Is it possible to combine the thrill of roller coasters with a quiet moment on a castle roof or in an atmospheric cellar full of pinball machines? Absolutely. If you are coming to Krakow with children for a few days, a sensible and attractive plan is to pair a one-day (or two-day) trip to Energylandia in Zator with shorter local attractions: the interactive Pinball Museum near Wawel and a few viewpoints and rooftop stops back in the city. This mix provides excitement, outdoor activity and calmer, surprising moments – ideal for families with varied interests.
When planning the route remember that Energylandia is a "full-day park" and requires some logistics – the earlier you leave Krakow, the more time you will have on the attractions. Attractions in Krakow itself (the Pinball Museum, terraces, towers, and mounds) make a great complement to the program or a relaxing reward after a day of thrills.
It’s easiest to plan an Energylandia day so you leave Krakow in the morning, arrive around park opening and return to the city in the evening – or stay overnight near the park if you plan two days of fun. By car the journey from Krakow to Zator commonly takes about 1–1.5 hours depending on traffic.
If you travel by train or bus, check timetables and connections in advance – there are options to Zator, but driving (or a hired minibus for a group) is usually the most flexible. In high season (holidays, weekends) buy Energylandia tickets online in advance – lines at the ticket offices can be long.
On site: the park is divided into areas for the youngest (Bajkolandia), family zones, a water zone and an extreme zone. For families with small children schedule shade and drink breaks and check height restrictions for rides in advance – that saves disappointment. Many families choose to stay at Western Camp Resort next to Energylandia for an easy rest after a full day of fun.
The Pinball Museum in central Krakow is a great contrast to a giant amusement park: the pace here is more intimate and the entertainment is interactive. Children (under supervision) and adults can play dozens of pinball machines and arcade games – most ticket prices include unlimited play. It’s a perfect place to calm down after a day of adrenaline or to shelter from a sudden shower.
The museum is located close to Wawel in atmospheric cellars, so a visit can be combined with a short walk around the area. Plan 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on how much you and the children want to play. For families with very young children check age limits and safety rules on individual machines.
Krakow has several charming viewpoints that leave a lasting impression. When choosing places with children, consider accessibility (stairs versus elevators), waiting time and safety.
St. Mary’s Tower — a classic tourist stop and the place where you’ll hear the hejnał. Climbing the tower means lots of stairs, so it’s better suited to older children or when you have energy after a morning rest. The view over the Main Market Square and the old town roofs is unforgettable.
Sukiennice terrace — convenient and close to the Market Square, often open to visitors and offering a nice panorama of the surroundings. It’s a good family-friendly option because it doesn’t require climbing high towers and is easy to combine with a gelato break.
Terrace on the Small Bastion (Mała Baszta) — a newer viewing spot with views over the Wawel roofs and the city panorama. Access to the terrace is often linked to parts of castle tours (check season and ticketing). It’s both picturesque and a small historical experience.
Kościuszko Mound — ideal if you want an active, green viewpoint and space for children to run. The climb to the mound is a walk and the area offers plenty of grassy space for picnics with a city panorama in the background.
If you want to see the city from above without long queues, consider the Academy of Music terrace or rooftop cafés with views (check opening hours and availability, since not all are open year-round).
Remember: when planning visits to towers check age restrictions, number of steps and opening hours — in summer and high season some places operate on special schedules.
After returning from Energylandia you can choose a calm evening walk around the Market Square with a stop at the Sukiennice terrace, or a short trip to Wawel (if the Small Bastion terrace is open for the season) and a brief visit to the Pinball Museum. Families with younger children should consider limiting the number of attractions that same day to avoid overtiring the little ones.
If you plan a tower visit (for example St. Mary’s Tower), it’s best to schedule it on a different day than your park visit – stair climbing requires energy and can be stressful after a long day. Rooftops and terraces are also especially lovely at sunset – the views are at their best then, but it can be cooler and more crowded.
After a day at Energylandia and some rooftop stops you’ll likely want a proper meal. In central Krakow look for family-friendly restaurants: places with traditional Polish dishes as well as cafés offering menus suitable for children. Choose venues with good reviews and children’s options if you want to taste local flavors while keeping the kids happy.
For a quick, homely meal try well-reviewed milk bars and small family-run restaurants near the Market Square. For dessert visit one of the classic cafés or ice-cream shops in the centre. Keep an eye on opening hours and reviews in the summer season, as popular spots can get busy.
Make regular rest breaks, keep everyone hydrated and use sunscreen on hot days. Energylandia has water areas and places to cool down in summer, but it’s wise to carry a small first-aid kit and any needed medicines for your child.
All viewpoints require attention with small children — check barriers and distance to edges on towers and terraces. In historic places (stairs, cloisters) strollers are often not allowed, so be prepared to carry young children or use a baby carrier.
Tickets in high season: buy online in advance when possible — you’ll save time in queues. Also check family or child discount options.
Trying to fit too many attractions into one day. It’s better to plan fewer things and enjoy them calmly, especially with small children.
Not planning meal and rest breaks — children need regular pauses in parks and at viewpoints. Pack simple snacks and a water bottle in your backpack.
Failing to check opening hours of viewpoints and museums. Some attractions have seasonal hours or are open only part of the year. Double-check times online before you go.
Will children enjoy the Pinball Museum? Yes — most children are delighted by the chance to play vintage and modern machines; however supervision is recommended for little ones.
Is Energylandia suitable for the youngest children? Yes, the park has areas designed for small children (Bajkolandia), but check height restrictions before queuing for rides.
Are rooftops safe for children in strollers? Many terraces have barriers and family-friendly areas, but not all viewpoints have elevators. For very young children bring a carrier or choose spots accessible without climbing.
If you want an alternative to crowded terraces, try an early morning visit to Kościuszko Mound — you’ll find more peace and space for children than in the city centre.
The Pinball Museum often hosts themed events and evening sessions for adults — a nice option if you have childcare for a few hours and want a different evening experience.
To see the Wawel roofs from an unusual angle, check seasonal opening times for the Small Bastion terrace — when available it’s a unique chance to view the castle roofs up close.
If you find this plan helpful, share it with friends or on social media — families are always looking for proven ideas for great holidays with children. I also recommend the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz, who prepares personalized routes and will gladly advise how to make the most of your time in Krakow - contact details for her services are available on the ZwiedzanieKrakowa website.
Good luck planning and enjoy a safe, eventful holiday full of great views!
