Father Bernatek Footbridge is more than an attractive crossing over the Vistula — it is the point where two very different parts of the city meet: atmospheric Kazimierz and lively, slightly rugged Podgórze. The structure, with its distinctive steel arch and twin walkways (one for pedestrians, one for cyclists), creates great frames for photos, conversation and a short introduction to the history of this part of Krakow.
Opened in 2010, the footbridge gave this location a new role in city movement and quickly became a must-see on many walking routes. The evening lighting, the panorama toward Wawel Castle and the wide perspective across the Vistula make it a popular place to start a walk at sunset.
For groups of 7–20 people the bridge is a convenient meeting point: it is easy to reach by public transport, has clear places for short stops and allows time for photos or brief stories about the neighborhood. It is an ideal 'opening' before continuing the program on either side of the river.
Duration: 2–3 hours (walking pace with several stops for stories and photos). Start: the corner of Mostowa and Podgórska streets / entrance to the footbridge.
Route: meet at the bridge – short introduction (10–15 min) – cross the bridge toward Kazimierz – short walk along the river boulevards – wander the narrow streets of Kazimierz (ul. Szeroka, ul. Józefa) – stop for a zapiekanka or coffee at Plac Nowy (Nowy Square) – return to the bridge and cross to the Podgórze side – walk to Rynek Podgórski, the Colorful Stairs and the memorial site – finish at the river boulevards with a view of Wawel Castle.
Short and extended options: if you have less time, a short stroll across the bridge and along the boulevards can be done in 45–60 minutes. For those who want more, add Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory (Schindler's Factory Museum) or a visit to Krakus Mound (Kopiec Krakusa) — add approximately 60–90 minutes.
River boulevards: don’t limit yourselves to the bridge itself — descending to the boulevards on both sides of the river reveals spots less often in guidebooks: small marinas, seasonal food trucks and vantage points perfect for group photos.
Small squares and alleys of Kazimierz: instead of the crowded market, walk the side streets to discover intimate cafes and artist workshops. These are great places for a short coffee break or a local dessert.
Rynek Podgórski and the Colorful Stairs: this part of the city has a different rhythm — less commercial and more local life. The Colorful Stairs are ideal for a quick, playful group photoshoot.
Small galleries and studios: in Podgórze and Kazimierz there are craft workshops and small galleries that often welcome groups and talk about handcraft techniques — a nice addition for those interested in local culture.
Plac Nowy – a classic: at Plac Nowy you will find the famous zapiekanka stall that always makes an impression on visitors; it is a quick, local snack for a larger group.
Restaurants in Kazimierz: around ul. Józefa and Plac Nowy there are many restaurants serving Polish and international cuisine — good choices for booking tables for a group after the walk.
Boulevards and food trucks: in summer the riverbanks often host seasonal stands and small outdoor bars — a relaxed option that works well for groups wanting a casual finish to the tour.
When to come: in summer the best times are early morning and late afternoon – you will avoid the hottest hours and the biggest crowds. Sunset gives the most beautiful light for photos.
Maintenance and changes: the spot may undergo periodic maintenance; in the past the bridge has had repairs and public discussions (for example about love locks), so it’s worth checking the current condition of the footbridge before you head out.
Weather and gear: in summer bring a hat, water and a light layer for the evening — it can be cooler by the river than in the city center. Comfortable shoes and a light daypack will make moving with the group easier.
Traffic safety: remember that cyclists also use the bridge — take photos and stop in places that do not block the way. For group comfort it is a good idea to stop near railings or on the outer side of the walkway during breaks.
Meeting point: choose a clear and easy-to-find spot (for example the entrance to the footbridge from Mostowa street). Give participants a map landmark and the contact number of the person responsible for the group.
Time and pace: plan about 10–15 minutes of buffer at each major stop if the group will take photos or ask questions. For groups of 15–20 it can help to briefly split into smaller subgroups for photo stops.
Amplification and permits: normally a walk in public space does not require formal permits, but if you plan to use sound equipment, set up a stage or reserve a specific area, contact the appropriate city services in advance. If in doubt, a licensed guide can help with formalities.
Restaurant reservations: if you plan a meal in a popular restaurant after the walk, book ahead — in season tables for groups of 10+ disappear quickly.
Too fast a pace or, on the contrary, too many breaks: adjust the tempo to the most and least mobile participants. Plan 10–15 minutes of tolerance between stages of the route.
Blocking bicycle traffic: position the group on the pedestrian side and encourage lining up along the railing for photos, rather than in the middle of the path.
No plan B for the weather: in heat plan extra shaded stops and water; in case of rain have alternative indoor points ready (cafes, galleries).
Not informing participants about duration: tell the group in advance how long the walk will take and where planned breaks are — this avoids misunderstandings.
How long is the walk? – The standard route described above: 2–3 hours. It can be shortened to 45–60 minutes or extended with extra attractions.
Is the footbridge accessible for strollers and people with limited mobility? – The crossing is designed for pedestrians and cyclists, but depending on the chosen starting point and the descents to the boulevards there may be steps. If needed, plan a route with fewer stairs.
Do you need to reserve the route for a group of 7–20? – Generally there is no need for a formal reservation on public land, but if you plan stops in venues or use sound equipment it’s wise to reserve space and confirm rules with the venue.
The bridge changes with the time of day – morning and evening light can make it look completely different, so plan your route to capture those moments.
Allow time for improvisation: the most interesting discoveries are often small corners, artist studios or seasonal events on the Vistula that cannot be planned in advance.
Finally: if you liked this plan and would like to explore with a local guide, you are welcome to book a private tour with guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz. For bookings and details visit the Zwiedzanie Krakowa website or contact the guide directly. If this article was helpful, share it on social media or send it to friends — it will help others plan their time in Krakow well!
