Zakrzówek is one of the most picturesque spots in Krakow — a former limestone quarry transformed into a reservoir surrounded by pale cliffs, greenery and several viewpoints. For families it’s a great place for a morning walk, a short picnic and photos, and at the same time an excellent starting point for further sightseeing in the city. If you only have one day in Krakow, start here in the morning: crowds usually appear later, and the morning hour gives the nicest light and more quiet. Especially in summer and on warm weekends the area is popular, so arriving early is a good idea.
Zakrzówek also has a few small cafes and spots where you can enjoy a good coffee with a view of the water — a pleasant break after a walk. Keep in mind that the terrain includes hills and uneven paths, so if you’re traveling with a stroller, be prepared for sections that require carrying or taking a detour.
Bring a small blanket, simple snacks and shoes with good grip — this will make a family walk comfortable and safe.
1. Morning: arrive at Zakrzówek (approx. 8:30–10:00). Start at the most beautiful viewpoints, take a short walk around the reservoir and make photos. If you like, bring a small picnic or use a cafe by the water.
2. Late morning: a short ride or walk to nearby green spots — depending on your accommodation location you can head to Błonia or the Garden of Experiments. This is a good moment for children to stretch their legs before lunch.
3. Lunch: choose a restaurant with a garden or terrace — nearby you’ll find places with playgrounds and kids’ menus, which allows parents to enjoy a peaceful meal.
4. Afternoon: walk around the Old Town or take a short visit to the Planty — if you prefer a shorter program, instead of the center you can relax in Park Decjusza or on Kościuszko Mound (shorter attractions, fewer crowds).
5. Evening: coffee or dessert in a hidden garden of one of the cafes in the center or on Podgórze. It’s a pleasant end to the day and a time to sum up impressions.
PINO Garden — a large family garden and kids’ area. A big terrace and covered spots mean weather won’t ruin plans, and the menu is child-friendly. It’s a good place for a longer, relaxed lunch.
27 Porcji — a restaurant with an extensive garden and a playground. In the summer the garden is an asset for families, and the menu leans toward home-style, seasonal dishes appreciated by parents.
Lime & Spicy — known for its garden arrangements (seasonal decorations like pumpkin displays sometimes appear); it’s worth checking current seasonal events before visiting.
Viale Verde and similar Italian restaurants — they often offer spacious terraces and child-friendly menus; Italian food is a good choice for families because portions and flavors usually suit children.
Garden Arena (food truck area) — if you want a more casual atmosphere and a wide choice of cuisines, this place operates especially on warmer days and is popular with families. Lots of space to run and a variety of tastes are its advantages.
Cafe Zakrzówek — a favorite spot for visitors to the reservoir, with a nice view and a pleasant atmosphere for photos and coffee after a walk.
Meho Cafe — in the center there is a cafe with a hidden garden, known as Mehoffer’s garden; it’s a great break if you want a moment of calm between Old Town attractions.
De Revolutionibus — a small, atmospheric garden on Podgórze, ideal for a quiet coffee and dessert after exploring that part of the city. Hidden gardens like these can be real gems, especially for those seeking peace off the main tourist routes.
Getting there: Zakrzówek is easiest to reach by public transport, bike or taxi — trams and buses will get you to nearby stops from which you’ll walk a short section. In summer consider a bike or e-scooter to move more quickly between points.
Strollers and accessibility: some paths around the reservoir are steep or rocky — a stroller may require carrying up stairs or taking an alternative route. For families with small children we recommend a carrier or planning the route to avoid the steepest sections.
Reservations: garden restaurants can be busy on weekends — if you want a table by the playground or in the shade, call ahead and reserve a table.
What to bring: a blanket, a hat for the kids, extra water, snacks, insect repellent spray, and a charged phone for photos. Wet wipes and a change of clothes for the little ones are also useful.
Weather and backup plans: Polish weather can be changeable — check the forecast and have a plan B (a covered cafe, a museum, or a short ride).
Planning ‘to the last minute’: trying to see too many places in one day ends in rushing. It’s better to pick 2–3 spots and explore them calmly, especially with children.
Skipping reservations in season: garden restaurants fill up quickly in good weather. Not calling ahead may mean long waits with hungry kids.
Ignoring the terrain limits: not all parts of Zakrzówek are fully adapted for swimming or climbing — always pay attention to signage and follow the instructions of local services.
Being unprepared for weather changes: lacking head coverings, sunscreen or dry clothes for children are common causes of a ruined trip.
Zakrzówek is a former limestone quarry — steep, pale cliffs and clear water are the result of changes after industrial activity, which created today’s unique landscape. This transformation from an industrial site to a natural corner is one of the most characteristic examples in Krakow.
Krakow hides small but charming gardens behind cafes and restaurants — some of them (for example the garden by the cafe in the center known as Mehoffer’s garden) have interesting local histories and give a sense of ‘hidden space’ right next to busy streets. It’s a great way to feel calm during the day without leaving the city.
Garden Arena–type zones have become popular as family places for casual meals — the variety of world cuisines and large space to run make them a great alternative to a traditional restaurant, especially when the group includes picky eaters.
Can you swim at Zakrzówek? - Rules about access to the water and swimming vary and depend on the season and local regulations. Always check current information and signage on site and act with caution.
Are garden restaurants stroller- and child-friendly? - Many recommended places have terraces and playgrounds, but accessibility levels may vary. If you need facilities such as a changing table or high chair, ask before you arrive.
When is the best time to visit with family? - Early mornings and late afternoons offer nicer light and fewer crowds. Garden restaurants are busiest on weekends, so consider visiting on a weekday or making a reservation.
If this plan was helpful, share it with friends or on social media — you’ll help other families better plan a one-day trip to Krakow.
If you’d like your day in Krakow to be even more pleasant and tailored to your needs, consider using the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — contact and tailored family offers are available on the site. This makes sightseeing calmer and lets you learn more about local highlights and hidden places.
