Visitors to the abbey have plenty of areas to explore, starting with a museum that offers a permanent exhibition of ancient artifacts discovered through excavation—such as 13th-century floor tiles and medieval tools. The interiors of the abbey are magnificent, with one of the complex’s notable spaces being the Church of Saints Peter and Paul. For unique souvenirs, visit the abbey’s shop to find handmade crafts, and food and drink items that use ancient monastic recipes—such as liqueurs, wines, and herbal teas.
The monastery also doubles as a guesthouse, where visitors can book an overnight stay. It hosts regular events such as retreats, workshops, and educational talks.
There’s an on-site restaurant serving traditional dishes.
The museum and guesthouse of Tyniec Benedictine Abbey both have wheelchair-accessible elevators.
Fans of water sports can find a range of activities at the foot of the abbey.
Cyclists can enjoy a beautiful bike path along the Vistula River that links Krakow’s city center to Tyniec. The trip from Krakow is about 9 miles (14 kilometers) and takes roughly 45 minutes. Alternatively, you can take bus #112 from Rondo Grunwaldzkie to Tyniec, and then a 5-minute walk to the abbey. If traveling by car, it takes 25 minutes if you travel on the DW780, Tyniecka, and Bolesława Śmiałego toward Benedyktyńska.
The monastery is open throughout the year, but visiting hours vary depending on which area you want to visit. Mass is usually held in the mornings, afternoons, and evenings on Sundays, and on select weekdays too. Guided tours are available throughout the year in the mornings and afternoons. It’s best to check the museum opening hours before visiting, as it usually has longer opening hours in the summer.
Benedictine monks are part of a community that is devoted to the Order of Saint Benedict, a Catholic religious order named after the founder—Saint Benedict of Nursia—who lived in the 6th century. The order has guidelines that advise monks and nuns on the principles of communal living, spiritual growth, prayer, stability, obedience, and different aspects of monastic life.
