Yes — you can, but it’s worth planning your route and preparing for crowds. The annual Wianki celebrations take place at several points along the Vistula and around Powiśle and the boulevards, where concerts, workshops and wreath-weaving stations are organized. Not all sections and areas are equally comfortable for families with small children, so below you’ll find practical tips to make sightseeing and having fun by the river easier.
Key rules: choose wide, paved boulevards and paths, avoid the most crowded stretches during peak hours, use designated areas for floating wreaths and check in advance the availability of toilets and changing tables at nearby institutions (museums, organizer points). With good planning, Wianki can be a beautiful, safe experience for parents with a stroller.
This guide uses information about locations and event programs provided by the city and the Kraków Festival Office, together with practical tips about urban spaces accessible to families.
Remember: this is a practical guide — before you go, check the current program and organizer announcements about closures or pedestrian route restrictions.
Vistula Boulevards - the main event area: wide, paved promenades and picnic spots make getting around with a stroller easier. Look for stretches with even surfaces and fewer steps — those will be the most comfortable for a walk.
Przystań Muzeum Krakowa (Bulwar Rodła) - stations for floating wreaths and family attractions are often held here, including short boat trips. It’s a good place to approach with a stroller, use organized points and safely launch a wreath in a designated spot.
Powiśle and Bulwar Czerwieński - these stretches can be a bit quieter than the most central sections near Wawel; consider walking a few blocks away from the main stages if you prefer calm and space.
Planty and city parks (Park Jordana) - if you want to escape the crowds, consider taking a short break in parks adjacent to the center. Park Jordana has stroller-friendly paths and places to rest.
Watch out for old, cobbled sections in the center - the Market Square and areas around Wawel have historic paving that can make stroller travel harder; it’s better to leave some sightseeing of these spots for a quieter day.
Arrive in the morning or before noon - to avoid the biggest crowds, come to the river early. In the afternoon and evening, especially during main performances, the boulevards can become very crowded.
Choose a less busy section of the boulevards - if you want a peaceful walk with a child, start from the edge of the event zone or pick segments further from the main stage; this usually means more space and less noise.
If you plan to float a wreath, use designated safe spots at the marina instead of going down to unadapted riverbanks - organizers usually mark the safe zones for this purpose.
Plan according to your child’s rhythm - a stroller nap while you walk can save the whole outing.
Public transport - the easiest way to reach events along the Vistula is by tram or bus: stops near the boulevards provide good connections to the center. Choose low-floor lines that make boarding with a stroller easier.
Car and parking - during large events parking nearby can be full. If you must come by car, allow extra time to find a spot or park further away and use public transport for the last short segment.
Crossings and access to boulevards - check in advance which entrances have ramps and comfortable approaches. Using pedestrian- and bike-friendly bridges will shorten walking and help you avoid stairs.
If you plan a longer stay, consider combining public transport with a short walk - it’s often the fastest and least stressful option with a stroller.
Cultural venues and museums - many institutions near the boulevards run family activities and offer facilities. Some museum branches have ramps and family-friendly toilets; however, facilities vary and you might not always find a changing table in every restroom.
A practical example - in some museum locations you can wheel the stroller into exhibition spaces or leave it in an education room; at the same time the nearest toilet may not have a changing table, while access often benefits from a ramp. If you need a changing table or a feeding space, check specific locations in advance.
Food stalls and vendors - during Wianki, organizers often set up food stalls and craft stands; not all have changing facilities, but they usually provide places to rest and benches for feeding.
In short: bring a portable changing mat and plan breaks at places that offer family facilities.
Launch your wreath in a designated spot - during organized events there are marked marinas or points where participants can safely float wreaths. This is the most sensible option, especially when there are crowds and a stronger current.
Watch edges and steep descents - avoid places where the bank is steep or slippery; make sure the child is always fastened in the stroller and the stroller brakes are engaged.
Loud concerts and noise - if your child is sensitive to sound, consider using protective earmuffs or choosing a spot further from the stage. The crowd and music can be stressful for the youngest attendees.
Weather conditions - along the river it’s often windier than on city streets. Factor in wind protection and possible temperature changes, especially in the evening.
Portable changing mat and wet wipes - better to have them at hand than rely on finding a changing table on site.
Blanket, wind cover, hat for the child - it can be cooler by the Vistula; bring an extra layer.
Hydration and snacks - for a longer stay it’s easier to get food and drinks on site, but keep quick snacks and water ready for the child.
Light mosquito net or rain cover for the stroller - the weather can change, especially in the evening.
Phone flashlight and powerbank - useful if you return after dark.
Start: entrance to the boulevards at Przystań Muzeum Krakowa - begin at a less crowded section, visit stalls and family workshops.
1. Walk toward Bulwar Czerwieński - wide paths, rest spots and safe approaches.
2. Break for shade and a snack - use benches and recreational zones. If you need a changing table, plan a short visit to a nearby cultural institution that offers facilities.
3. Walk along Powiśle toward less crowded stretches - you’ll avoid main-stage crowds and enjoy quieter views.
Return: use a bridge with comfortable access - this shortens the way back and makes getting to public transport or your car easier.
- portable changing mat and wipes; - spare diapers; - water bottle and snacks; - extra clothes and a blanket; - rain cover / wind protection; - powerbank and phone; - protective earmuffs for babies and toddlers; - small first-aid kit (plasters, antiseptic, medicines if your child needs them).
Pro tip: pack everything in a lightweight backpack rather than a stroller bag - it’s easier to maneuver and keeps your hands free.
Wianki are a great opportunity for family celebration by the Vistula, but they require a bit of planning when you come with a stroller. Choose wide boulevards, arrive early, use designated wreath-launching zones and bring basic child accessories.
If you value calm and comfort - move a few blocks away from the main stage and pick less crowded sections of the boulevards. If needed, use facilities offered by local museums and organizer points.
With proper preparation, Wianki can become a pleasant, safe memory for the whole family — regardless of the child’s age.
Wishing you a lovely walk and beautiful wreath moments by the Vistula!
Q: Are Przystań Muzeum boat trips stroller-accessible? A: Some activities at Przystań Muzeum are organized with family access in mind, but boarding small boats may require a few steps. If you plan to take a boat trip, check in advance with the museum about boarding conditions and assistance for parents with strollers.
Q: Where can I find a changing table or shelter to feed a baby? A: Larger cultural institutions near the boulevards often have family rooms or accessible toilets. If you need a reliable changing facility, plan a short detour to a nearby museum branch or café that advertises family amenities.
Q: Which cafés or restaurants near the boulevards are good for families? A: Many cafés around the Old Town and Powiśle welcome families; look for places with step-free access and space for a stroller. If you prefer a recommendation, try venues near Bulwar Rodła and Powiśle that offer terraces and accessible entrances.
Extra tip: keep an eye on official event updates from the city and organizers on the day of the festival — zones, timings and access points can change due to weather or safety reasons.
