The Polish Aviation Museum in Krakow operates different hours depending on the season. Autumn is when the schedule often shifts: September (end of summer) usually has the longest visiting hours, October is transitional, and from November the museum typically shortens opening times. When planning a visit keep in mind that ticket sales usually stop 45 minutes before closing.
In practice this means: extended hours in September (often until 18:00), a return to standard hours in October (around 9:00–17:00), and shorter hours from November through winter (for example 9:00–16:00).
Mondays are usually the museum’s closed day — plan your visit between Tuesday and Sunday.
Typical framework for the exhibition opening hours (these can change because of special events or museum decisions):
- warm months / summer (VI–IX): open later, often 9:00–18:00;
- transitional period (III–V and X): standard hours around 9:00–17:00;
- winter season (XI–II): shorter hours, e.g. 9:00–16:00.
Last ticket sales and final entry usually take place about 45 minutes before closing — so if you want to see the hangars and displays without rushing, arrive no later than 2 hours before the planned closing time.
Museums adapt their hours to visitor numbers and weather — in autumn days get shorter and tourism slows down, which leads to decisions to shorten opening times. Additionally the museum may hold events, school lessons or conservation work that temporarily limit access to parts of the displays.
If you plan to visit on a long weekend, during a temporary exhibition, or with a group, it’s a good idea to contact the ticket office or the museum secretariat in advance to confirm availability and any necessary reservations.
Buy your ticket in advance if possible, or come in the morning — the busiest time is midday to late afternoon, especially on weekends.
Remember the last entry time: ticket sales end about 45 minutes before closing. Don’t plan to start a visit only 30 minutes before closing.
Outdoor displays can be chilly in autumn — dress in layers. The hangars are usually dry and sheltered from wind, but for exhibits outside bring a jacket.
The museum offers both permanent and temporary exhibitions — if you’re interested in a specific show (for example a new exhibit on civil aviation), check ahead to see whether it’s open and whether there are extra film screenings or guided tours.
The museum presents a large collection of aircraft, gliders and engines — together there are hundreds of exhibits, and some displays cover thousands of square meters. It’s an excellent option not only for technology enthusiasts but also for families with children.
Highlights include an avenue of famous machines, thematic displays covering different eras, and exhibitions dedicated to civil and military aviation. The museum also hosts demonstrations and themed events — check the events calendar before you go.
A nice surprise: part of the collection has been assembled over decades, so you can see machines and engines that are rare elsewhere in Europe.
The museum is located at al. Jana Pawła II 39, 31-864 Kraków. You can reach it by public transport, taxi or car.
The museum declares accessibility for visitors with limited mobility — if you need special accommodations, report this in advance when making a group reservation or ask the museum secretariat.
School groups and organized groups often need reservations — contact the ticket office or reservations department to confirm the date and to arrange any guided tours.
If you plan a break after your visit, head to Krakow’s center where you’ll find many well-rated cafés and restaurants. A few tried-and-true suggestions: Cafe Camelot (a cozy café near the Old Town), Charlotte (a bakery and bistro with good coffee), Massolit Books & Cafe (perfect for book lovers and a relaxed atmosphere).
For the evening consider restaurants offering traditional Polish and regional dishes — places near the Main Market Square are a safe bet for hearty, tourist-friendly meals. Popular spots get busy in season, so reserving a table is a good idea.
Assuming the museum has the same hours year-round — always check the current seasonal schedule before visiting.
Arriving at the last minute — remember ticket sales end about 45 minutes before closing.
Not checking for special events — on event days some areas may be closed or reserved for participants, so take a look at the museum calendar.
Is the museum open on Mondays? Usually not — Monday is commonly a closed day for visitors.
Can I buy a ticket online? Museums often allow buying tickets online or at least publish prices and group booking information on their official site.
How much time do I need to visit? To see the permanent exhibitions and some temporary displays comfortably, plan for 1.5–3 hours depending on how deep you want to go into the details.
If you’d like to explore the Polish Aviation Museum with a guided tour tailored to your interests, consider the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — contact details and the offer are available at zwiedzaniekrakowa.com.
If you found this article helpful — share it with friends or on social media. Have a great visit and enjoy the skies above Krakow!
