The Rynek Underground is one of those places in Krakow that can change the way you see the city: just a few metres below the modern Main Market Square lie layers of the former town, with some elements reaching back to the 11th century. Walking on glass walkways above the historic trade routes feels like passing over a market frozen in time, while modern multimedia brings scenes from the daily life of past inhabitants to life.
This blend of archaeology, museum storytelling and interactive scenography makes the visit engaging for adults and children alike. You’ll see real finds, reconstructions and audiovisual reconstructions that place Krakow in the wider context of medieval European trade.
The exhibition is designed to be both informative and visually attractive — expect atmospheric lighting, film sequences and hands-on displays that help the past feel immediate and tangible.
The entrance to the Rynek Underground is on the Main Market Square under the Cloth Hall (entrance on the side facing St. Mary’s Church / the Cloth Hall). The branch belongs to the Museum of Krakow, so the most reliable, up-to-date information is available through the Museum of Krakow’s ticketing system.
Typical opening hours (subject to seasonal change): Monday 10:00–19:00; Tuesday 10:00–15:00; Wednesday–Thursday 10:00–19:00; Friday–Sunday 10:00–20:00. Note: the museum is often closed on the second Monday of the month for organisation or conservation work, and the last admission is usually around 75 minutes before closing. Visitor centre contact: +48 12 426 50 60, info@muzeumkrakowa.pl.
If you plan to visit during the high season or at the weekend, consider buying a timed ticket in advance through the official ticketing system to avoid queues. On free Tuesdays the museum usually issues tickets at the ticket desk on the day only, so arrive early if you want a free entry slot.
Ticket types vary (regular, reduced, family, group) and there are sometimes combination tickets with other branches of the Museum of Krakow. Prices and available options change, so check the museum’s ticketing system before you buy.
If you plan to take advantage of free admission on Tuesdays, remember that free tickets are typically issued only at the ticket office on the day of the visit and places can be limited — arrive early. For larger groups (schools, tourist groups) check reservation rules and whether a guide is required.
For a smooth visit: choose a timed ticket, arrive 10–15 minutes before your entry time, and have ID ready if you’re using concessions or group rates.
The route leads above authentic remains of medieval streets and marketplaces. Rooms and display bases present archaeological finds, scale models, reconstructions and modern multimedia presentations showing daily life in old Krakow and how the Market Square changed over the centuries.
There are family zones for children — small museum activities, a mechanical puppet theatre and interactive panels that make history accessible and fun. Exhibits are arranged to combine learning with striking visual design.
Highlights include visible cellar walls and plots from different periods, everyday objects like pottery and coins, and immersive film scenes that place those finds in context.
The Rynek Underground is family-friendly: the route includes facilities such as toilets (including baby-changing tables) and dedicated spaces for young visitors. Many sources note that an elevator is available, which helps visitors with strollers and people with limited mobility.
If you’re visiting with small children, allow extra time — interactive elements invite lingering and the children’s areas can be attractions on their own.
Take comfortable shoes for the whole family and plan short breaks — the route is engaging but there are spots to pause and look closely at displays.
Thinking “I’ll arrive at the last minute” — in season and on weekends queues can be long and last admission is time-limited. Buy a ticket in advance or come earlier in the day.
Assuming you can reserve online for free Tuesdays — free-entry days usually follow different rules and tickets are often issued only at the ticket desk on the day of the visit; online reservations may not be available for that day.
Ignoring the rules and safety notices — the displays include fragile archaeological remains; do not touch exhibits, lean on barriers or ignore staff instructions.
The Rynek Underground pairs well with a walk across the Main Market Square (Cloth Hall, St. Mary’s Church, Town Hall Tower) and then on to Kazimierz — it’s a pleasant 10–20 minute walk depending on your pace. Kazimierz is full of atmospheric cafés, restaurants and bars where you can relax after the museum.
Recommended nearby places: Wierzynek (historic restaurant at the Market), Pod Aniołami (traditional Polish cuisine), and in Kazimierz try Starka, Hamsa, or Alchemia for coffee and evening atmosphere. Near the Market, Cafe Camelot is a popular spot. During the high season it’s a good idea to reserve tables in advance.
Combine the museum visit with a relaxed lunch or coffee break in Kazimierz to turn the day into a full, varied experience of Krakow’s history and contemporary life.
Do I need a guide? No — individual visits are possible, but a guide adds useful context and anecdotes. For larger groups there are reservation rules and limits on group size.
How much time should I allow? For an individual visit plan a minimum of 60–90 minutes; visitors interested in archaeology and history may stay longer.
Are there discounts? Yes — reduced and family tickets and group offers are usually available; check the ticketing details before purchase.
Under the Market you can see remains of streets and plots from different eras — these layers reveal parts of the city’s history that are rarely visible on the surface.
The exhibition combines real ruins with modern presentation techniques: projections, holographic-like effects and interactive screens help transport visitors to distant centuries.
The second Monday of the month is often used for conservation or organisational work, so the venue may be closed — it’s worth checking before you travel.
Come early, buy your ticket in advance if possible, wear comfortable shoes and bring a charged phone — there are many photo opportunities, but please respect rules about flash and touching exhibits.
If you enjoyed this guide and think it could help friends, share the article or tips on social media. If you’d like a guided visit, consider the private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — details are available on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. Enjoy your trip to Krakow and a fascinating descent beneath the Cloth Hall!
