The Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) is more than a symbol of Kraków’s Main Market Square — it is also home to the Gallery of 19th‑Century Polish Art, one of the most important branches of the National Museum in Kraków. On the first floor of this historic building you’ll find a representative cross‑section of 19th‑century Polish painting and sculpture, while the building itself has a fascinating history dating back to the Middle Ages. It’s a place where you can combine admiration of historic architecture with access to high‑quality art.
Located in the heart of the city at Main Market Square 3, the Cloth Hall is easy to combine with other nearby attractions: St. Mary’s Basilica, the Adam Mickiewicz Monument, and a stroll through the winding streets of the Old Town. It’s also a great spot for a short break in one of the cafés nearby after your gallery visit.
As a general rule the Cloth Hall museum is closed on Mondays. From Tuesday to Sunday the galleries are most often open around 10:00 to 18:00. The last visitors are usually admitted about 20 minutes before closing time.
Keep in mind that the museum’s hours can sometimes change due to special events, conservation work, or public holidays — so it’s a good idea to check the official information or the ticket desk before you go.
The National Museum also designates certain days and hours with different rules (for example, free admission days for permanent exhibitions). These days are convenient for visitors on a budget, but they can also be busier.
You can buy tickets at the box office on site, but the museum also sells tickets online — we recommend buying tickets in advance, especially during the tourist season and at weekends, to avoid queues.
There are different ticket categories: full price, reduced, family tickets, and special rates for young people. From time to time the museum offers promotions and free admission days for permanent exhibitions — check conditions before purchasing.
If you plan to visit with a larger group or would like a guided group visit, it’s worth contacting the museum in advance to reserve a time slot.
If you prefer a quieter visit, choose early mornings on weekdays (right at opening) or late afternoons on non‑weekend days. Crowds are usually largest around midday and on weekends.
Tuesdays are often days with free entry to permanent exhibitions — a great chance to save money, but expect more visitors.
Remember the museum’s baggage and conduct rules: leave large backpacks in the cloakroom if possible; behave quietly inside and do not touch the exhibits. Photography rules may vary by room — always check the regulations or ask staff on site.
The Cloth Hall sits in the very centre, so the easiest way to get there is on foot or by tram. The nearest tram and bus stops serve the Market Square and nearby streets. If you arrive by car, be aware that paid parking zones operate around the Main Market Square and spaces are limited — it’s often better to park in a lot outside the strict city centre and walk in.
After your visit, it’s worth stopping for coffee or a meal nearby. Well‑rated places close to the Cloth Hall include Cafe Camelot (a cosy café), Szara (a restaurant on the Market Square), and the charming cafés on the Small Market Square — choose places with good reviews if you want to try local cuisine.
If you plan to stay overnight, hotels or apartments within the Old Town are the most convenient options — you’ll have most attractions within easy walking distance.
Over the centuries the Cloth Hall has served many functions — from a marketplace to a venue for official ceremonies. It’s not only a gallery but also a symbol of the city’s historical continuity.
A common mistake is trying to cram everything into a single day — visiting museums, churches, and many other sights at a frantic pace quickly becomes tiring. It’s better to plan a calmer itinerary with breaks for coffee.
Another frequent oversight is not checking opening hours before leaving — the museum is typically closed on Mondays, and hours may change on event days. Check opening times and exhibition availability before you go.
Are the Cloth Hall galleries open on Mondays? No — the museum is usually closed on Mondays. Check ahead, as exceptions can occur.
How long does a visit take? A typical visit to the permanent exhibition usually takes between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours, depending on your pace and interests.
Are there discounts and free admission days? The museum offers reduced and family tickets and occasionally free entry to permanent exhibitions on designated days — check before your visit.
Can I take photos? Photography rules vary by room and exhibition — ask staff or consult the on‑site regulations before photographing.
When is the last admission? Last entry is usually allowed about 20 minutes before closing.
Planning your visit to the Cloth Hall is easy if you remember a few things: check the current opening hours, consider buying tickets online, leave large baggage in the cloakroom, and choose a time outside peak hours if you prefer peace and quiet. Visiting the Gallery of 19th‑Century Polish Art is a wonderful way to discover Polish 19th‑century art in one of Kraków’s most beautiful locations.
If you found this article helpful — share it with friends or on social media. If you’d like a personalised tour of Kraków with commentary tailored to your interests, you can book a private guiding service with Małgorzata Kasprowicz. More information and contact details are available at zwiedzaniekrakowa.com.
