Wolski Forest is one of the largest woodland areas within the city limits — the green “lungs” of Kraków, home to the Józef Piłsudski Mound and the Kraków Zoological Garden. It’s an ideal place to combine a nature outing with family attractions: a forest walk, a short hike up the mound and a visit to the zoo, all on one route.
At the Kraków Zoo you can see many species from different continents; the garden has long run education and conservation programmes. The zoo area and the surrounding forest make a visit feel like a little escape from the city, even though the centre is nearby.
If you’re visiting Kraków with children, plan the order of activities so the little ones have time for play and a meal — Wolski Forest and the zoo are perfect for that.
The most convenient public transport option is to take a bus from the city centre to the zoo area — this helps avoid parking problems and weekend traffic.
If you plan to drive, keep in mind parking spaces around Wolski Forest and at the zoo entrance are limited, especially in warm months and on long weekends. It’s wise to arrive early or park closer to the centre and use public transport for the last leg.
For cyclists Wolski Forest offers several accessible approach routes; some stretches are steep, so choose paths according to your fitness level and the needs of your family.
Start by taking a bus or leaving the car on one of the nearby parking lots, then enter Wolski Forest via the trail that leads to the Józef Piłsudski Mound — a great viewpoint and a pleasant spot for a short break.
Next, head toward the zoo entrance and allow 2–3 hours for a relaxed walk around the gardens. The zoo route is laid out logically, so even with small children you can see most exhibits without excessive running around.
After visiting, choose a meadow or one of the forest clearings for a picnic, or go to a nearby café or restaurant — below you’ll find suggestions for every budget.
Check opening hours and the option to buy tickets online — queues at the ticket offices can be long during the season.
The zoo often runs feeding demonstrations and educational activities — it’s worth planning to see at least one of these special events.
There are food stalls and snack kiosks inside the zoo and just before the entrance, but bring your own water bottle and small snacks for children, especially on hot days.
Inside the zoo and in its immediate vicinity you’ll find simple food outlets and a Mini Zoo Café — a convenient choice if you don’t want to stray far from the attractions.
If you prefer a meal outside the zoo, consider three approaches: comfortable cafés and places along the route back to the centre, family restaurants in nearby neighbourhoods, or classic eateries and cafés on the Old Town. Real Kraków favourites to consider include Jama Michalika and Café Noworolski for their historic atmosphere, cosy cafés in Kazimierz and Wesoła Cafe near the station for coffee and breakfast. For families, themed restaurants with children’s menus or play corners are worth checking out.
Practical food tips: if you plan a picnic, bring a blanket and a small rubbish bag; if dining in town, allow extra time for getting a table on busy days.
If you’re looking for child-friendly venues, try restaurants with play corners or kids’ menus — many Kraków establishments have adapted to families.
An interesting alternative are places that combine dining with animal contact — in the region you’ll find cafés and restaurants with animal themes or mini nature displays that can engage young visitors.
During a meal remember to schedule a short outdoor break — after an active morning of sightseeing, children will enjoy eating in a calmer, open-air spot.
Wolski Forest hides lesser-known rock outcrops and reserves that often escape standard guides — set aside time for a short educational trail through the Panieńskie Skały area.
Not everyone knows there are three city mounds on the outskirts of Wolski Forest; the Józef Piłsudski Mound offers one of the best views over the city panorama.
The zoo runs educational programmes and nature trails dedicated to, for example, insects — these are a great way for children to learn about the role of insects in the ecosystem.
Planning a trip without checking the weather — even in spring the forest provides plenty of shade, but rain or mud can make walking difficult. Bring suitable shoes and a lightweight raincoat.
Arriving by car at peak season without a backup parking plan — it’s better to park further away and take public transport for the final stretch or arrive early.
Skipping breaks for children — long walks without snacks and rest quickly lead to fussiness. Plan pauses on a meadow or at a café table.
Is the zoo suitable for toddlers? Yes — the route is accessible, and the garden offers zones such as mini-zoo areas and play spots, although it’s best to avoid the busiest hours.
How long does a zoo visit take? A typical visit usually takes 2–3 hours, depending on your pace and interests.
Can you enter with a stroller? Yes, most paths are stroller-accessible, though some forest trails may be uneven.
Buy tickets online in advance if you plan to visit at the weekend or on a holiday — it saves time and stress.
Bring a small first-aid kit and plasters, especially when travelling with young children.
To avoid crowds, visit Wolski Forest and the zoo on weekday mornings or late afternoons.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with friends or on your social profiles — you’ll help others plan a better day in Kraków.
If you prefer a personalised tour of Kraków focused on nature, history and family comfort, you are welcome to use the services of the private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — contact and details are available on the zwiedzaniekrakowa.com website. Thank you and see you in Kraków!
