Polonia Wax Museum is a commercial wax-figure museum located in the heart of Krakow on Floriańska Street, close to the Main Market Square. It's easy to pop in during a walk around the Old Town — the collection includes historical figures, pop-culture stars, sports personalities and fictional characters, and the exhibition is regularly updated and expanded.
The venue has a light, entertainment-oriented tone: you can laugh, reflect or simply take an unusual photo. Treat the visit as a short, family-friendly attraction that fits well into a long-weekend program, especially if you want to add variety to your walk around the Market Square.
The exhibition contains several dozen realistic (and some less realistic) figures — from well-known historical personalities to pop-culture heroes. The display focuses on entertainment: themed sets, photo opportunities and playful scenography. Don’t expect the exacting standards of the largest world wax galleries — detail quality varies, which for many visitors is part of the fun.
A typical visit lasts about 45–90 minutes, depending on how many photos you take and how much time you spend reading or listening to short descriptions. The museum is popular with families and tourists looking for a short, offbeat attraction near the Market Square.
Address: Floriańska Street (near the Main Market Square) — easy to find while walking the Old Town. Opening hours change seasonally, but the museum is usually open for much of the day — often from morning/late morning until the evening; weekend hours are sometimes extended. It's a good idea to check current opening times before you go.
Ticket prices follow commercial rates — there are regular and reduced tickets, and promotions or group discounts may be available. For long weekends consider buying tickets online or by phone to avoid queues and to take advantage of possible promotions.
If you need specific accessibility arrangements (e.g. stroller access or mobility assistance), contact the museum staff ahead of your visit to confirm available facilities.
Long weekends bring more tourists — early mornings and late evenings usually offer a calmer experience with fewer crowds. If you also plan to visit Wawel, the Cloth Hall and nearby museums, map out a one-day Old Town walk and use Polonia Wax Museum as a light interlude between the classic sights.
If you're visiting with family, leave room for coffee and a dessert at a nearby café — recommended spots around the Market include Camelot, Słodki Wnetzl and the historic Jama Michalika. After the museum, consider finishing the day with dinner at one of the well-known Market Square restaurants, such as Szara or Wierzynek, if you want a more formal ending to the day.
Children often react with enthusiasm — photo opportunities with cartoon or book characters tend to be a hit. The exhibition encourages interactive photos, so bring comfortable clothes and have your phone or camera ready.
Photography is usually allowed; follow the museum rules on site (for example, avoid using flash if staff request it). For little ones, plan short breaks and snacks — the museum visit is often just one part of an intensive day in the city center.
Expecting a professional, museum-level exhibition on the scale of Madame Tussauds — this is a frequent mismatch in expectations. Polonia Wax Museum is commercial and entertainment-focused; go with that mindset instead of comparing it directly to the world’s largest galleries.
Arriving at the busiest time (mid-afternoon on a long weekend) — queues can form then. Tip: choose morning or late-afternoon hours and buy tickets online if that option exists.
Not checking current opening hours and promotions — commercial attractions often change hours and prices seasonally; confirm them before you leave.
The museum often appears in memes and viral videos — many visitors enjoy the quirky looks of some figures and share their reactions online. For some, that alone is a reason to go and see them in person.
Because the exhibition is updated and items sometimes move between branches, you might see new or unusual figures you didn't expect — this makes a return visit potentially interesting.
Around the Market you’ll find a wide choice of places — from cozy cafés to restaurants recommended in guides. Nearby options mentioned by visitors include Camelot (atmospheric café near the Old Town), Słodki Wnetzl (traditional patisserie on the Market) and Jama Michalika (a historic café).
For dinner or a more formal meal consider Market Square restaurants such as Szara (high-quality cuisine) or Wierzynek (historic atmosphere). Reserving a table for a long weekend is a good idea.
Do I need to reserve tickets in advance? Not always, but during a long weekend booking online or checking availability beforehand will help you avoid queues and sometimes secure promotions.
How long does a visit take? Typically 45–90 minutes, depending on your pace, the number of photos and interest in the exhibits.
Is it a good choice for children? Yes — it’s an entertaining attraction that appeals to families, although some figures may look unusual and provoke adults’ smiles.
Can I take photos? Usually yes — however, respect the museum’s on-site rules (for example, no flash if requested).
Is there anything educational? The display includes some historical elements, but the emphasis is on presentation and entertainment rather than an in-depth educational exhibition.
If you’re looking for a short, funny and offbeat attraction in the very center of Krakow, Polonia Wax Museum can be an enjoyable break during a long weekend. Approach the visit with a sense of humor and enjoy spotting the figures that make you smile or raise an eyebrow.
After your visit: walk around the Market, stop for coffee at a local café and optionally enjoy dinner at one of the well-regarded restaurants. If you prefer to explore Krakow with a trusted local, tour guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz offers private tours of Krakow — you can find contact details on her guide website.
If you found this text helpful, share it with friends or on social media — you’ll help others plan a great long weekend in Krakow!
