The city was spared the destruction from bombing that most major cities in Europe endured during WWII, and so the legacy of centuries of Polish culture and history has remained intact. A number of Krakow’s museums are housed in buildings dating back hundreds of years. Archdiocesan Museum: is housed in the building where Pope John Paul II lived when he was archbishop of the diocese of Krakow – before being elected Pope in 1978. The museum chronicles the life and works of the late pope, and showcases a collection of gifts that were presented to him by the heads of state of many countries. There’s also an excellent collection of sacral paintings and sculpture that dates from as early as the 13th century.
Kanonicza 19. Open: 10:00 to 16:00, Tue to Fri; 10:00 to 15:00, Sat and Sun. At one time there was a third masterpiece on display here - Raphael's ‘Portrait of a Young Man’ – but it was taken by Nazi soldiers and never recovered by the museum. In addition to the paintings in its collection, the museum also boasts a large collection of art from the ancient civilisations of Egypt, Greece and the Middle East.
Sw. Jana 19. Open: 10:00 to 16:00, Tue and Thu; 10:00 to 19:00, Wed, Fri and Sat; 10:00 to 15:00 Sun. Galicia Jewish Museum: located in a remote corner of Kazimierz, this museum is often overlooked although it houses a significant collection of contemporary photography and images of the major sites in southern Poland important to Jews. Royal Chamber: the Royal Chambers comprise a large number of rooms, all holding impressive collections of art and furnishings. A major attraction here is a collection of more than 130 Flemish tapestries, commissioned by the King Sigismund August. One of the rooms that shouldn’t be missed is the Assembly Room on the top floor, where you’ll see an ornate wooden ceiling, carved with representations of important Krakow residents of the Middle Ages, and also containing the king’s throne.
Wawel Hill. Open: 09:30 to 16:00, Tue and Fri; 09:30 to 15:00, Thu; 11:00 to 17:00, Sat; 10:00 to 16:00, Sun. A highlight of the cathedral is King Zygmunt’s chapel; and views of the city and surrounding area from the cathedral’s bell tower are exceptional.
Wawel Hill. Open: 09:00 to 17:00, Mon to Sat; 12:15 to 17:00, Sun. Wyspianski Museum: those interested in Polish art and the Moda Polska, or ‘Young Poland’ movement, are in store for a treat at this museum, as it features the best of Wyspianski’s works. | 
