Salwator and the mounds are one of those Kraków outings that combine an easy, pleasant walk with a reward: a wide panorama of the city. The route starts at the Vistula boulevards, goes through villa-lined streets and green slopes, and after a short, not-too-tiring climb rewards you with the view from Kościuszko Mound. For many visitors to Kraków it’s an ideal suggestion for a May holiday afternoon: it’s close to the centre, yet lets you enjoy greenery and open space that you don’t get on the Main Market Square. The walk is also very dog-friendly — there are shaded spots and grassy areas, and you can easily reach the starting point from the centre by public transport or on foot.
This route works well for couples and families, as well as people travelling with a dog — it’s not technically difficult, and with a relaxed pace and breaks it’s accessible to almost everyone.
Starting point: the Vistula boulevards near the Salwator stop or the area by the Norbertine Convent (ul. Kościuszki). The nicest approach is to walk along the riverbank towards Salwator, where decorative villa streets and paths begin to lead uphill.
From Salwator it’s worth taking Aleja Waszyngtona — the traditional route to Kościuszko Mound; it’s about 1.5 km and typically takes 30–40 minutes at a relaxed pace. Along the way you pass characteristic villas, chestnut-lined avenues and places where your dog can rest in the shade.
Ascent to the Mound: the final stretch includes steps and paths of varying steepness — consider your dog’s (and your) fitness and footwear. At the top you’ll find benches, a viewing terrace and a broad panorama of Kraków — an ideal spot to rest and take photos.
Return: you can go back the same way or descend through Wolski Forest, which connects the Mound with more distant parts of the city — a good option if you want to lengthen the walk or avoid crowds.
Kościuszko Mound is a place with strong historical significance and a popular viewpoint. Reinforced paths and fragments of former fortifications lead to the top, and from the height you can see the city centre, Wawel and extensive green areas. The mound has a distinctive silhouette and is often a walking destination for locals — especially on holidays and long weekends.
Access to the mound is usually ticketed; prices and opening hours change seasonally, so it’s good to check current information before your visit. In the season the mound sometimes stays open later in the evening, which gives the chance to watch the sunset over Kraków.
Cover the basics: bring water for your dog, poop bags, and an ID collar. On more sun-exposed sections a dog can tire faster, so plan shorter stretches and shade breaks.
Leash and control: although many parts of the route are spacious, keep your dog on a leash near other walkers and at entrances. Steps and stony sections can be uncomfortable for paws — if your dog is sensitive, consider paw protectors or a slower pace.
What to avoid: don’t let your dog play near slopes and steep drop-offs, monitor contact with wild animals and birds, and on hot days postpone longer walks to morning or late afternoon.
Salwator is easy to reach by public transport — trams and buses run to the area, which has stops marked Salwator. If you prefer to walk from the centre, the riverside boulevards are a pleasant approach.
The route from Salwator to the Mound is relatively short, but some sections include steps and natural paths; people with strollers or limited mobility can choose gentler approaches or take a bus to a nearby loop. Check the weather and possible temporary interruptions before you set out.
Parking and driving: parking near Salwator and Zwierzyniec can be limited on weekends and holidays — if you prefer comfort, arrive earlier or use public transport.
After descending the mound it’s worth stopping for coffee or a light meal — the Salwator and Zwierzyniec areas offer several pleasant cafés and restaurants popular with locals. Choose places with a garden or terrace so you can sit outside with your dog.
If you prefer something quick, along the Vistula boulevards and in Salwator you’ll find small bistros and cafés serving pastries, coffee and snacks. If you want a full sit-down meal, consider booking on weekends, as popular places fill up during long holiday weekends such as May holiday.
If you’d like specific recommendations, look for well-rated cafés and restaurants that clearly accept dogs on their outdoor terraces.
At Kościuszko Mound you can find fragments of old fortifications — remnants of Austrian fort works that once surrounded the hill. It’s an interesting detail for those interested in the city’s history and the military past of the area.
The mound summit and nearby fortifications are sometimes used for local events, educational walks and occasional outdoor exhibitions — check local cultural listings before your visit.
In spring, the chestnut avenues in Salwator create a special atmosphere — if you visit during flowering, the walk gains extra charm.
Mistake: planning the ascent at the hottest part of the day without extra water. Fix: take a bottle for yourself and a bowl or nozzle bottle for your dog.
Mistake: assuming the route will take very little time. Fix: plan about 1.5–2 hours for the walk with stops and photos, or more if you choose longer variants through Wolski Forest.
Mistake: not checking opening hours and fees. Fix: check current information about mound access and any exhibitions before you go to avoid surprises.
Can I take my dog up the mound? Yes — dogs are allowed, but keep them on a leash and ensure their comfort on steps and steep parts. Bring water and poop bags.
How long does the walk from Kraków centre to the mound via Salwator take? It depends on pace: walking from the centre to Salwator along the boulevards takes about 20–30 minutes, and from Salwator to the mound about 30–40 minutes at a relaxed pace. The whole outing with short breaks is usually 1.5–2 hours.
Are there toilets and food stalls at the mound? There isn’t extensive food infrastructure at the very top — it’s better to stop at venues in Salwator before the climb or after descending. There may be a small souvenir point or seasonal stall near the mound, but don’t count on that as a permanent option.
This route is a great idea for the May holiday: it gives space, greenery and beautiful views, while being short and accessible enough to fit into your day. Remember comfortable shoes, water for you and your dog, and to check mound opening hours before you set off.
If you liked this guide, share it on social media or send it to friends — you’ll help others plan a great walk in Kraków. If you prefer to explore with a local who will tell stories along the way, consider booking a guided walk with Małgorzata Kasprowicz — contact and details are available through the local 'Zwiedzanie Krakowa' offering. Have a good trip and enjoy the views!
