Wawel Cathedral is a place of great historical and spiritual value — many people ask whether it’s possible to visit with a baby stroller. Yes — entry is possible, but it’s useful to know in advance which parts are easy to navigate with a stroller and which may present difficulties. This text explains opening hours, visiting rules and practical strategies to make your visit calm and pleasant.
The basic point: the cathedral has different zones — the main public area (nave) and paid routes or rooms (for example the royal tombs, the bell tower, the Cathedral Museum) — access to the latter often involves stairs or narrow passages, so it’s worth preparing an alternative to a stroller.
When planning, first check the current opening hours and any closures due to services or holidays — seasonal hours often change and it pays to verify them before you set out.
The cathedral usually follows seasonal hours: in the spring–summer season (April–October) visiting hours are commonly from around 9:00 to 17:00, while in the autumn–winter season (November–March) they are shorter, typically until about 16:00. On Sundays and holidays tourist visiting often begins later (frequently from about 12:30).
Many sources note that the last admission is usually up to 30 minutes before closing — this is important if you’re coming with a small child and don’t want to be turned away right at the door.
Also remember that on certain days (for example specific holidays or celebration days) the cathedral may be closed to tourists or access may be limited — it’s always worth checking information shortly before your visit.
The main part of the church (the nave and side chapels visible from the main entrance) is open to visitors and is usually possible to move around in with a stroller, although space between pews and near the most interesting points can be limited.
Paid attractions — such as the royal tombs, the bell tower or some museum rooms — often require going down stairs or passing through narrow corridors. Moving through these places with an open stroller can be difficult or impossible; prepare an alternative (carrier, sling) or plan that one caregiver visits those spots while the other looks after the stroller and child.
If you plan to use paid routes, remember that some ticketing or organizational rules limit entry times and require respecting closing hours.
Bring a lightweight, easy-to-fold stroller — in many places it’s more convenient to fold it at the entrance than to manoeuvre it through tight passages. Once folded it’s also easier to leave in a safe spot near the entrance if there’s no dedicated storage.
Consider taking a baby carrier or sling — it’s the simplest way to view the royal tombs or climb the bell tower if caregivers want to go up.
Be ready for changes in plans: services can temporarily close off access, and large groups of visitors can form lines. It’s a good idea to arrive earlier, especially outside the peak season.
If you’re in a group of three or more, the most convenient solution is for one person to stay with the stroller outside or by the entrance while another goes to places that require stairs. Paired visitors can swap briefly at the entrance.
If you’re alone with the child, a good option is to leave the stroller with a friendly information desk staff member (if that option exists) or use the closest cloakroom/reception if the institution offers one — but always ask staff in advance, because rules may vary.
It’s also wise to secure valuables (phone, wallet) and carry documents in a small bag on you — this makes moving with the child in a carrier easier.
Silence and appropriate attire are expected in the cathedral; during services tourist visiting is limited or impossible, so check liturgy times before coming.
Many regulations prohibit photography in certain parts of the church and establish basic rules of conduct (no eating or drinking, etc.). Observing these rules is also a sign of respect for the place of worship and other visitors.
Entry to some cathedral attractions is paid — a ticket may cover different elements (cathedral, tombs, museum) and sometimes combined tickets are available. Check ticket options so you can decide which parts you want to see with your child.
Arriving in high season without checking hours or without planning — this can result in long waits or disappointment if a site is closed. Solution: check hours and try to come in the morning or outside weekends.
Bringing only a large stroller — parents with only a bulky stroller may have trouble accessing certain routes. Solution: bring a sling/carrier or arrange who will look after the stroller.
Not following cathedral rules (loud behaviour, eating) — this can lead to being asked to leave. Solution: remind children briefly about the rules and save snacks for later.
After your visit many families look for child-friendly cafes and restaurants nearby. Around Wawel there are well-rated places known for good food and a friendly atmosphere — choose cafés with comfortable interiors and a child-friendly menu.
Some tried-and-true options in the area are established cafés in Kraków’s centre offering coffee, desserts and dishes for children. If you need a quiet table and a changing facility, ask the venue in advance about family amenities.
Tip: before you go out, check reviews and opening hours of cafés — not all places are open all day, and during the season seating availability and operating hours can change quickly.
Documents and tickets: check opening hours and possible changes, buy a ticket in advance or be prepared to buy on site.
Equipment: a lightweight, foldable stroller or a carrier; spare diapers, a sling or carrier, a water bottle.
Plan: decide which parts of the cathedral are a priority (nave vs paid routes) and plan who will mind the stroller if needed.
Can I enter every part of the cathedral with a stroller? – You can generally access the main areas, but some paid routes and underground sections may be difficult to traverse with a stroller because of stairs and narrow passages.
Where can I leave the stroller while visiting the crypts? – Rules vary: ask the ticket office or information desk before entering. Prepare a backup plan (someone staying with the stroller or using a sling).
Do I have to pay for the stroller? – There is usually no fee for bringing a stroller itself, but some attractions and exhibitions are paid. Check which parts of the visit require separate tickets.
Is the cathedral open on Sundays? – Yes, the cathedral is open on Sundays, but tourist visiting hours may start later because of liturgical services.
If you plan to visit with a small child, the most important things are flexibility and planning shorter stages of visiting. Choose morning hours, bring a carrier and a light bag with essentials — these steps are often enough to make the visit enjoyable for everyone.
If you would like help planning an ideal family route around Wawel and the surroundings, consider the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — contact details and more information are available on the guide’s page. If you found this article helpful, share it with friends or on social media — parents and caregivers will appreciate practical tips.
Good luck and enjoy your visit with the little one!
