When planning a trip to Krakow or Zakopane with children, remember that a “family-friendly” place is more than just a toy corner. It also means easy stroller access, a high chair, a changing table, quick kid-friendly menu options and an atmosphere that doesn’t stress parents out.
In practice the best places combine good food for adults with simple, well-prepared choices for children: pasta, plain meat dishes, pierogi, soups and, of course, desserts and ice cream. Look for cafés and restaurants that have a dedicated play corner or space for a stroller.
Below you’ll find a selection of tested venues and practical tips — useful both if you stay in the city and if you head into the mountains.
La Forchetta (near the station / Lubicz area) — a place that manages to combine a slightly elegant feel with a family atmosphere. They offer high chairs and a small play corner; the Italian menu usually works well even for picky little ones (pasta, pizza, simple desserts).
Viale Verde / Verde (Aleja Pokoju) — a restaurant with a green terrace and a roomy play area. A good choice when you want to eat outside and let kids run or play for a while without disturbing other guests.
Szalone Widelce (Karmelicka Street) — known for good breakfasts and a relaxed vibe. Family-friendly, with quick service and simple dishes that many children enjoy.
Cafe Manggha — a café with views of the Vistula and Wawel; atmospheric for coffee and dessert, often with small family conveniences (changing table, a few toys).
Lajkonik (selected locations, e.g. Starowiślna) — a café chain where some branches provide comfortable feeding areas, changing tables and coloring corners.
Rodzinka Cafe (Czyżyny) — a café combined with a playroom; ideal when you want your child to have longer playtime in a safe space while you relax with coffee.
Pasta places and other simple Italian spots — pasta saves many family meals. Look for places offering children’s portions or that will modify ingredients on request.
Sekret Smaku and home-style restaurants — if you’re after “like at grandma’s,” these places often serve dishes that even fussy children accept: soups, pierogi, cutlets.
In Zakopane much depends on location: Krupówki has the most options for quick meals and ice cream, while quieter streets offer family inns and guesthouse restaurants with homestyle cooking.
Traditional bakeries and ice-cream shops — local pastry shops and family-run ice-cream studios are a great dessert option after a walk. Artisanal ice cream often uses natural ingredients and interesting flavors kids love.
Grill places like Kiełbasa House & Grill and similar spots — quick, filling meals for the whole family; many places provide high chairs and a changing area. If you want traditional food, check local inns for oscypek (smoked sheep cheese) and other highlander specialties.
When planning meals in Zakopane keep the season in mind: in summer and on weekends Krupówki get very busy — consider reserving a table or eating outside peak times (early dinner or late evening).
High chair - does the venue have a high chair available?
Changing table - is there a restroom with a changing table or a place to change a baby?
Play corner - is there a designated area with toys, crayons and a child-sized table?
Kids’ menu and modification options - can dishes be prepared without strong spices or in a smaller portion?
Stroller access - does the entrance and table layout allow a stroller to fit?
Wait time - is the kitchen quick (crucial with small children)?
Assuming every place is ‘child-friendly’ — unfortunately not every venue is. Call ahead or check the description to confirm high chairs or a children’s menu.
Not booking for weekends in season — in popular spots (especially in Zakopane) tables go fast. A reservation saves a lot of stress.
Thinking tourist menus are always best — in busy tourist areas prices can be higher and quality average; look for smaller local places with good reviews.
Not bringing a few “safe” snacks — even the best restaurants can have longer waits; a small stash of familiar bites is a good idea.
Where can I find a restaurant with a changing table? - More cafés and restaurants in Krakow now offer changing tables; if this matters, ask when you book or choose larger venues and museum cafés where facilities are more likely.
Is it better to eat earlier or later? - For families with small children it’s often more convenient to eat earlier, before the tourist peak; an early dinner usually means shorter waits and more relaxation.
What dishes are best for picky eaters? - Safe picks are simple pastas, pierogi, mild chicken fillets, creamy soups and, of course, desserts or ice cream as a treat.
Are prices much higher in the mountain season (Zakopane)? - Prices at tourist spots on Krupówki can be higher; to save money, look for restaurants a few streets away from the main promenade.
Is it safe to bring children to places serving highlander (góralska) cuisine? - Yes, most places adapt menus for families; if a dish seems heavy or fatty, ask for a lighter version or a smaller portion.
Krakow runs initiatives highlighting places especially friendly to families — these certificates can help you find venues recognized for family-friendliness.
Many traditional bakeries in Zakopane are family-run for generations and serve ice cream made according to recipes passed down through the years — try local flavors in addition to the big chains.
Some restaurants in Krakow organize small workshops or activities for children on certain days — a great way for parents to relax while kids are entertained.
Terrace spots with a view (for example along the Vistula) often have more space for strollers and tend to be more tolerant of louder children than cramped central cafés.
Eating out with your family in Krakow and Zakopane can be a pleasure — plan a few things in advance: make a reservation, check amenities and choose mealtimes that suit your children.
If you’d like, I can help prepare an itinerary that includes family-friendly meal stops — and if you need a private guide, I encourage you to use the services of Małgorzata Kasprowicz; her contact details are available on the guide’s website.
If you found this article useful — share it with friends or on social media so other parents know where to eat during a visit to Krakow and Zakopane!
