Cricoteka is more than exhibitions — it’s a living archive of Tadeusz Kantor’s work. At the Nadwiślańska site you’ll find costumes, props, drawings, manuscripts and documentation of Teatr Cricot 2 productions, while the preserved studio of the artist is shown at Sienna. This often surprises visitors, so it’s good to remember when planning your visit.
Learning the history and context of Kantor’s pieces greatly enriches the experience — take time to read the labels and allow more than a quick stop on your Kraków checklist.
Cricoteka’s main exhibitions are usually at Nadwiślańska 2–4; the Gallery–Studio of Tadeusz Kantor is at Sienna 7/5. Typical opening hours at Nadwiślańska are around 11:00–19:00, while the Sienna studio/gallery is open shorter hours — check the exact times before you go, as temporary exhibitions may have different schedules.
Visitors are typically admitted until about 15 minutes before closing, so allow some buffer time. Buying tickets online is a smart move on busy days and for special exhibitions.
You’ll see stage objects and costumes alongside archival materials: sketches, manuscripts, photographs and video recordings of performances. The displays blend theatrical and visual-art layers — Kantor was a multi-dimensional artist.
The Gallery–Studio at Sienna offers more than objects on display: it preserves the artist’s living space and personal equipment, giving a particularly intimate view of his working life.
Arriving without a ticket on peak days — avoid this by purchasing tickets in advance for major shows, to skip queues or sold-out sessions.
Rushing through the exhibition — many objects have narratives that unfold slowly; plan at least 1–2 hours for the main show, realistically 2 hours or more if you want to read catalogues and linger over details.
Not checking opening hours for different branches — the Nadwiślańska building and the Sienna Gallery–Studio may have different opening times; verify both before leaving your hotel.
Touching exhibits or using flash photography — many items need careful handling; always follow the exhibition rules and staff instructions.
Skipping temporary exhibitions — temporary shows often bring unique, one-off groups of objects; if you’re interested in Kantor, pay attention to them.
For families: some displays touch on themes of childhood and memory but can be intense. If you visit with younger children, plan shorter visits and breaks.
For researchers and archive users: the Archive Department has a reading room and provides access to collections by appointment. Contact them in advance so materials can be prepared.
Accessibility: if you need assistance (e.g., wheelchair access), check the museum’s information before your visit or ask when buying your ticket — many modern museum spaces in Kraków offer support, but it’s best to confirm ahead of time.
Kantor’s studio at Sienna has been preserved and opened to the public almost as he left it — an uncommon situation in Polish theatre museums.
From the start, Cricoteka was conceived not only as a museum but also as an archive, gallery and research center — this shapes the way objects are displayed and the character of the exhibitions.
Księgarnia–Lokator next to Cricoteka is a convenient spot for coffee and a short break; it also hosts cultural events and gatherings.
If you want to linger in the Podgórze neighbourhood, look for highly rated local cafés and restaurants around Nadwiślańska — the area offers pleasant places to relax after an intense museum visit.
How much time should I allow? Usually 1–2 hours for the main exhibition, but if you want to read materials and visit the Gallery–Studio, reserve 2–3 hours.
Can I take photos? In many cases photography without flash is allowed, but rules vary by exhibition — check the regulations on site.
Are guided tours available? Cricoteka runs guided tours and educational events — check the current programme before your visit.
Do I need to book the archive in advance? Yes — if you want to use the archival reading room or commission research, contact the Archive Department ahead of time.
When planning your visit remember: buy tickets in advance for popular shows, allow enough time, read the descriptions and let the exhibition’s narrative guide you. This is not a place to simply tick off an item on a list — immerse yourself in Kantor’s atmosphere and history.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with friends or on social media — we help visitors discover Kraków with more calm and awareness. If you’d like to visit Cricoteka with a private guide, you can book a tour with Małgorzata Kasprowicz — contact details are available on the guide’s page. Enjoy your visit!
