Zakrzówek is today one of the most visited places in Krakow — the flooded quarry, wooden platforms and swimming areas attract both locals and tourists. Its popularity means that on hot days staff limit the number of people on the wooden piers, and sometimes introduce wristbands or entry tickets so the area remains safe and not overcrowded.
At the same time there isn’t a large official car park right next to the entrance, and municipal traffic controls mean some visitors must leave their cars further away and walk in, which creates bottlenecks at the gates. It’s also worth remembering that administrative changes giving priority to residents have sparked public debate and are not always final. Understanding how access is organised makes it easier to plan a visit and avoid long waits.
The simplest rule is: avoid midday and weekend afternoons. On hot days the busiest period usually runs from late morning through late afternoon, so the best times are early morning and late afternoon or evening. If you can, pick a weekday instead of a weekend. After about 6:00–7:00 PM the flow drops significantly and many visitors stay to watch the sunset from the piers.
If you plan to visit on a hot weekend, consider arriving just after opening or only in the evening. That’s often the only way to avoid waiting for a wristband or standing in line and still find space on the platforms.
Know the site layout: Zakrzówek has several zones — the southern area with wooden piers, which can be limited, and the northern side and rock outcrops, which are less crowded and often accessible without long waits. Walking a few minutes farther can save you an hour in line. A good plan B is also useful: if you see a long queue at the entrance, head straight to other viewpoints or to the Vistula riverbanks — a walk nearby can be just as satisfying.
If you come by car, don’t assume you’ll park right by the entrance. Traffic restrictions and checks have been introduced around Twardowskiego Street and nearby areas, and on busy weekends the municipal police have fined incorrect parking. It’s usually better to leave the car further away and use public transport or a bike.
Think about alternative transport: bike, e-scooter or tram are often faster than trying to find a parking spot. Also make sure your phone is charged and bring water and sunscreen — even a short queue in full sun tires you quickly.
Check the weather forecast and any planned closures or events in Krakow. During the season the access rules may change, so it’s worth connecting to the internet briefly and checking official notices or local news services before you leave your hotel.
Wear comfortable shoes and carry a map of the area. Even if your main goal is to swim, sometimes the best experience comes from walking the paths around the reservoir. Bring a towel, a small blanket and a bottle of water. If you plan to swim, check whether lifeguards are on duty that day; outside the season the swimming areas may be unguarded.
Assuming "we’ll drive there and park close to the entrance" — this is a quick route to frustration and the risk of a fine. Public transport or parking further away are usually better choices.
Thinking there’s a secret "shortcut" into the queues — access is often supervised and new rules (e.g. wristbands) are enforced to guarantee safety. Attempts to bypass the rules often end with being turned back or approached by staff.
Ignoring alternatives — many visitors focus only on the main viewpoint. A few minutes’ walk and a change of spot can provide equally beautiful views without the crowds.
After a day by the water it’s nice to relax in one of Krakow’s recommended cafés or restaurants. Look for cafés with good cakes and coffee or places with summer terraces — they’re great options when you want to cool down and try something local.
Pick places with solid reviews and consider booking a table on weekends if you plan to be out in the afternoon. A calm café in the city or a riverside spot makes a pleasant end to a Zakrzówek visit.
Is entrance paid? Access to the park is usually free, but during the season staff may introduce limits and a wristband or ticket system to control access to the most crowded piers.
Do locals have priority? The question of privileges for Krakow Card holders or residents has been the subject of public and administrative discussion. For that reason it’s not safe to assume there’s a permanent separate entrance for locals — decisions on this matter have changed or been legally challenged in the past.
Is it safe to swim? In season some sections are supervised by lifeguards, but outside the season the swimming areas can be unsafe. Always check current notices and assess conditions yourself.
Zakrzówek doesn’t have one large official car park right at the entrance — plans for building a nearby lot have been discussed and sometimes abandoned to protect the existing greenery. That’s one reason the area gets crowded and traffic restrictions are implemented.
In practice a small change of strategy — walking beyond the main pier to explore the rock formations or the northern part of the reservoir — often delivers equally spectacular views but without long lines.
If this article helped you, share it with friends or on social media — that’s the best way to help other visitors avoid standing in the sun. If you need a personalised tour of Krakow or want someone to plan a route off the beaten track for you, consider the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz. Contact details and more information can be found on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. Have a great stay in Krakow!
