Did you know that the Sukiennice are one of Europe’s oldest "shopping centres", combining commerce with a representative civic function for centuries? This is a place that in one moment gives you the feel of a medieval market and Renaissance elegance, while at the same time buzzing with modern tourist and cultural life. This text will help you quickly understand what the Sukiennice are and how best to visit them.
The Sukiennice is a long, rectangular building standing in the middle of Kraków’s Main Market Square, known as a symbol of the city and one of its most photographed sights. The name comes from the Polish word for cloth — this was once where fabrics and textile goods were sold. Over time the trade function evolved, but the building retained its role as a meeting place, a market for souvenirs and handicrafts, and a venue for exhibitions and cultural events.
The ground floor hosts rows of small stalls and booths selling souvenirs, handmade goods and keepsakes; for many years the upper floor has housed a branch of the National Museum with a collection of 19th‑century Polish art. Under the Sukiennice there is also the entrance to the Rynek Underground (Podziemia Rynku), an archaeological and exhibition space beneath the Market Square.
The history of the Sukiennice goes back to the Middle Ages — early stalls and open‑air booths gradually developed into a unified trading hall. After a fire in the mid‑16th century the building was rebuilt in a Renaissance style, and in the late 19th century it underwent a major restoration that gave it the grand appearance you see today. In 1879 the rooms on the upper floor became one of the first homes of the National Museum in Kraków. Over the centuries the Sukiennice also served representative functions — balls and civic ceremonies were held here, and the halls received important guests and delegations.
Walking through the Sukiennice arcades you’ll find rows of stalls selling souvenirs, handicrafts, jewellery and small gifts. It’s a convenient spot to buy a magnet, pottery, amber jewellery or a souvenir t‑shirt — but keep in mind prices inside the Sukiennice are sometimes higher than in the side streets.
In the passageways between the halls you’ll notice small historical curiosities and local legends that often attract visitors’ attention, for example an old iron knife connected with one of Kraków’s tales. Also look up at the attic and the exterior decorations — beautiful examples of Renaissance detail.
If you want to take a break with a view of the Market, check whether the terrace café is open or try one of the nearby cafés — it’s a pleasant spot to rest during your sightseeing.
The upper floor of the Sukiennice houses a branch of the National Museum with a collection of 19th‑century painting and sculpture. It’s a great place if you’re interested in Polish art of that period — the collection includes works by important artists and shows the development of art from Romanticism to the beginnings of modernism.
The museum normally follows the institution’s standard rules — it is usually closed on Mondays and open other days at set hours. There are sometimes free admission days or special actions (for example certain weekdays), so it’s worth checking current information before you visit.
Remember that the Main Market gets busy in peak months and hours — if you prefer a quieter visit, come early in the morning or shortly after opening.
Access to the ground floor (the passage and stalls) is free, while entry to the museum exhibitions upstairs requires a ticket. Ticket prices and opening hours change seasonally, so check the museum’s official information before your visit.
If you plan to visit several museums in Kraków, look into discounts, family tickets or combined offers. Organized groups usually book in advance, so consider reserving tickets online to avoid queues.
The Sukiennice are centrally located on the Main Market Square, so public transport connections are simple — trams and buses stop nearby, and most sightseeing around the Market is on foot. Visitors with reduced mobility should check accessibility details and contact museum staff if needed, because some historic areas include stairs or narrow passages.
The most common mistake is treating the Sukiennice only as a "souvenir market". The building has museum and historical value too — take a moment to go upstairs and see the exhibition if you enjoy art.
Avoid buying the first souvenir you see: prices in the most prominent places on the Market are usually higher. If you want to save money, explore side streets or small local craft shops.
Be mindful of crowds in the warm months and on weekends — if you want nice photos without people, visit early in the morning or shortly before closing. Also take simple precautions against pickpockets: keep your bag in front of you or use a money pouch for important documents.
You’ll find traditional souvenirs, amber jewellery, pottery, textiles and handmade crafts. If you’re looking for authentic products, ask about certificates or provenance (for example for genuine amber).
Good souvenirs include handmade items from local creators, pottery from independent studios and carefully made leather goods. If you want an art‑related keepsake, consider buying a museum catalogue or postcards reproducing works from the exhibition.
Remember: bargaining at fixed stalls is often limited — vendors usually have set prices, but in some places you can try to negotiate a discount for larger purchases.
If you want to soak up Kraków’s atmosphere over coffee or a meal, there are several well‑known places right by the Sukiennice. Café Noworolski, located in the Sukiennice arcades, is a classic — its historic interior and atmosphere make it worth a short stop.
Nearby you’ll also find restaurants with long traditions serving Polish and European cuisine. If you’re looking for a formal meal in a historic setting, check highly rated restaurants around the Main Market Square and consider reserving a table during the high season.
For lighter snacks and bakery items try the many artisanal bakeries and cafés on the nearby squares — you’ll find a place to rest no matter which direction you leave the Sukiennice.
The Sukiennice are not the only "cloth halls" in Poland — the term describes a historical type of market hall, but Kraków’s Sukiennice have become a symbol and one of the most recognisable examples of this building type.
Over the centuries the Sukiennice have served many functions: from a cloth market to representative balls and even the first seat of the National Museum. Their appearance changed repeatedly through restorations and reconstructions.
In the passageways and corners you can still find local legends and small historical relics that add colour to the place and often spark visitors’ curiosity.
Is entrance to the Sukiennice paid? The ground floor and stalls are free to enter; access to the museum exhibitions upstairs requires a ticket.
How much time should I spend? A quick walk through the stalls takes 20–40 minutes; a museum visit can take from 45 minutes to several hours depending on your interest in art.
Can I take photos? Generally you can photograph on the ground floor without issue; photography rules in the upstairs museum (especially with flash) may be restricted — follow posted signs and staff instructions.
Are the Sukiennice wheelchair accessible? Due to the historic layout some areas may be difficult for wheelchair users — contact museum staff in advance to confirm access and available assistance.
If you’re planning to explore Kraków, give the Sukiennice a moment of your time — both the ground‑floor market atmosphere and the upper‑floor museum collection are worth seeing. It’s best to come early, wear comfortable shoes and allow a little extra time to enjoy the surroundings of the Main Market Square.
If you’d like to learn more details, stories and anecdotes about the Sukiennice, I invite you to read other articles on this site and share this guide with friends. If you dream of touring with a private guide, I recommend the services of Małgorzata Kasprowicz — you can find more information and contact details on ZwiedzanieKrakowa.com.
If you found this guide useful — share it on social media or send it to friends planning a visit to Kraków!
