Discover the History and Exhibits at the Polish Aviation Museum in Krakow
October 6, 2021
Discover one of Europe’s best aviation museums in Kraków. See over 200 aircraft, WWII relics, and enjoy family-friendly exhibitions. Practical tips included!
October 6, 2021
Polish Aviation Museum in Kraków – History, Highlights & Visitor Tips
The famous quote from the cult Polish comedy “Boys Don’t Cry” – “And if they want to go to the aviation museum, you’ll take them to the aviation museum” – is known by almost every Pole. But the Polish Aviation Museum in Kraków is much more than a movie reference. It’s one of Europe’s most fascinating aviation collections, located on the site of the historic Rakowice-Czyżyny airfield.
Even if you’re not an aviation enthusiast, this place will surprise you with its stories, exhibitions, and relaxed atmosphere.
🛫 A Place with History
The museum is located on the grounds of Rakowice-Czyżyny Airport, one of Europe’s oldest military airfields, opened in 1912. Before WWII, it played a key role in Europe’s airmail routes. After the war, the airfield gradually lost its importance due to urban development. In 1963, the land was handed over to the city and transformed into a museum – saving many aircraft from being scrapped.
✈️ What Can You See?
The museum’s collection includes over 200 aviation-related objects – airplanes, helicopters, gliders, and even anti-aircraft missile systems.
Highlights include:
25 aircraft from Hermann Göring’s personal collection, seized after the war
PZL P.11.c – a Polish fighter from the 1939 September Campaign
The Viggen, donated by the Swedish Air Force
Northrop F-5E Tiger II, captured during the Vietnam War
Exhibits are located both inside several hangars and outdoors, in a park-like setting. It’s a great destination for both adults and kids – even those with no background in aviation.
If you enjoy discovering Kraków’s hidden gems, check out our list of 9 unusual museums in Kraków – from pinball machines to pretzel workshops.
Outdoor Exhibits
🎧 Visiting – Audio Guides & Guided Tours
The museum offers several visitor-friendly options:
Audio guides in Polish, English, and Ukrainian
Guided tours in Polish, English, and German
Whether you prefer independent exploration or expert storytelling, these options make your visit even more engaging. Ask about them when planning your visit.
Explore Krakow on a guided city tour with a licensed local guide. Walk through the city’s most iconic districts, such as the Old Town or Kazimierz, and learn about their history through engaging stories and reliable historical insights. This tour is a perfect introduction to Krakow, offering both famous landmarks and lesser-known places explained by a professional guide who is happy to answer your questions.
Duration: 2h - 3hLive guideSkip-theLineTransportation included
Explore Krakow in a fast, comfortable, and eco-friendly way with a Krakow City Tour by electric golf cart. This sightseeing tour is a great introduction to the city, especially for first-time visitors or travellers with limited time who want to see the highlights without long walks.
During the ride, you will explore key areas of Krakow, including the Old Town surroundings, Kazimierz – the historic Jewish district, and parts of Podgórze, where the famous Schindler’s Factory was located. A professionally prepared audio guide provides historical context and helps you understand the city’s past and character.
This electric car tour allows you to see more in less time while staying comfortable in all weather conditions, making it an easy and practical way to start exploring Krakow.
Duration: 1h - 2hAudio GuideTransportation included
Avoid the queues and visit the original Schindler’s Factory Museum – one of Krakow’s most important historical sites.With this fast-track ticket, you’ll explore the powerful permanent exhibition Krakow under Nazi Occupation 1939–1945, located in the real factory where Oskar Schindler worked.Discover original rooms, multimedia installations, and the story behind Schindler’s List – all at your own pace.
Step inside Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory in Krakow and explore the city’s history during World War II on a guided visit with a licensed guide. During the tour, you will learn about everyday life in occupied Krakow, the tragedy of the Krakow Ghetto, and the true story of a man who saved more than a thousand lives. The presence of a guide allows you to immerse yourself more deeply in the exhibition and better understand the broader historical context and the human stories behind the events.
Duration: 2hLive guideSkip-theLineTransportation included
The easiest way is by tram – get off at the “Muzeum Lotnictwa” stop. From the Main Square or Kazimierz, it takes about 20–25 minutes. The stop is right next to the museum entrance.
🎉 Aviation Picnic & More
Each June, the museum hosts the Małopolska Aviation Picnic – a major event full of excitement, aerial stunts, and family fun. You can enjoy:
Air shows by stunt pilots over Kraków’s skies
Historic aircraft on display just for the occasion
Ground zones with food trucks, music, and activities
In 2018, trams arriving at the museum even played the iconic “aviation museum” quote from “Boys Don’t Cry” – in a censored version, of course.
Right next to the museum is the Polish Aviators Park, where you can visit the monument to Polish pilots who died on all fronts of WWII, created by sculptor Bronisław Chromy.
Indoor Exhibits
ℹ️ Practical Information
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays)
Ticket prices: • Regular: 30 PLN • Reduced: 18 PLN (children, students, seniors, people with disabilities) • Children under 7: free entry
Free admission on Tuesdays applies to the permanent exhibition only
Is the Polish Aviation Museum worth visiting? Absolutely. The wide variety of exhibits, large outdoor space, and rich history make it one of Kraków’s most underrated attractions.
How long does it take to visit the museum? Most people spend 1.5 to 2 hours at the museum – more if you want to explore the outdoor section or use an audio guide.
Is admission free on Tuesdays? Yes – general admission to the permanent collection is free every Tuesday. Guided tours and temporary exhibitions may still require payment.
How do I get to the museum using public transport? Take a tram to the “Muzeum Lotnictwa” stop – it's about 25 minutes from the city centre.
Are guides and audio tours available? Yes – audio guides are available in Polish, English, and Ukrainian. Guided tours are offered in Polish, English, and German.
During the scientific study you can get amazing stunts by the best pilots
✈️ Final Thoughts
The Polish Aviation Museum in Kraków is a hidden gem where history and technology come together in an engaging and interactive way. Even if you’re not into planes, there’s plenty to see – from war machines to family-friendly events.
If you’re looking for something different on your Kraków itinerary, this museum is definitely worth the detour.
Duration: 2h - 3h
Live guide
Skip-theLine
Transportation included
