St. Andrew's Church on Grodzka Street is one of the oldest and best-preserved Romanesque sites in Krakow. Even a single sentence about the building once serving defensive purposes and offering shelter to residents during raids can spark children's curiosity.
For kids it's a great place — the austere stone exterior and two towers look almost like they belong in a knights' story, while inside you'll find Baroque decor, a pulpit shaped like a boat and organs that feel like instruments from a legend. That contrast is easy to turn into a short story that keeps little ones engaged.
If you want the visit to be safe and enjoyable, a few simple preparations go a long way — more on that later in the text.
Inside the church you’ll notice Baroque elements: rich stucco decoration, the main altar and rococo organs. The boat-shaped pulpit is an easy storytelling anchor — a tale about a journey, rescue and shelter appeals nicely to a child's imagination.
You can show kids the octagonal towers and explain that the small windows and lack of large ground-floor openings point to defensive functions. A short story about Tatar raids or a 'lower castle' will bring the history to life.
Remember to explain that this is a sacred place — a soft voice, restrained movements and respect for the interior are simple rules you can turn into a game: 'who can walk as quietly as a spy?'
Avoid the busiest tourist hours — early morning or late afternoon are more comfortable. Fewer people means less crowding and easier supervision of children.
Check the church opening hours and Mass times in advance — if you want a calm visit, choose a time outside services. Short planned breaks (for example on the nearby square or in a cafe) will help keep kids happy.
The route from Wawel along Grodzka to the Main Market is short and full of attractions; if you're using a stroller, remember some sections are cobbled and can be uneven.
Crowds around the Market Square and Grodzka Street attract pickpockets. The greatest risk comes when we're distracted — taking photos, resting in an outdoor seating area, or when someone suddenly starts a conversation.
Small scams often rely on clever distraction: someone asks for directions, puts a 'gift' on you (for example a bracelet) or asks for a signature on a fake petition. While you are distracted, accomplices may reach into pockets or bags.
Another common trap is unsolicited offers of guiding services or 'arranged' local tickets — avoid pushy people offering services, especially when they are not recommended.
Before you leave: take a photo of the children in the clothes they will wear that day and write the guardian's contact number on a note in a backpack or on a wristband. This simple step reduces stress if someone gets lost.
Keep passports and larger amounts of cash in the hotel safe and carry only cards and a small amount of cash with you. An inside pocket or a money belt under clothing are the safest options.
Put contact wristbands on children or use an invisible sticker with details inside a jacket. If you use a stroller — always secure it with a strap to your wrist or leave it only within sight when at a table.
Teach children the 'three steps and look' rule — if they walk a few steps ahead, they should stop every three steps, turn and check that the guardian is still close.
Bracelet trick: someone approaches and puts a bracelet on you, then demands payment. Response: politely but firmly refuse and walk away. If the person creates a scene, move to a place with more people or staff nearby.
Attention-grabbing 'drop' or 'request for help': if someone suddenly points at an item on the ground and asks you to check it, keep your child close and do not set your bag down. In crowds, seek out staff (for example a city guard) rather than engage in argument.
Fake petitions and signatures: don't sign anything or hand over identity documents. If someone pressures you, leave and report the incident to the police or city guard.
Use official licensed taxis or well-known ride-hailing apps. Agree on an approximate price or ask the driver to switch on the meter. If a driver proposes a 'fixed price,' compare with other vehicles.
If you're returning late with children, call a trusted taxi company or ask the hotel reception for help. If there's a problem with a driver, note the registration number and report it to the city guard.
For e-scooters and city bikes always check the technical condition before riding; use helmets for older children and carry younger ones only in approved child seats.
After sightseeing it’s nice to relax in one of the classic Old Town establishments. For tradition and desserts, Słodki Wentzl at the Main Market is a long-standing place with a good reputation.
For a relaxed meetup with children consider atmospheric cafes such as Cafe Camelot or Massolit Books & Cafe — they have friendly, informal vibes and dessert options kids usually love.
If you want traditional Polish cuisine with good reviews, restaurants like Pod Baranem near Wawel offer a solid quality-to-price ratio. It's wise to book a table on weekends.
Leaving belongings unattended at an outdoor table is an easy route to trouble — even in seemingly quiet cafes. Always keep your phone and wallet within sight.
Trusting strangers who offer help or an 'opportunity' can be costly. Accept help only from clearly identified staff or official services.
Not informing children of basic rules: many stresses can be avoided by agreeing before you leave — 'what to do if you get lost' and a set meeting point.
What if we lose a child? Stay calm, ask staff at the nearest tourist information point or the police for help. A recent photo of the child and a saved contact number will speed up the search.
Emergency number in Poland is 112. You can also call the police directly at 997. In threats to life or health call 112.
Should we leave documents and money at the hotel? Yes — passports and larger sums are best secured in the hotel safe. Carry a photocopy of your ID and one payment card with you.
Visiting St. Andrew's Church with children can be a fantastic experience — a few simple preparations, common sense and a handful of family rules will make the trip calmer and more enjoyable for everyone.
If you found this guide useful, share it with friends or on social media — you'll help other families prepare for their visit to Krakow.
If you'd like to tour with an experienced private guide, consider the services of Małgorzata Kasprowicz — her offer is available at zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. A guided option can be a convenient choice when you visit Krakow with children and want a safe, engaging program tailored to young visitors.
