The Father Bernatek Footbridge is one of those simple Kraków spots that link two interesting districts — Kazimierz and Podgórze — and offer a breath of fresh air from the city bustle without a long walk.
On the bridge you’ll notice decorative, “balancing” sculptural silhouettes and panoramas of the Vistula on both sides. It’s a quick, striking attraction, perfect for a family photo and a short break between sightseeing.
Route: Plac Wolnica → Mostowa Street → the footbridge (photo stop, 10–15 min) → the boulevards on the Kazimierz side → return. At a relaxed pace you can finish this loop in about 45 minutes, including a short stop for photos and a drink.
I recommend this option when you have limited time, small children, or want to fit the footbridge as a stop between other attractions (for example Plac Nowy or Rynek Podgórski).
The extended route lets you see more: Plac Wolnica → Mostowa → the footbridge → Rynek Podgórski and nearby sights (a short walk and a frame for St. Joseph’s Church) → the Vistula boulevards → return through Kazimierz. At a relaxed pace with photo stops or ice cream, plan on about 1–1.5 hours.
This is a good choice if you want to combine the walk with lunch or a longer break in one of the many cafés and restaurants in both districts.
Plan the route as a loop — this avoids constantly retracing your steps and lets you space out breaks. Example: footbridge → Podgórze → boulevards → Kazimierz.
Water pit-stops every 20–30 minutes — it can be windy on the bridge and children cool down quickly. Many nearby cafés offer restrooms and changing tables, so keep that in mind when planning breaks.
Photo game: ask the kids to find “three different silhouettes” on the bridge (sculptures, boats, people) — it entertains them briefly and gets them engaged.
Clothing: the bridge can be windy — even in summer bring a light windproof layer. Good shoes make walking on cobbles and the boulevards easier.
Around Miodowa, Plac Wolnica and the river boulevards you’ll find many options for a break — from small cafés serving quick espresso to restaurants with children’s menus. Look for places with high chairs and changing facilities.
If you want something calmer, head for the boulevards — there are often riverside café terraces where kids can relax and adults can enjoy a coffee.
Kazimierz: short walks along Miodowa and Szeroka streets, Plac Nowy with its market stalls and the atmosphere of the old Jewish quarter.
Podgórze: Rynek Podgórski and the Square of the Heroes of the Ghetto — places that combine history with modern installations and space to rest.
The Vistula boulevards: in summer they are lively places for a quick play, ice cream and watching boats.
Trying to see “everything” in one day — it’s better to choose one short route and leave time for breaks and play for the little ones.
Not checking the weather — bridges and boulevards can be windy. Check the forecast and bring a light layer.
Leaving tickets or valuables in a backpack on a bench — as in any tourist place, keep your things close.
Is the walk suitable for a stroller? Yes — the footbridge has smooth transitions and many families use strollers. During busy times go slowly and watch for crowds.
How much time should I allow with children? Minimum 45 minutes, but 1–1.5 hours is a comfortable amount for a walk with breaks and photos.
When is the best time to come? Morning (around 8:30–10:30) is the quietest and best for photos; the bridge is also atmospheric in the evening when the lights come on.
The bridge became instantly recognizable thanks to the sculptures that look like acrobatic figures balancing over the river — this attracts both photographers and families with children.
The boulevards and riverbanks change with the seasons — in summer they buzz with terraces and food trucks, while off-season they offer quieter, more intimate walks.
Plan a short loop, bring snacks and water, set aside time for photos and one longer café break. Let the children choose one “must-do” (for example ice cream on the boulevards or a short playground stop) — you’ll get calm and big smiles.
If you’d like a tailored route, you can book a private guide with Małgorzata Kasprowicz, who prepares itineraries matched to children’s ages and the family’s pace — contact details are available on the Zwiedzanie Krakowa website.
If you found this article useful — share it with friends or on social media. Recommend the walk and help other families plan a lovely day in Kraków!
