At the Józef Czapski Pavilion, which houses part of the National Museum in Kraków’s collections (MNK Czapscy), family tours and educational activities are often organized where children can look closely at exhibits, use magnifying glasses, and sometimes see stamps and tools related to coin striking. This makes a holiday visit feel like a real adventure for little ones.
A well-planned holiday visit can combine exhibition viewing with themed workshops — the museum regularly offers family-focused activities, especially in winter and during Christmas events.
The holidays are a time when museum spaces are more open to family activities: workshops, shorter guided tours, and Christmas-themed events frequently appear. For children it’s a chance to learn about traditions and everyday life from earlier times in an accessible way.
The Józef Czapski Pavilion at 12 Piłsudskiego Street is centrally located, so you can combine your visit with a walk around the area, a quick lunch or coffee — which makes logistics with the family easier.
1. Arrival and short warm-up (15–20 min) — meet in the lobby, quickly explain museum behaviour rules, and give children small “missions” (e.g. count costume elements in a painting, find a golden detail).
2. Main visit (45–60 min) — focus on the most interesting display cases. At the Czapski Pavilion it’s often worth spending time with numismatics, small objects and stories about collecting. Let children observe, ask questions and use a magnifier if available.
3. Short workshop or creative activity (30–45 min) — during the holiday season the museum runs family workshops (educational series or special themed sessions). If there isn’t an official workshop, suggest your own creative task like sketching a favourite detail or making a holiday card inspired by the exhibits.
4. Break for something warm (30–45 min) — coffee and cake or a quick lunch in a nearby café. After a rest children usually return refreshed and are better prepared for more walking around the city.
Rather than rushing through every room, work with details: ask children to describe color, shape and texture of an object. Even a simple question “What do you think this object was used for?” sparks imagination.
Play detective: give children a checklist of small things to find (e.g. an animal motif, a coin with an unusual face, an element with writing). This keeps focus and turns the visit into a game.
If possible, join a family tour led by an educator — it’s often the best way to present exhibits in language tailored for kids.
In the pre-Christmas period the museum usually runs themed events: family workshops, singing sessions of regional songs, short curator-led tours and participatory actions related to holiday customs. Check the museum’s event calendar and book ahead when possible.
Educational series for families often take place on weekends — it’s a good idea to time your visit to coincide with sessions aimed at children.
The museum typically offers online ticketing and schedules for workshops — check availability in advance and buy tickets for specific family activities.
During the holidays some events have limited capacity, so booking ahead removes stress and avoids long lines.
If you are coming with a stroller or need accessibility arrangements, contact the museum in advance to confirm entrance conditions and cloakroom options.
If you want to stay close to the museum, the Petite France café operates right at the Józef Czapski Pavilion — a handy spot for coffee, cake and a light lunch after your visit.
Other family-friendly options in central Kraków that are often recommended: BonJour CaVa (a cozy café with a French-inspired menu), Karma (specialty coffee café), and Blossom Coffee Roasters (modern spot with good coffee and pastries). A short stop at a historic café on the Main Market Square is a nice way to soak up the city’s holiday atmosphere.
1. Not reserving workshops — holiday slots fill quickly, so book in advance.
2. Planning too long a route for small children — shorter, focused activities with breaks work better than long museum marathons.
3. Being unprepared for weather and rest breaks — bring an extra jacket, snacks and a backup plan in case the kids get tired.
Does the museum offer special family tours? — Yes, the museum regularly organizes Sunday tours and family workshops aimed at children.
How long is the typical visit with kids? — Plan for 2–3 hours including a break for a warm drink or meal.
Can I enter with a stroller? — Many museum pavilions are adapted, but it’s best to check specifics before your visit and contact the museum if needed.
Are there family discounts? — The museum often has ticket and workshop offers for families — check current family ticket conditions and prices.
In some family sessions, historic objects become props for play — a great opportunity to show children that history also lives in everyday items.
During the holiday season the museum sometimes invites local singers or small ensembles for short performances — a lovely complement that helps convey tradition and atmosphere.
If you found this plan useful — share it with friends or on social media so other parents can better plan a Kraków visit.
If you prefer to explore with someone who knows the museum well and can adapt the route to your children’s ages, consider the private guiding services of Małgorzata Kasprowicz. Her services are featured on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com.
