*This trip to Krakow was a collaboration with Jet2, however all words and opinions are my own.
Krakow has long been on our family’s travel bucket list, and when we finally decided to take the plunge, it did not disappoint! This Polish gem is a mix of history, whimsy, and downright deliciousness. Travelling with our two kids, aged 7 and 4, meant we needed a balance of culture, play, and sweet treats – and Krakow delivered all that and more. Thankfully, there are plenty of flights to Krakow, including from our local Yorkshire airport, so once we were airbound, we were on our way! Here’s our perfect 3-day itinerary for families looking to make the most of this magical city.
Day 1: Picture-Perfect Fun and Chimney Cake Heaven
Morning: Dive into Joy at The Be Happy Museum
Our first stop was the quirky and colourful Be Happy Museum (one I’d found on TikTok scrolling), a selfie-lover’s paradise. From doughnut walls to confetti showers, this place was an explosion of fun for the kids (and, let’s be honest, us adults too!) My husband and I couldn’t resist joining in by jumping into the Marshmallow pool – and the children loved exploring every different exhibit. If you have kids, this is the perfect start to your Krakow adventure.
Afternoon: Snack Break with a Sweet Twist
By lunchtime, we were ready for a breather. Enter the heavenly world of chimney cakes. These sugary, spiralled treats are baked to perfection and can be filled with all sorts of goodies – think Nutella, whipped cream, or fruit. Watching them being made was half the fun, and we all agreed they were the perfect energy boost to keep exploring. I tried the white chocolate and pistachio, it was sooooo good!
Evening: A Giggle-Filled Visit to the Wax Museum
Krakow’s Wax Museum was next on our list, and oh, what a laugh it was! Some of the celebrity figures were, let’s say, less-than-perfect likenesses, which led to plenty of giggles and cheeky photos. The kids loved guessing who the figures were supposed to be, and we left with smiles on our faces and a new inside joke about “questionable waxwork craftsmanship.” It passed a good hour, was really affordable and perfect to conclude your first day on your holidays to Krakow.
In all honesty, we were shattered after hitting 20k steps on our first day, so we spent the evening relaxing at the gorgeous vegan hotel, Plantonia Aparthotel.
Day 2: Castles, Markets, and Magic
Morning: Explore Wawel Castle
No trip to Krakow is complete without a visit to the iconic Wawel Castle. Perched on a hill, it’s a treasure trove of history and fairy-tale vibes. This was just a short walk from our hotel and perfect to view after a crisp walk along the river Vistula. We started with a stroll through the lush gardens before heading inside to explore the grand state rooms. Our kids were fascinated by the dragon’s den (yes, an actual dragon cave and breathing dragon) and the stories of Polish kings and queens.
Afternoon: Lunch and Leisure
After soaking up the royal vibes, we wandered back into the Old Town for a leisurely lunch. Krakow’s cafes are family-friendly and serve up hearty Polish dishes like pierogi and bigos, but there’s always a pizza or two on the menu for picky eaters (we recommend Pizzatopia which is like an upgraded Subway – delicious pizzas!)
Evening: Christmas Market Charm
We were lucky enough to visit during Krakow’s magical Christmas market season, and let me tell you, it was like stepping into a snow globe. The main market square was aglow with twinkling lights, and the aroma of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts filled the air. The kids loved browsing the handmade ornaments and nibbling on gingerbread cookies, while we couldn’t resist picking up a few festive souvenirs. You’ll find horse drawn carriages wandering around, and if you’re lucky, you’ll hear the noise of a trumpeter playing outside.
Day 3: Leisurely Wandering and Family Moments
Morning: Slow Start and a Local Breakfast
After two busy days, we took it slow on our final morning. We wandered around the Jewish Ghetto, picked up some snacks and took in all of the free sites. Sometimes, a relaxed start is just what you need to recharge.
Afternoon: Explore the Old Town
We spent our last afternoon wandering Krakow’s picturesque streets, letting the kids lead the way. They loved the horse-drawn carriages in the main square, and we even stumbled upon a street performer who kept them entertained for ages. You’ll find tonnes of different performances on throughout the day, from traditional violinists to modern street dancers.
Evening: Farewell Dinner
For our farewell dinner, we treated ourselves to a traditional Polish feast. Think hearty soups, rich stews, and of course, more pierogi! We toasted to a fantastic trip with a local beer for us and fruit juices for the kids. It was the perfect ending to our whirlwind adventure.
Final Thoughts
Krakow stole our hearts with its blend of history, whimsy, and family-friendly charm. From the quirky Be Happy Museum to the enchanting Christmas markets and the majestic Wawel Castle, there was something for everyone in our little troupe. There are plenty of options to enjoy Christmas Markets with Jet2holidays, so you can be sure you’re booking with a trusted partner. If you’re looking for a destination with easy flights from Leeds Bradford with Jet2, that balances culture, fun, and a touch of magic, Krakow is your answer. Just don’t forget to grab a chimney cake (or three) while you’re there!
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