Family Friendly Activities Oswiecim

Family Friendly Fun in Oswiecim

Oswiecim is a working Polish town on the Sola River, about 45 minutes from Krakow by car or train, and most visiting families use Krakow as their base and treat Oswiecim as a single day out.

Parks and Playgrounds:

  • Park Miejski (City Park): This sprawling green space in central Oswiecim features walking paths, playgrounds, a pond with ducks, and open spaces perfect for picnics and frisbee.
  • Skatepark Oswiecim: Located near the town centre, this skatepark is ideal for older children and teenagers who enjoy skateboarding, BMX biking, or rollerblading.

Oswiecim Town Square (Rynek):

This square is surrounded by historic buildings and offers a glimpse into the town’s life before and after the war. Look for the Renaissance Town Hall and take a moment to enjoy the atmosphere over an ice cream from one of the cafes on the square.

Beyond the Town Centre:

  • Swimming Pools: Several indoor and outdoor swimming pools in Oswiecim offer fun for the whole family.
  • Cinema “Kultura”: Catch a family-friendly movie at this local cinema, offering a relaxing break from sightseeing.
  • Local Markets: Explore the local markets, where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and treats such as oscypek smoked cheese.
  • Energylandia: Poland’s largest amusement park sits in nearby Zator, a short drive away, with rides sorted by height and age and a water park section for hot afternoons.

Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum

Oswiecim is the town where people come to visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum. It is not a children’s outing: the museum’s own guidance advises against bringing children under 14, and a visit runs several hours on foot with no shortcut through the material. Families who decide it belongs in their trip generally treat it as a single, separate day for older teenagers, apart from any day that also includes a theme park or a pool, and the decision is one each parent has to make for their own children.

Tips for Families:

  • Plan ahead: Research opening hours and ticket prices for attractions beforehand.
  • Pack snacks and drinks: Having refreshments on hand will keep everyone happy and energized.
  • Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, whether in Oswiecim itself or on a day trip into Krakow.
  • Base in Krakow: Krakow has its own zoo, an aquapark, and the Wieliczka Salt Mine tour, all of which round out a longer family stay in the region.

Have a wonderful and memorable family trip to the area!