Yes — you can plan a long weekend that combines a walk through Kazimierz and a visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum even with a stroller, but it requires preparation, a sensible pace and a few practical decisions. This text will show how to do it without stress, with respect for the memorial site and with enjoyment of Krakow's architecture and the atmosphere of Kazimierz.
In this article you will find: a 2-3 day plan, transport tips, advice on moving around with a stroller, recommended cafés and restaurants in Kazimierz, and a list of the most common mistakes and how to avoid them.
Kazimierz is a Krakow district full of history, sacred architecture and atmospheric cafés — perfect for relaxed walks and coffee breaks. Visiting the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial provides a historical perspective that cannot be replaced. Combining both experiences during a long weekend gives a strong contrast between everyday life in Krakow and the memory of 20th century events.
This combination does require time: a visit to the Auschwitz-Birkenau Museum usually takes at least 3–3.5 hours, and travel from Krakow takes around 1–1.5 hours depending on transport and traffic. Plan at least half a day for the visit to Oświęcim.
Day 1 - arrival, walk around Kazimierz: visit the synagogues and favorite alleys, take a coffee break, dinner at a well-reviewed restaurant.
Day 2 - trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau: depart Krakow in the morning, reserve an entry pass in advance, visit (3–4 hours), return to Krakow for an evening walk or a light dinner.
Day 3 (optional) - deeper exploration of Krakow: Wawel, Planty, museums or a relaxed morning in Kazimierz with recommended breakfast spots and local markets.
If you travel with a small child, consider breaking activities into shorter blocks: for example, a shorter morning walk in Kazimierz and a longer midday break, and plan the museum visit for when the child usually naps, or bring a helper (partner, grandparent).
By car: about 60–90 minutes one way depending on traffic. Parking at the Visitor Service Centre (Visitor Centre) is paid — check availability and fees before you go.
By bus or train: there are direct bus and train connections from Krakow to Oświęcim. From the Oświęcim station there are local buses and seasonal shuttles to the Visitor Service Centre.
Organized trips/transfers: if you choose an organized excursion (for example a full-day trip from Krakow), check the schedule and conditions — during long weekends time slots fill up quickly.
On site in Oświęcim the Museum offers shuttle connections between Auschwitz I and Auschwitz II-Birkenau and provides wheelchair options; familiarize yourself with the rules and available services before the trip.
Entry to the Memorial grounds is free, but a named entry pass is required and must be reserved online — time slots especially for long weekends sell out fast. Book in advance.
When planning: arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled visit because of security checks and entrance procedures.
Practical restrictions: large backpacks and luggage may be limited. It is worth leaving big bags in your car or using luggage storage. Maintain solemnity and respect on the museum grounds; this is not a recreational space. The Museum does not recommend visits for children under 14 — taking very young children is not advised and should be a conscious decision by the parent.
When booking, check availability of educator-led tours — they provide deeper historical context. Bring an ID and be aware of the museum's photography rules within the exhibitions.
Kazimierz: most main streets and squares are stroller-friendly, although some cobbled alleys and interiors of venues can be less comfortable. Choose routes with asphalt or even paving stones, avoid narrow stairs and steep descents.
Auschwitz-Birkenau: the site includes paved, dirt and gravel sections — Birkenau has large areas with unpaved paths. A stroller with large, all-terrain wheels performs better. An alternative is a baby carrier or sling - these make it much easier to move around on difficult surfaces and for longer distances.
Facilities: the Museum provides wheelchairs on request. Check availability in advance if needed. Parking areas and entrances usually have ramps, but the site is extensive — be prepared for walking.
Synagogues and cemeteries: Kazimierz is one of the most important historic Jewish districts in Europe - pay attention to the synagogue architecture and remnants of cemeteries. Each place carries its own history and atmosphere worth absorbing slowly.
Townhouses and alleys: a mix of styles - from Renaissance, through Baroque, to 19th-century renovations - makes a walk through Kazimierz an open-air lesson in architecture.
Memorial sites and small museums: besides the main landmarks, the district hides smaller exhibitions and memorial points that complement the historical context of Krakow and its Jewish community.
Hamsa - a well-regarded restaurant with Middle Eastern cuisine, popular with locals and visitors alike.
Mleczarnia - an atmospheric café ideal for a coffee break and desserts after sightseeing.
Alchemia - a historic evening spot known for its atmosphere and good drink selection.
When choosing places to eat, pick well-reviewed venues and book a table for the evening during a long weekend — places in Kazimierz can fill up.
Off-season movement: long weekends bring heavy tourist traffic — to avoid crowds in Kazimierz, choose early morning hours for walks or late afternoon.
Auschwitz - time and emotions: many visitors underestimate the emotional impact of the visit. Plan time to rest and process after returning to Krakow — a calm dinner or a short walk can help digest the experience.
Small things that make the trip easier: powerbank, snacks for the child, spare clothes, a basic first aid kit, rain cover for the stroller and comfortable shoes for long walks.
Not booking Auschwitz in advance - during long weekends entry passes disappear quickly. Book early and have a plan B.
Unrealistic daily pace - trying to fit too many attractions into one day, especially with a small child and a stroller, leads to stress. Plan breaks and a flexible schedule.
Ignoring ground surfaces - assuming you can easily push a stroller everywhere. Prepare for gravel, curbs and steps - a carrier may be a better option for part of the route.
Can I enter Auschwitz with a stroller? Yes, but some routes and displays may be difficult for strollers; consider a carrier or an all-terrain stroller. The Museum also provides wheelchairs on request.
Can children visit the museum? The Museum advises against visits by children under 14; parents should consider the maturity of the child and the nature of the exhibitions when deciding.
How long does a visit to Auschwitz take? A standard visit takes about 3–3.5 hours; there are also study routes and shorter options. Reserve extra time for travel and rest.
When planning a long weekend that combines Kazimierz and Auschwitz with a stroller, think flexibly, book in advance and prioritize your family's comfort. Allow a calm pace — Krakow and Kazimierz will be there, and the visit to the Memorial deserves full attention.
If you would like to make your visit more personal and stress-free, consider using the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz - she offers tailored tours and can help plan the route and reservations.
If this guide was helpful, share it with friends or on social media — you will help others plan a successful trip.
If you are planning a visit and want help refining the route or making reservations, contact private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz - details are available on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. Thank you and have a calm, meaningful long weekend!
