Cloth Hall (Sukiennice)

The basics

Though its name indicates its purpose, Cloth Hall was also a major center for trade, where stall owners sold everything from spices to leather to wax to lead. And today the market is no different with modern vendors selling various goods and wares, and Cloth Hall is considered by many to be one of the best places to go souvenir shopping. There is also the Sukiennice 19th Century Polish Art Gallery (a division of the National Museum in Kraków) on the upper level, as well as the Rynek Underground museum (a branch of the Historical Museum of the City of Kraków).

Most walking and sightseeing tours of Kraków include a stop at Cloth Hall since its conveniently located in the main section of Old Town (which was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978). And it's definitely worth snapping a pic of the Renaissance-style facade and taking a peek inside for a bite to eat or a bit of shopping.

Things to know before you go

• Although it may be one of the world’s oldest shopping malls, Cloth Hall has updated amenities including air conditioning and restrooms.
• The hall is wheelchair accessible and there is a lift up or down to either museum.
• You should allow at least 1.5 hours for the main market floor, and perhaps longer if you are looking to visit the gallery or museum.

How to get there

Cloth Hall is centrally located in Kraków’s Old Town. From the main railway station (Kraków Główny) it’s a 4-minute drive or an easy 12-minute walk to the main square.

When to get there

The main building is open daily from 10am until 8pm, though hours may vary for individual vendors. The Sukiennice 19th Century Polish Art Gallery is open Tuesday through Friday, 9am to 5pm, Saturday from 10am to 6pm, and Sunday from 10am to 4pm. The Rynek Underground’s hours vary by season. November through March the museum is open Wednesday through Monday from 10am to 8pm, and Tuesday from 10am to 4pm. During April through October, it is open Monday from 10am to 8pm, Tuesday from 10am to 4pm, and Wednesday through Sunday 10am to 10pm. Please note, however, the museum is closed every second Monday of the month.

Visit St. Mary’s Basilica (Kościól Mariacki)

Located in the northeast corner of the main square, St. Mary’s Basilica is a stunning 13th-century church. Recognized for its uneven towers, the interior of the basilica stuns with its painted starry blue sky, stained-glass windows, and carved wood altarpiece.