Short answer: no! Rain changes the day’s rhythm, but it doesn’t have to ruin it. With a bit of preparation and a flexible plan, sightseeing with a guide (Małgorzata Kasprowicz) can be comfortable, interesting and even full of unique photo opportunities without the crowds.
In this article you’ll find practical clothing and gear tips for adults, children and babies in strollers, plus Plan B ideas — indoor spots, quick ways to dry wet things and an FAQ with common questions families ask when visiting Krakow.
Main idea: choose layers, waterproof solutions and comfortable shoes — prepared this way you’ll handle a light drizzle or a sudden downpour.
The most universal rule for changeable weather is layered clothing. A light T-shirt, a thin base layer (thermal or cotton), then a fleece or thin sweatshirt and on top a waterproof jacket with a breathable membrane.
Layers are easy to adapt to warmer museum interiors (which are often warmer) and to the outside. Removing one layer is simpler than trying to dry soaked clothing.
For children this rule is just as important — they overheat quickly while running and then get cold when they stop. A spare T-shirt and thin socks in the backpack are a good idea.
- Lightweight waterproof jacket with a hood (easy to pack). Avoid heavy, non-breathable materials that cause sweating.
- Packable rain poncho — great for sudden heavy rain, easy for kids and simple to stow away.
- Compact but sturdy umbrella (windproof) — useful when you don’t want to wear ponchos.
- Waterproof shoes or sneakers with a membrane; for children an alternative is wellies with non-slip soles.
- Quick-dry socks and an extra pair in a small bag (wet socks spoil the mood of little travelers).
- Backpack rain cover and a plastic bag for wet items (helps separate things inside the bag).
- Small quick-dry towel or terry handkerchief.
- Power bank, paper tissues, plasters and a mini first-aid kit — for unforeseen situations.
- Waterproof stroller cover (if needed) and a rain cover for baby carriers.
- Thermos with hot tea for parents and a water bottle for kids.
On wet, cobbled streets (you’ll find these in Krakow’s historic center) grip and dry feet matter most. Waterproof shoes with a good sole are the top choice.
If you only bring one pair of shoes on the trip, choose lightweight waterproof sneakers or low hiking shoes. Avoid materials that take a long time to dry — untreated leather will let water in quickly.
For little ones, wellies are practical — they protect from puddles, but bring spare socks because wellies aren’t breathable.
On a damp day a waterproof stroller cover helps — it shields your child from rain and wind while keeping contact between parent and baby.
Carry a plastic bag for wet pants or a spare jacket and an extra liner (for example a quick-dry blanket). Once you’re indoors you can restore the child’s comfort faster.
If your route includes a lot of walking, consider shorter walking segments and more frequent breaks in cafés or indoor spots — kids cope better with a cloudy day if they can sit down now and then.
When the weather turns, it’s good to have a list of places that will save the day. Versatile options include: the historic interiors of Wawel (cathedral, royal chambers), the Market Square Underground, city and themed museums, as well as galleries and shopping centers where you can sit and warm up.
Family-friendly museums with hands-on exhibits and interactive displays are especially helpful. Short thematic breaks (for example watching how an obwarzanek is made, or visiting an illusion exhibition) often keep the little ones engaged.
If you want to sit down and warm up with coffee or cake, there are family-friendly cafés and bakeries close to the main squares — these make great rest stops during a tour.
Talk to the guide (Małgorzata Kasprowicz) in advance about the pace and length of the walk. If you have small children, ask for shorter distances between stops and more covered pauses.
Ponchos often work better than umbrellas for a group — they keep the pace and don’t interfere with the guide’s storytelling. If you’re strolling narrow streets and planning lots of photos, an umbrella can be more convenient.
Mark a few indoor alternatives on your map: arcaded courtyards, cafés, museums. The guide can help adjust the route so that in the rain you tell the same stories but from interiors instead of outdoor stops.
Rain is a great excuse for a longer break in a cozy café or restaurant. In the center, choose places with indoor seating and quick child-friendly options.
A few spots often recommended to families include Massolit Books & Cafe (bookshop and café), Cafe Camelot (a classic near the Old Town), Charlotte (breakfast and bakery). For lunch look for restaurants serving Polish dishes where children are welcome. Reserving by phone can help on a rainy weekend.
If you’re short on time and on a tight schedule with the guide, short breaks for a hot drink and a sandwich help keep everyone comfortable and on pace.
If something gets wet during the walk: immediately remove wet items from the backpack, stuff shoes with paper or a towel to speed drying and prevent cold feet.
For heavier soaking, find a café or indoor spot with hot tea and dry parts of clothing near a radiator (ask the staff first). In many places in the center you can also buy disposable ponchos or umbrellas if needed.
At night leave shoes in a well-ventilated place — damp socks and shoes left wet encourage bad smells and deformation.
Will an umbrella disturb a tour with the guide? - Umbrellas can be cumbersome on narrow streets and in larger groups; it’s worth discussing preferences with the guide. Group ponchos help movement and keep the pace.
Can I enter museums with a stroller? - Most major museums in Krakow are stroller-friendly, but it’s worth checking individual rules in advance (and places to store a stroller if needed).
Can I rent or buy a poncho or umbrella in the city? - During the tourist season small shops and stalls near the Market Square sell disposable ponchos and umbrellas, but it’s best to have your own higher-quality gear.
What if a child gets soaked and starts shivering? - React quickly: change into dry T-shirt and socks and sit in a warm place with a drink. Children lose heat faster, so a fast clothing change is crucial.
1) Always have one piece of dry clothing within reach (for example spare socks) for each child.
2) If you’re taking a longer walk with the guide, agree in advance on the pace and stopping places — the guide will adapt the route so the day is pleasant and safe.
3) Investing in a lightweight quality poncho and waterproof shoes pays off at the first downpour — your children’s comfort and mood are worth it.
4) Have a Plan B: a map of indoor shortcuts (arcades, cafés, museums) and a small “dry kit” in the backpack turn rain into an interesting twist on sightseeing.
If you’d like, I’m happy to help put together a family route tailored to the weather — ask about rainy-day options when you book. Wishing you rainy adventures that end with dry smiles!
