The Market Underground is one of those places that acts like a natural magnet for families and young travelers — a multimedia exhibition telling the story of Kraków through archaeology, everyday objects and recreated scenes from the level of the old market. For children it’s a “museum to see with your eyes” — darker corridors, interactive screens and hands-on exhibits make an impression and hold attention.
For students and Erasmus visitors it’s also a great way to start the day: a short, concentrated visit in the city centre (usually 60–90 minutes) that puts you right on the Market Square afterwards — an ideal spot for a longer walk or a quick lunch. Timed tickets help keep the pace and avoid queues.
The Underground frequently offers reduced and family tickets, and sometimes free-entry days — check current conditions before you go and have any discount documents with you (for example a student ID).
Booking and hours — entries are at set times, so we recommend reserving tickets in advance, especially during the tourist season and on weekends. Organized groups should also plan ahead.
Visit duration — plan for about 1–1.5 hours so you have time afterwards to stretch your legs by the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice) or grab a short coffee.
Accessibility — the exhibition is adapted for visitors with limited mobility (there are solutions that allow wheelchair access), but underground spaces can be narrower than surface museum halls. If you arrive with a stroller, check the entrance route in advance and be prepared to use an elevator or to leave the stroller for the duration of the visit.
Audio guides and staff — audio guides are often available in several languages; for larger groups consider renting a headphone system. Staff on site can advise where to leave belongings and where to meet after the visit.
Morning — start at the Market Underground (book entry for a chosen time), then a short walk under the Cloth Hall arcades and a coffee or sweet snack for the kids.
Midday — a workshop or activity: the Żywe Muzeum Obwarzanka (a short, hands-on bagel-baking session) or a visit to the Museum of Engineering and Technology — both options engage hands and eyes, which work well for younger participants.
Afternoon — a light lunch and then head to Kazimierz: Plac Nowy and its famous zapiekanki are an inexpensive, student-style meal; in the evening the Vistula Boulevards (Bulwary Wiślane) are a pleasant place to relax and watch city life.
Alternative to cool off — an aquapark makes a great finale if you want to burn off children’s energy after an intense museum morning.
What to look for — a family-friendly café usually has: a play corner, a baby-changing station in the restroom, highchairs and a simple children’s menu (small portions, warm juices, biscuits). For students, price, power outlets and a relaxed atmosphere matter too.
Examples and tips — around the Old Town and Kazimierz you’ll find small cafés with space to play as well as bakeries and dessert places where kids can get ice cream or a pastry. Students should look for places with lunch deals or evening co-working vibes.
Budget options for hungry students — Plac Nowy (zapiekanki) plus small canteens and traditional milk bars in the centre are great if you need a quick, cheap meal after sightseeing.
The Underground is more than stones — you’ll see layers of history: remains of old stalls and fragments of streets from different eras, which give an unusual perspective on how the market functioned centuries ago.
Obwarzanki — more than a tasty souvenir: obwarzanki (a ring-shaped bread) have been known in Kraków since the Middle Ages and are part of the city’s history; a baking workshop is a fun, sensory experience for children.
Local small customs — when planning your day remember that many cafés and small stalls offer quick, cheap food but not all menus are in English — knowing a few simple Polish words will make communication easier and will usually win a friendly smile from the seller.
Trying to do “everything at once” — when planning one day don’t overload the schedule. Better fewer activities done well than seven rushed stops. Plan 3–4 highlights and leave breaks.
Not checking opening hours and discounts — museums and workshops have different rules for reduced prices and free days; check current information before you leave and have discount documents with you (student ID, family card, etc.).
Insufficient logistics planning — if it rains, choose covered routes or indoor alternatives; keep a small rain cover for a stroller and a dry change of clothes for children.
Are the Market Underground exhibits suitable for small children? — Yes, the exhibition is visually attractive and brief, but consider whether a child is comfortable in darker, enclosed spaces; preschool-aged children often enjoy 30–45 minutes of concentrated viewing.
Do students get discounts? — Many city attractions offer reduced tickets for people in education up to a certain age — bring your student ID and check conditions at the ticket office.
Do I need a group reservation? — For groups larger than a dozen people an advance reservation is usually required — plan ahead to secure entry at your desired time.
Pack a small emergency kit: quick-dry towels, spare socks, a mini first-aid kit, and some change for snacks. This will save the day in most unexpected situations.
If you arrive as a group of friends or Erasmus students — split responsibilities: one person books tickets, another takes the map, another packs snacks. That way everyone enjoys the day without chaos.
Match the pace to the youngest participant — a slower tempo helps everyone remember places better and enjoy discoveries more.
If this guide helped you plan a day in Kraków — share it with friends or on social media so other tourists and students can benefit from these practical tips.
If you prefer to explore with someone who knows the city and can tell stories that make both adults and children leave with a smile — consider booking a private tour with Małgorzata Kasprowicz (Margaret Kasprowicz). Reservation details and service information are available through the zwiedzaniekrakowa.com site. Thank you and enjoy a wonderful day in Kraków!
