If you’re looking for a place that blends European art, Polish history, and unforgettable cultural experiences, the Czartoryski Museum in Kraków should be at the top of your itinerary. 🏛️
Here you’ll find Leonardo da Vinci’s Lady with an Ermine – the only painting by the master artist in Poland – as well as an extraordinary collection assembled by the noble Czartoryski family since the late 18th century. Located right next to the Planty Park and Florian’s Gate, this museum is not just a treasure trove of masterpieces, but a story of Poland’s resilience and cultural identity.
A Brief History of the Czartoryski Museum 🕰️
From Temple of Memory to National Treasure
The roots of the museum go back to 1796, when Princess Izabela Czartoryska founded the first museum in Poland – the “Temple of the Sibyl” in Puławy. Her goal was to preserve Polish heritage during the time of partition and foreign rule.
In 1876, her son, Prince Władysław Czartoryski, relocated the collection to Kraków, laying the foundation for what is now the Czartoryski Museum.
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Key Moments in History
- 19th century: A permanent museum building was constructed at ul. Pijarska, and the collection was opened to the public.
- World War II: Many artifacts were looted or destroyed – including the Lady with an Ermine, which was taken by the Nazis.
- Postwar period: Some pieces were recovered, and the museum was reopened to the public.
- 21st century: After years of renovation, the museum reopened in 2019 as part of the National Museum in Kraków (MNK).
Why It Matters
This museum is more than just a collection of artwork – it’s a symbol of memory, resilience, and cultural pride. Thanks to the Czartoryski family’s passion and national preservation efforts, visitors today can admire rare treasures from Poland and across Europe.
Location and Map 🧭
📍 Address: ul. Pijarska 15, 31-015 Kraków
🌍 Google Maps: View Location
The museum is located in the very heart of Kraków, right next to the historic city walls and just a 5-minute walk from the Main Square (Rynek Główny) and 10 minutes from the Kraków Główny train station. It’s easily accessible on foot, by tram, bus, or bike.
Getting There and Parking 🚗
Public Transport
The nearest tram and bus stops include:
- Teatr Bagatela
- Plac Matejki
- Długa
If you’re arriving by train, the museum is only a short walk from Kraków Główny Station, making it perfect for a half-day visit even if you’re just passing through.
Parking Nearby
🅿️ The recommended parking is Stary Kleparz – a surface-level, paid parking area only a few minutes’ walk from the entrance: View Parking
Accessibility for Visitors with Disabilities
- Fully accessible entrance
- Wheelchair-friendly toilets
- Elevator access to upper floors
Opening Hours ⌚
- Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Closed on Mondays
The museum is open year-round. To avoid crowds, especially on weekends and holidays, consider visiting right after opening hours.
Ticket Prices 🎟️
- Regular ticket: 65 PLN
- Discounted (students, seniors): 50 PLN
- Family ticket: 130 PLN
- Group and combined MNK tickets also available
🎫 Tickets can be purchased online: https://mnk.pl
📱 Mobile tickets accepted
🆓 Free admission during special events such as Museum Night
📌 Reservations are not required but recommended for groups
Who Is It For? 🧑🤝🧑
The Czartoryski Museum is suitable for:
- Families with children
- Seniors
- Solo travelers and international tourists
- Visitors with disabilities (full accessibility)
- Parents with strollers
🎧 Audio guides and guided tours are available in multiple languages, including English.
📲 The MNK mobile app offers interactive navigation and detailed exhibit information.
What to See Inside the Czartoryski Museum 📸
The Lady with an Ermine – Star of the Collection
The museum’s crown jewel is the Lady with an Ermine by Leonardo da Vinci, one of only four surviving portraits of women by the artist. It portrays Cecilia Gallerani, the mistress of Ludovico Sforza, holding a white ermine.
This iconic Renaissance masterpiece, once looted by the Nazis, has returned to Kraków and is displayed in a specially secured, climate-controlled gallery. You can view it up close in a peaceful, well-lit setting.
Other Masterpieces and Historical Artifacts
- Rembrandt – Landscape with the Good Samaritan
- Paintings from the Italian, Dutch, French, and German schools
- Sculptures, icons, sacred art, royal documents, miniatures
- Polish national memorabilia – including Tadeusz Kościuszko’s hair, King Batory’s dagger, and royal letters
- Ancient treasures from Egypt, Greece, and Rome – including mummies, jewelry, ceramics, and sarcophagi fragments
All displays include Polish and English descriptions, and some offer QR codes for audio narration.
Three Buildings, Three Unique Experiences
The Czartoryski Museum is spread across three historical buildings, each offering a different perspective and collection.
Czartoryski Palace
📍 ul. św. Jana 17-19 / ul. Pijarska 15
This is the main museum building, where you’ll find Leonardo’s Lady with an Ermine and most of the classical artworks and Polish artifacts. Recently renovated, it features elegant neoclassical interiors and is the starting point for most visits.
Klasztorek
📍 ul. Pijarska 6
A smaller Gothic-style building that hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, and educational events. It’s a quiet and enriching place for those who wish to explore lesser-known but fascinating items from the collection.
Arsenal – Museum of Military History
📍 ul. Pijarska 8
Located near Kraków’s old city walls, this building showcases an impressive array of armor, swords, rifles, pistols, helmets, and shields from the Middle Ages to the 19th century.
This section is perfect for history enthusiasts and children, offering an exciting dive into Poland’s martial past. Admission is usually included with a general ticket.
Fascinating Stories and Legends 📚
The Lady with an Ermine – A Painting with a Dramatic Past
Leonardo da Vinci’s painting has a long and turbulent history:
- It was stolen by the Nazis during World War II and taken to Germany.
- After the war, it was recovered and returned to Poland.
- For many years, the painting traveled between museums before becoming part of the Polish national collection in 2016.
Today, it stands as one of Europe’s most valuable Renaissance artworks on public display.
Hidden Treasures with Mysterious Pasts
The museum houses rare personal items once owned by key figures in Polish history, such as:
- Tadeusz Kościuszko’s hair
- Royal letters and artifacts
- National memorabilia that were once thought lost but recently rediscovered
Some of these items have only recently been documented and made available to the public.
Photos and Multimedia 📷
- The museum interiors have been meticulously restored and are a joy to photograph – just remember, no flash allowed.
- Visit the official MNK website for a virtual tour and a high-quality photo gallery.
- Educational videos, behind-the-scenes stories, and live event coverage are frequently shared on the museum’s social media channels.
What’s Nearby? 🍽️
Where to Eat and Drink
There are many charming restaurants and cafés within a short walk:
- Café Camelot – romantic, artsy spot with fresh cakes and a cozy atmosphere
- Chimera – salad bar and vegetarian-friendly cuisine
- Galicyjska Restaurant – traditional Polish dishes served in a historical interior
Nearby Attractions
- Florian’s Gate and the Barbican – just 1 minute away
- Main Market Square (Rynek Główny) – 5 minutes’ walk
- Jan Matejko House – 2 minutes away
- Galeria Krakowska shopping mall & Kraków Main Station – 10 minutes’ walk
Extra Amenities
- Souvenir shops line Floriańska Street
- Public toilets are available near Planty Park
- Many hotels and Airbnb options are located within walking distance
Practical Visitor Tips 🔍
Best Time to Visit
Come in the morning, right at opening (10:00 AM), to enjoy the museum in a quiet, peaceful setting. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends.
Visit Duration
Most visitors spend 1 to 2 hours exploring the museum, depending on interest and pace.
Do You Need a Reservation?
Not for individuals, but groups of 10+ should book in advance.
Can You Take Photos?
Yes, but without flash.
Video recording is only allowed with prior permission.
Dress Code
No formal dress code, but it’s good to respect the museum environment:
- Speak quietly
- Avoid backpacks (they should be left in the cloakroom)
- Dress comfortably and modestly
Contact Information and Official Sources 🌐
📞 Phone: +48 12 370 54 60
🌐 Website: https://mnk.pl
🗺️ Google Maps: Czartoryski Museum Location
👍 Facebook: National Museum in Kraków
Looking for more unforgettable experiences in Kraków? 🎢
Just a short walk from the Czartoryski Museum you’ll find House of Attractions – Kraków’s #1 indoor entertainment venue for all ages.
Step into a world of 15 different attractions in one ticket:
interactive rooms, immersive labyrinths, mind-bending illusions, and high-energy VR zones – perfect for families, couples, groups, and travelers of all kinds.
🎟️ Located on the Royal Route, in the heart of Kraków’s Old Town – only a few minutes from the Main Square.
