Yes — both Kraków and the areas around Zakopane can be explored with a baby stroller. You do need to plan routes while taking into account surface types, transfers and some shorter sections where you may need to carry the stroller.
In Kraków the easiest walks are along the Planty, the river embankments and in certain districts such as Kazimierz or Podgórze — sidewalks there are generally more comfortable than the old Market Square with its cobblestones. Around Zakopane many Tatra valleys have paths suitable for strollers (for example Kościeliska Valley, Chochołowska Valley, and the paved road to Morskie Oko), but remember distances can be long so it’s wise to have a plan B like a baby carrier.
This guide includes specific routes, family-friendly places, simple transport options and a checklist that will significantly improve the comfort of your trip.
Planty — the green belt surrounding the Old Town is one of the nicest, flat and relatively smooth routes for stroller walks. Using the Planty you can avoid the most uneven cobbles at the Market Square.
River embankments and the Vistula boulevards offer space, good surfaces and places to rest. This is a great option for a longer stroll and a pleasant way to reach Wawel from the river side if you want to avoid the steps near the Dragon’s Den.
Kazimierz and Podgórze have lots of cafes and family-friendly spots; many recommended places offer changing tables or small play corners. Consider visiting attractions such as the Museums of World Cultures (Wioski Świata), the Zoo and Lasek Wolski — these are usually easier to visit with a stroller.
Places to eat: choose venues known for being family-friendly — look for spacious interiors and facilities for children when selecting a restaurant or café.
Kościeliska Valley — a popular wide tract frequently chosen by families because it’s comfortable to move along with a stroller. The route is scenic and gives you the option to turn back whenever you like.
Chochołowska Valley and the paved road to Morskie Oko — both routes are technically passable with a stroller; keep in mind long distances (to Morskie Oko about 8–8.5 km one way), so plan rests and pack extra food and drink.
Gubałówka — the funicular accepts strollers, though when getting off you may sometimes find missing ramps and might need help lifting the stroller. Polana Szymoszkowa is another hilltop spot with easier access and attractions for children.
Krupówki and indoor play areas — Zakopane’s main street is wide but can be very crowded in season; there are also covered child-friendly venues such as Park Janosik with lifts and facilities, useful if the weather turns bad.
Car — the most comfortable and flexible option, especially with a small child and a lot of luggage. A car lets you stop where you need, transport the stroller without folding it and carry extras like a carrier, blanket and food.
Bus — there are more bus connections and travel time is often shorter than by train. Many carriers ask that large strollers be folded and stored in the luggage hold; check the operator’s rules before departure. Long-distance coaches usually have toilets on board, which can be helpful with children.
Train — trains can be comfortable and sometimes have dedicated spaces for strollers and toilets. Train travel may take longer than a direct bus but can be more pleasant for little ones.
Tip - travel outside peak times (weekdays, earlier departures) and reserve seats where possible so you can be sure of space for you and your stroller.
A lightweight, foldable stroller or a hybrid model — easier for transfers and transport. If you plan mountain trails, also bring a carrier or sling — in the mountains a carrier can save the trip.
Rain cover and wind shield, a warm blanket and a change of clothes — mountain weather changes quickly; layer clothing to be ready for shifts in temperature.
Snacks, a thermos with a warm drink, spare diapers, wet wipes and a portable changing mat — the basic set for day trips in the Tatras and around Kraków.
Powerbank, an offline map and the phone number of your accommodation — useful if GPS fails or you need to contact reception quickly.
Planning an overambitious program for one day — especially in the mountains; it’s better to split attractions into shorter stages than to exhaust yourself and a fussy child by covering long distances.
No alternative for bad weather — have a backup indoor option (playroom, child-friendly museum, café with a play corner).
Not preparing the stroller for transport — check whether your model folds easily and fits into a bus luggage compartment or car boot; on trains make sure there’s space for the stroller.
Ignoring time for rest and meals — small children need regular breaks; plan them in advance and choose stops with toilets and changing facilities.
The road to Morskie Oko is paved — that means you can technically reach it with a stroller, but remember the distance and that resting infrastructure is sparse between points.
The funicular to Gubałówka takes strollers, but when disembarking you may sometimes need to carry the stroller due to missing ramps — it helps to have a second person for assistance or choose an easily lifted stroller.
In Zakopane’s center there are indoor playrooms and parent-friendly facilities, so on a rainy day you can quickly move to a covered attraction instead of cancelling the trip.
Many parks and family venues in Kraków have changing tables and small children’s corners — it’s helpful to find them before you set out, especially for longer walks in the city center.
In Kraków choose places known for a family atmosphere and plenty of space — restaurants with play areas or roomy interiors are the safest choice. Look for venues described as family friendly with changing tables.
In Zakopane families often recommend Pizzeria Da Adamo, Restauracja Zakopiańska, Javorina, Góralska Tradycja and Obrochtówka — many of these places offer children’s menus and room at the tables.
Accommodation — pick properties with an elevator, family rooms and the option to heat bottles or meals. Apartments close to parks or walking areas are very convenient if you want to go out with a stroller without using the car.
Does the cobbles on the Market Square in Kraków make it impossible to walk with a stroller? The cobbles are uneven and can be tiring over long distances. If you want to avoid bumps use the Planty and side streets with smoother surfaces.
Can you take a stroller on popular Tatra trails? Yes — some valleys (Kościeliska, Chochołowska) and the road to Morskie Oko are possible to cover with a stroller, but keep the distance and weather conditions in mind.
Is public transport in Kraków stroller-friendly? Most modern trams are low-floor vehicles with space for strollers; buses and older trams may have limitations. Check the vehicle type before travelling when possible.
What if my child falls asleep and I need to go up a hill or stairs? Always have a carrier or sling with you — it’s the easiest solution for sections not adapted to strollers.
Planning and flexibility are key. Choose shorter stages, book travel outside peak times and keep alternatives ready in case the weather changes.
Share this guide with friends and on social media — if it helps at least one family enjoy an easier trip, it’s worth spreading.
If you’d like more personalised support when exploring Kraków with your family, consider the private guiding services of Małgorzata Kasprowicz. Details are available on the guide’s website. Good luck and enjoy your walks!
