for a few days.
The interiors are stylish and usually well prepared to show the most valuable works; in some rooms photography and touching exhibits are restricted.
The museum offers various ticket types: regular, reduced, family and special entries for youth. In practice, reduced tickets are intended for entitled groups (e.g., students, pensioners) and can be attractively priced — remember to bring a document that proves your entitlement. There is often a symbolic fee for younger visitors in a specific age range.
Also consider that museums sometimes run promotions: free-entry days (for example certain Tuesdays) or combined tickets valid for a set period. If you want to save time and nerves, buy a timed ticket online — you’ll avoid queues. Keep in mind that prices and concession rules can change, so it’s wise to check current information before you travel.
Bring any documents that entitle you to a discount (student ID, senior card, Large Family Card, etc.). The cloakroom can be limited in space and doesn’t always accommodate large luggage — it’s better to come with a small backpack or bag. Large suitcases can be a problem.
The last admission is usually 30–40 minutes before closing — if you have little time, arrive earlier. During busy periods (weekends, holidays, free-entry days) the museum can be crowded, so the best times for a quiet visit are weekday mornings or late afternoons outside the high season.
If you need accessibility arrangements (a stroller, assistance from a companion), contact the museum staff in advance — some branches have facilities but solutions differ between locations.
If you want to feel the atmosphere of Kazimierz without paying museum entrance fees, plan a several-hour walk: start on ul. Szeroka, visit Plac Nowy (famous for its cone and snack stalls), stroll along Józefa Street, and peek into quieter side streets with murals and small galleries.
It’s worth seeing the synagogues in Kazimierz and the Remuh Cemetery — many places tell the story of the city’s Jewish community. Along the way, take a coffee break at a friendly spot like Massolit Books & Cafe, and in the evening choose one of the recommended restaurants: Starka (Polish cuisine) or Hamsa (Middle Eastern cuisine) — both are well liked and capture Kazimierz’s atmosphere.
Plac Nowy is also a great spot for street food — if you want to try local snacks, that’s where the neighborhood’s most lively food scene is found.
Assuming the “Lady” will always be on display — paintings are sometimes loaned to exhibitions outside Kraków. If you’re coming specifically for a single work, check before you travel whether it is on show.
Failing to check opening hours and ticket rules — museums change prices and opening times, so it’s better to confirm details a day or two before your visit.
Arriving with large luggage or big backpacks — you may be refused entry to the exhibition rooms. Leave larger items at a luggage storage facility or at your hotel.
9:30 - arrive in the centre, short walk across the Main Market Square.
10:00 - visit the museum (buy an online timed ticket).
12:00 - lunch in Kazimierz (Starka or Hamsa).
13:30 - walk along ul. Szeroka, visit Plac Nowy, the synagogues and galleries.
16:00 - coffee break at Massolit or another recommended café.
Evening - dinner, a jazz concert or a peaceful walk along the Vistula embankment.
Are there free-entry days? - Some days and special events (for example selected Tuesdays) can be free, but these days are typically very busy.
Can I take a photo of the “Lady with an Ermine”? - In some rooms photography may be restricted; always follow staff instructions and posted signs.
Does a ticket to the museum include other branches? - There are combined tickets and time-limited passes that allow visits to several branches — a cost-effective choice if you intend to see multiple National Museum locations.
- The Lady with an Ermine in Poland is rare — its presence in Kraków makes the museum one of the city’s most visited spots.
- Sometimes a ticket to this exhibition acts like a key to smaller, interesting museum branches in the city that tourists who only chase the “big hits” often miss.
- Kazimierz changes mood in the evening — from a historical, tranquil place by day it becomes lively at night, with good food and live music.
If you liked this guide, share it with friends or on social media — you’ll help others plan a great stay in Kraków. If you’d like to explore Kazimierz and the museums accompanied by an experienced guide, I invite you to book a private tour with Małgorzata Kasprowicz (Margaret Kasprowicz) — contact details are available on the site. Wishing you a wonderful walk, delicious coffee and an unforgettable meeting with the Lady with an Ermine!
