Did you know that driving from Kraków to Energylandia in Zator usually takes under an hour? It’s a great option for a one-day trip: a morning dose of adrenaline at the theme park, followed by an evening stroll through Kraków’s historic centre and a quiet moment in the Baroque basilica on Grodzka Street. This plan works especially well if you’re travelling with family or want to diversify your stay in Lesser Poland with a short but intense programme.
Energylandia is a large entertainment complex divided into several themed zones, with attractions for both little ones and thrill-seekers. If you’re going during the season or at the weekend, buy tickets in advance and plan your travel (via the A4 motorway or by train/bus) — you’ll save time and avoid stress. After returning to the city, it’s worth visiting the Church (Basilica) of St. Peter and St. Paul — Kraków’s first Baroque church, notable for its stone façade and statues of the apostles; inside you’ll find stucco decorations and several interesting epitaphs. The contrast is striking: from the noise and fun of the theme park to the peace and beauty of sacred architecture in the heart of the city.
If you plan to travel on New Year’s Eve, remember that Kraków hasn’t held a single large official city New Year’s Eve event on the Main Square in recent years. In practice that means celebrations take place in restaurants, clubs and banquet halls — so book well in advance. An alternative is an intimate New Year’s Eve in a cosy café or bar, and for families a theatre evening or a closed concert can be a nice option.
Check opening hours and the seasonal calendar — depending on the month some zones and attractions may operate with limited offerings. From Kraków to Zator it’s most convenient to go by car (A4) — the drive usually takes 45–60 minutes and there is a large parking area on site. If you’re not driving, look for bus or train connections; in season several direct services run.
Buy tickets online in advance, especially if you plan to go on a weekend or holiday — this saves time at the entrance. On site there are zones with different profiles: Bajkolandia for the youngest visitors, the Family Zone, the Extreme Zone for fans of stronger thrills and a water park. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, plan breaks for food (there are many dining points in the park) and check whether particular attractions have height or age restrictions.
Practical tips: bring a powerbank, check availability of charging stations for electric cars if you use an EV, and plan your return outside peak traffic times to avoid jams on the A4.
The Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul on Grodzka Street is the first Baroque church in Kraków, built at the turn of the 16th and 17th centuries. The façade is distinguished by a row of large statues of the apostles standing on pedestals — a recognizable feature of the place. The interior impresses with stucco decoration and rich Baroque details; in the chancel you can see, among other things, the monument to Bishop Andrzej Trzebicki and the tomb of Father Piotr Skarga.
The church is an active parish centre: masses, concerts (evening classical music performances are frequent) and other cultural events take place here; check parish announcements before your visit, especially during holidays and public days when service times may change. Also look out for interesting exhibits or demonstrations such as the Foucault pendulum, which for years has attracted science-lovers and curious visitors.
While visiting be mindful of the church’s character: it’s still a functioning house of worship, so dress appropriately and keep quiet, especially during services. If you want to hear the organ or attend a concert, check dates in advance — many events are open to visitors and can be a pleasant break after an intense day.
The Stanisław Lem Garden of Experiences is an interactive space in Park Lotników — ideal with children and for those who enjoy learning through play. The installations demonstrate physical laws in an accessible, engaging way.
Podgórze and its lesser-known corners: step off the beaten path to discover atmospheric streets, quiet squares and the Church of St. Joseph — the district feels different from the Old Town and hides many local stories.
Krzysztofory Palace and its surroundings — beyond the main exhibition of the Historical Museum of the City of Kraków, the palace and its small rooms often hold local tales, temporary exhibitions and events that don’t always make it into larger guidebooks.
The university campus and green squares by the Vistula away from the busiest sections: a walk along the less-travelled parts of the boulevards lets you see Kraków from a more “urban” perspective, with local cafés and pieces of street art.
Small family-run cafés with soul — for example spots on the Old Town and Kazimierz that serve homemade cakes and have regulars. These places often shape the true atmosphere of the city, though they rarely appear as main entries in big guides.
Art spaces and studios of local creators — Kraków has a strong independent scene; off galleries, small exhibitions and artist workshops pop up in various locations and are great sources of local atmosphere.
Places of memory and small chapels hidden in the corners of the Old Town — if you like history, watch for intimate epitaphs, plaques and crypts that tell stories about former residents of Kraków.
In recent years Kraków has tended to offer dispersed events rather than one big city New Year’s Eve. Expect offers from clubs, restaurants and cultural institutions — which is why booking a place several weeks ahead is a good idea, especially in popular venues and restaurants.
If you dream of a calmer New Year’s Eve, check chamber concert listings, ballroom balls or hotel packages with a New Year’s dinner. Alternatively, a dinner in a cosy café and walks through less crowded parts of the city just before midnight can be a lovely plan.
Avoid the common mistake of leaving transport or return travel until the last minute. On December 31 public transport may be limited, taxis more expensive and roads around the centre busy. Plan a safe return and consider booking overnight accommodation in the city if you don’t want to risk a long trip after midnight.
Café Camelot is a classic on the Old Town — cosy interior, homemade pastries and an atmosphere recommended by locals and visitors. A great spot for coffee after sightseeing or dessert after returning from Energylandia.
Zazie Bistro in Kazimierz is frequently highlighted in culinary lists — its French-inspired menu works well for an elegant dinner or New Year’s celebration. Book well in advance for special dates.
Starka Restaurant is another tried-and-true option with traditional Polish cuisine and a warm atmosphere; recommended for families and those seeking local flavours in a friendly setting.
If you’re booking accommodation, pick a location that matches your day plan: close to the centre if you want to enjoy evening restaurants and walks, or near the station/A4 route if a quick morning departure to Energylandia is your priority. In season and over the holiday–New Year period, reserve rooms early.
Not leaving enough buffer time — many tourists fail to account for queues at attractions or traffic on the road. Book tickets, set off early and give yourself a safety margin.
Not checking opening hours of churches and museums during holidays — churches hold masses and services that change schedules. Before visiting check parish announcements or official notices.
Booking New Year’s Eve at the last minute — the best venues fill up quickly. If you want to celebrate in a specific restaurant or join a special event, reserve early.
Underestimating the weather — winters in Lesser Poland can be very cold; bring warm clothing, especially if you plan evening walks through the Old Town.
Is it worth going to Energylandia from Kraków for one day? Yes — it’s doable and popular, provided you organise well (tickets, transport, a day plan). For families with children it’s often the perfect attraction for one intense day.
Is the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul open to tourists? Yes, it’s an active church that visitors can see; remember to respect mass times and the sacred character of the place. Check current parish announcements before your visit.
How do I book a table for New Year’s Eve? The fastest ways are by phone or via the restaurant’s website. Popular places often require payment or a deposit to confirm a reservation — read the venue’s rules.
The interior of the Basilica of St. Peter and St. Paul contains elements that link different phases of Baroque art and later modifications — and the grouping and placement of apostle figures on the façade form a rare ensemble at this scale in a Polish city. It’s an illustration of how Counter-Reformation ideas shaped Kraków’s architectural landscape.
Energylandia has developed dynamically since its opening and includes many themed zones — if you love extreme rollercoasters, plan them for early in the day to avoid queues. For families, start with gentler attractions and leave the extreme rides for the afternoon.
Finally: share your travel impressions! If you liked this plan and want to recommend it to friends, post about it on social media or send the article to others. If you need a personalised tour of Kraków, consider booking with private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — contact and details are available at zwiedzaniekrakowa.com.
