The Father Bernatek Footbridge is a short but very striking crossing over the Vistula that links Kazimierz with Podgórze. For a small group of 2–6 people, walking it is a perfect chance to get the feel of both districts quickly, take great photos and sample local food without the crowds typical of large tours.
A small group lets you slow the pace — stop for as long as you like, compare views from both sides, photograph the acrobat sculptures on the steel arches and descend to the river boulevards to see the Vistula at water level. It's more comfortable than mass routes and leaves room for conversation and noticing details.
The footbridge was opened in 2010; it features distinctive steel arches and is designed as a pedestrian-and-cyclist connection. Its structure and decorative figures make it one of the most photogenic walking spots in the area.
The bridge has two decks — separate paths for pedestrians and cyclists — so watch for bike traffic and follow basic etiquette: walk slowly across, and groups should step to the sides when stopping so you don't block the way.
The bridge is often lit for city events and social campaigns — evening shots can be colorful and attractive, but remember it can be windy by the river, so bring something warmer even if the day has been warm.
Start: Plac Wolnica or the Mostowa street area — a quick approach to the footbridge (5–10 minutes' walk depending on where you start).
On the bridge: allow 10–15 minutes for a relaxed look at the acrobats, silhouette photos and a short story about the place. For a small group this is enough time to get a few different shots.
Return: walk the boulevards on the Kazimierz side (15–20 minutes with photo stops) and finish near Miodowa Street or a square with a café. Optionally, make a quick stop for a zapiekanka at Plac Nowy.
Start: Plac Wolnica — stroll along Mostowa to the footbridge (10–12 minutes).
On the bridge: spend 15–20 minutes — this is a good amount of time for a photo session: wide, medium and detail shots, and for comparing perspectives from both riverbanks.
Podgórze: descend to Rynek Podgórski, hear a short story about the district and take in St. Joseph's Church and the Ghetto Heroes Square (20–30 minutes).
Boulevards: return along the Vistula boulevards on the Kazimierz side — a relaxing stretch ideal for conversation and watching city life (20–30 minutes).
Finish: coffee or a light lunch on Miodowa or at Plac Nowy; for small groups it's worth reserving a table or choosing places with outdoor service.
In a small group, split simple roles: one person holds the map/phone, another watches the light and frames shots, a third looks after bags. That way the walk flows better and no one wastes time handling small tasks.
If you're a photography group — set the sequence of shots (e.g., start with a wide view from the boulevards, then silhouettes on the bridge, finish with details of the acrobats). Small groups can easily take turns photographing each other without asking strangers for help.
For families with children: plan short tasks (e.g., “who can find three different colors on the bridge”) — it helps keep kids interested and the pace steady without complaints.
The golden hour before sunset gives soft light on the steel arches and sculptures; the middle of the bridge is a classic place for silhouette shots. Early afternoon and morning are quieter for less crowded photos.
The river boulevards offer long perspectives and nice reflections in the water after rain — it's worth heading down to the lower level to vary your photo album.
At night the bridge is sometimes illuminated during city campaigns — this makes for more artistic shots, but be careful on slippery surfaces and remember reduced visibility can make spotting bike traffic harder.
If you want something quick and local — head to Plac Nowy for the famous zapiekanki and small street-food stalls. It's a great option for groups who want to eat on the go and try a local treat.
For a more relaxed sit-down, try the cafés and small bars around Miodowa and Szeroka Streets — it's easier to find a table for 2–6 people and enjoy local pastries and good coffee.
If you're in the mood for a heartier meal, Kazimierz has restaurants serving Jewish cuisine and modern bistros with group-friendly menus; it's a good idea to check opening hours and availability in advance.
The bridge is adapted for both pedestrians and cyclists, but the surface can be windy and slippery after rain — bring a light jacket and comfortable shoes with good grip.
A common mistake is stopping in the middle of the bridge to take photos — during busy times this can block traffic. Small groups can easily step to the side and wait for a better moment.
In the past love locks appeared on the railings as a romantic gesture; the city has discussed and taken actions related to safety and appearance. Don't assume locks are a permanent part of the bridge's look.
Is the bridge free? - Yes, crossing is free of charge.
How long does a loop from Kazimierz to Podgórze and back take? - A quick loop takes about 45 minutes; a relaxed walk with stops is 90–120 minutes.
Can I bring a bike? - Yes, the bridge has a separate lane for cyclists; be cautious and yield to pedestrians in narrow spots.
Is there night lighting? - The bridge is sometimes lit for events; city streetlights provide basic illumination and special lighting appears during municipal actions.
Surprising fact: the footbridge stands where the Franz Joseph bridge once stood — today it is a short, modern link between two history-rich districts.
If you enjoyed the walk, share this article with friends or post your photos with #KładkaBernatka — small groups often discover more than large tours because they have time for details.
If you'd like the walk to be even more engaging and led with a local story, consider booking a private guiding session with Małgorzata Kasprowicz (Zwiedzanie Krakowa). We'd gladly prepare a route tailored to your group's interests.
