Krakow is a city where history and art meet at almost every step — from the grand halls of the National Museum to the archaeological layers hidden beneath the Main Market Square. If you’re visiting in 2025 and wondering “what to do in Krakow,” adding a few museums to your itinerary is a great idea: you’ll not only see famous works and temporary shows, but often come across free events, lectures or free-admission days that can significantly ease a trip’s budget.
Start by noting that some institutions use timed tickets for special exhibitions — especially large shows at the National Museum — so when planning a day, check online availability. Equally important: some places are interactive and appeal to families with children, while others are best visited when you have more time and quiet to appreciate the details. This guide will help you balance those choices and shows how to take advantage of free or cheaper options without surprises.
Before you buy your first ticket: check the specific branch’s website, because ticket policies differ between institutions and change seasonally. Many city museums publish clear price lists and offer online purchase, and some run days when permanent exhibitions are available for free. For example, one of the most popular city displays beneath the Main Market Square maintains a standard ticket price (full and reduced fares and family options) while also sometimes opening exhibitions free of charge on selected days of the week — check the current schedule before your trip.
Large, blockbuster exhibitions at the National Museum often have presale tickets with entry at a specific hour — this shortens queues but also means slots can sell out days in advance. If your time in the city is limited, buy a timed ticket online and arrive 10–15 minutes early.
City-wide events like the Night of Museums (usually in May) are often partly free, but many institutions issue free tickets or charge a symbolic fee; some attractions during that evening require registration or time-slot tickets — treat the Night of Museums as a fantastic opportunity, but plan it ahead of time.
The Market Square Underground is one of Krakow’s most tangible museums: a walk through successive archaeological layers lets you feel how daily life, architecture and trade here changed over the centuries. In the underground displays you’ll see remains of townhouses, fragments of walls, burials and elements of pre‑city buildings.
The exhibition is well set up for tourist flow: the route is marked, descriptions are clear and multimedia elements are used; facilities such as restrooms and accessibility solutions (lifts/ramps) are available. Still, remember you’re underground: it can be cooler and more humid, so bring a light layer.
In practice: if you want to save time, look for combined tickets with other city museum branches — these are often good value if you plan to visit several sites in a short period.
The National Museum in Krakow is a network of branches and exhibitions — from permanent painting galleries to themed temporary shows. In 2025 the institution continues to stage large special exhibitions that often require timed tickets. That means fewer queues inside, but you must reserve in advance, especially on weekends and during the tourist season.
If you’re interested in a particular exhibition (for example, a monographic show of a well‑known artist or objects that attract collectors), check online ticketing rules and any available discounts. The museum also runs lectures, guided tours and themed mornings — some events are paid, some free, so browse the museum calendar before you travel.
For budget-minded visitors: from time to time museums offer free-entry days for permanent exhibitions; there are also promotions for holders of family cards or local discount programs.
Not everything in Krakow must cost a lot. Beyond museums that have open days or reduced fares, there are many free or very cheap options: strolls around the Market Square and the Planty, visits to many churches (some cathedral and church entries are free; only special exhibits or tower climbs may be charged), walks through Kazimierz, and attending seasonal city cultural events.
Also: follow local event calendars and the city website — one-off initiatives, family days, outdoor concerts and workshops often appear and are free or very low-cost. The Night of Museums and the International Museum Day are two moments when the cultural offer becomes especially accessible.
After a few hours in museums it’s great to sit somewhere with atmosphere and good food. In the Old Town and Kazimierz you’ll find many well-rated cafés and restaurants — choose places with good reviews and short queues or reserve a table before an afternoon of sightseeing.
A few practical tips: pick a café close to the museum you plan to visit if your time is limited; in the evening head to places that accept reservations, especially at weekends; and if you want to try local cuisine, look for places recommended by residents rather than only those right on the Market Square.
Assuming everything is “open all the time” — that’s a mistake. Many institutions change hours on religious and national holidays. Before you head out, check specific opening times and notices about closures or breaks between exhibition changes.
Confusing a “free day” with free access to everything — some museums offer free entry only to permanent displays or only at specific branches. Always read the terms of the offer and ask staff if something is unclear.
Not buying timed tickets for popular exhibitions — this leads to standing in queues or finding no availability. Book online when possible, especially for special exhibitions and during the tourist season.
Are there discounts and concession cards? Yes — many institutions accept reduced‑fare cards, family cards and local discount programs; check whether your card entitles you to a cheaper ticket.
Can I enter with a stroller or wheelchair? Many main branches have lifts and adapted restrooms; however, in historic townhouses infrastructure can be limited — contact the information line or check the museum’s description in advance.
How can I see the most for the least? Combine tickets and pick weekdays when permanent exhibitions are free; look for combined tickets and use local city cards if you plan to visit many attractions.
If you want to escape the crowds, visit museums early in the morning or in the late afternoon — many people sightsee between 11:00 and 15:00. Some galleries also organize morning tours for seniors and special themed entries that are less busy.
Museums sometimes offer short, free talks or meetings related to an exhibition — a great chance to understand the context without extra cost. Check the branch calendar before your visit.
If this article helped you, share it with friends or on social media — recommendations save time and money, especially when someone is planning their first day in Krakow.
And if you prefer to explore with someone who knows the city and its secrets, consider booking a private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — details are available on the guide’s website. This makes the visit more tailored to your interests and pace.
