St. Andrew's Church on Grodzka Street is one of the oldest and best-preserved examples of Romanesque architecture in Kraków. Built at the end of the 11th century, over time it served not only as a place of worship but also as a refuge in times of danger - the thick stone walls and the narrow openings in the lower part of the facade remind visitors that the church once sheltered residents during attacks. It is striking to stand before its austere stone mass and realize you are looking at a piece of a medieval 'lower castle'.
Inside, the contrast is surprising: the austere exterior hides Baroque and Rococo furnishings - a boat-shaped pulpit, rich stuccoes and ornate organs. That pleasant mix of simplicity and splendour is worth seeing, especially if you enjoy architecture with a long history.
If you only have a short stop on Grodzka, admire the exterior and the towers; if you have time, go inside. Even for non-religious visitors the church is a historical and photographic attraction: Romanesque details, octagonal towers and traces of former defensive features all make an impression.
The Old Town is compact, but cobbled streets and narrow sidewalks require planning, especially if you have a stroller. Choose a shorter, more comfortable route - Grodzka, Kanonicza and the area around Wawel are full of historic sights, but they can get crowded in high season.
Think about the time of day: late morning (after museums open) or early afternoon are usually quieter. If you want to relax in a café with a child, look for places with a play corner or a small playroom - that way you can enjoy coffee and conversation more peacefully.
If you plan to visit the church and a few cafés, schedule time for changing nappies, feeding and a short play break - that will help avoid stress. Also remember comfortable shoes and water for the little one.
Kraków has many spots that combine a café with a safe space for children - perfect for meeting friends with little ones. Here are several recommended places that parents appreciate:
Nelon (Zabłocie) - playroom with a small café: a cosy place with wooden toys and healthy snacks for children. Parents like that they can sit with their coffee while keeping an eye on the child in a safe room. It is a good option when you want your child to have space to play while you chat with a friend.
Chmurkowo (Podgórze) - playroom-café with family conveniences: changing tables, high chairs and a child-friendly menu. Such places often offer time-slot tickets, so you can easily match the visit length to your plans.
Fikołki (for example in Bonarka, Galeria Bronowice) - larger play halls with cafés for parents: if you prefer to leave your child for a short time with staff (where available) or look for more active play and attractions, this is a good choice for busier days.
ilovecoffee (central address) - a café with a play corner: if you prefer atmospheric cafés in the centre, look for those with a dedicated play area and a menu suited to families.
Bejbiczino, Bejbi and other local playroom-cafés - Kraków has many small spots that combine good coffee with a safe space for little ones; for less touristy places ask parent groups or check local city listings and reviews.
Grodzka is part of the old Royal Route - a walk from here leads straight to Wawel and reveals pretty alleys, cafés and small galleries. Combine a church visit with a short stroll along Kanonicza and Podzamcze.
If you plan a longer walk with a friend, consider a break in one of the cafés on Kazimierz or Zabłocie - these neighbourhoods have a relaxed vibe and many family-friendly venues. You will also find cafés with pleasant gardens, which in summer give extra comfort with a little one.
For history fans: nearby there are several churches in different architectural styles - a nice contrast to the Romanesque St. Andrew. Walk at an easy pace and choose places that won’t tire the child.
Don’t plan too many stops in one day. An overpacked itinerary with a child is a recipe for tiredness and frustration - better fewer things done well.
Don’t rely only on a map - check opening hours and availability of changing facilities or seating before you go. In tourist season queues and crowds can be larger than social media suggests.
Don’t assume every supposedly child-friendly place will suit your child - what works for one parent may not work for another. If your little one has special needs, a quick phone call to the venue before you leave will save time and nerves.
The church was once called the 'lower castle' - that helps imagine how it functioned as a defensive refuge for residents of the lower parts of the city, not only as a place of worship.
In the Romanesque facade you can still see shooting slits - an unusual sight for those used to typical church details, and a great conversation starter about how buildings' functions changed over the centuries.
Although the interior is Baroque today, it still contains layers of older history - a fine example of how one building can tell several eras at once.
Can I enter the church with a stroller? - Usually yes, but some thresholds and narrow passages may require help. If you come with a bulky stroller, consider a compact option or be prepared to ask for assistance.
Do child-friendly cafés require reservations? - For smaller playrooms and at popular times it is worth calling ahead or checking reservation options. Some venues sell timed tickets online.
How to find the nearest child-friendly café? - Ask local parent groups, check family blogs about Kraków or city listings. Cafés on Zabłocie and near shopping centres often have extensive child facilities.
If you liked this guide, share it with your friends - going out with a child does not mean giving up pleasure: a good café and a bit of planning are enough.
Would you like to explore Kraków with a guide who knows family-friendly places and can plan a route so both adult and child enjoy it? Contact Małgorzata Kasprowicz - details are available on the guide's website. This is a great option if you prefer a personalised plan and practical support during your visit.
Have a lovely walk along Grodzka and enjoy your coffee - don’t forget to capture the moments and share the article with others!
