You arrive in Kraków and wonder: what must you see, is it worth going to Schindler's Factory, how do you buy tickets for the Rynek Underground, and where should you eat after sightseeing? This article answers those questions clearly and in a friendly tone — no unnecessary formality, just practical tips and ideas for tasty breaks between attractions.
To start: yes, it’s worth visiting both Schindler’s Factory and the Rynek Underground. They are two different experiences: one is a moving historical story, the other reveals the medieval and archaeological roots of the city. Between or after them, try local flavours — pierogi, zapiekanki, obwarzanki and a good coffee while soaking up the atmosphere of Kraków’s streets. Let’s go step by step.
A practical rule: book tickets in advance, especially in high season. There are also occasional free-admission days — more on that below.
You’ll also find short recommendations for restaurants and quick bites near the Market Square and in Kazimierz.
Now — let’s start with Schindler’s Factory.
Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory is a branch of the city’s museum that tells the story of Kraków between 1939 and 1945. The exhibition is firmly rooted in historical fact and shows everyday life, the occupation and the fates of the city’s residents, including Kraków’s Jewish community at that time. The display makes an impact — it uses photos, documents, objects and multimedia to present difficult topics in an understandable and moving way.
It’s worth visiting if you are interested in World War II history seen from the city’s perspective, but be prepared emotionally — the exhibition covers hard material and may not be suitable for very young children. For adults and older teens it’s an important and valuable experience.
Allow about 1.5–2 hours for the visit — enough time to read the panels and view the installations at a relaxed pace.
The museum is located on Lipowa Street — check the exact address in your navigation. It’s easy to reach by tram or a walk from the centre.
Practical note: the museum often limits admissions, so tickets sell out quickly on weekends and in season.
Booking online is the safest option: buying tickets in advance saves time and guarantees entry in your chosen time slot. If you happen to visit on a free-admission Monday (check current practice), remember that tickets available at the ticket office can be limited and queues may form.
Opening hours vary by season and public holidays, so check the museum’s official information before you go. Entry is often organised in time slots — arrive a few minutes early because late admission can be restricted.
Ticket prices depend on the type (regular, reduced, family) — plan for this to be a paid attraction, though museums sometimes offer free-entry days. If you want a deeper commentary, consider an audio guide or guided tour (check availability online).
For visitors with limited mobility the museum is usually adapted (elevator, facilities), but it’s best to confirm details in advance.
Small tip: wear comfortable shoes and allow time for reflection — this is a place that leaves an impression.
The Rynek Underground is a museum beneath the surface of the Main Market Square that shows Kraków’s development from the Middle Ages: paving fragments, old objects, models, reconstructions and multimedia presentations that reveal trade and city life from centuries past. It’s a great attraction if you enjoy archaeology and want to understand where today’s Market Square comes from.
The visit combines interactive elements and scenography that help you feel the atmosphere of past centuries. It’s also family-friendly: there are educational zones for children and multimedia attractions that engage younger visitors.
The time you need depends on the route you choose — the basic route takes about 1–1.5 hours; a fuller visit can take 2–3 hours.
The entrance is near the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice); it’s easy to combine a visit with a walk around the Market Square and a stop at St. Mary’s Basilica.
It’s a good idea to go earlier in the day rather than in the late afternoon, as the museum is often popular in the evening.
The Underground usually operates on a timed-entry schedule. There are occasional free days (often on Tuesdays) — a great option if your plans are flexible, but expect bigger crowds on free days.
Regular and reduced tickets are available; there are family and group rates too. Buying tickets online reduces the risk of long waits at the entrance. Ticket desks are typically near the Cloth Hall entrance; check the entry description before you go.
The museum is adapted for visitors with various needs, has educational zones for children and usually allows photography without flash — rules can vary for special temporary exhibitions.
Plan at least an hour for a quick visit; if you like to read the panels and study the displays, allow more time.
If you combine the visit with time on the Market Square, remember there may be baggage size limits and cloakroom rules.
Kraków is excellent for a culinary adventure: from traditional pierogi houses, through milk bars, to modern bistros. Here’s a short guide to types of places and when to pick them:
- Pierogi houses — perfect for a classic, hearty meal. You’ll find traditional options (cheese-and-potato, meat) and creative seasonal fillings.
- Zapiekanki and street food — quick and cheap, ideal for an evening stroll; very popular at Plac Nowy in Kazimierz.
- Cafés and patisseries — a coffee-and-cake break in a cosy interior in the centre is a must.
- Milk bars (bar mleczny) — try simple, home-style dishes at low prices; a slice of authentic Polish everyday cuisine.
- Restaurants with regional or modern cuisine — for a special meal, choose a well-reviewed restaurant and reserve a table.
Around the Market Square and nearby streets you’ll find options for every budget and taste.
Traditional pierogi place — order a plate of classic pierogi (cheese-and-potato, meat) and try a seasonal special; great for colder days.
Modern pierogi spot — for experimental fillings like goat cheese, beetroot or chef’s creations.
Plac Nowy (Kazimierz) — here zapiekanki and street food rule; perfect for an informal evening meal with live street music and a relaxed atmosphere.
Obwarzanki at the Market — a quick, local snack; buy one to go and wander the Old Town.
Café with cake — ideal for an afternoon pause between attractions; pick a place with good espresso and seasonal desserts.
Milk bar — try homemade soups, cutlets and pancakes without overspending; traditional, simple and filling.
Remember: in tourist season the best places near the Market can be full — if you have a particular restaurant in mind, it’s worth booking ahead.
Morning: start at Schindler’s Factory — the quiet morning hours help you concentrate and move through the exhibition calmly.
Late morning / lunch: head back toward the Market Square for pierogi or a quick traditional lunch in a milk bar.
Afternoon: descend into the Rynek Underground — learn about the city’s medieval roots and view archaeological finds. After the Underground, walk through the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) and consider a rooftop terrace for views if available.
Evening: Plac Nowy in Kazimierz for a zapiekanka or dinner in one of the atmospheric restaurants — a great way to finish the day.
This plan is flexible — swap the order depending on ticket availability and your pace.
Check opening hours and ticket rules on the museums’ official sites before you leave — hours can change on holidays and off-season.
Book tickets online where possible — especially important on weekends and in the summer season.
Allow time for rest and coffee — Kraków has many cosy cafés that are a real pleasure after intensive sightseeing.
To avoid crowds, visit outside peak afternoon hours and on weekdays when you can.
Wear comfortable shoes — walking on cobbles and in underground spaces calls for comfort.
Most importantly: give yourself a moment to enjoy the city. Kraków is not only attractions but also atmosphere — the smell of coffee and conversations at outdoor tables. Enjoy your meal and have a wonderful visit!
