Did you know that beneath part of the Main Market Square there is an archaeological reserve covering several thousand square meters, and that a walk across the Father Bernatek Footbridge offers 145 meters of great photo opportunities above the Vistula?
In this article I will explain how to combine both attractions into one pleasant day: what you will see underground, how and where to buy tickets, the best times to visit, and which mistakes are worth avoiding.
The footbridge (officially named after Father Laetus Bernatek) links Kazimierz with Podgórze and was opened in autumn 2010. It features a distinctive steel arch and two lanes — one for pedestrians and one for cyclists — so crossing is comfortable and safe.
It's a fantastic spot for photos at dawn, at sunset and at night, when the steel arches and lighting create a dramatic backdrop. The bridge quickly gained a romantic reputation — you can still see padlocks and small mementos left by couples.
Practical note: from the bridge it’s easy to access the Vistula boulevards, so you can extend your walk and get a different, less touristy view of the city.
The Market Square Underground is both a multimedia museum and an archaeological reserve: here you can see remains of medieval buildings, fragments of streets and thousands of small everyday finds that tell the story of trade and city life from centuries ago.
The exhibition mixes real artefacts, reconstructions and modern multimedia — an engaging experience for adults and families with children alike.
The entrance is from the Sukiennice/Visitor Service Centre side — the route from there will lead you through parts of the archaeological reserve located a few metres beneath the Market Square.
It's definitely worth buying tickets in advance, especially in the high season and during special events (Night of Museums, holidays). Many people reserve online, and entrances often have limited capacity for specific time slots.
Ticket prices change over time — there are usually full, reduced and family tickets; discounts may be available for holders of certain cards (for example a Large Family Card or local discount cards). If you need a specific time slot, book early.
If you buy a voucher from a reseller, remember you may often need to exchange it for an official ticket at the service point (for example at the Sukiennice) — check this when purchasing to avoid surprises at the entrance.
A simple and pleasant loop: start in Kazimierz, cross the Father Bernatek Footbridge to Podgórze, stroll the boulevards along the Vistula, return towards the Main Market Square and finish with a visit to the Market Square Underground.
This plan lets you see three different faces of Krakow: the atmospheric Kazimierz, changing Podgórze with views toward Wawel, and the historic heart of the city under the Market Square pavement.
If your time is limited: choose the morning for the Underground (fewer crowds) and late afternoon for the footbridge — the light and atmosphere at sunset are excellent for photos.
The Market Square Underground is designed with visitor comfort in mind: the route includes facilities and the museum has a lift — however, always check accessibility details in advance and inform staff about any special needs.
Children rarely get bored thanks to interactive elements and educational zones; when visiting with little ones, plan short breaks and a spot for a snack.
On the footbridge watch out for wind — summer days are pleasant but windy days can feel chilly, so bring a light jacket or scarf.
Not booking tickets in advance - in season queues at the ticket office and sold-out time slots can ruin your schedule. Book online if possible.
Assuming the Underground is just a 10-minute attraction - it’s an extensive exhibition; allow at least 1–1.5 hours if you want to view the displays at a relaxed pace.
Going to the footbridge in bright midday sunshine without protection - strong reflections and contrast can make photos difficult; plan to shoot during the golden hour or use HDR mode on your phone.
Kazimierz offers lots of atmospheric cafés and restaurants; for local flavour look for small coffee shops along the lanes off Plac Nowy.
Around the Market you’ll find traditional and historic places — if you’re after something special consider restaurants right on the Square (remember they are touristy and prices can be higher).
On the Podgórze side (near Zabłocie) there are well-known spots for good food and craft beer — it’s a great option to rest after crossing the bridge. The MOCAK area in Zabłocie also has cafés and cultural venues worth checking out.
Check opening hours in advance — museums sometimes have different seasonal hours and occasional closures.
If you’re carrying large luggage, leave big backpacks at your hotel — it’s easier to move around the Underground and the bridge without them.
Bring a powerbank — evening photos and navigating with maps can drain your phone faster than you expect.
Do I need to buy a ticket to the Market Square Underground in advance? - Not always, but in high season and during events it’s recommended to reserve in advance.
How long does the Market Square Underground visit take? - The route usually takes between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours, depending on pace and interest in the exhibits.
Is the Bernatek Footbridge free to use? - Yes, crossing the bridge is free.
Can I enter the Underground with a stroller? - There is a lift and accessibility features, but it’s best to confirm availability and the route with museum staff beforehand.
Beneath the Market Square there are artefacts and building fragments dating back to the medieval pre-urban layers — walking under the Square is literally stepping into the city’s historical layers.
The footbridge stands on the axis of a former bridge (the Franz Joseph / Podgórski bridge) — when you walk it you’re following a line that has linked the riverbanks for centuries.
In season, cultural events on the Vistula boulevards often change the atmosphere of the walk — check the local calendar to catch an outdoor concert or a small festival.
Ticket for the Underground (printed or mobile code) - if you booked online.
Comfortable shoes, a light jacket for breezy moments on the bridge, powerbank and water.
Route plan: Kazimierz → Footbridge → Boulevards → Market → Underground (or the reverse) and time for coffee and a rest.
If this guide was helpful — share it with friends or on social media to help them plan their stay in Krakow.
If you’d like to explore Krakow with someone who knows the city inside out, I invite you to use the private guiding services of Małgorzata Kasprowicz — details are available on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com.
If you plan to combine the walk with museum visits, check combined opening hours so you can sequence visits without backtracking.
Public transport: trams and buses connect Kazimierz, the Main Market area and Zabłocie — single tickets are valid across modes for a set time; validate your ticket after boarding.
Weather: in spring and autumn layers work best — mornings by the river can be cool, while sunny afternoons may be warm.
