The Sukiennice (Cloth Hall) are not only a symbol of the Main Market Square but also the original and one of the most famous seats of the National Museum in Krakow. The 19th‑century Polish Art Gallery presents representative works of Polish painting and applied arts, so many suggested routes begin here — its central location makes it easy to walk to other MNK branches, and a visit provides an excellent historical and artistic backdrop for further discoveries.
Starting your museum day at the Sukiennice saves time on logistics — after you leave you can easily walk to the Main Building (Gmach Główny), the Czartoryski Museum, Jan Matejko’s House or the Arsenal. If you plan an intensive museum day, the Sukiennice are a natural starting point.
Main Building (al. 3 Maja) – a short walk from the Market Square. In the Main Building you will find applied arts collections and temporary exhibitions; allow 1–2 hours here.
Czartoryski Museum and the Arsenal (Pijarska Street) – a complex close to the Market Square with collections of great historical and artistic importance. Frequently visited for its famous paintings and rich holdings; plan at least one hour for the Czartoryski collection.
Jan Matejko’s House (Floriańska Street) – a biographical museum near the Sukiennice, an excellent complement for those interested in the artist’s life and studio. A shorter but rewarding visit takes about 30–60 minutes.
The Arsenal and other thematic MNK branches (e.g., Józef Mehoffer’s House, Szołayski Tenement, Wyspiański Museum) – tailor your route to your interests. Some branches require longer travel or advance booking, so check locations and opening rules before you set off.
Half‑day route (2–3 hours): start at the Sukiennice (1–1.5 hours), then a short walk to Jan Matejko’s House (30–45 minutes) and finish with a quick visit to the Main Building (45–60 minutes). Ideal when time is limited but you want representative collections and the Old Town atmosphere.
Full‑day route (5–7 hours): begin in the Sukiennice in the morning, then walk to the Czartoryski Museum and the Arsenal where you can spend 1–2 hours. After a lunch break, visit the Main Building and add one smaller branch (for example the Szołayski Tenement or Mehoffer’s House). For this plan it’s smart to book tickets online and schedule a coffee or lunch break in the area.
Art‑lover’s option: instead of rushing, dedicate a full day to one or two branches — a deep dive into the Wyspiański or Mehoffer collections offers a very different perspective than quickly passing through many locations.
You can buy tickets for the Sukiennice and other branches online on the National Museum in Krakow website. Buying in advance helps avoid queues, especially in high season and at weekends.
Tuesday is usually the free entry day for MNK’s permanent exhibitions, but not all temporary or special exhibitions are free — always check the specific exhibition details before your visit.
MNK offers passes and multi‑entry options; if you plan to visit several branches over a few days, a pass may be cost‑effective. Compare ticket prices: some branches have lower rates than the Sukiennice, while permanent displays in the Sukiennice or special exhibitions can be more expensive.
The Sukiennice offer audio guides in several languages — renting one is a convenient option if you prefer to explore at your own pace. Audio guides are paid; check the current rental price at the ticket desk or online.
The museum also runs guided tours led by official MNK staff — a great choice if you want reliable contextual storytelling, anecdotes and the chance to ask questions. Note that guided tour fees apply and entry tickets must be purchased separately.
If you prefer a personal guided tour tailored to your interests and pace, consider contacting private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz. Małgorzata can help plan your route, handle reservations and logistics, and lead visits to museums and other interesting places in Krakow.
Most MNK branches in central Krakow are within a short walking distance of the Main Market Square. Walking from the Sukiennice to the Main Building or Pijarska takes about 5–15 minutes depending on your pace and route.
When planning a day of visits, schedule breaks — museum cafes and nearby eateries around the Promenade and side streets will give you time to rest and recharge. On hot days bring water and wear comfortable shoes.
If you want to visit branches outside the very center (for example the Atma Villa in Zakopane – Karol Szymanowski Museum), allow for transport time. Not all branches are within an easy walk from the Sukiennice.
Inside the Sukiennice there is a small café called Cafe Szal, good for a quick cake and coffee. Around the Market Square I recommend tried‑and‑trusted spots: Cafe Camelot (a cozy café), Restaurant Wierzynek (historic — reservations are advised), and several restaurants serving modern Polish and international cuisine.
For something lighter, you’ll find good pierogi restaurants and places with regional snacks near the Square. During peak hours a reservation for lunch can be helpful, especially on weekends.
MNK information points and staff across branches can help with accessibility and questions about temporary exhibitions. The Sukiennice has a cloakroom and a museum shop; the last visitors are usually admitted about 20 minutes before closing time.
Common tourist mistakes to avoid: underestimating how much time you need (trying to see too much too quickly), not checking opening hours and closed days (museums are often closed on Mondays), and not booking tickets in advance for popular exhibitions. Plan your route with time to spare and buy tickets ahead to avoid disappointment.
Photography of exhibits in permanent displays is typically allowed without additional lighting or tripods, but check the rules of each branch before taking photos.
Is everything free on Tuesdays? On Tuesdays there is usually free entry to MNK permanent exhibitions, but temporary and special exhibitions may still charge admission. Always check current information before you go.
How much time should I allow for the Sukiennice? A standard visit takes 1–1.5 hours, but lovers of 19th‑century painting may want to stay longer.
Do I need to book a guided tour? Group tours organized by the Museum require booking and payment according to museum rates. If you prefer a personal guide who will also help with logistics and reservations, contact Małgorzata Kasprowicz.
The Sukiennice terrace is often missed by quick tours, yet it offers a unique perspective over the Main Market Square and the towers of St. Mary’s Basilica — include it in your route for a panoramic view.
Museum shops at the branches sell more than souvenirs: you can often find carefully selected catalogues and reproductions that make useful inspiration before visiting other branches.
Leave flexibility in your plan — if you encounter an interesting temporary exhibition, it’s usually better to spend more time there than to rush on to the next location.
If you would like someone to plan the route for you, handle ticket and table reservations and lead a tour tailored to your interests, contact private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz. Małgorzata can also assist with accommodation and restaurant bookings and will show you museums and lesser‑known spots around Krakow.
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