Krakow is known for its historic sites and old townhouses, but it can also surprise with modernity. The Zabłocie district, home to MOCAK and the nearby Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory, is a great place to show children that contemporary art is lively, diverse and sometimes... very funny. Exhibitions are often paired with workshops, touch zones and educational materials prepared especially for families, so it’s worth giving it a chance.
Contemporary art doesn’t always demand seriousness — many museums offer active programmes for children: workshops, family tours, or self-guided discovery materials. It’s an excellent contrast to traditional history museums and a great way to spark young people’s curiosity.
1. MOCAK – Museum of Contemporary Art (ul. Lipowa 4). Modern exhibitions, education zones and family materials. The museum usually operates Tuesday–Sunday and you can ask at reception about family guides and educational offers.
2. Bunkier Sztuki (pl. Szczepański 3a). A gallery by the Planty with a special “Creation Station” — a place where children can draw, rest and play with educational-sensory toys linked to current exhibitions.
3. Manggha Museum – Museum of Japanese Art and Technology. Regular workshops (for example origami) and family activities, especially attractive in summer.
4. Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory. A museum of occupation history; valuable, but more suitable for older children and teens because of the subject matter.
5. Krakow Rynek Underground (Museum under the Main Market Square). A multimedia journey through medieval Krakow — visually appealing and interactive.
6. Copernicus Science Garden (Stanisław Lem Experience Garden). An educational park with installations that demonstrate physical laws — perfect for children who love experiments.
7. Museum of Engineering and Technology. Exhibits about trams, radio, printing and technology; lots of “touch and try” for little explorers.
8. Museum of Illusions. Interactive displays that delight both younger and older visitors — ideal for a sunny or rainy day.
9. Ethnographic Museum. A large collection of everyday objects and items from world regions, with educational programmes for families.
10. Wieliczka Salt Mine (Solilandia for the youngest). Although outside the city, it’s an exceptional underground experience with dedicated animations for children.
Morning block in Zabłocie: start at MOCAK, see the exhibitions and relax at MOCAK Cafe. MOCAK is near Kraków Zabłocie station — a few minutes by tram or train from the Main Station. After the museum, take a short walk to Schindler’s Factory (if the group is ready).
Afternoon toward the Market Square and Kazimierz: walk through the Planty, stop at the Rynek Underground, then have lunch around Kazimierz. After the meal visit Bunkier Sztuki — children can use the Creation Station while adults view the current shows. If you have more time, finish the day with a short play in a park or a visit to the Museum of Illusions.
The route minimizes walking between sites and mixes different experiences: contemporary art (MOCAK, Bunkier), history (Schindler’s Factory, Rynek Underground) and educational play (science garden, Museum of Engineering). This variety keeps the day interesting — even the youngest won’t get bored because new stimuli keep appearing.
Short walking sections and café breaks keep the pace family-friendly. Many places offer workshops — it’s worth checking dates and booking in advance.
MOCAK: ul. Lipowa 4, typically open Tuesday–Sunday 11:00–19:00; reception has educational materials and information about family workshops.
Getting there: Zabłocie is close to the Main Railway Station — trams and a short walk are usually enough. Always check current tram and train timetables on the day of your visit.
Reservations: for popular workshops (for example at Manggha) and Rynek Underground it’s worth buying tickets in advance. Also check whether museums honor discounts (Large Family Card, family discounts).
Age note: some institutions, especially those covering World War II, are not suitable for very young children — assess the exhibition content beforehand.
MOCAK Cafe — a convenient spot right by MOCAK, good for a quick meal or coffee with a child.
Kawa Romanowicza and other cafés in Zabłocie — well-known places with good coffee and a family-friendly atmosphere, handy for short breaks between visits.
Massolit Bakery & Cafe and cafés and patisseries around Kazimierz and the Market Square — good options for a family lunch or dessert. In season many places offer outdoor seating and separated spaces.
MOCAK was established in the area of an old factory and sits next to sites that recall the district’s industrial past — a great starting point for a conversation about how places change.
Bunkier Sztuki gets its name from the distinctive concrete pavilion on the Planty. For kids it’s an opportunity to talk about how architecture affects the way we experience art.
In the Rynek Underground you can see remains of medieval Krakow streets — sometimes the museum space itself is fascinating and works like a giant board for storytelling.
Trying to fit “too much in one day” — it’s better to go slower and spend more time in two places than to run from museum to museum. Children will appreciate play time and snacks.
Not checking opening hours and workshop schedules — some places are closed on Mondays or run workshops only on specific days. Book tickets and workshop spots in advance.
Not preparing for the weather — Krakow’s weather can change. If you plan to visit the science garden or walk Zabłocie, bring a lightweight rain poncho and a backup indoor plan (for example Museum of Engineering or Museum of Illusions).
Is contemporary art appropriate for children? Yes — many institutions create family programmes and educational materials. Emphasize play and experimentation during tours.
Are museums stroller-accessible? Many places (including MOCAK) declare accessibility and provide changing tables, but specific conditions may vary — check accessibility information before your visit.
Do I need to reserve workshops? For popular workshops at Manggha, Bunkier or MOCAK it’s better to register in advance as spaces are limited.
What to bring: drinks, small snacks, a small blanket for breaks, charged phone, comfortable shoes and a plan of places to visit with opening hours.
What to watch for: age restrictions in historical exhibitions, workshop hours, the option to buy tickets online and family discount options.
If you have less time: focus on MOCAK + Rynek Underground or MOCAK + Bunkier — quick, varied combinations ideal for a half-day.
Krakow has much more than a historic market: it’s also modern museums, experiment parks and places designed with families in mind. Give yourselves time to really feel each place’s atmosphere.
If you found this article useful — share it with friends or on social profiles. If you’d like to explore Krakow with a local guide, you can arrange a private tour with guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz. Good luck and enjoy your visit!
