The Sukiennice (Cloth Hall) stands in the very heart of Kraków’s Main Market Square and for many visitors it’s a must-see. Inside the historic rooms is the National Museum in Kraków’s Gallery of 19th-Century Polish Art — one of the key places to see works by well-known Polish painters and sculptors from the late 18th and 19th centuries.
It’s a great spot if you enjoy historical, symbolic and realist painting — the collection includes works by artists such as Jan Matejko, Jacek Malczewski, Piotr Michałowski and Józef Chełmoński. The Sukiennice also have a long history as the city’s center of trade and meetings, so a visit combines art with the lively atmosphere of the city center.
The address and location are convenient for tourists: Main Market Square. After leaving the gallery you can immediately continue with a walk around the Square, visit St. Mary’s Basilica or head toward the Planty gardens.
The exhibition occupies several spacious rooms — each with its own character and selection of the most important works. In display cases and on the walls you’ll see different currents: from monumental historical paintings, through genre scenes, to symbolism and portraiture.
Look out for the recognisable titles and authors, but also take a moment with lesser-known pictures — those often surprise with details or the story of their creation.
The museum also programmes temporary exhibitions and conservation projects that complement the permanent collection. On some days there are thematic tours and family events.
Check current opening hours before you go: the gallery is sometimes closed on Mondays, and there are often days with free entry. Hours may change with the season or for special events, so it’s worth checking the museum’s information or calling ahead.
Typically 45–90 minutes are enough to see the permanent exhibition. If you plan to visit temporary shows or join a guided tour, allow more time.
Buying tickets online saves time and helps avoid queues, especially in high season. If you come with a group, check group booking rules and availability of guided visits.
Leaving the Sukiennice, the Main Market Square is right there — ideal for a stroll, photos and watching city life. Around you’ll find cafés, ice-cream shops and street performers.
If you want more art, plan visits to nearby museums and galleries. Wandering through the courtyards and side streets of the Old Town often reveals small galleries and craft shops.
For green space, walk along the Planty — a pleasant, short route that links the Market with other parts of the centre and offers shade and a quiet break from the crowds.
There are many options near the Market, but it’s worth choosing places with a good reputation. A few reliable choices include Wierzynek — an iconic, historic restaurant offering traditional Polish dishes in grand interiors — and Restauracja Szara, known for refined Polish and European cuisine in an elegant setting. Both are located on or very close to the Main Market Square.
If you prefer a more modern take on Polish cuisine, look for restaurants that focus on seasonal ingredients and local products. For a quick, tasty lunch, choose venues with a seasonal menu and local suppliers. Reserving a table at weekends is a good idea.
For families and those after a relaxed atmosphere, pick places with varied menus — many offer children’s dishes and vegetarian or gluten-free options. Avoid eating at the first tourist-facing place on the Square if you value authentic flavours and quality.
Some days are designated for free entry to permanent MNK exhibitions — check the museum’s current policy before your visit as this can help with budgeting.
Not everyone knows that the Sukiennice have been an important home for museum initiatives in Kraków for a long time — the gallery in these walls has a tradition going back to the 19th century, which adds historical depth to the visit.
Conservation work is sometimes carried out in the gallery on major paintings. Large canvases often stay in the museum for safety and conservation reasons, so seeing certain works in situ can be a special opportunity.
Arriving without checking opening hours — the museum may be closed on Mondays or have altered hours for events. Always check current announcements.
Assuming everything around the Market is expensive and low quality — while there are tourist traps, there are also excellent restaurants and cafés offering high standards. Choose places with good reviews and book when possible.
Allowing too little time for the exhibition — the display can surprise with its wealth of detail. If you love art, plan an extra 30–60 minutes for a slower visit.
Can I take photos in the gallery? Photography rules vary by exhibition and work — often photos without flash are allowed, but ask at the ticket desk or check the regulations.
Are there discounts or concession tickets? Museums usually offer reduced tickets for students, seniors and children; there are also occasional free-entry days — check current information before you come.
Is the gallery accessible for visitors with limited mobility? Most modern branches aim for accessibility, but conditions may differ. Contact the museum if you need detailed information or assistance.
If you want a comfortable visit tailored to your interests, consider booking a private guide. A guide can tell the stories behind the paintings, point out details that are easy to miss and plan an optimal route through the day.
This article is prepared for visitors to Kraków who want to experience both the city’s art and its flavours. If you enjoyed the text, share it with friends or on social media — it helps others plan a great trip.
If you’d like to tour with the private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz (Margaret Kasprowicz), you can find her contact on the guide’s website. I recommend using the experience of a local guide who knows the city and can tailor the program to your expectations.
