Kraków is a city made for walking — from the Main Market through Kazimierz to the Vistula boulevards you’ll see a lot on foot. When planning a weeklong stay it’s worth remembering that your family’s comfort begins before you leave: a good list, a well-thought suitcase and a few packing tricks will make every day easier on the ground. If you’re packing with children, start your list at least a week ahead and do a quick wardrobe check two days before departure — you’ll avoid last-minute stress and empty shelves at the worst possible moment.
Basic items worth packing for a week in Kraków: documents (IDs, cards, reservation confirmations), phone and charger, powerbank, basic first-aid kit (regular medications, children’s fever medicine, plasters), toiletries in small containers, 7 sets of underwear and socks, 4–6 tops per person, 2 pairs of trousers/leggings, one lightweight rain jacket, comfortable walking shoes plus one pair of dressier shoes for evenings.
For children add: SPF 50+ sunscreen, a hat, favorite toys/books for the journey, a supply of diapers if needed, a potty seat or a portable travel cot only if you’re not sure what the accommodation provides.
A few practical extras: a bag for dirty laundry, zip-lock bags for wet/soiled clothes, a cable organizer, a mini laundry kit for emergencies, and a spare bag for souvenirs.
Use a capsule approach: choose neutral colors and layers so 4–6 tops work well together. Rolling clothes and using packing cubes saves space and keeps things tidy. Take quick-dry clothing — it makes hand-washing in the room much easier. For a week you usually need one medium suitcase plus a small daypack for walks and children’s items.
Don’t pack “just in case” items you’re unlikely to use — leave room for local souvenirs and snacks.
Children need a few essentials without which a trip can quickly become difficult: a first-aid kit with basic medicines, a thermometer, sunscreen, a hat, a favorite comfort toy or blanket, a spare outfit in the daypack, snacks for the journey and travel toys or games.
If you’re traveling with a baby or toddler, check before you leave what the accommodation provides (travel cot, high chair). Many parents bring a lightweight folding travel cot only if they’re not sure it will be available.
Also pack small items for unexpected situations: plasters, sting relief, a small saline spray, and spare diapers and wipes.
Kraków’s weather can be changeable — even in summer evenings can be cooler, and spring or autumn days may be rainy. The best strategy is layers: a light sweatshirt, a lightweight rain jacket and comfortable shoes.
For a week plan for: 5–6 upper layers (including 1–2 warmer items), 2–3 pairs of trousers, underwear for each day and 1–2 outfits for evening outings. If you plan winter activities or swimming, pack appropriate footwear and swimwear.
Remember sturdy shoes — the cobbled streets of the Old Town and Kazimierz can be uncomfortable for weak soles and for strollers with small wheels.
Keep copies of documents and insurance contact numbers with you. For EU citizens the European Health Insurance Card can be useful, and for everyone a travel insurance policy with an emergency number is recommended.
Pack a powerbank, a universal 3-in-1 cable or adapters, and a small first-aid kit with basic medications. A neck pouch or a secure pocket for passports while walking around the city is also handy.
Keep printed tickets for popular attractions or offline copies on your phone — at weekends and in high season many attractions require advance reservations.
Kraków has an efficient tram and bus network, but many attractions are close to each other — walking is often the fastest and most enjoyable option. For families with strollers we recommend a stroller with larger wheels or a baby carrier/sling for longer walks on cobbles.
Avoid planning too many sightseeing spots in one day — children need breaks and space to play; schedule 1–2 longer pauses at a playground or a café.
Buy MPK (public transport) tickets online or at kiosks, check family fares and the rules for carrying strollers during peak hours.
Kraków has a rich food scene — from traditional Polish cuisine to family-friendly cafés. Choose places with good reviews and a children’s menu, reserve a table for weekend evenings and ask ahead about the possibility of a high chair.
Reliable options for family meals include restaurants serving hearty traditional portions and cafés with space for children. Consider an apartment with a kitchenette — it lets you prepare simple meals for little ones.
Choose accommodation near the center or with good tram connections if you want to save time on daily travel.
Overpacking “just in case” — taking too many items makes moving around and staying in a hotel harder. Solution: make a priority list and leave space for souvenirs.
Not planning breaks for children — many parents plan from morning to evening and children get tired quickly. Solution: include planned breaks, playground stops, and moments for ice cream or relaxed café reading.
Forgetting reservations — popular attractions and restaurants can be full, especially on weekends. Solution: book tickets and tables in advance.
Is it better to bring a stroller or a carrier? - On cobbled streets and in crowded Kazimierz a carrier or sling is often more comfortable; if you prefer a stroller, choose one with larger wheels.
Should you rent or bring a travel cot? - Check first what the hotel or apartment provides; renting locally is often more convenient and cheaper.
Surprising tip: many cafés and restaurants in the center have child seats and children’s portions — don’t hesitate to ask the waiter for family-friendly recommendations.
Handy item: a small quick-wash and drying kit (mini detergent, travel scrubbing tool) is a simple remedy for stains and changing weather.
If this guide helped you plan your packing, share it with friends or on social media — let other families benefit from these practical tips.
If you’d like to explore Kraków with a local guide and want a personalized family sightseeing plan, consider booking a private guided tour with Małgorzata Kasprowicz — you can find contact details on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. Good luck and bring comfortable shoes for walking around Kraków!
