Is the walk suitable for children and strollers? How long does the route take? Where do we start and what’s worth seeing along the way? In this article I’ll answer these and other practical questions — simply, warmly and so that the whole family has a great time.
I’m Małgorzata Kasprowicz, a licensed Kraków tour guide (license since 2012). I’ve guided thousands of people around Kraków and regularly run family-friendly tours — both the classic Royal Route and special “Trail of Legends” walks designed for children.
Below you’ll find a step-by-step route description, versions adapted for families with children, practical tips (tickets, time, accessibility), a suggested one-day connection to Zakopane and an FAQ with the most common questions.
The Royal Route is the most important walk through Kraków’s historic heart: we usually start near Matejko Square (Kleparz), pass the Barbican and St. Florian’s Gate, walk down Floriańska Street straight to the Main Market Square (St. Mary’s Basilica, Cloth Hall), then continue along Grodzka and Kanonicza streets up to Wawel — the Castle and Cathedral.
The time needed depends on the variant: an outside-only walk without museum entries takes about 2–2.5 hours. If you plan to enter interiors (the Cathedral, Royal Chambers, Market Underground) allow 4–6 hours or plan a full day, taking queues and breaks into account.
There are many rest points, ice-cream cafés and spots for a sandwich along the way, which makes this route a good option for family sightseeing with pauses.
Matejko Square and the Barbican - a short story about medieval defensive walls and why city gates used to matter. It’s also a convenient meeting point and place to assemble the group.
St. Florian’s Gate and Floriańska Street - a street of interesting townhouses, legends and a famous café. For kids it’s a chance to hear about daily life in the past.
Main Market Square - the heart of Kraków: the Cloth Hall, St. Mary’s Basilica (a short tale about the trumpeter on the tower) and town-hall stories. This is always a good place for a longer break, especially with the little ones.
Grodzka and Kanonicza Streets - quieter, picturesque lanes leading to Wawel; perfect for stories about canons, old apartments and the secrets of the houses.
Wawel Hill - the finale: castle courtyards, the Cathedral with royal crypts and the Wawel Dragon for children. If you plan to enter the Royal Chambers or the Cathedral, check opening hours and entry rules in advance.
Short version - 1.5–2 hours: ideal for families with young children. We focus on the most impressive sights and 2–3 story-legends to keep kids interested.
Full version with entries - 4–6 hours: for families who want to see Wawel from the inside and visit the Basilica. Remember tickets and breaks for food.
Trail of Legends - a special route for children: more activities, puzzles and tales that engage younger visitors. This is my favorite way of working with families — lots of humor, short stops and tasks for kids.
During family walks I also use small audio-headset sets (audio guide) — a convenient solution for larger groups and crowded places.
Yes, it’s a popular combination: a morning walk in Kraków followed by a trip to Zakopane for the afternoon or a full day in the mountains. Zakopane is a great contrast — from urban monuments to Tatra nature.
In practice it’s worth planning: a morning Royal Route walk (2–3 hours), then travel to Zakopane (organized transfer or train/bus) and afternoon attractions in Zakopane. Remember to bring layers — it can be cooler in the mountains even in summer.
For families with small children I recommend shorter activities in Zakopane: Krupówki promenade, a funicular ride to Gubałówka, short walks and local treats — smoked cheese (oscypek) is usually a big hit with kids.
If you’d like, I can help plan a detailed day program — paced so there’s no rush and children have time to rest.
Shoes: comfortable, flat footwear. Streets are often cobbled and the route involves walking — families with strollers can manage, but sturdy shoes and shorter distances work best.
Weather and clothing: Kraków’s weather can change quickly — bring a light jacket or umbrella. In the mountains (Zakopane) it’s often cooler, so layering is a good idea.
Tickets and entries: if you plan to enter the Royal Chambers, Market Underground or museums — buy tickets in advance and check opening hours. There are also places on the route where children can move freely and rest.
Strollers, accessibility and senior-friendly routes: parts of the route (the Market Square, Grodzka Street) are stroller-friendly, but on Wawel and in some historic interiors you may face stairs. Let me know when you book — I’ll tailor the route with accessibility in mind.
Breaks and food: there are many cafés and ice-cream shops around the Market — plan short stops. Families with allergies may want to bring their own snacks.
Map and information points: InfoKraków centers provide free city maps — a great complement to the walk, especially if you plan further independent sightseeing.
Prices for private walks depend on route length and group size. For larger groups and longer tours I use clear hourly/full-walk rates — I’ll gladly share details when you contact me and adapt the offer to your family’s needs.
For families’ comfort there are audio-headset sets available — a handy solution in crowded places.
If you want to book a walk or ask about price, write or call — we’ll choose the best option considering children’s ages, pace and places you want to visit.
Note - seasonal promotions may apply at different times, so it’s worth asking about current offers when booking.
Is the walk suitable for toddlers? - Yes, if we choose a shorter, interactive version with stories and tasks. For the youngest children 1.5–2 hours with breaks works best.
Do we need to buy tickets in advance? - Not for the outdoor walk. If you plan to enter popular sites (Wawel, Market Underground), I recommend buying tickets beforehand or allowing time for queues.
Does the guide have a license? - Yes. I hold a national Kraków tour guide license since 2012 and have experience working with family and school groups.
Do you offer tours in English? - Yes, tours in other languages are possible — ask about availability when booking.
How far in advance should we book? - The earlier the better, especially in the tourist season and on weekends. Last-minute bookings are sometimes possible if I have availability.
Go early or in the late afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds on the Market Square.
Tell me about any special needs (stroller, allergies, walking pace) — I’ll prepare the route so it’s comfortable for everyone.
Don't forget your camera and moments of doing nothing — the best memories come from sitting on a bench and simply watching the city.
If you plan to combine Kraków with Zakopane — consider dedicating a separate day or arranging logistics in advance so the day isn’t too tight for children.
If you’d like, I’ll prepare a personalized plan for your walk or a whole day — tell me how much time you have and how many children, and I’ll take care of the rest.
The Royal Route is full of history, little delights and places that interest both adults and children. I lead it with passion, humor and care, so everyone returns feeling Kraków is a living city full of stories.
Contact me to book and customize the program — together we’ll create family memories that will last.
See you on Kraków’s streets - Małgorzata
