Established in 1899, Kraków’s superb History Museum charts the trade, culture, politics and daily life of the city from 1257 until the end of the Second Republic in 1939. Unfortunately the 17th-century building it's housed in continues to undergo renovation works, meaning the permanent gallery is closed. Part of the museum still plays host to temporary exhibitions, and now is a fantastic time to visit as the History Museum currently hosts its most popular exhibit of the year: the annual display of Christmas Cribs (Szopki Krakowska). One of Kraków's most unique and cherished Christmas traditions, these strange amalgamations of a gaudy gingerbread house, dollhouse and nativity scene (or something like that) will be on display until Feb 26th and are a must-see, don't miss it.

Admission 8/6zł, family ticket 16zł. Mon 3zł.