Krakow can surprise you: it is not only the Market Square and Wawel, but also places that will delight little kids, teenagers and adults with different interests. Combining a visit to the Polish Aviation Museum with a short stop at a cat cafe and a trip to a well-chosen bookstore balances movement, relaxation and intellectual pleasure — ideal for a family day.
This plan works because every family member can find something for themselves: children will admire large exhibits and the outdoor space, animal lovers will relax among friendly cats, and book lovers can unwind with a cup of coffee and an inspiring read. All of this can be planned comfortably and without rushing.
The Polish Aviation Museum is located at al. Jana Pawła II 39 and is a great spot for a morning or late-morning family outing. The museum displays an extensive collection of aviation exhibits and combines indoor exhibitions with a large open-air area — perfect if you want children to have space to freely view big machines.
Opening hours usually cover Tuesday through Sunday, and the museum is often closed on Mondays — a common pitfall for visitors, so check before you set off. Some sources also note free entry on certain days (for example specific Tuesdays), so if you want to save, check the museum’s current rules or call ahead.
Ticket prices include standard, reduced and family tickets; the museum also runs educational programs and family-friendly routes — the family trail typically lasts about 60 minutes. Keep in mind that the last admission to halls is often set (for example several dozen minutes before closing), so plan your visit so you are not rushing at the last minute.
On the museum grounds you will find large, easy-to-spot exhibits — planes, helicopters and various historical constructions — both outdoors and in exhibition halls. For children, the scale of the machines and the chance to peek into some cabins or cockpits are often a real thrill.
The museum prepares trails and materials for families, and exhibit descriptions are usually clear and accessible. For parents, it is important that the site is generally pram-friendly and some visitor information mentions facilities for those with small children.
If you plan to tour with little ones, bring something to drink and a snack — the grounds are extensive, and a break on a bench next to a big plane often becomes a fond memory for the kids.
The museum is a bit outside the very center of Krakow, so the best ways to get there are tram, bus or taxi. From the Old Town the trip can take from a few minutes to around half an hour depending on traffic, so include travel time when planning your day.
Avoid planning the visit on Monday — the museum is frequently closed then. If you want to take advantage of cheaper admission options, check the official site or contact the museum for current promotions and family tickets; reduced and family fares are usually available.
If you are traveling with a stroller or have a baby, ask at the entrance about changing facilities and family-accessible restrooms. It is also worth checking whether any special events are scheduled on the day of your visit that might close parts of the exhibition.
After aviation attractions, a cat cafe is a great idea for relaxing. Krakow has several established places with resident cats that combine a cafe atmosphere with an animal-friendly space for visitors. Some well-known cat cafes have locations near the center or along streets such as Karmelicka or Lubicz — convenient if you are heading back toward the Market Square.
Cat cafes often work with charities or cooperate with adoption organizations — visiting such a place is a nice way to support animal adoption or contribute to a food collection. Many venues also organize educational workshops for children and meetings with animal behavior specialists.
Remember that some cat cafes have age restrictions for children (for example admission from a certain age) or request reservations — especially on weekends. Check rules about children and booking ahead of time.
Krakow has a strong bookselling tradition and many independent shops that welcome families. In the center you can find intimate bookstores combined with a cafe where, in a relaxed setting, children can join morning workshops or you can browse books for every age.
Bonobo, located around Mały Rynek, is an example of a bookstore-cafe with a wide travel and children’s selection; it often hosts morning events and performances for kids. Massolit Books & Cafe is known for its large selection of English-language literature and a friendly atmosphere — great when you want to find a bilingual book for a child or pick up something in English.
It is also worth visiting independent bookstores with children’s sections — many regularly run readings and workshops, which makes them a perfect stop on a family day.
Start: arrive at the Polish Aviation Museum in the morning — plan 1.5–2 hours for a relaxed viewing of the exhibits with a break on a bench or a small picnic if the weather is good.
Afternoon: travel back to the center, make a short stop at a cat cafe — time for coffee, cake and relaxation with the cats. It’s a good moment to rest after the excitement of seeing large machines.
End of day: visit a small bookstore (for example Bonobo or Massolit), choose books for the children, then have dinner in one of the recommended cafes or restaurants near the Market Square. This way the day will be varied and enjoyable for everyone.
The most common mistake is planning a visit to the Polish Aviation Museum on a Monday — check opening days and hours in advance. Another is arriving at a cat cafe without checking their rules about children and reservations — popular hours can be crowded.
It is also wise not to leave book shopping to the last minute — some independent bookstores have limited stock and unique titles disappear fast. If you are interested in a specific author event or a children’s workshop, reserve places in advance.
If you travel with little ones, ask the museum about changing facilities and stroller-friendly routes. Have a plan B for bad weather, because part of the exhibition is outdoors.
In Krakow’s center, around the Market Square and Mały Rynek, you will find many highly rated cafes and restaurants — family-friendly spots include bookstore-cafes that combine good coffee with reading spaces and events for children. Bonobo and Massolit are examples of places that often receive excellent reviews.
If you want to stay close to the attractions described in this article, choose a hotel or apartment in the city center — from there you can easily reach bookstores and cat cafes, and get to the Polish Aviation Museum quickly by public transport or taxi. When selecting accommodation, consider reviews from families with similar needs.
The Polish Aviation Museum often hosts special events — from open days and children’s workshops to special shows; check the calendar, as you might catch something unique.
Cat cafes in Krakow frequently cooperate with foundations and, during your visit, you can learn about adoption opportunities or participate in a collection for homeless animals.
Independent bookstores in Krakow regularly organize author meetings and workshops for children — check event schedules, especially if you travel on a weekend.
If you found this article helpful, share it with friends or on social media — planning family trips is best done together!
If you would like your day in Krakow to be polished from A to Z and guided by someone who knows the city and can tailor the program to your family’s needs, you can use the services of the private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz. Contact details and booking information are available on the guide’s page. This is a convenient solution when you want to see more without worrying about logistics.
Good luck planning and enjoy your visit — may your day in Krakow be full of great discoveries for the whole family!
