Krakow’s Main Market Square is not only about the Town Hall Tower, the Cloth Hall and the horse-drawn carriages. Beneath its lively surface lies a hidden world that tells the fascinating story of the city’s past. Just a few metres below ground, you can discover the Underground Museum - in our opinion, one of the most captivating branches of the Museum of Krakow. This remarkable site takes you back to medieval times, where you can explore original foundations, relics and artefacts, and uncover secrets that have remained buried for centuries.
The Underground Market in Krakow - an extraordinary attraction beneath the Main Square
The Underground Market is one of those places that let you see Krakow from an entirely new perspective - both figuratively and quite literally! Hidden just a few metres below the Main Square, this unique museum complex - the only one of its kind in Poland - takes visitors back to the Middle Ages. Here you can see the remains of ancient roads and buildings, which bring the atmosphere of the medieval city vividly to life. A visit to the Underground Market in Krakow is an actual encounter with history, enriched by a modern approach to storytelling. Interactive displays, atmospheric lighting and reconstructions of historic streets make the experience both educational and unforgettable.
The Underground Market in Krakow Museum - the story of an extraordinary discovery
The story of Krakow’s Underground Market began with a remarkable accident. Between 2005 and 2010, during conservation and renovation works on the Main Market Square, archaeologists stumbled upon priceless remnants of old stalls, streets and workshops. What started as routine maintenance soon turned into one of the most significant archaeological projects in the city’s history. Thousands of artefacts were unearthed - from pottery fragments and tools to jewellery, coins, and ornaments. Beneath layers of modern paving, researchers also discovered traces of ancient buildings and evidence of the many fires that had swept through the city over the centuries. These discoveries allowed historians to reconstruct what Krakow looked like when it was one of the most important trade centres in Central Europe. The findings were so extraordinary that it was decided to preserve and display them right where they were found. As a result, the Underground Market, a branch of the Museum of Krakow, was opened to the public in 2010.
Following the traces of European identity of Krakow - an exhibition you must see
The permanent exhibition “Following the traces of European In the Footsteps of Krakow’s European Identity”, covering around 3,400 m², presents the city’s history from the 13th to the 18th century, highlighting its importance as one of the key trade and cultural centres of medieval Europe.
What can you see at the exhibition?
· Remnants of medieval streets and buildings, including parts of the Cloth Hall and ancient trade routes.
· Thousands of artefacts, such as pottery, tools, coins, jewellery, ornaments, merchants’ seals and weights.
· Remarkable discoveries - including a silver denar of King Władysław Łokietek, a 14th-century silk purse, a Byzantine cross and pendant, and a coin that once travelled from Armenia to Krakow.
· Multimedia installations featuring reconstructions, lighting and sound effects that bring medieval Krakow vividly to life.
· Interactive displays and 3D models showing how the city’s layout and architecture evolved over the centuries.
The Underground Market - visiting, tickets and practical information for tourists
To make the most of your visit to Krakow’s Underground Market, it’s worth checking the practical details below.
Location:
•Address: Rynek Glowny 1
• Entrance: next to the Cloth Hall, on the side of St Mary’s Church.
Opening hours:
- Monday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
- Wednesday - Thursday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM
- Friday - Sunday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
The last admission is 75 minutes before closing time.
Ticket prices (from 1 January 2025):
- Regular ticket: 20 PLN
- Concession ticket: 15 PLN
- Family ticket: 40 PLN
- Free entry every Tuesday
The Underground Market is accessible to visitors with disabilities. The building is equipped with a lift, and the exhibition area is fully adapted for wheelchair users.
Accommodation near the Underground Market in Krakow – you are welcome!
Are you looking for a place where you can truly relax after a day full of discoveries? Stay at Nomadic Urban Premium Suites - stylish apartments located right next to Krakow’s Main Market Square, yet pleasantly removed from the bustle of the city. Housed in a historic townhouse, the property offers comfortable and carefully designed rooms for rent. Among them, you will find, for example, the Premium Room, perfect for couples or solo travellers; the Deluxe Plus Room, with its spacious interior and charming city view; and the Penthouse Apartment, created for those who appreciate privacy and a touch of luxury. Also worth mentioning is the Dragon’s Cave - a unique apartment inspired by the legend of the Wawel Dragon, featuring an original design and an unforgettable atmosphere.
Book your stay at Nomadic Urban Premium Suites and discover how delightful relaxation in the very heart of Krakow can be. We look forward to welcoming you!