Krzysztofory Palace stands almost in the very heart of the Main Market Square and in winter it has a special atmosphere – historic interiors and exhibitions on one side, and the Christmas market, lights and the smell of mulled wine on the other. It’s an ideal place to combine learning with fun and give the family a few memorable moments.
In December the palace often shows the Kraków nativity scene exhibition (szopki) – one of those local traditions that can surprise even people who think they know Kraków well. For children it’s a great lesson in craft and tradition; for adults – attractive and often very inventive miniature works of art.
The museum branch is also prepared for family visits: there are special tours for children, educational programs and spaces friendly to parents with small children, which makes exploring easier even with a stroller.
The main thread of the displays is the permanent exhibition that tells the city’s story from earliest times to the present – a good base for introducing the youngest visitors to Kraków’s legends and key moments with short, engaging stories.
In December pay special attention to the post-competition exhibition of Kraków nativity scenes – colorful, precise constructions that impress at any age. If you find family workshops, children can try small projects of their own, which greatly increases their enjoyment of the visit.
Don’t skip the rooms with everyday objects from past eras and small surprising exhibits – these are places where children often stop longer because you can point, compare and tell a short story.
Krzy sztofory Palace is located at Rynek Główny 35. The branch usually operates Tuesday–Sunday, roughly 10:00–18:00, with last admission for individual visitors about an hour before closing. These hours can vary by season or for special events.
Important: during the Christmas period the museum is often closed on some days (for example December 24 and 25). December 26 is frequently a regular opening day, so if you celebrate Christmas in Kraków it’s a good idea to plan your visit for the day after the holiday. Always check the current opening hours before your visit and I recommend booking tickets online in winter, because family tour slots fill quickly.
If you’re looking to save, remember that the museum sometimes offers special conditions on certain days (for example free or reduced entry on Tuesday for the permanent exhibition), but family programs and temporary exhibitions often require a regular ticket or prior reservation.
Plan 60–90 minutes for a family visit, with a short break for coffee or a snack. Younger children cope better with shorter, interactive segments than with long, monotonous tours.
Bring: warm layered clothing (it can be chilly in the city center in December), a lightweight baby carrier for infants, snacks, tissues and a small set of toys or picture books. It’s also useful to have a powerbank for your phone – photos and videos of the nativity scenes tend to add up fast.
If you have a stroller, check in advance about lift access and a parent-and-child room – the palace has family-friendly solutions, but comfort depends on the route you plan through the exhibition.
After leaving Krzysztofory Palace you’re just steps from the Main Market Square. If you want a classic spot with a view of the Square, Wentzl and Słodki Wentzl are traditional and their desserts are a hit with children.
For an elegant, historic dinner consider Wierzynek or Szara Gęś Le Privé – both receive strong reviews and serve dishes suited to a special occasion. For a more relaxed family atmosphere try Pod Nosem, located close by and offering Polish flavors with a modern touch.
For a quick warm-up and atmospheric cafe with an artistic interior, Cafe Camelot or another Market Square coffeehouse can be ideal. If you plan a festive walk around the market, reserve a table in the evening in advance, because places fill up fast in the season.
Krzysztofory Palace is not only exhibitions – it’s also a venue for nativity scene competitions and special shows; the Kraków szopka tradition is unique and each year attracts media and collectors’ attention.
To really surprise the family, plan a short “detective game” – a list of three exhibits to find with small rewards or Kraków-themed postcards. For children this is a great way to vary the visit, and adults enjoy the shared sense of discovery.
Another idea: combine the palace visit with an afternoon at the Christmas market and an evening walk around the lit Planty. Photos by the tree and in the narrow decorated streets make very festive memories.
Assuming everything in the city will be open on December 24–25 – many institutions take a break then. Instead of stressing about museum entry on those days, plan the visit for December 26 or book alternative activities (a walk, the market, a cafe).
Not booking a restaurant during the holiday period is a simple recipe for long waits or disappointment. Even large venues often reserve tables well in advance; a phone call or online reservation a few days before usually solves this.
Overloading the program – we want to see as much as possible and end up tired and grumpy. It’s better to plan one museum and a relaxed market stroll than several tightly packed items in one day.
Is Krzysztofory Palace open on December 25? - Usually not; December 24 and 25 are days when many museum branches are closed. December 26 is often open, but always check the current calendar.
Is admission for children paid? - The museum runs family tours and programs that sometimes require payment – for example, children’s workshops can cost a small fee (around 20 PLN per child), and guardians may be included or have reduced entry. Book places in advance.
Can I enter with a stroller? - The palace has facilities for parents with children: a lift, a parent-and-child room and accessible routes, but the layout of rooms may require brief assistance from staff.
If you want your Christmas visit to Kraków to feel truly well planned, it’s worth mapping the route in advance, reserving tickets and a restaurant table, and adding a playful element for the children – these small things make the biggest difference.
If you’d like help from a local guide, I invite you to use the services of local guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz (Margaret Kasprowicz) via zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. A well-planned private tour means less stress and more joy for the whole family.
If this article helped you, share it with friends or on social media, send the family the plan for your holiday trip and let others find ideas for a successful, festive time in Kraków.
