Tragically overlooked by far too many visitors to Warsaw (who can’t see past World War II and communism), this is a joy of a museum that showcases all that’s best about Poland’s cultural heritage - colourful folk costumes, customs and traditions, tools and instruments, outsider art, handicrafts and more - all of it beautifully presented in a superb historical building. Interestingly, one permanent exhibit is the 'Korean Gallery' - presenting Korean culture, the showcase of which is a replica of a traditional house (Hanok). One of the city’s most active cultural institutions, they host many events and worskhops, and you can expect multiple temporary exhibits at a time (check online for details). Check out the new exhibition, Childhood, which examines the experiences of children over the last 100 years. Directors of Warsaw’s other museums might want to come and take notes. Just brilliant, and unquestionably essential.

Average visiting time: 2-3hrs.