The Market Underground is a multimedia exhibition located several meters below the surface that presents the remains of medieval Kraków uncovered during excavations in the first decade of the 21st century. The archaeological reserve includes sections of paved streets, remnants of market stalls, building remains and burials, and a rich set of everyday finds.
The exhibition combines authentic archaeological relics with modern media — projections, holograms and multimedia stations — which makes it easier to imagine life on the Market in past centuries.
Be aware that part of the exhibition is in semi-darkness and relies on recordings and projections. This is great for visitors who enjoy quiet, reflective visits, but it can be tiring for children who are afraid of dark spaces or for people who are very sensitive to changes in light levels.
A visit to the Underground usually takes about 60–75 minutes; during that time you will see parts of the archaeological reserve, display cases with artifacts, reconstructions and multimedia stations that bring the Market’s history closer.
The exposed area of the reserve and exhibition is estimated at several thousand square metres (various descriptions mention figures around 3,400–4,000 m²), giving the impression of a large underground “cross-section” of the former city.
The museum offers regular, reduced and family tickets. Group tours and reservations are also possible — if in doubt, it’s best to confirm details and the current price list directly with the museum staff.
Benefits for introverts and families seeking quiet — the Underground is a more subdued space than the surface Market: lower noise levels, a slower pace of visiting, many details to observe and muted multimedia narratives.
Limitations — the exhibition is partly dark and uses lighting and sound effects; sensory-sensitive people and very young children may feel uncomfortable. Consider whether short sequences with recordings or projections might be stressful for some family members.
Accessibility — descriptions of the site mention the possibility of moving around with a stroller and facilities for people with disabilities, but specific conditions and logistical details are best confirmed in advance with the museum staff.
1) Start at the Market Underground — choose a morning slot at opening or early afternoon on a weekday, when surface crowds are smaller. Visiting underground gives a chance to observe exhibits calmly without having to push through people.
2) After you come up to the surface, walk along the Planty towards the Philharmonic — the Planty contain quiet, green stretches, especially in less-touristed sections. It’s a good spot to rest on a bench and have a small snack away from the Market’s noise.
3) If you want to get further from the bustle, turn towards the Wały Rudawy or head in the direction of Salwator — the embankments by the Rudawa offer a longer walk near the water and are usually less crowded than the centre.
4) Alternative — Park Bednarskiego in Podgórze or parts of the Wolski Forest if you want to feel more nature. Both locations are often oases of calm within the city and work well for families who want some space for children.
5) Finish the route at a local café off the main tourist trail — pick a cozy spot where you can sit quietly and sum up the day.
- Tickets and discounts: the museum offers regular, reduced and family tickets; there are also city cards and family discount programs. Sunday is sometimes a free-entry day for some museum branches, so check the rules before your visit.
- Reservations: if you plan to visit as a group or want a guided tour, contact the museum staff and book a time in advance.
- Visit length: plan about an hour for the underground exhibition; allow extra time for getting there, resting and walking on the Planty or in a nearby park.
- Child-friendly facilities: the Underground’s description mentions zones and activities for children — if you travel with small kids, ask about child zones or educational activities.
- Strollers and accessibility: although descriptions mention the possibility of using a stroller, some paths in the reserve may be uneven — if you’re visiting with a young child in a stroller, double-check entrance and exit routes in advance.
- Sensory comfort: bring a light extra layer for the cooler underground temperature, consider noise-reducing headphones for sensitive visitors and plan a shorter visit if someone tires quickly.
The Market Underground operates as a branch of the Museum of Kraków. When planning your visit it’s a good idea to check current opening hours, ticket prices and entry rules directly with the organiser.
Visitor Service Centre contact: phone +48 12 426 50 60; e-mail for reservations and information: info@muzeumkrakowa.pl.
If a quiet, intimate experience matters to you — choose weekdays and earlier times, and consider combining the underground visit with a relaxing walk through the city’s greener, less crowded areas.
- Check opening hours and ticket availability; reserve in advance if you plan a guided tour.
- Bring a light extra layer — it can be cooler underground.
- Plan a route back to a green area of the city (Planty, Wały Rudawy, Park Bednarskiego) to rest after the visit.
- If a family member is sensory-sensitive, prepare a shortened-visit plan and identify an alternative quiet resting spot.
- Bring drinks and snacks for kids — a break outdoors after the visit greatly improves the whole group’s comfort.
