Yes — if you like nature close to the city, turquoise water and short, attractive walks, Zakrzówek should be on your plan. It’s a former quarry transformed into a large park with several swimming basins, viewpoints and a network of paths. For families it’s a great place to relax in the afternoon after sightseeing, and in summer there is an official bathing area with marked pools and piers. When planning, remember there are limits on the number of people allowed on piers and restrictions near the water’s edge — these rules change seasonally, so it’s a good idea to check current opening hours and regulations before you go.
Zakrzówek is also interesting outside the bathing season: limestone cliffs, xerothermic grasslands and a viewpoint create a compact, picturesque space where you can combine a short walk with sitting on a bench or having a picnic.
The park is south of the city centre, near Kapelanka, Norymberska and Tyniecka streets. The easiest way to get there is by public transport — trams and buses serve the area (check current lines on the day of your visit). If you come by car, there are parking spots on Norymberska Street, but at weekends and in high season it can be busy, so allow extra time to find a space.
For people with strollers and limited mobility it’s important to know that the bathing area includes accessibility features: a stair platform lift, an accessible toilet and designated parking spaces for people with disabilities. However, some paths can be stony or uneven — a sturdy, all-terrain stroller or the ability to carry the stroller for short stretches helps a lot.
When planning entry to the bathing area in season, keep in mind limits on the number of people on piers and the bathing hours; outside the season most paths and viewpoints remain available year-round.
Day 1 — Old Town and Wawel: start with a walk along the Royal Route, visit the Castle and the cathedral, then in the afternoon head to the Vistula Boulevards. For dinner choose a restaurant near the centre or by the boulevards — convenient if you have a stroller and want a quick return to your accommodation.
Day 2 — Zakrzówek and the southern districts: morning: an easy walk to Kazimierz or Podgórze; spend the afternoon at Zakrzówek — swimming, a picnic or a short walking route. For dinner I recommend family-friendly places in the Dębniki/Podgórze area or along the river, where many venues have level entrances and space for a stroller.
Day 3 — museums and some relaxing time: pick one family-friendly museum or a science/experience centre, book an afternoon coffee at a café with a changing table and enjoy a relaxed meal. In the evening you can choose one of the highly rated restaurants that declare family amenities.
What to look for: a ground-floor venue with a wide entrance, space for a stroller next to the table, the option of a corner table and a restroom with a changing station. In Kraków more and more places try to be family-friendly — the city also runs programs that certify such venues, which makes it easier to pick reliable options.
A few suggestions (places often praised for family amenities): Bistro Praska — family-friendly, bright interior and often a kids’ menu; Restauracja KOMA — well-known and appreciated, located near areas convenient for walks around Wawel; Barka (venues on the Vistula) — option with a river view and often space for a stroller; Manufaktura Pieroga — a classic family choice with a wide dish selection; Kawiarnia Dziórawy Kocioł — good for dessert and a short break with a child. Remember that restaurants sometimes change layout and policy, so it’s worth calling ahead to ask about a stroller-friendly table and the availability of a changing facility.
If you prefer dining outdoors, choose times outside the peak (earlier than 19:00) — outdoor tables give more space and children often feel calmer there.
Reserve a table in advance and mention that you’re coming with a stroller. This is the simplest way to avoid problems during busy times or in popular venues.
Choose ground-floor places or those with a ramp; if there are steps, ask the staff for help — many servers are happy to assist with bringing in a stroller or offering an alternative seat.
Bring basic changing items and a small blanket — not all venues have a changing table, even if they are family-friendly. It’s also smart to carry a spare set of clothes and wet wipes.
Plan dinner so it doesn’t coincide exactly with your child’s nap time. A shorter, simpler kids’ menu and the option to serve food in two stages (first for the child, then for the adults) can make things much easier.
Assuming the city centre always has plenty of space for a stroller — narrow historic doorways and steps at entrances can surprise you. Always call ahead or check photos of the entrance.
Expecting parking at Zakrzówek to be always available — in season and on weekends spots can run out. If you’re coming by car, plan an alternative and arrive early.
Not making a reservation at popular restaurants — venues recommended as family-friendly can also be full, especially in the evening. A reservation noting the stroller reduces the risk of being turned away.
Can you swim at Zakrzówek? Yes — in summer there is an official bathing area with several basins and piers — check the current bathing season and opening hours before you go.
How do I get there by public transport? Trams and buses run to the Zakrzówek area; check timetables and possible route changes in the city transport app before you set off.
Do all recommended restaurants have a changing table? No — not all. Even family-friendly places may lack a changing table, so ask ahead and prepare a portable changing kit.
Many riverside venues and places near the Boulevards have soft lighting and spaces where children are more likely to fall asleep after dinner — if you want a calm meal, choose a table near an exit so you can quickly move to your car or a taxi.
Sometimes the best experience with a child is to change the dinner format: instead of a formal meal pick an evening dessert and a walk — less fuss, less noise and a better chance the child will stay in a good mood for the evening.
If this article was helpful, share it with friends or on social media — it may make someone’s trip to Kraków with a small child much easier.
If you’d like a personalized route (a three-day plan tailored to your child’s age, feeding breaks and stroller walks), I invite you to use the services of private guide Małgorzata Kasprowicz — contact details are available on zwiedzaniekrakowa.com. Wishing you a great stay in Kraków and many peaceful family dinners!
