3 Best Sights in Krakow, Poland

This branch of the Kraków's Historical Museum houses an exhibition telling the story of the city under Nazi occupation, from 1939 to 1945. The story itself is well told and interactive, and visiting this museum is like walking through a meticulously crafted movie set. Although theatrical in form, it feels very true, with plenty of details about real people and their everyday lives. It is the location of the museum that may have a more personal resonance for some people: it's located in the former administrative building of the famous Oskar Schidler's Enamel Factory. In addition to the abundant factual information, around the museum you will find spots that inspire reflection, such as an art installation in Schindler's former office, or another called "The Room of Choices." Make sure to watch the documentary (with English subtitles) in the movie room, in which survivors remember Oskar Schindler back in the day. Allow plenty of time: two hours is the absolute minimum; more is better.

Tadeusz Kantor (1915--1990) was one the most famous Polish artists of the 20th century, and one of the most versatile. He was a painter, theatrical director, actor, stage designer, poet, and performance artist. He once proclaimed that everything he did was art and described himself as a "total" artist. An experimentalist, he went against the official "socialist realist" prescription during Communist rule and couldn't exhibit his work in Poland for many years. Cricoteka showcases his work, but it strives to be as versatile as Kantor himself, opening its doors to a variety of events, including musical performances and educational programs. The building is an interesting example of contemporary Polish architecture (designed by Stanisław Deńko, Piotr Nawara, and Agnieszka Szultk). A former power plant was adapted and "wrapped" in a concrete and corroded metal frame. Attractively located on the bank of the Vistula, the building carries the reflection of the waves and catches the sunlight in the giant "mirror" of its ceiling.

The MOCAK Museum opened its doors in 2010 in the up-and-coming district of Podgórze. It aspires to present the very latest in the arts, both Polish and international. Temporary exhibitions are often centred around a theme, such as "art and money," "art and sports," or "art and medicine," while the permanent exhibition showcases the Museum's own collection, which is still growing. The building, designed by Italian architect Claudio Nardi, has a very modern feel but at the same time, it respects the historical context. In addition to galleries, MOCAK houses a very pleasant cafeteria serving quality coffee and cakes, and there's a museum bookshop where you can stock up on souvenirs.