Top 10 attractions in Krakow for children — Pharmacy Museum and places to take a break

Top 10 attractions in Krakow for children — Pharmacy Museum and places to take a break
Private Tour Guide in Krakow - Margaret Kasprowicz

Margaret Kasprowicz

Is the Pharmacy Museum a good idea for family sightseeing?

Yes — especially if your children enjoy short stories, colorful bottles and tales about old medicines. The Pharmacy Museum is a small but atmospheric space that stretches from the basement to the attic and shows what an old apothecary used to look like. It’s a place that mixes a bit of history with moments of “wow” — antique vials, pharmacy furniture and packaging that even adults enjoy seeing. It works well as a calm break between more active attractions like a park or playground.

Keep in mind that the exhibition spans several floors and there is no elevator, so a stroller or someone with limited mobility may have difficulty accessing all rooms. Practically: the museum offers single and family tickets, and an average family visit takes about 1–1.5 hours.

If you’re looking for balance between movement (playgrounds, aquapark) and a moment of reflection and scientific curiosities — the Pharmacy Museum is a good complement to a day’s plan.

What to know before visiting the Pharmacy Museum

Opening hours can be shorter than at other city attractions — check the day of the week before you go. The museum is usually closed on some weekdays, and the last entry is often about 45 minutes before closing, so plan to arrive a little earlier.

Ticket prices are family-friendly — there are concession and regular tickets, and a family ticket usually covers up to two adults and children under a certain age. Guided tours are an option for groups, but many families prefer a calm, self-guided visit.

Remember the exhibition occupies around a dozen rooms across several floors; the lack of an elevator means stairs are unavoidable. For families with small children it’s a good idea to plan a short break after leaving the museum — there are cafes and small parks nearby ideal for resting.

Top 10 attractions in Krakow that kids really like

1. Aquapark — wave pools, slides and paddling pools for little ones make for an unforgettable day. It’s also a great option when the weather is bad.

2. City ZOO and Wolski Forest — a walk, animal encounters and lots of space to run. Perfect for a half-day and a picnic.

3. Trampoline parks and large indoor playrooms — places where kids can burn off energy, often with a café area for guardians.

4. Interactive entertainment centers and building zones — pixel floors, LEGO corners and creative stations engage children’s imagination at every age.

5. A short cruise on the Vistula River — a different perspective on the city and great fun for younger travelers; check schedules in season.

6. Błonia, Jordan Park and the mounds (for example Kościuszko Mound) — excellent spots for picnics, flying kites and easy family walks.

7. Family workshops — cooking, ceramics or art workshops let children bring home a handmade souvenir.

8. Routes and attractions tied to the Wawel Dragon legend — a short dragon-themed walk and the Dragon’s Den make a charming little adventure for the youngest.

9. Themed museums for children — smaller museums and branches with interactive displays (for example railway museums or LEGO exhibitions) are a good rainy-day option.

10. Seasonal fairs and outdoor animations — in the warmer months the city hosts many family events; check local calendars before you arrive.

Where to take a break — family-friendly cafés and restaurants

When you plan a full day in the city with children, it’s useful to have a shortlist of reliable places for a break. Around the Market Square and Floriańska Street you’ll find cafés that welcome families and offer high chairs and children’s menus. Friendly options include Charlotte — known for its baked goods and breakfasts, and Massolit Books & Café — a good spot for a quiet coffee with a book. Several venues regularly run children’s activities.

If you want a place with play areas for little ones, look for cafés with children’s corners or dedicated kids’ menus. It’s worth calling ahead to reserve a table and to check whether the place can accommodate a stroller or a child seat.

For a quick snack I recommend local bakeries and cafés with a good reputation — often the fastest way to recharge before the next attraction.

Practical tips and FAQ — what to bring and how to plan the day

Bring a small backpack with snacks, a water bottle and bags for used wipes. Children usually tire faster than adults, so short breaks every 1–2 hours make a big difference.

For activities requiring special footwear (trampoline parks) pack non-slip socks. Many venues enforce specific footwear or safety rules.

Check opening hours in advance — many places have different schedules on weekdays and weekends. During the tourist season booking ahead and buying tickets in advance saves time.

If you want to avoid crowds: choose morning opening hours or late afternoons. Parks and Wawel are busiest in the middle of the day, especially on weekends.

Common mistakes tourists with children make and how to avoid them

Trying to fit too many attractions into one day. It’s better to plan 2–3 highlights with planned breaks than a marathon list.

Not having extra food and drinks. Even short queues or a closed café can upset a child — have a plan B and a few snacks on hand.

Ignoring the rules at visited places (for example height limits on slides, or lack of an elevator in museums). A few minutes checking a venue’s website will help avoid disappointment.

A few local curiosities that might surprise you

The Pharmacy Museum’s exhibition runs from the basement to the attic — this creates a unique atmosphere but also means climbing stairs. Average visit time is about 1.5 hours.

The large Błonia meadow is not only a place to run — free events for children are often organized there: workshops, outdoor performances and animations, especially in warmer months.

Some organized Vistula cruises include short animations or stories for children — a nice way to relax while seeing the city from another perspective.

Ideas for short breaks while sightseeing

The Planty and Jordan Park are natural stopping points: a bench, a fountain and a small playground are often enough for kids to regain energy. Bring a picnic blanket and a favorite toy for a quick, pleasant break.

If you’re exploring the center, choose a café with a children’s corner or a small place with good coffee and cakes. Short 30–45 minute breaks are an ideal reset before the next attraction.

Near larger museums and attractions plan an outdoor break right after leaving the exhibition — kids will be happy to run and it’s easier to continue sightseeing afterward.

Finally — what else is useful to know and an invitation

If you liked this guide, share it with family and friends — small tips can save a day full of experiences. If you’d like to personalize a Krakow route to suit your family’s needs (pace, children’s ages, breaks, food preferences), feel free to contact guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — details are available on the guiding site.

I wish you wonderful, calm and well-planned days in Krakow — may this be a time of fun, curiosity and small discoveries for the whole family!