Krakow Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Krakow
This budget-friendly family itinerary for Krakow offers a perfect blend of engaging free activities and exciting ticketed attractions tailored for children aged 3-12. We've included opportunities for active play, cultural discovery, and relaxing family time, ensuring a memorable weekend. Remember to check specific opening hours and event details closer to the date, as some seasonal offerings or specific workshop schedules for January 2026 may be updated by venues. Family tickets and advance booking for paid attractions are highly recommended for better value and guaranteed entry.
Friday Evening - Kids Adventure Kick-off
Friday, January 2Rynek Underground Museum
Explore the fascinating Rynek Underground Museum, located beneath the Main Market Square.
This interactive museum uses multimedia displays, holograms, and reconstructions to bring medieval Krakow to life. It's an engaging and educational experience for families, showcasing archaeological excavations.
Perfect for curious kids who enjoy history presented in an engaging way. The museum is spacious and stroller-friendly. Restrooms are available. Aim for about 1.5 - 2 hours to explore. Younger children might find some parts less engaging, but the visual elements are generally captivating. The museum is a great indoor option, especially on a chilly January evening.
Located directly under the Main Market Square, accessible by public transport (trams and buses stop nearby). Parking is available in underground garages around the Old Town, but can be expensive. Walking is best if staying in the city center.
Family Dinner Delight
Enjoy a delicious and kid-friendly dinner at a traditional Polish restaurant.
Many establishments in the Old Town offer menus with options appealing to children, like pierogi, potato pancakes, or simple chicken dishes. Look for places with a cozy atmosphere.
Kids will enjoy the warm and inviting atmosphere. Many Polish restaurants are very accommodating to families. Ensure the restaurant has high chairs if needed and consider asking for smaller portions or kid-friendly sides. Early dinner timing allows for a relaxed meal before heading home for bed. 'Morskie Oko' often has live folk music which can be a fun experience for kids.
Easily walkable from the Rynek Underground Museum. Public transport is readily available in the Old Town area.
Saturday - Grand Family Adventure
Saturday, January 3Krakow Zoo Visit
Spend the morning at the Krakow Zoo, located within the beautiful Las Wolski forest.
It's home to around 1,500 animals representing 270 species, including many endangered ones. Kids will love seeing elephants, giraffes, monkeys, and the extensive bird collection.
An excellent activity for all ages, especially children who love animals. The zoo is quite extensive, so wear comfortable shoes. There are playgrounds and snack kiosks throughout the zoo. Restrooms are widely available. Stroller access is good on most paths. Allow 3-4 hours for a comprehensive visit. This is an outdoor activity, so dress warmly for January weather.
The zoo is located outside the city center. The most convenient way to get there is by car (parking available, fee applies) or by bus (e.g., bus line 134 from Cracovia Stadium stop). Consider a taxi or ride-sharing for direct access with kids.
Zoo Lunch Break
Enjoy a casual lunch within the Krakow Zoo premises.
There are several small eateries and kiosks offering snacks, hot dogs, fries, and simple meals, perfect for a quick refuel during your visit.
Kid-friendly food options are readily available, making it easy to grab a bite without leaving the zoo. This allows for more time enjoying the animals. Indoor seating options are usually available, which is good for colder weather. Alternatively, pack a picnic for a more budget-friendly option, though January might be too cold for outdoor picnicking.
Within the zoo grounds, easily accessible from any part of the park.
Wawel Dragon's Den
Descend into the legendary Dragon's Den at the foot of Wawel Hill.
This natural limestone cave is famously associated with the Wawel Dragon legend. Kids will love exploring the cave and seeing the fire-breathing Wawel Dragon statue outside.
A short, exciting adventure perfect for energetic kids. The cave descent involves stairs and can be a bit damp and cool, so dress appropriately. The Dragon Statue breathes fire every few minutes, which is a huge hit with children. Strollers are not suitable inside the cave. Restrooms are available near Wawel Castle. The cave walk is relatively short, taking about 15-20 minutes.
After visiting the zoo, take bus 134 back towards the city center and get off near Wawel. From the Old Town or Kazimierz, Wawel Hill is easily walkable. Limited parking is available around Wawel, but public transport is recommended.
Wawel Courtyard Stroll
Enjoy a free, relaxed stroll through the courtyards of Wawel Royal Castle.
The grounds offer beautiful architecture and panoramic views of the Vistula River, providing a grand historical backdrop for an evening walk.
A calming end to an adventurous day. Kids can run around a bit in the large courtyards, and it's a great opportunity for family photos. The views of the river at dusk are lovely. Access to the courtyards is free, though entry to specific exhibitions within the castle requires tickets. Bathrooms are available on the castle grounds (some may require a small fee). Stroller accessible.
Immediately after the Dragon's Den, it's a short walk up to the castle courtyards. Well-connected by public transport to other parts of Krakow.
Sunday - Relaxed Family Exploration
Sunday, January 4Main Market Square Fun
Start your Sunday morning with a leisurely visit to Krakow's Main Market Square (Rynek Główny).
Kids can enjoy chasing pigeons, admiring the Cloth Hall (Sukiennice), and listening to the hourly trumpet call from St. Mary's Basilica.
A relaxed and free activity, perfect for Sunday morning. The wide-open space is great for kids to burn off some energy. There are plenty of cafes around the square for parents to grab a coffee while keeping an eye on the children. Public restrooms are available nearby. Stroller friendly.
Easily accessible from anywhere in the city center by walking or public transport (trams and buses stop at every corner of the square).
Krakow Aquapark Splash
Spend the afternoon at the Krakow Aquapark, one of Poland's largest indoor water parks.
It features multiple slides, swimming pools, a 'wild river,' hydromassages, and areas specifically designed for younger children. It's a fantastic way to warm up and have active fun on a winter day.
Kids aged 3-12 will absolutely love the variety of slides and water attractions. There are shallow pools and play structures for younger children, and thrilling slides for older ones. Changing rooms and showers are available. Allow at least 2-3 hours for this activity. Essential to bring swimsuits and towels. Lockers are available for personal belongings.
Located north of the city center. Easily accessible by public bus (e.g., lines 129, 138, 159, 429 to 'Park Wodny'). There is ample paid parking available directly at the Aquapark if traveling by car.
Ice Cream Treat
Cap off your weekend with a delightful ice cream treat.
Even in January, many excellent ice cream parlors in Krakow serve delicious, often artisanal, ice cream that kids (and adults!) will appreciate.
A perfect, sweet ending to the family weekend. Kids love choosing their flavors. Most parlors are small and cozy. This is an easy wind-down activity before heading home to prepare for the school week. Restrooms are typically available nearby or within the establishment.
Choose a location convenient to your departure point or a short walk from the Aquapark (e.g., take a bus back towards the city center).
This weekend itinerary for Krakow can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.