Łokietek Cave is a short, safe and very “story-friendly” attraction — the legend of the king, winding little passages, the Knights’ Hall and the Bedroom with a stone “bed” make a great impression on young explorers. For families with preschoolers such a trip offers variety: a bit of the city (Old Town, Wawel), then a short drive to Ojcowski National Park and a brief walk through the woods before entering the cave. With a private guide you can set the pace and content to the children’s age, take breaks when needed and avoid queues at crowded group entrances.
The cave is open seasonally — usually during the spring, summer and autumn months — and visits are always led by a guide. Entrances take place at set times, so it’s worth taking that into account when planning a day with small children. This helps avoid long waits and sudden changes of plan that can disrupt a family schedule.
The most convenient scenario for families with preschoolers is to leave Kraków in the morning for Ojców and Łokietek Cave, then spend the afternoon back in the Old Town — children can nap briefly in the car and still have energy to explore the centre. Driving from Kraków to Ojców usually takes around 30–50 minutes depending on your starting point and traffic.
On site you often need to walk a few hundred metres from the parking zone to the cave; the walk is attractive, but a rugged stroller or a carrier will make it easier. The cave visit itself takes about 30–40 minutes, plus 15–30 minutes for the walk, tickets and a short talk with the guide. Plan at least 2–3 hours for the Ojców part. After returning to Kraków, leave time for lunch and a short stroll around the Market Square or Wawel.
Parking directly at the Market Square is limited and paid; most families choose underground or guarded car parks, or park-and-ride on the outskirts. It’s safest to leave the car in one of the large, reliable garages (for example by the station or shopping centres) and walk around the Old Town on foot.
If you plan to leave the car for the whole day, pay attention to paid parking zones and time limits. On weekends and in high season it’s wise to arrive earlier to avoid searching for a spot at the last minute. Private parking near Kazimierz or Galeria Krakowska can also be convenient and often offer full-day rates.
There are parking areas around Ojcowski National Park; one of the most convenient spots is the parking in Czajowice or the lots at the entrance to Ojców — from there short approaches lead to walking trails and the cave. In peak season parking can be paid and fills up quickly, so it’s worth arriving in the morning or outside the busiest weekend hours.
From the parking zones you usually walk from a few minutes up to several tens of minutes along forest paths — with a preschooler it’s better to have a rugged stroller or a sling/carrier. Keep in mind that mobile coverage is not guaranteed everywhere. The park also has toilets and information points, but their opening hours depend on the season.
Inside the cave the temperature is steady and cool (around 7–8°C), so even in summer it’s worth bringing a light warm layer for the children. The tourist route has wooden steps and artificial lighting, but there are stairs and uneven surfaces — comfortable closed shoes are essential.
Cave visits are organised in groups at set times — often every half hour on busier days. Some time slots cannot be reserved for regular admissions, so for larger private groups it’s smart to arrange a guided visit in advance to avoid long waits and to fit the time to the children’s rhythm. The tour is short, which suits little ones, but it requires quiet and attention to the guide’s instructions.
Tell a simple version of the Łokietek king’s story before you go — children listen better when they know what they will see. Short stories, a small map and photos spark curiosity. Bring a favourite snack and a thermos with warm tea or cocoa — short food breaks help keep spirits high.
Dress in layers — even on a warm day the cave is chilly. Shoes should have good grip and a rugged stroller will make walking the forest paths easier. Pack a small first-aid kit (plasters, treatment for chafes), an extra pair of socks for the kids and a lightweight blanket or fleece for a rest on a bench.
8:30 - depart Kraków, short stop on the way and arrive at the parking area near Ojcowski National Park. 9:15 - short walk to the cave entrance, buy tickets and get the children ready. 9:30–10:15 - Łokietek Cave visit (timing depends on the exact entrance). 10:30–12:00 - walk around local highlights: Kraków Gate, Hercules’ Club (Maczuga Herkulesa), the castle in Ojców, time for a second breakfast or a picnic. 12:30 - return to Kraków, lunch in the Old Town and an afternoon stroll near Wawel or the Market Square.
The plan is flexible — with a private guide you can shorten or extend sections, add educational games for children, or organise transport to avoid the biggest crowds.
Back in Kraków, choose a family-friendly restaurant or café with a good reputation. Around the Market Square and Wawel you’ll find places that offer children’s menus and quick service, which helps avoid long waits. When selecting a venue, look for reviews and availability of a kids’ menu, baby-changing facilities and high chairs.
If you plan to eat in Ojców, check the availability of local inns and small restaurants before you go — in season the best spots can be busy. You can also bring a small picnic — in the park there are benches and pleasant corners for a rest.
Assuming children will “manage” without preparation — always have a plan B: short breaks, an alternate route back, calming toys.
Underestimating travel time and queues — in season allow a 30–60 minute buffer for unexpected delays.
Not having appropriate footwear and clothing — even in summer the cave is cool and paths can be slippery; good closed shoes and layered clothing are essential.
Trying to park illegally or too close to narrow lanes — use marked parking areas and pay the fee rather than risk a fine or a clamp.
Can you reserve an entrance to Łokietek Cave? - Many entrances follow a schedule and do not require reservations, but for a larger private group it’s worth contacting the park staff in advance to arrange a suitable time.
How much are children’s tickets? - Children and youths usually qualify for reduced fares; discounted tickets are typically much cheaper than full price.
Is the cave safe for small children? - Yes, if you follow the guide’s rules: hold hands, wear comfortable shoes and warm clothing. The route is prepared for tourists but requires care on stairs and slippery sections.
Can you take photos in the cave? - Photography is usually permitted without flash; ask the guide first and remember to respect nature and the bats.
Bats spend the winter in the cave — if visitors don’t disturb them you might sometimes spot them outside the hibernation season. This is a great opportunity to talk about nature conservation.
The cave entrance is decorated with a grille that ties into the legend of a spider who supposedly saved Łokietek — such a story engages preschoolers’ imaginations.
If this article helped you plan a family day out, share it with other parents or send it to friends who will find the tips useful. If you’d like the trip to be even simpler and tailored to the children’s age, consider booking a private guiding service with Małgorzata Kasprowicz — she can help plan the route so the day is full of fun and stress-free for parents.
