Posted on Wednesday, 18 April 2018

Dating back to the 7th Century, Krakow is steeped in history. Its picturesque architecture and vast Rynek Główny - Europe's largest Market Square - are testament to the city's long-standing position at the heart of Poland's cultural, academic and artistic life. Its charming buildings are even more impressive given so many other Polish cities were razed to the ground in World War Two. But Krakow survived largely unscathed - at least in the physical sense. For alongside the delightful churches and castles, there are reminders of what happened to the city's Jewish population nearly 80 years ago.

Today, this spacious, attractive city offers a multitude of places to visit and things to do. With its many wide streets and pedestrianised areas, it's a great city for families to visit; unlike the capital Warsaw, you won't spend half your time trying to cross multi-lane roads filled with traffic.

Legend of Krakus

Legend has it that a man named Krakus slayed a dragon in the area many centuries ago. Thanks to this impressive feat he rose from cobbler to prince and then king, lending his name to what would become Poland's second biggest city.

The Must-Dos

Wawel Palace

Krakus was a busy fellow, since he went on (legend has it) to build one of the city's top attractions - Wewel Royal Castle. This structure became central to much of Polish cultural and political life through the 16th Century - and a symbol for the entire nation. A family visit to Wawel is likely to take up an entire day, especially if you have an interest in history. However, there are five distinct areas - the Crown Treasury & Armoury; State Rooms; Royal Private Apartments; Lost Wawel; and the Exhibition of Oriental Art. You'll need to buy a ticket for each - which for a family of four could quickly add up. For those on a tighter budget or with less time, we recommend sticking to the impressive State Rooms and Royal Private Apartments.

Rynek Underground

Located deep beneath the market square, this absorbing attraction features an underground tunnel that takes in medieval market stalls and a series of fascinating - if slightly spooky - chambers. Sure to fire the imagination of younger visitors, this attraction is enhanced by a variety of impressive holograms and audio-visual information points.

The ticket office is located on the western side of the Cloth Hall, Sukiennice 21, while the entrance is found on the north eastern side.

Kościuszko Mound

Take the family up Kościuszko Mound for fantastic views over the city. Dedicated to the Polish-American war hero Tadeusz Kościuszko, it was made in the early 1820s, shortly after his passing. Fittingly, the soil used for the mound came from the battlefields where Kościuszko saw combat - in Poland and, more surprisingly, America. Younger visitors may need a little help to ascend the 34m high dedication, which is around two miles west of the Old Town

Schindler's Factory

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This fascinating museum gives a solid grounding in Krakow's history through World War Two. It's built on the site of the ceramic factory owned by Oscar Schindler, the industrialist who helped a number of his Jewish employees evade Nazi capture - and very probably death at the nearby Auschwitz concentration camp. As you might expect, the subject matter could be upsetting for younger children. However, the events of World War Two are deeply rooted in the city's character and this museum could prove invaluable in attempting to understand them.

Auschwitz concentration camp

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Located 70km west of Krakow, Auschwitz concentration camp is where many thousands of Jews and Poles were killed by the Nazis. Death toll estimates range from 500,000 to nearly 1,500,000. Numerous guided tours can be taken from Krakow to the camp.

Due to the extremely traumatic nature of the camp it is not recommended that under-14s visit. In addition, the three complexes cover a wide area so any visit will involve a good deal of walking.

Wieliczka Salt Mine

Located within the Krakow metropolitan area, the impressive Wieliczka Salt Mine produced table salt from the 13th century up until 2007. Dozens of statues and four chapels were carved out of the rock salt by the miners, making for a unique and fascinating visit. Non-Poles pay 79 zloties to enter - about £16.

Hidden gems of Krakow

Krakowska Manufaktura Czekolady

If you and your family have a collective sweet tooth, head over to Krakowska Manufaktura Czekolady, where you can sample all manner of traditional chocolate delicacies.

Diving in an old quarry

You may not have come to Krakow to go diving, but at Zakrzówek and Skałki Twardowskiego you can do just that: an old bus, a car and even a small plane from the 1960s lie in the 30m depths! If you want something less strenuous, just relax by the water with a picnic, alongside the many students who often visit.

Kraków Haunted House

This house was built on top of an old cemetery by two brothers. However, it was never completed because one brother was killed by the other, who eventually took his own life too. A sad and rather spooky structure, located next to an old chapel.

Great family hotels in Krakow

As one of Poland's most popular tourist towns, there's a huge variety of accommodation available. Here are some of our top picks for family-friendly hotels:

Venetian House Aparthotel

Large, modern apartments equipped with kitchenettes (ideal for a night in with the family). Helpful staff. Just minutes from Market Square.

Aparthotel Adler

Located on the river bank opposite the Old Town, this cosy hotel also features kitchen facilities - for when you need a break from restaurants.

Yarden Aparthotel by Artery Hotels

Well-reviewed for its cleanliness and friendly staff, Yarden Aparthotel is located just a few minutes' walk from the main square - and yet whose rooms are extremely quiet.

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