Since it opened, Father Bernatek Footbridge has become one of the best-known places connecting Kazimierz with Podgórze. It earned the nickname “love bridge” because of the thousands of padlocks attached by couples; after renovation work the padlocks were removed, and some of them were repurposed for a new, lasting symbol — a lovers’ bench.
Around the bridge you’ll also find examples of public art — the famous balancing sculptures by Jerzy Kędziora, which add an intimate, contemplative feel for many passersby. The footbridge is a great starting point for a relaxed walk along the Vistula, but keep in mind that during the May holiday (often very busy) it’s best to come in the morning or late afternoon.
- The route focuses on riverside areas and the green hills of Podgórze, where it’s easier to find a moment for two than in the crowded Market Square.
- Most suggested stops are outdoors — boulevards, a mound, the botanical garden — so it’s easy to find a sheltered corner, sit and talk without the hubbub.
- The route is flexible: you can shorten or lengthen it, skip the busiest sections and choose the time that suits you best (for example sunrise on Kopiec Krakusa or a peaceful evening by the Vistula).
Start: Father Bernatek Footbridge — begin at this symbolic spot, take a look around, search for the sculptures and choose a direction: toward the boulevards or into Podgórze.
1. Vistula Boulevards (short walk) — stroll at an easy pace along the river, sit on a bench and watch the currents and bridges. Early hours offer the most peaceful experience.
2. Podgórze: Krzemionki and Kopiec Krakusa — a short walk (or a quick tram/taxi) will bring you to Kopiec Krakusa, where you get a wide view over the city. It’s a perfect place for a quiet break and a photo without heavy crowds, especially outside peak daytime hours.
3. Jagiellonian University Botanical Garden (if you want an orderly green spot) — enclosed lanes and greenhouse corners are a recipe for relaxation. Check opening hours before you go.
4. Quiet cafés in Podgórze / hidden streets of Kazimierz — finish the route in a cozy café (suggestions below) or spread a blanket and enjoy a simple picnic.
Practical note: for the May holiday bring shoes suitable for uneven surfaces and a small blanket — many lovely riverside spots invite sitting on the grass.
Stopklatka (Podgórze) — a small, cozy café with a cultural vibe, good coffee and often a quieter atmosphere than tourist centres.
ChlebON (Podgórze) — a bakery-café, a good place for breakfast or a light meal before continuing the walk.
Good Day Cafe (near the Old Town) — a pleasant café with good reviews; if you visit the centre, choose side tables away from main streets.
Additionally: the Vistula boulevards and Kazimierz’s side streets often hide quiet cafés or benches with river views — it’s worth pausing and looking for these corners.
- The padlocks from the footbridge weighed a total of several tons; the city decided to give them a “second life” — a lovers’ bench is planned to be made from parts of these keepsakes.
- Jerzy Kędziora’s balancing sculptures, known as “balancing figures,” have appeared on the footbridge and are one of the more interesting examples of public art here — their movement and lightness often add a melancholic charm to the bridge.
- The bridge has two lanes: one for pedestrians and one for cyclists, which makes it easier to find a little space for yourselves.
- Assuming “the bridge will be empty” during the May holiday — most visitors choose popular spots on long weekends, so plan morning hours or late afternoon.
- Sticking too rigidly to a plan — if you encounter crowds, simply shorten the route and head for a green nook or a café.
- Not checking opening hours for the Botanical Garden or cafés — check times before you leave, especially during holiday periods.
How to get there? - The footbridge links Kazimierz with Podgórze and is easily reachable on foot from the centre; trams and buses will bring you near Podgórze if you prefer to avoid a longer walk.
Accessibility and walking route: - The bridge was rebuilt with pedestrians and cyclists in mind; there are benches on the bridge and along the boulevards where you can rest.
Toilets and breaks: - Around Kazimierz and the boulevards there are cafés and venues with restrooms; carry small change or a card, since not all public toilets are open during long weekends.
When to come? - Quietest times: early mornings and late afternoons. If you want to avoid crowds during the May holiday, start as early as possible.
Safety: - Watch your personal belongings, especially if you sit on the grass by the boulevards; the area is generally safe, but crowds can encourage inattention.
Start 8:00 — Father Bernatek Footbridge (short walk and admire the sculptures).
8:30 — Vistula Boulevards (coffee to go and a peaceful walk).
10:00 — Kopiec Krakusa (short climb or ride, view, a moment of silence).
12:00 — Jagiellonian University Botanical Garden (if you want more greenery and calm).
13:30 — Light lunch or a café in Podgórze, end of the route.
If you enjoyed this route, share the article with friends or on social media — help others find quiet places in Krakow during the May holiday.
If you’d like the walk to be even more pleasant and tailored to your needs, consider using the services of tour guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — full contact details and the offer are available on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com.
Good luck and have a lovely May holiday — may it be quiet, colorful and close to nature!
