Kraków in December and January is a mix of medieval architecture, festive markets and a high number of tourists — especially around the Main Market Square and Wawel. The city looks magical in winter, but the weather calls for a simple strategy: plan outdoor activities for the morning or early afternoon, and spend late afternoons and evenings in museums, cafés and at theatre events to relax in warmth.
If you plan a sleigh-ride (kulig) outside the city — for example in the Tatra Mountains — book in advance and check whether the organizer provides transport. That will save you the hassle of getting there on slippery roads and looking for parking.
The largest market is on the Main Market Square and it draws the biggest crowds — decorated wooden stalls, the smell of mulled wine and gingerbread, and handicraft booths are its hallmarks. For children, wooden toys, holiday decorations and the traditional carousels are the main attractions.
To avoid queues, visit the market in the morning at opening time or in the late afternoon outside peak hours. Bring a small thermos of warm tea for children and a few snacks — there are many food stalls, but during the busiest hours prices and lines can be inconvenient.
Look for smaller markets and fairs in districts like Kazimierz or near the Błonia — they have a cozier atmosphere and often offer local products at more reasonable prices.
Kraków has several seasonal ice rinks — municipal ones (for example in Park Jordan or at the Nowa Huta Cultural Centre) are well prepared for families: skate rentals, helpers for the youngest skaters and rest areas. Check opening hours and booking options, especially during school holidays.
If you’re with a toddler, choose rinks that offer penguin aids or walkers for learning — they make first steps on the ice easier. Some venues run family promotions or free entry during city holiday initiatives.
Practical tip: dress in several thin layers rather than one very bulky coat — it’s easier to undress a child after active play and adapt to changing temperatures.
When the weather is bad, Kraków offers many family-friendly indoor places: interactive exhibitions, technology and aviation museums, a planetarium and the Experimentatorium (Ogród Doświadczeń). Many institutions prepare workshops and special programs for children during winter.
The Ogród Doświadczeń is a great place for a bright, educational day — some attractions operate in cooler months, and additional workshops make the visit full of fun and learning. The Aviation Museum is a treat for young fans of machines and flight history.
If you plan visits to popular museums during school holidays, check ahead for special kids’ offers and guided sessions — workshops are often available and tailored to different age groups.
A true kulig is a highlander tradition — the nearest places for this winter adventure are Zakopane and its surroundings: Chochołowska Valley, Bukowina or Poronin. A kulig is a sleigh ride (sometimes replaced by wagons if there is no snow) and usually includes a bonfire feast with regional food and music.
For families the kulig is safe and very appealing — make sure the offer includes hot drinks, child protection (blankets, sled seats) and transport to and from Kraków if you don’t have a car.
Planning: book the kulig in advance, check the weather forecast and ask the organizer about cancellation or rescheduling options in case there isn’t enough snow.
Kraków has many child-friendly places — from traditional inns to restaurants with play corners and cafés offering kids’ menus. When choosing a place look for “family-friendly” signs or recommendations noting play areas and changing facilities.
A few family-friendly venues that often receive good reviews include Pod Wawelem (classic Polish cuisine and space for families), Szalone Widelce (relaxed atmosphere and child-friendly menu), and various cafés and museum cafés where you can sit quickly and rest after a walk.
If you have small children, plan meals outside peak hours (for example an earlier lunch) — you’ll avoid long waits and find seating suitable for a stroller more easily.
Clothing: the most common mistake is dressing too lightly or wearing a single very bulky item. I recommend layered clothing: thermal underwear, a fleece layer and a waterproof jacket; extra socks and spare gloves for children are a must.
Planning: don’t try to see “all of Kraków” in one winter day. Children tire faster and shorter daylight means less time for walks. Better choose 2–3 attractions per day and leave room for breaks.
Crowds and queues: expect crowds at main attractions. I recommend visiting popular places in the morning or after dark (when markets are beautifully lit), and buying tickets for the most popular museums online ahead of time.
The Kraków market combines modern craft stalls with centuries of trading tradition — some records mention markets on Kraków’s squares as far back as the Middle Ages.
During winter many city initiatives (for example “Holidays at the ice rink” or special family prices) can significantly reduce the cost of attractions — check the municipal events calendar before you arrive.
Although a true kulig is associated with the Tatras, many operators offer family-friendly variants: shorter rides, sleds instead of open wagons, and safe seating options for very young children.
Is Kraków safe in winter for families with small children? Yes — the city is safe, but watch out for icy sidewalks. Good-grip shoes and a stroller with appropriate wheels or a baby carrier are recommended if you plan longer walks.
How do I get to a kulig from Kraków? The quickest way is by car or organised transport from a tour operator; many sleigh-ride offers include transport from Zakopane, and some providers arrange transfers directly from Kraków.
Do I need to book ice rink or museum tickets in advance? In high season and school holidays it’s worth booking online, especially for popular planetarium shows, workshops at the Ogród Doświadczeń and larger museums.
If you’re planning a family trip to Kraków in winter, prepare a schedule with built-in time for breaks and unexpected attractions. Winter can be changeable, but with good preparation your memories will be warm and peaceful.
If this article was helpful — share it with friends or on social media. If you’d like a personalised tour or professional support while exploring Kraków with your family, I invite you to use the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz (Margaret Kasprowicz) — contact details and more information are available on the guide’s page. Good luck with your planning and enjoy your stay in Kraków!
