National Museum in Warsaw – a journey through centuries of art

The National Museum in Warsaw (MNW) is one of those attractions that fits any plan: a weekend city break, a school trip, family sightseeing, or a free afternoon during a business trip.
If you're typing search terms like hotel Warsaw, hotel Warsaw Praga or looking for a comfortable hotel in Warsaw close to the center – a good base in Praga Północ is a perfect choice. It's also a practical option if you're interested in accommodation in Warsaw with a quick trip to Śródmieście and an easy return after sightseeing.

Why visit the National Museum?

MNW is one of the most important points on Poland's cultural map. In its halls you will see a cross-sectional story of art – from ancient civilizations, through European classics, to Polish design.
Importantly: this is not a museum "only for connoisseurs." Even if you don't follow the art world every day, you'll find exhibitions here that impress with their scale and variety.

Top highlights of MNW:

A cross-sectional journey through eras and styles in one place.
Unique permanent galleries (e.g. Faras) + interesting temporary exhibitions.
Great central location and easy access from Praga Północ.
An ideal attraction in any weather.

What must you see? The most important galleries

Instead of running around the whole building, it's best to focus on the "gems." Here is a tried-and-true sightseeing plan:

1. Galeria Faras – unikat na skalę światową

It's an absolute "must-see." The Faras Gallery is described as the only exhibition in Europe and unique in the world of medieval Nubian art. You enter the hall and feel like you've been transported back in time.

2. Galeria Sztuki XIX Wieku – polska klasyka

If you want to see paintings you know from textbooks (Matejko, Chełmoński, Malczewski), now's the time. Here you'll experience the scale of classical painting and see the famous "Battle of Grunwald."

3. Galeria Wzornictwa Polskiego – design XX wieku

A great break from "high art." Here you'll see how Polish style appeared in everyday objects: furniture, ceramics, glass. This section is most popular with fans of vintage and modern interiors.

4. Galeria Sztuki Starożytnej

Mummies, sarcophagi and antiquities. It works great for families (children like "ancient" stories), but also for people curious about the history of past civilizations.

How to plan your time? Ready-made scenarios

You don't have to spend the whole day here. Tailor your visit to your schedule:

"Quick" option (60–90 min): Faras Gallery + selected "hits" in the 19th-century gallery. Short, to the point, with a WOW effect.
"Connoisseur" option (2–3 hours): Faras Gallery + 19th Century Gallery + Design Gallery. Ideal pace for a relaxed afternoon.
"Full Relax" option (4 hours+): 2–3 permanent galleries + a temporary exhibition + a coffee break at the museum bistro.

Getting there from Praga Północ – simple and convenient

This is a huge advantage of our location. The easiest way to get to the Museum is by public transport – a direct tram often works well, so you don't have to plan complicated transfers.

How to get there? Take the tram at the Dworzec Wileński stop (near the hotel).
Which lines? Choose line 22 or 25 (towards the Centrum).
Where to get off? At the Muzeum Narodowe stop.
Time: usually approx. 15–20 minutes (depending on time of day).
Bonus: the route crosses the Vistula by bridge – along the way you'll see the city's panorama.

Practical information and discounts

It's worth knowing these rules to save money on admission:

Monday: The museum is closed.
Tuesday: Admission to permanent exhibitions is free.
Friday: The museum is open until 20:00, and from 17:00 a 50% discount on tickets applies.
Address: Aleje Jerozolimskie 3.
Facilities: In the main hall you'll find a cloakroom, restrooms and an information point.

Tip: before your visit check the current opening hours, tickets and information about temporary exhibitions on the official MNW website (https://www.mnw.art.pl/)

What else is worth seeing in the area?

Since you're already in the center, you can easily combine a visit to the MNW with other attractions:

Copernicus Science Centre – science and fun by the Vistula.
The Royal Castle in Warsaw – history and the city's reconstruction.
Old Town – a stroll, photos and the atmosphere of Warsaw.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Is admission to the National Museum free on Tuesdays?
Yes, on Tuesdays admission to all permanent galleries is free.

Is the Museum open on Mondays?
No, the museum is closed on Mondays.

When are there cheaper tickets to the National Museum?
On Fridays from 17:00 to 20:00 there is a 50% discount on tickets (according to MNW regulations).

How much time should you reserve to tour the MNW?
Usually 2–3 hours are enough to see the main galleries (e.g. Faras + 19th century). If you want to take your time and include a temporary exhibition, plan 4 hours.

Plan your stay in Warsaw

Planning intensive sightseeing and want convenient access to the center? Choose Hit Hotel in Praga Północ. It's a practical solution for people looking for accommodation in Warsaw with good connections to the city's main attractions.