The Stained Glass Museum in Krakow is not only an exhibition of works — it is a working studio where stained glass for churches and secular spaces has been created since the early 20th century. Visiting the museum is interwoven with watching the creative process: the workshop, tools and laid-out pieces of glass stand next to historic exhibits, creating a very authentic story about the craft.
For visitors this means you will see not only finished compositions but also stages of work: cutting glass, grinding, soldering and assembly. It’s a great opportunity to better understand the technique and the time needed to make a single stained-glass window.
The museum is located at al. Zygmunta Krasińskiego 23. It’s a few minutes’ walk from the Planty and within easy reach of the Old Town, so it’s simple to combine a visit with other attractions.
Visits are possible only with a guide. In practice the museum runs tours at set times for individual visitors and accepts reservations for groups. A standard tour lasts about 45–60 minutes, and the minimum number of people to start a group is usually 2.
Opening hours can change seasonally and on holidays, so it’s always a good idea to check current times on the museum’s official site or call before you come. Booking online gives extra assurance of a place at your chosen time.
If you care about a specific time or are coming with a larger group, reserve in advance — by phone or via the museum’s booking form. The museum also offers stained-glass workshops and classes for children, which often have limited places.
Ticket prices vary depending on the language of the tour (Polish/English), participants’ ages and workshop options. When budgeting, consider the museum shop for handmade souvenirs.
If you’re visiting with a larger group or with children, check the offer of Saturday mornings and family activities — these are often the best way to engage younger visitors in stained glass.
The walk usually begins in the exhibition area, where historic stained glass, sketches and photographs documenting commissions and the workshop’s projects are displayed. The guide then leads visitors through the studio, where you can see tools and the stages of making a piece in the craftsmen’s natural environment.
In many rooms you’ll see stained glass in progress — laid out on easels, prepared elements and construction fragments. These moments give a true picture of the workshop and are often the most memorable for visitors.
Not booking in advance — many visitors assume they can buy a ticket on the spot. That works if there are free spots, but it’s safer to reserve online or call, especially on weekends and holidays.
Arriving late — because tours follow a schedule, significant lateness can mean losing your place; plan your travel time and arrive a few minutes early.
Assuming everything will be arranged like in a traditional museum — the Stained Glass Museum is an active workshop. Be cautious and do not touch tools or elements without the guide’s permission.
Using flash and large tripods without asking — many spaces are small or sensitive to light; before photographing ask the guide if flash or a tripod is allowed.
Ignoring the weather — stained glass looks best in natural light. To see the full range of colors, pick a sunny day and an appropriate time (morning or early afternoon, depending on the window orientation).
The museum runs special activities for children and Saturday mornings that combine a short tour with hands-on art workshops. This is an excellent option if you travel with kids aged about 5–12.
For little ones plan breaks — there is a café at the museum where parents can rest and children can browse small souvenirs. When booking, mention you’re coming with children so the guide can adapt the presentation.
If you’re visiting with a stroller or someone with limited mobility, contact the museum in advance. Some interiors have thresholds or narrow passages; staff are happy to suggest the most convenient solutions.
Comfortable shoes and layered clothing — parts of the visit may take place in cooler workshop rooms, and moving across historic steps or thresholds calls for comfortable footwear.
A camera or smartphone for photos, but first ask the guide about photography rules. Flash and tripods may not always be allowed.
Cash or card for souvenirs and coffee — the museum shop offers handmade items and stained-glass jewelry, and the café is a nice spot for a short rest after the tour.
After the visit it’s worth heading for coffee or a meal at recommended spots in central Krakow. A few tried-and-true choices: Cafe Camelot (picturesque interior, central location), Charlotte (breads and breakfasts), Mleczarnia on Kazimierz (pleasant atmosphere).
For dinner consider well-known places: Wierzynek (historic interiors and traditional cuisine) and Pod Aniołami (Polish food in an old-style setting). Reserving a table for the evening is often recommended.
If you’re looking for accommodation nearby, consider hotels with good reviews and easy access to the Old Town: Hotel Stary, Radisson Blu or Sheraton. All are well-rated and make walking sightseeing convenient.
The studio at al. Krasińskiego has been operating since the early 20th century and completed many commissions for both churches and secular interiors. Stained glass made here can be found in various locations around the city, so visiting the museum helps you notice their traces across Krakow.
In some cases stained glass results from collaboration between an artist and a craftsman — projects by well-known creators were realized in this workshop, connecting art with skilled execution.
Can you enter without a guide? Visits are organized only with a guide — it’s part of the concept of a "living museum".
How long is the tour? Usually about 45–60 minutes, though it may run slightly longer if there are many questions or during workshops.
Is the museum stroller-friendly? Accessibility can be limited due to the historic interiors. It’s best to call before your visit to get detailed information and possible guidance.
Are there workshops and activities for children? Yes — the museum organizes workshops and special children’s mornings (advance booking required).
How do I check current hours and buy a ticket? The most reliable way is the museum’s official website or by phone/email; online booking guarantees your place.
The Stained Glass Museum is close to the Planty and the Old Town, so after your visit you can plan a walk through charming streets, visit the Main Market Square or take a short trip to Kazimierz. If you enjoy sacred art, you can plan a route to see stained glass in several Krakow churches — ask the guide for suggestions about the most interesting locations.
When planning your city route remember time for walking and breaks for coffee or lunch — don’t rush; stained glass is best seen carefully and in natural light.
If you want your visit to the Stained Glass Museum to be special and personalized, plan ahead and consider combining the tour with a short workshop. It’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression — especially when you see a piece of glass turn into a colorful story.
If you liked this article — share it with friends or on social profiles so more people learn how to visit mindfully and without stress. If you’d like a Krakow tour led by a guide who knows the city and tells its stories with passion, consider the guided services of Małgorzata Kasprowicz. Contact details and offer information are available at zwiedzaniekrakowa.com.
