The Sukiennice are not only a symbol of Krakow and a beautiful Renaissance building in the middle of the Main Market Square — they are also a place where history meets art and everyday life. A visit to the upper floor, the Gallery of 19th-Century Polish Art, makes it easy to tell children simple, visual stories about Poland: from clothing and battles, through scenes from legends, to portraits and landscapes that can be related to tales of the past. Colorful paintings and large-scale works hold a child's attention more easily than a typical classroom lesson.
Children learn by observing: paintings and sculptures become a starting point for a game of “history detectives” — looking for people, props, costumes, colors and emotions. These activities develop imagination, vocabulary and curiosity while building positive associations with the museum.
10:00–10:15 — arrival and short warm-up on the Market Square: tell the child one simple curiosity (for example, that the Sukiennice used to be a trade hall, and after its 19th-century renovation it became the seat of an important gallery). This is also the time to buy tickets or confirm a reservation.
10:15–11:00 — interactive tour with a guide or educator: focus on 3–4 paintings/exhibits. Ask questions like: “What happened here?”, “What season is it?”, “Who do you see?”. Kids like simple tasks: find the person in red, count the animals in the painting, etc.
11:00–11:30 — a short hands-on workshop in the education room (drawing, stamping, a short role-play game): connect it to subjects from the exhibition — e.g. “make a banner”, “draw your portrait like a 19th-century painter” or “act out a short market scene”.
11:30–12:00 — reflection time: discuss what we learned, show the children's work and give a small reward (sticker, certificate). Then take a snack break and a short walk around the Market Square (ice cream, pastry, tea).
Alternative for a shorter visit: a 1.5-hour program focuses on 2 paintings and one workshop. This works well for younger children with shorter attention spans.
Tell the child in a few sentences what to expect and what simple rules you will follow (for example, “we listen to the guide” or “we only touch things the educator shows us”). A short preparation reduces stress and increases the visit’s effectiveness.
Clothing: comfortable shoes and a light outer layer — museum interiors can be cooler than the street. Bring a small backpack with a drink and a snack for later.
Plan breaks. Even the best activities benefit from a short walk around the Market Square — new views and a chance to stretch legs help children refocus.
The National Museum in Krakow regularly runs guided tours and educational activities for families and children — series such as “Family tours”, holiday workshops or day-camp programs. These events follow a set format, are led by museum educators and often require prior booking.
The cost of organized family activities is often symbolic — as an example, regular family tours and workshops may cost around 15 PLN per person (for both child and guardian) — so it's worth checking current dates and reservation rules in advance.
If you prefer a visit led by an experienced guide, reserve early — the museum requires bookings for organized groups and has specific rules for school and family groups. Check opening hours and ticket prices before your visit, as hours and free-entry days can change.
Ages 3–5: very short tour (20–30 min) with one simple art activity or movement game. Topics: colors and emotions in paintings, guessing games (“who is this?”).
Ages 6–9: a story-focused tour (2–3 paintings) + a short workshop (drawing, stamp, simple historical game). Topics: “What did the market look like long ago?”, “What did people wear?”.
Ages 10–13: a more in-depth tour with references to historical events and the role of art in shaping national identity; add a short group task (e.g. mini project: design a heritage poster).
For teenagers, introduce discussion elements: compare everyday life then and now, and reflect on the role of the artist or art patron.
Wierzynek — the legendary restaurant in the heart of the Market Square, with a long history and elegant interiors. A good choice for a traditional meal with children, especially if you want a taste of Krakow’s historical atmosphere.
Cafe Camelot — a cozy café near the Market Square, popular for its homely vibe and sweet pastries; a great pick for dessert after activities.
Charlotte (Chleb i Wino) — a bakery-bistro known for excellent bread and pastries, family-friendly and quick when little tummies are rumbling.
Practical note: in high season queues can form near the most famous places — if you want to eat in a specific spot, reserve a table or come outside peak hours (for example before 1:00 PM).
The Sukiennice have a centuries-long trading tradition — merchants once exchanged goods here from across Europe and Asia: spices, fabrics, furs and salt. This is a great starting point for stories about historical trade and everyday city life.
Use simple props: a scarf or hat and some paper stationery give the lesson theatrical flair. Children love simple roles: merchant, master painter, craftsman.
Play the “detail hunters” game: give children a small card with tasks (find a dog in a painting, count banners, list the colors). This engages children and trains attention to detail.
Thinking of the museum as a “dry lesson” — instead, plan active elements: tasks, drawing, play. Short, hands-on activities increase attention.
Trying to see too much in too little time. It's better to focus on a few exhibits than rush through galleries. Children remember less that is seen quickly, and more that is seen closely.
Not booking a workshop or group in advance — many family activities require prior reservation; check the museum’s rules ahead of time (contact and bookings).
Do children pay to enter the Sukiennice? — Museums often offer discounts or special age rules; for family tours the activity fee is sometimes symbolic (e.g. around 15 PLN per person). Check current ticket information before your visit.
Can you touch the exhibits? — In most museums touching objects is not allowed. Educators often prepare replicas or tactile materials specifically for workshops so children can explore by touch.
How long do family activities last? — A typical family tour lasts 60–90 minutes; shorter, intensive forms (30–45 min) suit younger children.
The Sukiennice are an ideal place to take a child on their first “history course” — the immediacy of paintings, the richness of themes and the possibility of adding a short workshop make learning history natural and enjoyable. With a well-thought-out plan, a reservation and a touch of play, every family outing can become a lovely memory.
If you’d like to personalize the program — combine the Sukiennice with other Market Square attractions (St. Mary’s Basilica, a short walk to Wawel) — feel free to get in touch to discuss details. On the guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz’s site you can find a contact form, ready itineraries and available dates.
If you found this article helpful — share it on social media or send it to friends planning a family trip to Krakow. And if you prefer a stress-free, creative visit, consider arranging a private guided program with Małgorzata Kasprowicz (contact details are available on her website).
