Winter in Małopolska has a unique atmosphere: Kraków invites with exhibitions, cozy cafes and seasonal markets, while Zakopane delivers a dose of mountain adventure — a kulig (sleigh ride), a bonfire and regional cuisine. For groups of 7–30 people this program offers a variety of attractions without splitting participants into very small teams. You can plan a day full of culture in Kraków (including a visit to MOCAK) and a second day of winter integration in the Tatra foothills.
In practice, combining both places requires planning transport and spreading activities over time: don’t try to fit “everything in one day.” A more effective schedule is: Kraków in the morning and afternoon, overnight in Kraków or an evening transfer to Zakopane, and a full mountain day the next day.
Day 1: arrival in Kraków, a short walk around the Main Market Square and nearby streets, visit to MOCAK (tour and workshop), coffee at MOCAK Café or a café in Kazimierz, dinner at a well-rated restaurant and overnight stay.
Day 2: trip to Zakopane (private transport or a comfortable minibus), a kulig with torches followed by a Highlander-style feast with live music, optional walk on Gubałówka or through the Kościeliska Valley, return to Kraków in the evening or stay overnight in Zakopane. The program is flexible — for example you can swap the museum visit for a morning walk in Zakopane and make MOCAK an afternoon stop.
As a museum of contemporary art, MOCAK offers services for groups: group tickets, educational workshops and guided tours. The minimum group size for group tickets is 7 people, which makes MOCAK a good fit for medium-size groups.
Prices and group conditions can change, but typically there are reduced group rates (lower than standard tickets) and the option to book a guided tour — often with a flat fee for the guide when the tour is in Polish. It’s wise to reserve in advance, especially during school holidays and winter weekends, when the museum runs workshops and special activities for groups.
Practical tip: during winter MOCAK often organises extra activities for families and groups (workshops, discovery walks around the building). After educational sessions you can usually use MOCAK Café; sometimes organisers arrange small discounts on drinks for workshop participants — be sure to ask when booking.
Book group tickets and guided tours through the museum’s official channels with several days or weeks’ notice, depending on the season. Museums have clear group thresholds (for example, 7 people), group pricing and sometimes combined tickets with other attractions, which can lower costs for a larger program.
If you plan a guided tour, check language availability and the type of tour (for school groups, adults, or themed tours). A guide fee is often set as a one-time charge for the whole group — ask about options: guided tours in Polish vs. in a foreign language.
A kulig is a classic winter attraction around Zakopane — a horse-drawn sleigh ride (sometimes torch-lit) followed by a feast with a bonfire, regional food and often a Highlander band. The ride itself usually lasts about an hour, while the full package (transport to the site, sleigh ride and feast) takes several hours.
Commercial offers frequently include: transport from Zakopane to the starting point (for example Ząb), a torch-lit sleigh ride over the Gubałówka foothills, return transfer, insurance and refreshments. Prices depend on the scope of services, season and the number of participants — compare packages and check exactly what is included (drinks, transport fees, length of the feast).
For groups of 7–30 people it’s usually most convenient to book a package that includes transport and a clearly described menu — most providers accept medium-size groups without issues, but weekend and holiday dates should be reserved early.
If the group needs accommodation, choose based on priorities: staying in Kraków makes evening cultural options easier, while Zakopane gives the full mountain experience. For groups of 7–30 look for guesthouses and small hotels that offer group accommodation with meals — these often provide better prices and flexible meal hours.
Food: in Kraków pick well-rated places that accept larger reservations — popular choices include restaurants in the Old Town and Kazimierz, and cafés near MOCAK ideal for a post-visit break. In Zakopane opt for karczmas (traditional inns) serving regional dishes and venues experienced with larger groups.
Practical tip: reserve group dinners in advance, collect dietary preferences (vegetarian, gluten-free) and confirm the venue’s experience with group service. That saves time and avoids misunderstandings.
The most convenient option for groups of 7–30 is to hire a minibus or small coach with a driver — this gives schedule flexibility, luggage space and reliability in winter conditions. Travel time depends on road and weather conditions but typically takes about 2–3 hours.
Alternatives: train (to Rabka-Zdrój plus onward transport) or regular intercity minibuses, but for medium groups logistics and comfort often favour hiring a dedicated vehicle. When choosing a carrier, check their winter driving experience and insurance.
Book early: museums, kuligi and good restaurants can be fully booked many weeks in advance during the winter season — especially during school holidays and weekends.
MOCAK often runs special workshops and educational offers during winter breaks — an excellent opportunity for groups with children or teenagers, but it requires prior registration.
Note: not all Christmas markets run on the same schedule or have the same character — some focus on crafts while others highlight food. If your group is looking for specific souvenirs or regional dishes, check the market program before you go.
Check the weather and footwear — icy sidewalks and changing mountain conditions can catch people off guard. Good shoes and a suitable jacket make the trip more comfortable for everyone.
Mistake: booking at the last minute without a confirmed participant count. Solution: set a firm confirmation deadline and communicate it clearly to participants.
Mistake: no plan B for bad mountain weather. Solution: prepare an alternative program (longer museum visits, indoor workshops, team-building games indoors).
Mistake: assuming all group tickets are automatically cheaper. Solution: compare individual, group and combined ticket prices and ask about extra charges (for example, guide fees).
Does MOCAK accept groups from 7 people? Yes — the minimum for a group ticket is 7 people.
Is a kulig only a sleigh ride? Common commercial packages combine the sleigh ride with a feast, a bonfire and refreshments; transport to the starting point is often included.
How long before a trip should I book? For winter attractions plan at least several weeks in advance; for weekends and school holidays reserve a month or more.
To plan a tailor-made trip for your group, gather priorities: transport, budget per person and whether city culture or mountain integration is more important. With these priorities it’s much easier to negotiate offers and book the right services.
If you enjoyed this guide, share it with friends or on social media so others can benefit from the practical tips. If you’d like the trip led by private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz (Margaret Kasprowicz), please contact her — details and a contact form are available on the guide’s website. Good luck with planning and enjoy your winter adventure!
