Kraków in winter has something fairytale-like about it: short days, the soft glow of lamps and the smell of hot chocolate coming from market stalls on the Main Market Square. If you are planning a weekend with your family, it's worth planning a route that connects several seemingly different elements of the city: the Baroque Piarist Church, the remains of the city walls along Floriańska Street and winter attractions — markets, ice rinks and (for those who wish) a sleigh ride outside the city. This guide will suggest how to organize it comfortably, interestingly and without stress.
The Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord (the Piarist Church) is an example of Kraków Baroque from the first half of the 18th century. It was established on land donated to the Piarist order at the end of the 17th century, and the main construction took place around 1718–1728. The façade you see when you step onto Świętego Jana Street has later decorative accents and gives the interior a monumental character. Inside, pay attention to the richly decorated altars, sculptures and the harmonious layout of the space — it’s a good place to tell children about the Baroque and about how religious orders once influenced city life.
The church is sometimes open to visitors outside of service hours; if you plan to enter with a guide or see the interior quietly, check mass times and any access restrictions in advance. Practical tip: start your day here, while the city is still peaceful.
Not far from the Main Market Square you can see fragments of the medieval defensive walls together with St. Florian's Gate and the famous Barbican. This was once the entrance to the Royal Route, and here processions and ceremonial entries took place. Today, walking this part of the city is a great opportunity to tell children about urban fortifications, the craftsmen's workshops that once operated on Floriańska Street, and how the city evolved over the centuries.
These wall fragments were saved thanks to 19th-century conservation efforts; the preserved towers and gates are relics of the former defence system. Plan the route on foot — from the Barbican through St. Florian's Gate to the Market Square, stopping at small side streets and viewpoints. For families with strollers: the cobbles can be uneven, but main pavements are passable.
When Kraków puts on its festive outfit, the city centre fills with stalls selling handicrafts, regional treats and the aroma of mulled wine. The largest and most recognisable market takes place on the Main Market Square — a must-see. Smaller markets often appear in other parts of the city, together with accompanying events: concerts, nativity scene contests and workshops for children.
Remember that markets draw crowds, especially in the afternoons and evenings. If you travel with small children, consider a morning visit or going on weekdays. At the market you’ll find handmade ornaments, wooden toys, regional sweets, breads and cheeses. Many stalls offer hot drinks and snacks — a good way to take a break between sights.
A sleigh ride is a classic winter attraction, but remember it usually requires travel outside the built-up area of the city — the nearest offers typically appear in Zakopane and the Podhale area, as well as in mountain guest farms in the Beskids. When choosing a sleigh ride, check whether the organiser provides safe transport, an appropriate length of the sled route and whether the programme includes a bonfire or a hot meal — important when travelling with children.
For families, shorter, well-secured routes and offers with extra attractions for children (e.g. traditional highlander music, a bonfire, or sausage roasting) are better. If you prefer not to travel for a sleigh ride, alternatives include winter amusement parks, sledding on nearby hills or a visit to a mountain shepherd's hut for a short walk and hot tea.
Day 1 - morning: visit the Piarist Church and walk along Świętego Jana Street. Afternoon: continue to St. Florian's Gate and the Barbican, then follow the Royal Route to the Market Square. Evening: the market and dinner at a family-friendly restaurant.
Day 2 - morning: visit a smaller market or an ice rink; optionally a short trip outside the city for sledding. Afternoon: café time and rest, visit Kazimierz or a Vistula river cruise (if operating this season). If you plan a sleigh ride — book the trip outside Kraków for this day, including transport and a warm meal.
Logistics tip: reserve restaurant tables in advance on weekends during the market season. Also check opening hours of chosen sights and any special events that might affect crowding at certain times.
Around the Market Square and in Kazimierz you’ll find several well-regarded places that are ideal when travelling with family. Notable options include: Wierzynek (a classic, historic restaurant on the Market Square), Szara (known for Polish-European cuisine), Cafe Camelot (a cosy café with desserts) and Massolit Books & Cafe in Kazimierz (a bookshop-café warmly welcomed by families).
If you want a quick, home-style meal — check out local milk bars and trusted pierogi restaurants. When choosing a place, follow guest reviews and ratings, and during the holiday season make reservations early. For families with small children, restaurants with a dedicated play area or a children's menu are a good choice.
St. Florian's Gate did more than defend the city — it also had ceremonial functions. Royal entries and triumphal processions began near it. Today it’s one of the most photographed spots in Kraków.
The Piarist Church has a history connected to benefactors and bourgeois families who helped fund its construction — a good example of how private endowments shaped the city's sacred landscape.
Assuming that “everything” is close and can be seen in a few hours - Kraków deserves a relaxed pace. Plan your goals so you don't tire children with too many attractions in one day.
Neglecting weather and clothing - in winter dress children in layers, bring spare socks and extra gloves. Even a short walk in the cold is more pleasant with a hot drink and sheltered breaks.
Not booking restaurants and attractions in advance on holiday weekends - that's an easy route to disappointment. Reserve tickets and tables where possible.
Are churches in Kraków open to visitors? Yes — many churches can be visited outside service hours, but check current mass times or parish events that may restrict access.
Is the Main Market Square market safe for children? Yes, but because of crowds it’s wise to keep a close eye on children, especially in the evening. Agree on a simple meeting point and carry a phone number.
Can you arrange a sleigh ride on the spot in Kraków? Sleigh rides are usually offered outside the city - for sled and bonfire experiences it's better to book a trip to Zakopane or to a mountain guest farm in advance.
When planning a winter weekend: check the weather forecast, pack an emergency kit for children (warm clothes, spare gloves, tissues), and wear comfortable shoes with non-slip soles. During intensive sightseeing, take longer breaks in a café or restaurant so children can rest and have something warm.
If you dream of a sleigh ride — look for offers that include transport from Kraków, a warm meal and supervision during stops. Check reviews from other families and confirm weather conditions and any age requirements for children.
If this guide helped you plan a winter weekend in Kraków with your family — share it with friends or on social media. If you prefer, you can also use the help of a local guide who will tell the city's stories with passion and tailor the route to your needs.
If you are looking for a private guided tour, feel free to contact the local guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — details and the offer are available on the Zwiedzanie Krakowa website. I will be happy to help plan the perfect route for your family.
