The Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) is the natural centre of any visit to Krakow — the heart of the Main Market Square, instantly recognisable and an excellent orientation point for families. Standing under the arcades you can easily plan short stops, and children quickly get used to the rhythm of the walk. Outdoor galleries, souvenir stalls and the nearby Planty park and many cafés mean that if a little one needs a break, everything is within reach.
Many attractions cluster around the Cloth Hall and can be adapted to the age and energy of your children: a short visit to the Rynek Underground, a stroll through the Planty to the Dragon's Den, or a trip to one of the interactive museums. It’s a convenient place to start the day, bring everyone together and plan the next steps without long transfers.
The Main Market Square offers more than a photo in front of the Cloth Hall. Consider visiting the Rynek Underground — an interactive archaeological and multimedia exhibition that tells the story of the city in a way that appeals to children. Buy tickets in advance, as it’s one of the most popular attractions.
Krzysztofory Palace (a branch of the Historical Museum of Krakow) is an excellent choice if you want a different perspective on the city and to let children handle selected historical props during workshops. A short walk through the Planty will take you to the Dragon’s Den — a place that never fails to fascinate the youngest visitors.
If your family is curious about science, consider the Stanisław Lem Garden of Experiences or one of the natural-history museums nearby; they offer hands-on displays and demonstrations that engage children.
The streets adjoining the Market hide small cafés, studios and mini-museums that often escape the notice of hurried tourists. On Świętego Tomasza Street you can stop in a cosy, characterful café to enjoy a calm coffee while the children have a treat.
Pay attention to historic tenement gates and tiny courtyards — they make great material for family detective games spotting architectural details. Quiet courtyards are also perfect for a breather with a stroller or a busy little runner.
Small art galleries and craft workshops are also among the hidden attractions; you can often watch creators at work. It’s a great way to show children that making things is a process and that handmade work still lives in the city centre.
Day 1 (morning): Start at the Cloth Hall, take a short walk around the Market, pose for a photo by the Adam Mickiewicz monument, and enter the Rynek Underground if you have a reservation. Pause for a mid-morning snack at one of the nearby cafés.
Day 1 (afternoon): Walk through the Planty toward the Vistula River, play at a playground or have a picnic on the grass, visit the Dragon’s Den. In the evening choose a casual family restaurant slightly off the main square to avoid crowds and inflated prices.
Day 2: Morning visit to Krzysztofory Palace or another child-friendly museum, afternoon at the Garden of Experiences or the zoo if you prefer a longer outing. Finish with a stroll through Kazimierz or along the Vistula boulevards.
In the centre, choose cafés and restaurants with good reviews and menus suitable for children. Quiet, characterful cafés on side streets often offer a calmer atmosphere than venues directly on the Market. Look for cosy cafés and bistros praised for quality and service.
Seek places with a small children’s area or a simple kids’ menu — it’s often a sign that the staff are family-friendly. If you plan an evening meal, it’s wise to reserve a table in advance, especially at weekends.
Avoid the priciest restaurants right on the Market if you’re on a budget. A few streets away you’ll find equally tasty options in a friendlier atmosphere and at better prices.
If you plan an intense short stay, book accommodation close to the Old Town or in a quieter part of Kazimierz. That way most attractions are within walking distance, which simplifies logistics with children and reduces the need for transport.
Look for family rooms, cribs and the option of late check-in — these small conveniences make arriving with little ones much easier. Hotels and apartments with positive family reviews are the best choice.
Ticket reservations: the Rynek Underground, some exhibitions and tickets for Wawel often require advance booking. Check availability before you travel.
Timing and crowds: the fewest people are present early in the morning or late in the afternoon. If your children are morning people, start early to avoid heat and queues.
Strollers and accessibility: the Old Town has many cobbles and thresholds; when planning a route with a stroller choose the Planty and the Vistula boulevards rather than narrow stone streets. Take a sling or carrier for museums with stairs.
Breaks and snacks: children need frequent pauses. Carry water and small snacks and plan short stops in parks or cafés.
Inside the Cloth Hall you’ll find the 19th-Century Art Gallery — often not the first destination for tourists, but it may interest older children with its collection of Polish painting. It combines history with a calm space for viewing art.
The Dragon’s Den has its own little tricks: its legend attracts visitors, but sometimes the flame effect is turned off, so enjoy the walk and the story rather than expecting a guaranteed theatrical spectacle.
Many smaller museums and branches of the Historical Museum of Krakow offer children’s workshops or tactile exhibits. These activities are a great way to involve kids in sightseeing so they remember more than just the view from the window.
Trying to see “everything” in one day — this leads to exhaustion and frustration. It’s better to pick 2–3 attractions per day, leave time for breaks and spontaneous play.
Eating on the Market without checking reviews — many places there are expensive and of lower quality. Use reviews and choose spots a few streets away to eat better for less.
Not preparing for weather and crowds — bring light rainwear, sunscreen, comfortable shoes and a plan B for rain (museums, cafés, the Rynek Underground).
Is visiting the Cloth Hall suitable for small children? Yes, but remember it can be crowded and noisy inside, so short visits work best. If you have a stroller, consider walking around the Cloth Hall or using lower levels where accessible.
Do you need to reserve tickets for the Rynek Underground and Wawel? It’s strongly recommended to reserve in advance, especially on weekends and in the summer season. Without reservations you may face long queues or limited availability.
How is the best way to move around the Old Town with children? Walking is the most convenient. The Planty and Vistula boulevards are very stroller-friendly and public transport connects further points well. Bring an all-terrain stroller or a carrier for stairs and crowds.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with friends or on social media — you’ll help other families plan a great weekend in Krakow. Every recommendation saves time for future visitors.
If you’d like to explore Krakow with a local private guide, I encourage you to use the services of Małgorzata Kasprowicz. Contact details and information about tours are available on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com.
